Monsoon ready? Ambala DC reviews flood control measures

Ambala Deputy Commissioner Ajay Singh Tomer on Wednesday reviewed the city’s monsoon preparedness and the arrangements made by various departments to tackle potential waterlogging in Ambala City.

The DC inspected drainage systems maintained by the Irrigation Department, Ambala Municipal Corporation, Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and Railways. He assessed the cleanliness of the drains and directed officials to ensure that no blockages remain.

DC Tomer also instructed all departments concerned to ensure an adequate number of pumps are available to drain out rainwater promptly in case of water accumulation.

The inspection was attended by Ambala MC Commissioner Virender Lather, Ambala City SDM Darshan Kumar and officials from multiple departments.

During the field visit, the team inspected a drain passing through the railway area near Sector 7. Officials informed the DC that three culverts in the area had been cleaned. Another drain near Sector 23 was also inspected, where the DC instructed the department concerned to ensure the provision of a generator and pump to facilitate smooth drainage of rainwater.

The DC further inspected pump arrangements made by the PHED near Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Chowk. At Manav Chowk, he assessed the condition of the drainage.

The inspection also covered Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) at Indrapuri and Banuri Naka. Officials informed the DC that a high-capacity motor is being installed at the Indrapuri STP. The team then visited Devi Nagar and Manmohan Nagar to evaluate preparedness in those areas as well.

Earlier in the day, the DC chaired a review meeting at the PWD Rest House in Ambala City with officials from all departments concerned. During the meeting, MC officials reported that 41 pumps and five JCB machines are ready for deployment. PHED officials stated they have four disposal pumps in place, while the Irrigation Department confirmed that around 1,000 soil-filled bags have been prepared for flood control.

The DC emphasised the importance of coordination among departments during heavy rainfall. “While the majority of drain cleaning work has been completed, instructions have been given to expedite the remaining tasks. The d0epartments concerned have made the necessary preparations for the rainy season. We are hopeful that there will be no flood-like situation or prolonged waterlogging this year,” said DC Tomer.