In a major step towards improving public service efficiency, the government has introduced dedicated four-digit helplines for the Public Works Department (PWD) and Delhi Jal Board (DJB). Citizens can now report infrastructure issues directly to the concerned authorities through 1908 for PWD and 1916 for DJB, eliminating the hassle of remembering long and complex contact numbers. This initiative aims to ensure faster response times, particularly for road repairs, drainage issues, and water supply complaints, which peak during monsoon seasons.
Enhancing Accessibility for Public Grievances
For years, complaints about pothole-ridden roads, broken footpaths, clogged drains, and water supply disruptions have plagued Delhiites. Previously, the grievance redressal process was cumbersome, requiring citizens to search for different department contacts or rely on delayed online responses. With these new helpline numbers, the government intends to create a more streamlined and accountable approach to resolving civic issues.
The PWD (Public Works Department) is responsible for maintaining over 1,260 km of Delhi’s roads, along with several flyovers and bridges. Given the city’s growing infrastructure demands, timely intervention is critical. Similarly, the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) manages the water supply network, ensuring potable water reaches millions of homes. However, complaints regarding leaks, water shortages, and contamination frequently arise, especially in summer. With 1916 as its official complaint number, DJB hopes to address issues more efficiently and transparently.
A Commitment to Proactive Governance
PWD Minister Parvesh Verma has emphasized the need for on-ground problem-solving rather than a passive bureaucratic approach. During a recent inspection in Madipur and Najafgarh, Verma highlighted ongoing road repairs, drainage cleaning, and infrastructure maintenance, stressing that officials must actively monitor civic issues rather than relying on reports from their offices.
This move aligns with the government’s larger vision of citizen-centric governance, ensuring that complaints lodged through the 1908 PWD helpline and 1916 DJB helpline are addressed promptly and effectively. The administration has also implemented real-time tracking of complaints, allowing citizens to monitor progress and hold departments accountable.
Tackling Infrastructure Challenges Head-On
Delhi’s infrastructure faces seasonal challenges—monsoon waterlogging, winter road cracks, and summer water shortages—which require immediate attention. With over 20,000 road-related complaints and thousands of water supply grievances filed annually, an efficient complaint resolution system is crucial. The government has already begun cleaning campaigns along the Sahibi river, Najafgarh drain, and key urban stretches to improve water flow and drainage.
Authorities have assured that swift responses, transparent tracking, and accountability measures will make these helplines more effective. Citizens are encouraged to report damaged roads, waterlogging, drainage failures, and water supply problems to ensure timely intervention.
Active Participation for a Better Delhi
While this initiative marks a positive shift in civic administration, its success depends on public awareness and participation. Residents must proactively use these helplines and report issues rather than tolerating inconvenience. A well-maintained city is not just the responsibility of the government but also of its people.
With 1908 for PWD and 1916 for DJB, the government has provided a direct communication channel between citizens and service departments. This initiative has the potential to transform urban management, ensuring that public concerns are not only heard but swiftly acted upon—leading to a cleaner, safer, and better-managed Delhi.