Pune: PCMC Begins Drain Cleaning Operations to Avert Monsoon Flooding
Varad Bhatkhande
Pimpri Chinchwad, 6th April 2024: Yashwant Dange, Assistant Commissioner of the Health Department, announced that drain cleaning operations have commenced across all eight ward office premises of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC). This proactive measure aims to prevent flooding during the upcoming monsoon season.
The city comprises 148 small and large drains spanning a total distance of 100 kilometres under the jurisdiction of the eight zonal offices. To mitigate the risk of monsoon-related flooding, the Health Department undertakes annual cleaning of these drains. With pre-monsoon rains typically starting in the first week of June, it’s imperative to complete this essential task before the onset of rainfall.
PCMC Commissioner and Administrator, Shekhar Singh, issued an order on March 22 directing the Health Department to ensure mechanical cleaning of drains citywide by May 31. In adherence to this directive, drain cleaning operations commenced in all eight regional office areas on Friday (5th April).
Dange explained, “The cleaning process employs JCB, Poclain, and Spider machines. However, in narrow drains inaccessible to machines, manual cleaning is conducted with appropriate safety measures in place. Before-and-after photographs are taken to monitor progress, and inspections are conducted to ensure proper drainage functionality.”
By initiating these comprehensive drain cleaning efforts, PCMC endeavours to safeguard the city against the adverse effects of monsoon flooding, ensuring the well-being and safety of its residents.
