Cuttack city residents urge for improved drainage system
Cuttack: The millennium city of Cuttack continues to battle persistent drainage problems, with experts strongly advocating for an underground drainage system as a comprehensive solution to the city’s long-standing waterlogging issues.
Recent rainfall led to significant waterlogging in several areas, including Patapol, New Rausapatana, Stewartpatna, Kesharpur, Saanta Sahi and Buxi Bazar, highlighting the inadequacy of the current drainage infrastructure.
The existing drainage network, spanning approximately 377 km according to Cuttack municipal corporation (CMC), primarily consists of slab-covered drains. While intended to protect the drainage system, this design has led to new problems, including public misuse and compromised aesthetic appeal.
“An underground drainage system is essential for a city like Cuttack. It not only addresses waterlogging but also improves the urban landscape by keeping unsightly drains out of view,” said Basant Parida, urban expert and secretary, Indian Water Works Association.
Environmental expert Asutosh Devata emphasized the ecological benefits. “Underground drainage contributes to groundwater recharge and reduces urban heat islands, promoting a sustainable urban environment,” Devata added.
Urban planner Prashil Pazare suggested a phased implementation approach, focusing initially on flood-prone zones to ensure optimal resource utilization and build public confidence.
Responding to these concerns, housing and urban development minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra said, “We are committed to resolving Cuttack’s drainage issues. We will conduct feasibility studies and implement appropriate solutions at the earliest.”
Recent rainfall led to significant waterlogging in several areas, including Patapol, New Rausapatana, Stewartpatna, Kesharpur, Saanta Sahi and Buxi Bazar, highlighting the inadequacy of the current drainage infrastructure.
The existing drainage network, spanning approximately 377 km according to Cuttack municipal corporation (CMC), primarily consists of slab-covered drains. While intended to protect the drainage system, this design has led to new problems, including public misuse and compromised aesthetic appeal.
“An underground drainage system is essential for a city like Cuttack. It not only addresses waterlogging but also improves the urban landscape by keeping unsightly drains out of view,” said Basant Parida, urban expert and secretary, Indian Water Works Association.
Environmental expert Asutosh Devata emphasized the ecological benefits. “Underground drainage contributes to groundwater recharge and reduces urban heat islands, promoting a sustainable urban environment,” Devata added.
Urban planner Prashil Pazare suggested a phased implementation approach, focusing initially on flood-prone zones to ensure optimal resource utilization and build public confidence.
Responding to these concerns, housing and urban development minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra said, “We are committed to resolving Cuttack’s drainage issues. We will conduct feasibility studies and implement appropriate solutions at the earliest.”
