Patna District Magistrate Reviews Monsoon Preparedness with Strict Directives
In a proactive move to tackle the perennial issue of waterlogging, District Magistrate (DM) Thiyagarajan S M conducted a high-level review meeting at the collectorate on Monday. The session focused on both immediate and long-term strategies to prevent water accumulation during the upcoming monsoon season. DM Thiyagarajan emphasized the administration's unwavering commitment to ensuring smooth drainage operations, even during periods of intense rainfall.
Comprehensive Assessment of Drainage Infrastructure
The DM called for detailed reports on the condition of nine major drains and other critical drainage channels across the city. He specifically inquired about the status of drainage pumping stations, ongoing desilting work, manholes, catch pits, underground drains, and the removal of encroachments. Special teams, led by additional district magistrates, have already submitted their inspection findings on these essential components of the city's infrastructure.
Thiyagarajan issued a stern warning, stating that any negligence, laxity, or irregularity in preparatory measures would be treated as criminal negligence. He declared that FIRs would be filed under the Disaster Management Act against officials found derelict in their duties, underscoring a zero-tolerance policy towards waterlogging.
Enhanced Coordination and Monitoring Mechanisms
To ensure seamless execution, the DM instructed all sub-divisional officers to personally inspect their respective areas and closely monitor preparedness efforts. He stressed strict adherence to established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and called for robust inter-departmental coordination.
Agencies including the Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation (Buidco), Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC), Patna Metro Rail Corporation, Railways, Road Construction Department, Power Department, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and the district administration were directed to work in tandem to address drainage challenges effectively.
Operational Readiness and Public Grievance Redressal
PMC officials confirmed that comprehensive surveys and cleaning of drains, manholes, and catch pits have been completed across all zones. Additionally, a 24x7 control room has been established to handle public complaints through a toll-free number and a dedicated WhatsApp chatbot. Real-time monitoring of drainage pumping stations is also being implemented to ensure prompt responses to any issues.
Buidco officials reported that 56 permanent and 35 temporary drainage pumping stations are currently operational, all equipped with adequate pumps, diesel generator sets, and CCTV surveillance. New pumping stations are under construction, and capacity enhancement works are progressing steadily. All stations are slated to function round-the-clock with dedicated power supply throughout the monsoon period.
Proactive Planning Based on Meteorological Forecasts
DM Thiyagarajan urged all departments to base their activities on forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and remain fully prepared to prevent disruptions to public life, even during heavy rains. He also directed officials to stay active on a dedicated WhatsApp group named "Monsoon 2026" for swift information exchange and coordination.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena, Additional Deputy Commissioner Shrikant Kundalik Khandekar, and the Sub-Divisional Officers of Patna Sadar, Patna City, and Danapur, among others.
