Nullah repair work to be completed by monsoon: NMMC

NERUL: The nullah repair work between Sector 13 and 19 of Nerul will be completed before monsoon, said Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) officials.

The civic body has taken up the repair work of the nullah amid allegations that the completion deadline has been missed by the NMMC.

City and Industrial Development Cor poration ( Cidco) had to construct several embankments as it had developed Navi Mumbai at a level that is below the level of high tides. The embankments ensure that during monsoon, water from the creek does not enter the city and the rain water flows into the creek.

For water to drain from the city, a number of rainwater drains and nullahs have been constructed in the city. These nullahs were constructed by Cidco around 25 years ago, with some nullahs being constructed using the stone pinching technique. Wild plants and shrubs growing on these nullahs act as obstacles for the flow of water and hence, water is not drained properly. This leads to flood-like situation in some areas.

“Our aim is to ensure proper flow of rainwater and avoid flood-like situations in future. We are taking steps to repair the slope in the nullah and remove the wild growth in it,” said city engineer Mohan Dagaonkar.

He said, “Instead of closing the nullah, we have kept it open. On both walls reinforced cement concrete-soling and concretisation has been done. We have taken permission from the respective authorities to remove the wild growth in it.”

“On both sides of the nullah, trees are being planted and the area is being beautified. Seating arrangements are also being made at some locations for the residents,” said Dagaonkar.

The city engineer said owing to this repair, the water flow has become regular and there is no foul smell in the area. Mosquito breeding has also reduced.

Dagaonkar denied allegations of poor quality of work at the nullah. “We haven’t compromised on quality. Our works are inspected by a third party.

“During the repair work, we had to stop the work at some places because of the exams. This led to the slow pace of work,” he said.