India, March 17 -- Ahead of the peak water demand season, Delhi is in the process of negotiating for an increase in the release of raw water as well as a water exchange project with Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, government officials said.

Water minister Parvesh Verma said, "While we fix the gaps in our supply lines and reduce water losses, the Delhi government is working on a project for exchange of raw water from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh in exchange of treated water, which can be used for irrigation purposes in their state. Such an agreement would be beneficial for both the sides."

Delhi requires about 1,260 million gallons per day (MGD) water in its peak demand during the summer. At present, the city receives roughly 1,000 MGD. The Delh...