Patna: The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation (BUIDCO) are racing against time to fortify the city’s drainage systems ahead of the monsoon. In a decisive step, 33 potential waterlogging hotspots across all six city zones have been identified, with contingency measures now in place.
A late-night mock drill, held from 11pm to 2am at Eco Park’s sump house on Sunday, served as a real-time review of monsoon preparedness. The exercise tested the operational status of sump houses, manholes, catchpits, and pumps, while also monitoring staff responsiveness. The Municipal Commissioner, who also serves as BUIDCO’s Managing Director, reviewed technical performance and inter-departmental coordination during the drill.
Waterlogging hotspots mapped zone-wise
The inspection identified high-risk areas in:
- Pataliputra Zone – 6 locations
- New Capital Zone – 7 locations
- Kankarbagh – 5 locations
- Azimabad – 5 locations
- Patna City – 5 locations
- Bankipur – 5 locations
Officers have been instructed to conduct on-ground checks and deploy pumps at these sites to ensure rapid water discharge during heavy rain.
Real-time communication upgraded
To enhance coordination, PMC and BUIDCO employees at 19 key pump houses have been equipped with SIM-based walkie-talkies. These devices will enable uninterrupted communication during rainfall emergencies. Training has also been imparted to ensure quick response to any disruptions.
Drainage systems checked across zones
The mock drill involved inspection of inlets, outlets, gratings, and drainage links of all sump houses. Special attention was given to ensuring that all pumps are operational, with operators and required pipe infrastructure ready for deployment.
All hands on deck
The exercise saw full participation from zone executive officers, the Deputy Municipal Commissioner, engineers, sanitation officials, ward nodal officers, and city managers. Their presence underscored the administration’s commitment to mitigating the annual threat of urban flooding in Patna.
