Delhi govt mulls borewell policy to tackle water shortage concerns: CM Gupta

Delhi government is planning to bring a borewell policy in the city to ease water shortage problems, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on Friday.

Gupta took part in the ‘Catch the Rain’ event organised by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) as part of the rainwater harvesting programme.

“The Delhi government is seriously considering bringing in a borewell policy. But only those houses and residential colonies which have a proper functioning water harvesting system will be eligible to get an authorised borewell,” Gupta said.

We have to realise the value of water. Looking at the future, there is a need for everyone to save water, the chief minister further said.

The chief minister also unveiled a dedicated mascot for the ‘Catch the Rain’ initiative of DJB.

“Steps like subsidies up to Rs 50,000 by the government, discounts of 10 to 15 per cent on water bills, and free technical assistance are accelerating this direction. Now the goal is to make every home, every rooftop, and every institution an active part of this effort,” Gupta said in a post on X.

According to water minister Parvesh Sahib Singh, who was also part of the event, the initiative is part of rainwater harvesting systems.

“Rainwater harvesting in government establishments must be implemented in a serious and time-bound manner,” Singh said.

Failure to comply will invite strict action; an initial 10 per cent cut will be imposed, and if lapses continue, the connection will be disconnected, he added.