Patna Introduces Hi-Tech Monitoring System to Prevent Waterlogging in Sump Houses

Patna: The water level in nine sump houses across Patna will now be monitored in real-time through a newly installed hi-tech system featuring CCTV cameras and sensors. This initiative, developed under the supervision of IIT Delhi, aims to prevent waterlogging by enabling automatic activation of pumps when water levels rise.

The ₹7.8 crore monitoring system will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar this month. It is expected to enhance Patna’s drainage efficiency and prevent a repeat of the devastating floods of 2019.

In October 2019, Patna witnessed over 300 mm of rainfall in just 72 hours, causing severe flooding. Water entered the ground floors of over 80% of homes, leaving residents stranded for more than 10 days. Even the then Deputy Chief Minister, Sushil Kumar Modi, had to be evacuated after his house was submerged. The primary reason for the disaster was identified as the failure of the city’s drainage system, particularly malfunctioning sump house motors. Since then, the government has been working to clean drains and modernize sump houses to prevent such crises.

According to Sunil Chaudhary, Chief General Manager of Patna Smart City Limited, the new system includes CCTV cameras, water level sensors, temperature sensors, and vibration sensors, all of which are integrated into the city’s Integrated Command and Control Center.

• The system automatically starts pumps when water levels exceed the prescribed limit and stops them when the levels normalize.
• In case of pump failures or abnormal conditions, alerts will be sent to the control room, allowing immediate action.
• The sump houses will be monitored 24/7 through CCTV cameras and real-time data analysis.

The sump houses in Patna collect and channel drain water to larger drainage systems using pumps. The new monitoring system has three key components:

1. CCTV Surveillance: Monitors the sump house conditions and water levels.
2. Sensor-Based Alerts: Water level, temperature, and vibration sensors detect any irregularities and trigger automated alerts via alarms and mobile notifications.
3. Automated Pump Control: The system, linked to the SCADA platform, allows centralized control of water levels and motor operation through the command center.

After the 2019 waterlogging disaster, IIT Delhi conducted a detailed study of Patna’s drainage system using satellite and helicopter monitoring. Based on their findings, they designed a plan to resolve the city’s waterlogging issues.

• The system is being implemented by Axis Nano, a Noida-based company, which has completed installation and will handle maintenance for the next five years.
• The first phase of this project covers nine sump houses across Yogipur, Saidpur, Eco Park, and hilly areas, benefiting a large portion of the city’s population.
• Future expansions will extend these upgrades to other sump houses across Patna.

With this state-of-the-art monitoring system, Patna is taking a significant step toward resolving its persistent waterlogging issues. Once fully implemented, it will provide much-needed relief to residents, ensuring that future monsoons do not bring the city to a standstill.