Delhi’s bid to operate ITO barrage is still awaiting transfer from Haryana

Delhi has begun the process of taking over operations of the ITO barrage from Haryana, but the transfer has yet to be completed despite Haryana’s in-principle approval.

The barrage became a point of coordination during the 2023 flooding in parts of the capital. Its maintenance, funding and operation had been disputed between the two governments for years.

For residents dealing with waterlogged roads during heavy rain, the administrative map can be as consequential as the rainfall. Stormwater drains in Delhi are maintained by the MCD, PWD, irrigation and flood control department, DDA and NHAI; a single waterlogging spot can therefore involve several agencies responsible for different stretches of the network. Recent rain-related disruption in Alaknanda showed the immediate impact such failures can have on traffic.

Delhi also relies on neighbouring states for other water infrastructure. Haryana maintains the Munak Canal, including its 22-km stretch in Delhi, while the Uttar Pradesh irrigation department operates the Okhla Barrage on the Delhi-UP border.