Hyderabad:
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has started a major clean-up effort to clear storm water drains, nalas, and water bodies in and around Hyderabad. This action aims to remove debris that has accumulated due to heavy rains. The clean-up is crucial for ensuring that rainwater can flow freely in colonies and to reduce mosquito problems and seasonal diseases.
On Tuesday, GHMC Commissioner Amrapali Kata directed officials to remove floating debris from nalas and storm water drains that were clogged during the rains. She held a teleconference with additional and zonal commissioners, giving them specific instructions about how to carry out the work.
Commissioner Kata ordered the zonal commissioners to oversee the cleaning activities and to submit reports, including photographs, of the ongoing work. She also instructed the health wing officials to identify colonies where rainwater remained for more than two hours. In these areas, vector-control measures, such as anti-larvae spraying and fogging, should be taken to prevent the spread of seasonal diseases. Additionally, she advised senior officers to coordinate with the District Medical and Health Officers (DMHOs) of Ranga Reddy, Hyderabad, and Medchal districts to organize health camps.
The commissioner also emphasized the urgent need to repair roads that were severely damaged by the rains. If road repairs cannot be completed quickly, authorities should barricade the damaged sections and put up warning signs for commuters.
Earlier, Commissioner Kata made a surprise inspection in the Kukatpally zone, visiting flood-affected areas. She inspected the flooded Maisamma Lake, IDL Lake, and Safdar Nagar Lake, and spoke with local residents.
During her visit, she instructed senior officers to ensure that safe drinking water is provided to residents of flooded colonies. She also reiterated the importance of conducting anti-larvae activities and fogging to prevent mosquito breeding. Furthermore, she suggested organizing health camps in these areas to prevent the spread of diseases.
Looking ahead to the upcoming Ganesh festival, the commissioner advised officials to complete preparations for idol immersions at IDL and Maisamma lakes. Kukatpally Zonal Commissioner Apoorva Chauhan and officers from various departments were also present during the inspection.
