BMP to remodel storm water drains to prevent flooding

BMP to remodel storm water drains to prevent flooding

The Hindu

Ecosystem project awaiting Govt. approval

# Project to apply engineering model to evolve a more balanced ecosystem
# Aerial photography, geographic information systems, thematic grid maps and satellite imagery to be used
# Japan Bank for International Cooperation approached for funds

BANGALORE: A comprehensive Hebbal Valley Ecosystem Project and remodelling of storm water drains in the northern parts of the city are what the Bangalore Mahanagara Palike is counting on to reduce the severity of floods during rainy season.

The eco-system project aims at resolving the conflict between urban development and ecology. The Rs. 202-crore project is awaiting Government approval. To be carried out in association with a private eco-infrastructure consultant, it will apply an engineering model to evolving a more balanced eco-system in this natural valley.

Besides the civic authority, the Lake Development Authority and the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board will be involved in the project. The plans are to remodel storm water drains in the Hebbal Valley and for conservation of Hebbal Lake, with a facility to recycle storm water.

The unique aspects of the project may be the way the components are used and a data infrastructure set in place, according to civic officials. The components include aerial photography, geographic information systems, thematic grid maps and extensive use of satellite imagery. The eventual aim: stop discharge of waste water into storm water drains and thus prevent the pollution of lakes. Other related components are to restore urban ecology around the valley.

The BMP has approached the Japan Bank for International Cooperation for funding the project and the research component — which may well help other cities — is to be funded by the Union Ministry of Science and Technology. The State Government will bear 45 per cent of the total cost.

The poor state of storm water drains in the city became evident after the first spells of heavy rain last month.

Despite removing silt, many were still clogged with debris. Two boys drowned in a drain near Binny Mills.

The BMP is now reviewing its project to have all storm water drains covered, a work pending since last year. It has now identified drains measuring a total of over 6,000 metres, which are to be covered with cement slabs and protected by chain link fencing.

The dumping of solid waste into the drains has led to their deterioration over the years. Apart from covering the drains and protecting them, side walls will be built wherever needed.

Work is being taken up on drains in Malleswaram, Shantinagar, Bharatinagar, Gandhinagar, Shivajinagar and Jayamahal, in the first phase.

The Karnataka Land Army Corporation will carry out the work. The Shantinagar-Bharatinagar package is expected to cost Rs. 3 crores and the Malleswaram-Gandhinagar package, Rs 1.36 crore. Estimates are being finalised for drains in the other areas.