As Delhi gears up to host the 18th G20 Summit on September 9 and 10, the city is taking proactive measures to ensure the event’s smooth proceedings. To mitigate the risk of waterlogging or flooding due to heavy rains during the summit, four heavy-duty mobile de-watering trucks have been deployed from Ahmedabad.
According to an official statement from the Lieutenant Governor’s (LG) office, these vehicles, which are equipped with high-capacity suction pumps, have been brought in by the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) to handle any contingency similar to recent incidents where areas around Raj Ghat and India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) were submerged after heavy rainfall.
Two of these specialized de-watering trucks have been stationed at Raj Ghat, and the other two are positioned at ITPO. They can be relocated as needed to address potential waterlogging or flood situations. Each truck boasts a high-speed water suction capacity of 10,000 liters per minute within a radius of 15 meters. With a full tank of fuel, these vehicles can operate continuously for 24 hours.
These diesel-run vehicles are equipped with BS-VI engines, ensuring minimal pollution in terms of emissions and noise. They operate at a noise level of 85 dBA at 7 meters. The DFS plans to procure similar vehicles on a permanent basis to bolster the city’s preparedness for such contingencies in the future.
Delhi LG VK Saxena emphasized the importance of a comprehensive and foolproof contingency plan to address waterlogging or flooding during the G20 Summit. This proactive measure aims to prevent any disruptions caused by heavy rainfall during the high-profile event.
As leaders from around the world gather for the G20 Leaders’ Summit, including US President Joe Biden, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and French President Emmanuel Macron, Delhi is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a safe and efficient summit, even in the face of unpredictable weather conditions. The heads of various international organizations, such as the United Nations, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, World Trade Organization, and World Health Organization, will also be in attendance.