New Delhi, February 28 The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has begun clearing drainage systems across Delhi and aims to complete the task ahead of schedule to prevent monsoon flooding, Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh said on Saturday.
Under the jurisdiction of the MCD, a total of 13,692 drainage systems are being cleaned, including 12,892 drainage systems with a depth of less than 4 feet, covering a combined length of 6,069.88 km, and 800 larger drainage systems deeper than 4 feet, stretching 530.82 km.
Since January, the civic body has removed 8,047 metric tonnes of silt from smaller drainage systems and 16,966 metric tonnes from the larger ones, the mayor said.
"The civic administration is making extensive preparations ahead of the monsoon to ensure that no waterlogging situation arises during the rainy season and that citizens do not face any inconvenience," Singh said.
He added that the drainage systems are regularly cleaned, and the de-silt work is being carried out continuously by the civic body, with larger drainage systems being prioritized to ensure smooth flow of rainwater.
The mayor said that the MCD has initiated the tendering process for the comprehensive cleaning of major drainage systems, and that the work will be accelerated once the process is completed.
"We have directed officials to complete all work before the deadline without compromising on quality," Singh said.
Special arrangements are also being planned for waterlogging-prone and sensitive locations, where pumps will be deployed as needed to prevent rainwater accumulation, the mayor added.
He said that the three-pronged government in the national capital is working in coordination with the Delhi government to improve cleanliness in the city.
Singh also appealed to residents to support the corporation's efforts by not dumping garbage into drainage systems, so that the drainage system remains effective.
