A major breach in the Munak Canal, which carries untreated water from Haryana to several water treatment plants in the capital, led to extensive flooding in the Bawana area on Thursday. The breach, occurring at midnight and spanning nearly 40 feet, is suspected to be caused by erosion of the embankment’s inner lining.

“Repair work on the broken embankment at the Bawana entry point of the canal in Delhi is progressing rapidly,” said Water Minister Atishi, who visited the site.

Several blocks of a JJ colony in the area, which includes both permanent and temporary structures, have been severely affected, with water inundating roads and houses.

The repairs are being carried out by the Haryana Irrigation Department and the Delhi Jal Board (DJB). Officials are hopeful that the breach in the Carrier Lined Channel (CLC), one of the two lines supplying water to Delhi, will be fully repaired by Friday evening. The incident is expected to impact production at major water treatment plants, including Haiderpur, Bawana, Nangloi, and Dwarka.

Atishi stated that Delhi will collaborate with Haryana to investigate the cause of the breach.

The DJB receives water from the canal, which is owned by the Haryana Irrigation Department. The Delhi government pays approximately Rs 60 lakh to Rs 65 lakh per month for the water, except during July, August, and September when the water is free.