CLOGGED NALAS HAS CITY COLONIES FLOODED IN RAINS

Stormwater drains are not being desilted and debris is being dumped on the banks of the Alwal lake which could result in colonies like Bharatinagar, Vasavinagar and Anand Rao Nagar getting submerged if there is heavy rain.

Piles of sand, bricks and garbage lie on the banks of the Alwal lake. One rain wash it all into the lake, causing it to overflow into the nearby colonies.

Even after several complaints were lodged with the GHMC, no action has been taken to desilt the nalas and lake.

The Greater Alwal Allied Service Association conducted a survey on the cleaning of stormwater drains and nalas and found that the cleaning had been superficial. They would get choked again quickly, leaving the area open to flooding.

GAASA general secretary Dr G V. Rao said, “Even after submitting several representation to the GHMC seeking desilting of nalas and stormwater drains in the past six months, no initiative has been taken. The government is releasing funds to the GHMC every year to desilt nalas and stormwater drains.”

GHMC deputy commissioner, Nalini Padmavati said, “Immediate action will be taken to desilt the nalas and stormwater drains. Emergency teams have been appointed to remove the blocks.” She said she would inspect the progress of works. GHMC engineer B. Anil Raj said 75 per cent of the work was done manually.