Patna Administration Launches Major Drainage Inspection Drive Ahead of Monsoon
In a proactive move to tackle potential waterlogging issues, District Magistrate Thiyagarajan S M has constituted seven special inspection teams. These teams are tasked with thoroughly examining the condition of nine major drains and all minor drainage channels across the city. The initiative aims to ensure that Patna's water drainage systems are fully functional and prepared for the upcoming monsoon season.
Comprehensive Coverage Across Municipal Areas
The inspection teams will operate across a wide geographical area, covering all six circles of the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC). Additionally, they will extend their assessments to the municipal councils of Phulwarisharif, Danapur Nizamat, and Khagaul. Specific locations under scrutiny include the Serpentine area, Mandiri, Rajeev Nagar (Kurji), Bakarganj, Saidpur, Anandpuri, Yogipur, Bypass (KBC), and Bypass (NCC) drains.
Senior executive magistrates and engineers will lead these teams, focusing on two critical aspects: evaluating the current status of desilting operations and identifying any encroachments that might obstruct water flow. The directive mandates a detailed assessment of both underground and open drains to ensure seamless drainage.
Focus on Pumping Stations and Encroachment Removal
A key component of the inspection involves checking the operational status of all 91 drainage pumping stations. This includes 56 permanent and 35 temporary stations, which are managed by the Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (Buidco). The teams will verify that these stations are ready to handle increased water flow during heavy rains.
To further bolster the city's drainage capacity, District Magistrate Thiyagarajan has issued clear instructions to sub-divisional officers in Patna Sadar, Patna City, and Danapur. They are directed to promptly remove any encroachments identified during the inspections, ensuring that drains remain clear and functional.
Administrative Measures and Reporting Structure
In preparation for the monsoon, the administration has released several helpline numbers to assist residents with drainage-related issues. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance public responsiveness and mitigate waterlogging problems effectively.
Simultaneously, Buidco has launched a 'mission project completion' drive aimed at accelerating stormwater drainage projects across Bihar. As part of this mission, six teams will conduct weekly inspections to monitor progress and address any delays. All inspection reports will be submitted to the headquarters for review by Buidco Managing Director Animesh Kumar Parashar, ensuring accountability and timely action.
This comprehensive inspection drive underscores the administration's commitment to preventing waterlogging and safeguarding Patna from monsoon-related disruptions. By addressing desilting, encroachments, and pumping station functionality, the initiative aims to create a more resilient urban drainage infrastructure for the city's residents.
