New Delhi: The Delhi government has initiated the preparation of its first integrated water master plan, marking a significant step toward addressing the capital’s long-standing water supply challenges and future demand. The project, led by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), aims to develop a comprehensive 30-year strategy that will guide water management through short-term, medium-term, and long-term interventions while aligning with the Master Plan for Delhi 2041.
The initiative includes a major overhaul of water supply infrastructure across six key zones—East, South, North East, North West, South West, and West Delhi—where expert agencies will be engaged to conduct studies and recommend upgrades. Work has already begun at critical treatment plants such as Wazirabad and Chandrawal, with plans to expand improvements across the entire city. The project will follow a package-based implementation model, assigning operators to manage rehabilitation and modernization in each zone.
A central focus of the master plan is reducing non-revenue water (NRW), currently estimated at 45%, which represents treated water lost due to leakages, theft, and inefficiencies in the distribution system. Delhi presently consumes around 1,000 million gallons per day (MGD) against a requirement of 1,250 MGD, resulting in a deficit of 250 MGD. At the same time, the city generates nearly 800 MGD of greywater, highlighting opportunities for reuse and improved water management practices.
The urgency of the initiative is reinforced by Delhi’s rapid population growth, which has increased more than fourfold since 1971 and is projected to reach nearly 24.8 million by 2031. This growth has intensified pressure on existing water infrastructure and exposed gaps in long-term planning. A recent audit report also pointed out the absence of a formal water policy for the city, despite earlier efforts to formulate one.
Experts have stressed the need for sustainable solutions such as rainwater harvesting and wastewater reuse to reduce dependency on external water sources. Meanwhile, Delhi Water Minister Parvesh Verma stated that the master plan will involve replacing outdated pipelines and upgrading treatment facilities to minimize losses and improve supply efficiency across the city.
The project is expected to be completed over a period of approximately six years and four months. It will begin with detailed surveys and DPR preparation, followed by a bidding process and a multi-year construction phase focused on infrastructure rehabilitation and network improvements, positioning Delhi toward a more resilient and sustainable water future.
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