Water crisis hits Delhi’s top malls; DLF Promenade, Emporio, Ambience shut half their washrooms

Delhi's top malls - DLF Promenade, DLF Emporio and Ambience Mall - are reportedly facing severe water shortage. According to a report in the Times of India, the South Delhi malls have shut half of their washrooms to save water.

According to the report, the crisis began after authorities banned the use of private water tankers, which the malls heavily rely on. A government official told TOI that the supply through private tankers was halted following an order from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which found that tanker water was being sourced from illegal borewells. “Police have launched a crackdown, and a meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday to address the issue,” the official added.

The NGT, in its directive, reiterated the need for FIRs against violators involved in water theft, stating that such action was necessary “for deterrent effect and to ensure compliance with environmental laws.” The tribunal also asked the Delhi Police Commissioner to submit an action-taken report within a month.


However, DLF denied reports of disruption, issuing a statement on Monday asserting that both DLF Promenade and DLF Emporio were operating smoothly. “Contrary to claims, the two malls have an adequate water supply and have not faced disruptions that necessitate closure. While there were concerns about Vasant Kunj’s water supply for a couple of days, both malls have robust contingency measures in place,” DLF said.

The statement added that the mall management was working closely with authorities to ensure uninterrupted services during the festive season, with “customer experience remaining the top priority.”

A Delhi Jal Board (DJB) official later said the issue had been largely resolved.

Meanwhile, other parts of the city — including East, Northeast, and South Delhi — are also facing shortages, as Ganga water supply to the Bhagirathi and Sonia Vihar water treatment plants has been suspended for seven days. Areas like Surajmal Vihar, Shalimar Park, Vishwakarma Park, Chitra Vihar, and Vasant Kunj have reported disruptions.

Residents in Vasant Kunj said water is now being supplied on alternate days. “We received a message from our RWA saying the situation may continue for the week,” said Pankaj Kumar, a resident of C Block.

A senior DJB official assured that the situation is being managed. “There may be minor inconveniences, but things are under control. While Ganga water supply is affected, we are compensating through the Yamuna source,” the official said.