Sambalpur: Drainage Master Plan Preparation Begins, Ward-Level Meetings Begin to Address Drainage Woes
Sambalpur: The Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) has launched a comprehensive survey of the city’s roads, alleys, and byways. The professional team is concentrating on gathering detailed information about the drainage system, such as its origin, flow areas, and condition. This was announced by SMC Commissioner Vedbhushan, who emphasized that the primary goal is to collect data on every aspect of the city’s drainage system.
First-Ever Drainage Master Plan for Sambalpur
For the first time, Sambalpur will receive a comprehensive drainage master plan. The surveying process has already begun using drone technology. Ecomatrix Consultants Pvt. Ltd., the project’s consultancy firm, has begun conducting ward-level meetings, beginning with Ward No. 25. During a meeting held at the Shani Temple near Sheetal Sasthi Mandap in Modipada, the Commissioner discussed ongoing issues in Ward No. 25, particularly focusing on drainage problems. He urged residents to identify areas prone to flooding caused by overflowing drains during heavy rain.
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Flood-Prone Areas Identified
One of the major issues raised was the frequent flooding caused by low-lying areas and narrow drains on Modipada’s Panitanki Road. This causes water accumulation even during light rainfall, resulting in flood-like conditions. Furthermore, illegal construction over drains in areas such as Thelkopada has resulted in further narrowing, exacerbating the problem. Locals at Narsingh Home expressed visible upset about a culvert near the facility. To address this issue, authorities approved a proposal to work on the main drain near Narsingh Home.
Additional Problem Areas Discussed
The meeting also addressed other critical issues, such as the drain from Thelkopada to the Hanuman Temple at Panitanki Chhak, Modipada Chhak to the Swimming Pool Road, and the overall state of the drains. The hospital staff discovered several constricted drains in the ward, which prevented proper water drainage. Additionally, people filed complaints about medical waste dumped near a bund behind the hospital. An inspection team will arrive tomorrow to investigate the problem.
Local Residents Raise Concerns
Residents also reported to the SMC the presence of water pipes in the drains, which complicates water flow. The inspection team went to the drains near Punjabi Gali and Narsingh Home to assess the situation on-site. Ward Officer Ipsita Pramanik, former Ward Member Surya Pradhan, junior engineers, sanitary inspectors, specialists, Swachhata workers, SMC officials, and local residents all attended the meeting.
Ward No. 22 will hold its next meeting tomorrow.
