Patna: The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has intensified its preparedness for waterlogging and drainage problems amid a monsoon red alert and the continuously rising water level of the Ganga.
PMC teams remained active during heavy rainfall late Friday night and on Saturday morning, clearing waterlogging at several key and vulnerable locations within about an hour after the rain stopped.
Rapid drainage was reported at Khetan Market, Rajendra Nagar, Patliputra, Gandhi Maidan, City Chowk, Karbigahiya and Chiraiyatand Bridge.
Commissioner inspects vulnerable locations
With the Ganga continuing to rise, the corporation is maintaining close surveillance of vulnerable and highly vulnerable locations.
Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena, accompanied by corporation officials, inspected several sensitive sites on Saturday, including Kurji, Gosain Tola, Gate No. 83, Saidpur Sump, Krishna Ghat, Yogipur Sump, NBCC Sump, Karbigahiya, Airport Road, Khanua Nala and Premkunj DPS.
During the inspection, Meena reviewed drainage infrastructure, pumping arrangements and potential challenges associated with the rising river level. He also issued instructions to officials at the respective locations.
Pump sets to remain on standby
Meena directed executive officers to ensure that sufficient pump sets remain ready at all identified vulnerable and highly vulnerable locations.
The corporation said the equipment must be capable of being deployed immediately if another spell of heavy rain occurs, particularly after the Ganga’s level recedes. Field teams have also been instructed to remain active and continuously monitor drainage systems.
Sandbags to tackle river seepage
The rising Ganga has also increased the risk of seepage at certain vulnerable points.
Meena directed officials to maintain continuous coordination with the Water Resources Department and ensure adequate stocks of sandbags along the riverbank and other vulnerable locations.
Officials have been asked to strategically place the sandbags wherever necessary to control seepage and reduce the risk of water entering the city.
Sluice gates closed to block Ganga water
The district administration has closed sluice gates to prevent river water from entering the city, while the PMC has blocked drains connected to the Ganga.
However, seepage has been reported at some vulnerable points as the river continues to rise. The corporation said these locations are being monitored continuously and sandbags are being deployed where required.
PMC teams will remain on high alert around the clock during the red alert period. Dewatering pumps, manpower and other equipment have been kept ready for immediate deployment in case of heavy rainfall, waterlogging or a further rise in the Ganga.
The corporation said its focus remains on rapid drainage, continuous monitoring of vulnerable areas and an immediate response to any emerging water-related emergency.
