DJB sets in motion Sewage Masterplan 2043; moots ‘One Zone-One Operator’

The new plan, and why it’s needed

- Paras Singh

The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has formally set in motion the drafting of its Sewage Masterplan 2043, aiming to overhaul the Capital’s sewage infrastructure and chart a roadmap for the next two decades.

The water utility has floated tenders to hire experts and consulting firms who will conduct surveys, carry out gap analyses, and review the outcomes of the existing 2031 masterplan, senior officials said.

The expert agency selected will be given 15 months to complete the task, while the selection process is expected to conclude by October 3, according to officials who are aware of the DJB's request for proposals.

One zone-one operator

At the heart of the new plan is a structural shift in how Delhi's massive sewage system is operated. DJB proposes to develop a “one zone-one operator” model, dividing the city into four zones, each to be managed by a dedicated private agency.

‘A DJB official explained that under the current set up, replacements of sewer lines, repair work and upgradation are being carried out in piecemeal by the maintenance wing through smaller contracts and tendering process. “Work on separate sewage lines is carried out by different contractors. With a single agency in charge, the process will be much faster and accountability can be fixed,” the official added.