By Abdullahi Lukman
Delhi’s Munak Canal, a key source of raw water for the city, is facing severe pollution from open defecation, waste dumping, industrial discharges, and cattle bathing, according to a new report by the South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People (SANDRP).
The contamination threatens the safety of Delhi’s drinking water and could disrupt operations at water treatment plants.
The report, based on an inspection on October 25, highlights violations along the canal’s route through Haryana and northwest Delhi, including garbage dumping near Bawana and JJ clusters, burning of electric wires, industrial waste, and human excreta along the banks.
Water hyacinth spread and damaged canal lining were also observed, raising risks of breaches. The canal has suffered three major breaches in the past two years, disrupting Delhi’s water supply.
SANDRP recommends immediate actions such as patrolling, CCTV installation, improved lighting, bridge barricades, and waste collection facilities, alongside long-term coordination between the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), Delhi Pollution Control Committee, and local bodies.
A government official said a feasibility study is underway to develop an elevated corridor along the canal.
Meanwhile, corrective actions for waste dumping along the Yamuna banks are being implemented under directives from the Delhi chief secretary.
