In a bid to preempt monsoon-related issues, Pradeep Jambhale Patil, the Additional Commissioner of the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), has issued a directive for the comprehensive cleaning of all drains under the PCMC’s jurisdiction by May 20. This directive comes as part of a thorough review meeting held at the Municipal Corporation of Pimpri’s main administrative facility, the late Mayor Madhukar Pavle Auditorium, on Friday.
During the meeting, Patil emphasized the urgency of the situation and instructed officers and staff to promptly address any hindrances encountered during the drain cleaning process. Safety protocols were underscored, with Patil stressing the mandatory use of safety equipment during cleaning operations. Heavy machinery, including JCBs, Poclain, and spider machines, were earmarked for use in the cleaning process to ensure efficiency.
A key aspect highlighted by Patil was the documentation of the cleaning process. He mandated the capture of before and after photos of the drains, accompanied by comprehensive cleaning reports to be submitted to the health department. Furthermore, Patil asserted that accountability measures would be enforced, holding responsible parties answerable for any instances of blocked drains, encroachments, or diminished drain widths.
The urgency of completing the drain cleaning before the onset of monsoon rains was emphasized, as Patil elucidated the challenges posed by conducting such operations during the monsoon season, which typically arrives in the first week of June.
The task at hand is monumental, with approximately 148 large and small drains scattered across the PCMC’s jurisdiction requiring attention. Each of the eight regional offices has been tasked with addressing the drainage network in its respective area. Personal inspections of problematic drains were stressed, with officers instructed to tackle issues head-on.
To optimize rainwater drainage, Patil has instructed for the thorough removal of silt from both large and small drains. Special attention is to be paid to drains in low-lying areas, with a directive for their meticulous cleaning to prevent waterlogging during the monsoon.
As part of the initiative, detailed information regarding the width, length, and precise locations of drains, along with progress updates on the cleaning process, will be provided. This transparency aims to ensure accountability and track progress effectively.
