DC asks civic bodies to clear blockages for swift rainwater drainage

Deputy Commissioner Dr Himanshu Aggarwal has issued strict directives to the civic bodies asking them to ensure swift drainage of rainwater in the city. In a written order, Dr Aggarwal directed the Jalandhar Municipal Corporation, Improvement Trust Jalandhar, and the Additional Deputy Commissioner (Urban Development) to clear all blockages across drainage points on roads under their jurisdiction. He laid stress on the cleanliness of drainage points on a war footing.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasised the need for prompt action, instructing the departments to remove encroachments obstructing drainage points to ensure the swift disposal of rainwater. He underscored the importance of maintaining an effective drainage system to prevent waterlogging, which can cause inconvenience to residents.

Dr Aggarwal also called for the preparation of a comprehensive plan focusing on rainwater harvesting and an improved sewerage system in the city. He asked the officials to submit this plan to his office within a week to ensure long-term solutions for managing rainwater and improving the sewerage network.

In a separate order, the DC instructed the Health Department, the Jalandhar Municipal Corporation, the Improvement Trust, and the Additional Deputy Commissioners (Urban Development and Rural Development) to conduct an extensive fogging drive during the monsoon season. The initiative aims to control the spread of mosquitoes and reduce the risk of vector-borne diseases during the rainy season.

Dr Aggarwal reiterated the Punjab Government’s commitment, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, to provide all necessary facilities to people. He assured that the administration would leave no stone unturned in preventing waterlogging and safeguarding public health during the rains. The DC emphasized that concerted efforts by the civic bodies are essential to ensuring a clean and safe environment for the district’s residents.