Odisha: BMC Gears Up To Tackle Urban Flooding In Rain-Soaked Capital City

Bhubaneswar: As heavy rains continued to lash different parts of Odisha including the state capital over the last few days, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has braced up to deal with urban flooding and identified 31 places that are vulnerable to water-logging.

Apart from keeping pump sets ready for draining out rain water as part of its preparatory measures, the BMC has mobilised JCB machines to clear blockage areas in the city, sources said on Sunday.

As part of its effort to prevent urban flooding, the civic body held a meeting chaired by mayor Sulochana Das. BMC Commissioner Bijay Amrut Kulange, zonal deputy commissioners and engineers were present in the meeting, held on Saturday, to discuss various steps required for preventing water-logging in the city.

“Our focus is on taking proper measures to prevent water-logging at the vulnerable spots. As many as 31 such places have been identified,” said an official.

Steps are also being taken to open shelter centres in low lying areas and slums, while teams have been formed to evacuate people in case of emergency. All ward officers have been directed to remain alert for any untoward situation arising out of incessant rain.

The fire services department has been asked to remain prepared to drain out rain water in low lying areas, while the public health department (PHD) will ensure supply of drinking water in submerged areas, the official.

During monsoon season, severe water-logging is always witnessed in many parts of the city including Nayapalli, Acharya Vihar, Jaydev Vihar, Baramunda and Jagannath Nagar areas due to the absence of proper drainage system.

Similarly, major roads, especially Bomikhal-Rasulgarh stretch on Cuttack-Puri road and Iskcon temple road along NH 26 in Nayapalli, often face severe water-logging during heavy rainfall.