The Delhi High Court strongly criticized the deplorable condition of the drainage system in the national capital on Wednesday, describing it as "absolutely pathetic." The court urgently called on authorities to address the pressing issue of waterlogging and take immediate measures to improve the situation.

Highlighting the critical state of the drainage system, the court underscored instances of collapse and severe waterlogging in newly constructed areas.

During the hearing of two suo motu petitions addressing the waterlogging problem in Delhi, as well as issues related to rainwater harvesting and traffic congestion during monsoons and other periods, a division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora expressed their frustration.

Referring to an underpass near Bharat Mandapam, the court questioned the effectiveness of the drainage system and criticized the authorities for the collapse of the infrastructure.

Justice Manmohan remarked, "The drainage system is in a very bad state of affairs. It had totally collapsed. Do we have a drainage system in Delhi or we don't have it? It is absolutely pathetic. Look at the new areas which have been set up. The new construction gets flooded today."

During the course of the hearing, the court mentioned various instances of waterlogging in Delhi and illustrated the severity of the problem, including snakes entering residences and fish found in drawing rooms during monsoons.

Further, the court instructed the authorities to seek instructions on the matter and scheduled the next hearing for January 16. It also asked the counsels representing the agencies to engage in a "brainstorming session" with the authorities to devise practical solutions.

The respondents involved in the petitions include the Centre, Delhi government, Delhi Development Authority, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Delhi Police, Public Works Department, Delhi Jal Board, Delhi Cantonment Board, New Delhi Municipal Council, and the Flood Irrigation Department.

Case Title: Court on its own motion v. Union of India and Ors.