New Delhi, April 8 Delhi Lt Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu said on Wednesday that the Yamuna floodplain from Palla to Kalindi Kunj will be developed as eco-friendly spaces, similar to the Vasudev Ghat area.
LG Sandhu and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited Vasudev ghat and nearby areas along the Yamuna bank to assess the government's preparations for the summer and monsoon seasons.
During the visit, Sandhu instructed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to rejuvenate the entire stretch of the floodplain from Palla to Kalindi Kunj, in a time-bound manner with specific timelines.
The entire stretch of the river in the national capital is approximately 55 kilometers.
"While Vasudev Ghat, along with other restored ghats such as Asita, Baansera and the Yamuna Biodiversity Park, have emerged as eco-friendly, sustainable and green public spaces on the floodplain, attracting thousands of Delhi residents," he said.
Several other ghats still need to be developed in a similar manner by the DDA, with the cooperation of other departments, Sandhu added.
These restored ghats, which are bringing the people of Delhi closer to the river and fostering a sense of ownership and belonging towards the Yamuna, can serve as models to be replicated at other locations, the LG added.
During the visit, LG Sandhu emphasised involving domain experts in the project and preparing the plan.
"Going forward, it is essential for the government to actively engage with national and international experts to incorporate global successful best practices and innovative solutions into these critical initiatives," Sandhu added.
He also directed all concerned departments, including irrigation and flood control, the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), the Delhi Pollution and Control Committee and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), to work collectively and in seamless coordination.
"You are all aware of the challenges that Delhi faces. Yamuna pollution, air pollution, water shortages during the summer, and flooding during the monsoon are non-negotiable priorities. These issues require urgent, mission-mode action for the well-being of both present and future generations," Sandhu added.
During the visit, the two also discussed ways to reduce waterlogging in low-lying areas near Kashmere Gate and the steps taken by the government, such as constructing a protective wall.
CM Gupta directed officials to immediately remove encroachments from the floodplains to enhance the river's water-holding capacity.
"Implement a three-pronged agenda focusing on desilting, ensuring smooth water flow, and providing permanent solutions for waterlogging hotspots," Gupta said.
Emphasis is also being placed on developing the Yamuna riverbanks into permanent and grand public assets, instead of incurring recurring expenditure on temporary ghats, she added.
According to officials, under the Yamuna floodplain rejuvenation plan, the DDA is currently working on 11 projects covering around 1,660 hectares of area, which will be further expanded.