In an affidavit to the Supreme Court on the present water crisis in the national capital, the Delhi government has said the water tanker mafia was entering Delhi from the Haryana side.
The Aam Aadmi Party also said it was unable to take action against the water mafia due to jurisdiction issues. However, it said it was making all efforts to control water leakages.
"As regards to any news reports or references of an alleged 'tanker mafia', such illicit pilferage of water is taking place prior to the water reaching the CLC or DSB. In other words, the tanker mafia is operational on the Haryana side of the Yamuna river and the Petitioner lacks jurisdiction to act against the same," the affidavit mentioned.
"It is for Haryana to explain what steps it is taking to preserve the full supply of water to Delhi between the point of release and the point of receipt," it added.
"The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has prepared a comprehensive blueprint for augmenting water supplies in the NCT of Delhi. This plan has been prepared keeping in mind the water scarcity faced by Delhi every year and the sharp rise in population in the city," it mentioned.
The Delhi government respectfully welcomes the appointment of an independent committee by the Supreme Court to monitor and ensure its effective implementation. This plan can be implemented by next year," the affidavit by the Delhi government stated.
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court slammed the AAP government over the role of the tanker mafia in the water crisis in the national capital, after the blame game over the issue intensified with Delhi minister Atishi alleging that senior officials colluded with the mafia to reduce the number of DJB tankers and demanding an inquiry into it.
After the Supreme Court's observations, the Lieutenant Governor Secretariat wrote to the Delhi Police Commissioner, asking him to take action against the tanker mafia indulging in the theft of water from the Munak canal that carries water from Haryana.
Seeking a compliance report within a week, the LG's communication to the police commissioner directed him to ensure strict vigil along the canal to prevent any theft of water by tanker mafia and other illegal activities.
The national capital has been grappling with a water crisis, with the Delhi government accusing Haryana of not releasing its share of water.
Source: India Today