In response to Delhi’s acute drinking water shortage exacerbated by a relentless heatwave, the Supreme Court has mandated the release of 137 cusecs of surplus water from Himachal Pradesh via Haryana to Wazirabad barrage. Despite objections from Haryana, the court emphasized the need for the “right of passage” to ensure the smooth flow of water to Delhi.
Himachal Pradesh’s willingness to assist in Delhi’s time of dire need was acknowledged, with the court directing the state to release the specified volume of water on June 7. To prevent any wastage, the court tasked the Delhi government with ensuring efficient water management and urged collaboration between the Upper Yamuna River Board and Haryana to monitor the water release. The intervention underscores the urgency of addressing Delhi’s water scarcity crisis amid soaring temperatures and alleged diversion of water by tanker mafias.