Key Points

Haryana Industries Minister Rao Narbir Singh has initiated a comprehensive review of Gurugram's monsoon preparedness to combat waterlogging issues. The minister has mandated thorough cleaning of drains and sewer lines before June 15, emphasizing zero tolerance for administrative negligence. He wants direct accountability by sharing responsible officers' contacts with local resident welfare associations. Despite previous claims of readiness, recent rainfall exposed significant municipal infrastructure challenges in managing urban flooding.

Key Points: Rao Narbir Singh Tackles Gurugram Waterlogging Challenges

  • Minister instructs complete drain cleaning by June 15
  • Demands detailed spending report on stormwater drain maintenance
  • Warns against negligence in monsoon preparations
  • Seeks direct accountability from municipal officers
3 min read

Gurugram: Admin making 'serious' efforts to deal with waterlogging ahead of monsoon season

Haryana Minister reviews monsoon preparedness, demands thorough drain cleaning and strict accountability for preventing city flooding

"The names of the officers responsible for waterlogging-prone spots must be shared with local RWA and councillors - Rao Narbir Singh"

Gurugram, April 11

The administration is making all possible efforts at the administrative level to prevent waterlogging in Gurugram city during the monsoon season, an official said.

The official said that to ensure there are no lapses in these efforts, Haryana Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh reviewed the preparations with the officers of the concerned department.

The minister chaired a review meeting with officers about preparedness during the monsoon season. During the meeting, the minister reviewed the cleaning status of stormwater drains and internal sewer systems in different wards, the efficiency of the STPs, and the zonal sanitation arrangements.

He instructed the officials that all drains and sewer lines must be cleaned thoroughly before June 15 to avoid inconvenience to the public.

The minister made it clear that any kind of negligence in cleaning will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken against the responsible officers.

"The names of the officers responsible for waterlogging-prone spots must be shared with the local RWA and councillors so they can be contacted directly in case of emergencies," the minister said.

He added that the government is fully committed to providing a clean and waterlogging-free environment to the people. He also expressed displeasure with the functioning of the engineering wing of the corporation; he asked officers to ensure that all manhole covers are at the proper level for effective drainage.

He said that due to the sewer lids not being at the right level, water is not able to drain during the rainy season, which causes waterlogging as well as damage to the road.

He also emphasised that corruption will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and asked for a detailed report on how much money has been spent on stormwater drain cleaning by the Municipal Corporation since 2014.

He said payment to contractors should only be made after getting written approval from the RWA of the area where the cleaning work has been completed.

Despite several monsoon preparations claimed by the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG), Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) and other agencies to deal with waterlogging problems at multiple locations in Gurugram, a three-hour rain during the early hours of May 2 exposed the false preparations of the administration.

A few hours of rain caused heavy waterlogging on multiple stretches and areas in Gurugram. Both vehicular traffic and pedestrian movement were disrupted due to waterlogging on several roads. Commuters faced huge problems due to rainwater.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Every year we hear the same promises before monsoon, and every year Gurugram turns into Venice! 😤 The authorities need to show results, not just hold review meetings. That May 2 incident proved nothing has changed. Hope this time they walk the talk!
P
Priya M.
At least they're trying to be accountable by naming responsible officers and involving RWAs. This is a good step forward. But cleaning drains is just one part - we need better urban planning to prevent waterlogging in the first place. Our city deserves permanent solutions.
A
Amit S.
The minister talking about corruption in drainage work is the real story here! 🤯 How much money has actually been spent vs how much reached the ground? A detailed audit since 2014 is much needed. Hope this brings some transparency.
N
Neha T.
As a resident of Sector 56 (worst affected area), I'll believe it when I see it. Last monsoon, my car was submerged and office clothes got ruined wading through knee-deep water. The authorities better deliver this time or we citizens should protest!
V
Vikram J.
The real problem is illegal construction blocking natural drainage paths. No amount of drain cleaning will help if we keep choking our city's water flow. Need strict action against builders flouting norms. #SaveGurugram
S
Sangeeta R.
Positive step making payments conditional on RWA approval! This will ensure work is actually done. But RWAs need proper training to assess drainage work quality. Maybe involve civil engineers from resident welfare associations too?

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50