Rohit Aggarwala has resigned as commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection, according to an email obtained Wednesday. His last day with the agency will be January 31.
Leadership Transition at DEP
Aggarwala, appointed by Mayor Eric Adams in 2022, oversaw the city’s drinking water system, sewer infrastructure, and flood mitigation projects. He also served as Chief Climate Officer, responsible for the city’s climate policy.
Aggarwala’s departure comes as Mayor Zohran Mamdani has been making appointments, but several agencies, including the DEP, have been left without confirmed long-term leadership. Mamdani has not yet reappointed commissioners from the previous administration or named new ones.
He is the latest in a series of agency heads to step down in recent weeks. Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol, Department of Investigation Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber, Department of City Planning Commissioner Dan Garodnick, and Administration for Children’s Services Commissioner Jess Dannhauser have also resigned.
During his tenure, Aggarwala highlighted progress in areas such as stormwater flooding resilience, catch basin maintenance, coastal flood protection, and the implementation of Local Law 97, which limits carbon emissions from large buildings. He also oversaw the launch of a buyout program for homes in flood-prone areas.
At a recent press conference, Mayor Mamdani stated that his administration is “putting together an administration that is dedicated to building a new era in our city” and is focused on “retention and recruitment.” City Hall did not immediately respond to requests for further comment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Department of Environmental Protection do?
The DEP delivers clean drinking water, manages the sewer system, monitors noise levels, and works to prevent neighborhood flooding.
Who appointed Rohit Aggarwala?
Rohit Aggarwala was appointed by Mayor Eric Adams in 2022.
What is Local Law 97?
Local Law 97 limits the carbon emissions from large buildings.
As the city navigates these leadership changes, how might these transitions impact ongoing environmental initiatives and infrastructure projects?
