Thiruvananthapuram Corporation Deploys 40 High-Capacity Pumps for Pre-Monsoon Flood Prevention
In a proactive move to combat monsoon-related flooding, the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation has officially launched its pre-monsoon sanitation drive across the city. As part of this initiative, 40 high-capacity pump sets are being readied to remove stagnant water, sludge, and debris from areas prone to waterlogging.
Strategic Deployment and Rapid Response Plans
The pumps will be stationed in wards that regularly experience flooding, with the remaining units to be deployed based on real-time needs during heavy rainfall. Corporation officials emphasized that this ensures a rapid response to emergencies, prioritizing the clearance of drainage channels and canals ahead of the peak monsoon season.
Overcoming Inter-Departmental Challenges
The sanitation campaign was planned in advance, with financial assistance approved for ward-level cleaning before the enforcement of the model code of conduct. However, progress was slowed due to key infrastructure—such as canals and roads—falling under multiple departments, including minor irrigation, major irrigation, PWD, Smart City, and railways. With the model code currently in force, several departments have yet to complete their preparatory work.
Despite these constraints, the corporation has decided to proceed using its own funds instead of waiting for inter-departmental allocations. Mayor V V Rajesh stated that the corporation is leveraging the expertise of retired officials who worked on projects like Operation Anantha, helping streamline efforts.
Enhanced Infrastructure and Enforcement Measures
To strengthen operations, damaged machinery owned by the corporation, including Hitachi excavators, has been repaired and made fully functional. Additionally, enforcement squads have been intensified to curb waste dumping into canals and drains, a major contributor to urban flooding.
Two new vehicles have been procured for the health squad to improve field-level coordination and response times. The mayor added that discussions will be held with the district collector to enhance inter-departmental coordination, and a separate meeting with railway authorities is planned to ensure proper cleaning of areas under their control.
This comprehensive approach aims to mitigate flooding risks and ensure public safety during the upcoming monsoon season in Thiruvananthapuram.
