Minister Parvesh inspects Yamuna on boat

Delhi Irrigation and Flood Control Minister Parvesh Verma early on Sunday morning conducted a boat survey of the Yamuna at Palla, where the river enters Delhi from Haryana, as part of the government’s ongoing monsoon preparedness efforts.

Accompanied by senior department officials, Verma assessed the river’s water level and flow pattern at the city’s northern edge and collected water sample for quality testing.

“The water here looks visibly clean. Once it flows further into Delhi, it darkens,” Verma told reporters on board the boat. “The real task is keeping this quality consistent inside the Capital,” he said.

Officials said the sample would be sent for laboratory analysis to check pollutant levels and identify sources of contamination.

The minister’s visit comes amid concerns over rising water levels and recurring urban flooding during the monsoon. Verma stressed that the Delhi government is actively monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures.

“All officials are working even on Sunday. We held meetings on flood-control measures and I came here to review the work. I am satisfied with the pace,” he said.

“Water turns black due to drains from Delhi falling into the river. The Jal Board is working on this, and the PWD, MCD and DDA are all cleaning their drains,” he said.

Responding to criticism over recent incidents of waterlogging, the minister accused the opposition of exaggerating isolated incidents.

“AAP is circulating photos from just a few locations to create panic. If water drains in 10-15 minutes, that’s not waterlogging — that’s drainage working as intended,” Verma said.

He said waterlogging is only considered serious when it persists for four to five hours. “People in remote areas said there was no waterlogging because drains were cleaned. We have identified all such roads where there was waterlogging and we are working on them,” he added.

Wrapping up the inspection, Verma said more field visits would be conducted through the monsoon. “We’re not just sitting in offices. We’re out here, checking things ourselves,” he said before stepping off the boat.

Delhi