BMC, NHAI Join Hands to Tackle Drainage Issues in Anticipation of Rainfall

Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) and National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have joined hands to tackle the drainage issues in anticipation of rainfall in the capital city this monsoon season.

An important meeting addressing drainage and sanitation issues within the NHAI area was convened today, chaired by BMC Commissioner Vijay Amruta Kulange.

During the meeting, the BMC Commissioner emphasized the criticality of resolving waterlogging areas resulting from drainage concerns within NHAI.

Prompt action was urged to prevent inconvenience to citizens as the rainy season has already begun.

The Commissioner directed the team to swiftly address all drainage requirements before the onset of heavy rainfall.

The BMC has instructed preparations for water management through pump sets in waterlogged areas.

The Commissioner stressed the urgency of cleaning drains within NHAI, installing barricades, aligning drains, and covering them with slabs. Additionally, attention was drawn to the drain work near the ISCON temple, which falls within NHAI’s jurisdiction.

He also emphasized the need to manage potholes and manholes on the roads, urging the prompt initiation of necessary repair work.

Kulange further highlighted the importance of sanitation, specifically addressing concerns such as the cleaning of drains, proper disposal of construction and demolition waste, and he also suggested the use of vacuum cleaners for road cleaning in relevant areas.

The impact of high dust particles from NH roads was acknowledged, and appropriate measures were urged to mitigate the issue.

The Commissioner emphasized the importance of addressing soil heaps on drains or roads and completing road work to ensure public safety.

Mechanical sweeping is being undertaken for an 80 km stretch, out of which 18 km is within NH roadways.

The Commissioner requested cost provision from NHAI for cleaning services, highlighting that BMC is adhering to rules and already incurring substantial expenses for cleaning BMC areas.

The meeting was attended by officials from NHAI, Addl Commissioner II Subhendu Sahu, Deputy Commissioner Sanitation Dr. Manoranjan Sahu, City Engineer Arun Nayak, and BMC’s engineering team.