Improve capacity of drains, BDA told

Improve capacity of drains, BDA told

The Hindu

Consultants also suggest building new culverts to prevent flooding during monsoon

BANGALORE: Stup, consultants selected by Bangalore Development Authority to develop a technical plan to divert excess water from lakes in Krishnarajapuram, has suggested that the capacity of the existing storm water systems be enhanced and new culverts built to prevent flooding.

If the city administration takes up the suggestions, at least some of the flood-prone areas may fare better in the next rainy season.

In a 72-page report on Pai Layout submitted to the BDA, the consultants have observed that the capacity of the existing storm water drains has been diminished in most areas because of silt and accumulation of moss and vegetation. The report has also noted that many buildings have been built over culverts.

In the proposal, Stup has suggested construction of an open drain of 1,000 metres from Old Madras Road up to the railway culvert along with stone revetment on either side with bed lining and the construction of a new open drain from the railway culvert up to Doddanekundi Tank. The reconstruction of two culverts has also been suggested.

The project is estimated at Rs. 2.6 crores, including the cost of construction of RCC box, new open drains and reconstruction of culverts. "We are looking at the report. We will finalise it shortly and start work," said the BDA Commissioner, M.N. Vidyashankar.

Chief Minister N. Dharam Singh has ordered the BDA to develop a plan to drain off excess rainwater in the lakes of Bommanahalli and Krishnarajapuram city municipal corporations after the heavy downpour in September.

Heavy showers have damaged roads in the area and caused traffic problems. Several houses in the area were inundated. The parking area and ground floor of many apartment complexes were flooded forcing residents to spend days draining the water.

"It was a horrible experience. My new car got flooded as did the hall of my two-bedroom apartment," N. Vijay of Pai Layout said.

With rain forecast for the city, the residents of Pai Layout are a worried lot once again. "I hope the BDA does something before the situation goes out of hand," Mr. Vijay said.