Desilting works are currently underway in major nalas under the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) in preparation for the upcoming monsoon. These works were supposed to be completed by May 31, but they are still ongoing.
In previous years, many areas in the city experienced waterlogging and flooding due to stormwater drains and nalas being filled with silt and waste material. Recent unseasonal rains have already flooded various parts of the city, highlighting the importance of completing the desilting works before the monsoon season arrives.
The GHMC has proposed 58 works under the monsoon action plan, totaling an estimated cost of Rs 985.45 crore. Different zones within the city have been allocated varying numbers of works to prevent flooding and waterlogging in various areas.
Despite identifying over 125 locations affected by waterlogging, many of the desilting works and other preventive measures remain incomplete. GHMC officials are working to clear stormwater drains and culverts of garbage before the monsoon to ensure smooth water flow and prevent stagnation.
It is crucial for the city’s 1,304 km of drains to be protected to avoid any incidents during the monsoon. Public awareness campaigns are also being conducted to discourage littering in nalas with garbage.
Some activists and residents criticize the GHMC for not taking permanent solutions to address the recurring issue of waterlogging during the monsoon. Despite funds being allocated for various works, delays and lack of action by officials raise concerns about potential flooding and safety risks in the upcoming rainy season.
