Irrigation Dept starts desilting rivulets

Tribune News Service

Patiala, July 11

The Irrigation Department has started the desilting of various rivulets in Patiala when heavy rains, as predicted, is just four days away in Punjab.

Almost delayed by two weeks, the authorities have woken up from deep slumber. Desilting and cleaning of canals, tunnels, bridges, ponds, drains, distributaries and siphons in the district is usually completed before June end. 

But this year, work has been reportedly delayed due to the shortage of funds.  It seems that the Irrigation Department fares poorly when it comes to learning from the past mistakes. 

Blocked sewers and flooded streets become a common sight and headache for residents whenever it rains. Deputy Commissioner Kumar Amit said he had directed officials concerned to take all necessary steps and precautions to avoid floods and meet any eventuality.

Deputy Commissioner Kumar Amit, on Wednesday, visited the Jacob Drain and Model Town Drain to review the progress of the ongoing work. The DC directed the officers of the Drainage Department to timely complete the work, and also without any negligence.

Deputy Commissioner said that cleaning and desilting of Jhambowali Choe, Samana Mandi Drain, Sarai Pati Drain, Nabha Drain, Sirhind Choe are being done with machines. Cleaning of about 20 drains has been completed under the MNERGA.