BMC to Manage New Stormwater Drains to Reduce Waterlogging

Bhubaneswar: In a move aimed at addressing recurring waterlogging issues in the city, all newly constructed stormwater drains within Bhubaneswar's municipal limits will be handed over to the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) for regular upkeep and maintenance. This decision was taken during a recent meeting involving senior officials.

As per the meeting's minutes, the newly built drains will be formally transferred to the respective urban local bodies after their completion to ensure routine cleaning and maintenance.

Officials believe this initiative will streamline maintenance efforts and help mitigate waterlogging in several low-lying and congestion-prone areas of the city, particularly during the monsoon season.

The BMC has been directed to complete the takeover process by the end of this month. The meeting, chaired by senior officials from the housing and urban development and works departments, also highlighted the increasing burden on the BMC due to rapid urbanisation and the resultant rise in stormwater flow.

To address these challenges, it was noted that the frequency of drain maintenance has significantly increased over the years. The minutes also stated that regular annual budgetary provisions will now be made to cover recurring expenses related to desilting, cleaning, and minor repairs of these drains.