Patna: The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) is on full alert as Cyclone Montha continues to bring heavy and intermittent rain to many parts of Bihar, including the state capital. The rain, which started on Thursday, has caused concern about possible waterlogging in low-lying areas. To deal with the situation, the PMC has formed 19 quick response teams (QRTs) to ensure that water drains out quickly and no major problems arise in the city.
According to officials, these 19 response teams have been directed to keep constant watch on areas that are prone to flooding. The ward nodal officers, zonal officers, sanitation inspectors, and executive officers have been asked to remain in the field, conduct regular inspections, and immediately report any signs of waterlogging. The teams will work to clear blockages in drains, check the working of pumps, and make sure that people do not face difficulties during the rainfall.
To make the monitoring more effective, the PMC will now keep a digital eye on major drainage pumping stations in Patna. Under the “Automation of Drainage Pumping Stations” project of Patna Smart City Limited, real-time monitoring of nine major pumping stations will be done. This includes three pumps at Eco Park, two at Yogipur, two at Saidpur, and two at Pahari. The control room of the municipal corporation will keep track of the water drainage and pump operations using digital systems. Officials in the control room will also communicate with teams on the ground using walkie-talkies to take quick action if any emergency arises.
City Commissioner Yashpal Meena has instructed all officers to stay alert and ready for the next few days as more rainfall is expected due to Cyclone Montha. He has also ordered zonal officers to check the pumping stations in their areas and ensure that all emergency machines are in working condition. Executive officers have been asked to look after their ward areas and make sure that any complaints from residents are solved immediately.
Along with the municipal corporation, the Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation (BUIDCO) has also made special arrangements. BUIDCO Managing Director Animesh Parashar has instructed that staff be deployed in three shifts around the clock. Workers stationed at the sump houses have been told to record and report the water levels of pumps every hour. These steps are being taken to ensure that Patna remains safe and functional even during the continuous rainfall caused by Cyclone Montha.
