Delhi Seeks More Water from Haryana and UP Ahead of Summer Demand

New Delhi | March 17, 2026: With summer approaching and water demand set to rise, the Delhi Government has initiated discussions with Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to secure additional raw water supply. Officials said the plan also includes a proposed exchange arrangement, where Delhi would provide treated water for irrigation in return for more raw water from the neighbouring states.

Water minister Parvesh Verma stated that the move aims to bridge the gap between supply and rising demand while reducing transmission losses. Delhi currently requires around 1,260 million gallons per day (MGD) during peak summer, but receives significantly less, putting pressure on existing resources.

A major portion of Delhi’s water supply comes through the Munak Canal and the Upper Ganga Canal, making cooperation with neighbouring states crucial. Officials noted that transmission losses and incomplete allocation of agreed water shares have further strained availability.

The government has also requested additional water allocations, including previously designated irrigation supply from Haryana and increased release from Uttar Pradesh. In return, Delhi has offered to supply treated water that can be used for agricultural purposes.

Meanwhile, newly built water treatment plants in Dwarka and Chandrawal are nearing completion, but their full utilisation depends on securing more raw water. Authorities remain engaged in talks, hoping for a resolution before peak summer demand sets in.