In a significant move aimed at alleviating persistent waterlogging issues, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has approved the installation of new stormwater lines at a cost of Rs 216 crore. This initiative targets ten critical spots in the Vejalpur, Vasna, and Navrangpura areas, which have struggled with flooding during monsoon seasons. The recent meeting of the water and sewerage committee resulted in two key proposals to enhance the city’s stormwater drainage system, with the goal of preventing the flooding that has plagued these neighbourhoods for years.
The first proposal involves laying a stormwater drain line from the Makarba Police Headquarters, which will cross the Fatehwadi Canal before discharging into the Sabarmati River. This project is estimated to cost Rs 36.27 crore. The second, more extensive proposal entails a comprehensive network of stormwater drains, connecting vital points such as Manekbag and the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) using micro-tunneling methods. This will involve laying twin pipelines of 1,800mm diameter over 7,030 meters and a separate 900mm diameter line from Jaydeep Tower to Malav Lake, covering an additional 1,800 meters, with a total budget of Rs 180.17 crore.
Notably, the number of identified waterlogging spots in Ahmedabad surged from 125 to 157 during the recent monsoon, exacerbating the difficulties faced by residents in Vejalpur and nearby areas. Critics have pointed fingers at the engineering department’s negligence as a contributing factor to this increase. Specific locations, including Bootbhavani Temple, Sonal Cinema Road, and Makarba Police Headquarters, have become notorious for their annual flooding, raising urgent calls for municipal intervention.
Despite the AMC investing over Rs 45 crore in the last five years to address these waterlogging concerns, residents continue to face challenges. The latest projects not only aim to provide a long-lasting solution to the flooding issues but also highlight the pressing need for sustainable urban infrastructure. With the city’s rapid expansion and increasing rainfall patterns due to climate change, ensuring effective stormwater management systems is crucial for protecting communities. The AMC’s commitment to improving drainage infrastructure is a step towards enhancing urban resilience and safeguarding public welfare, reflecting a broader commitment to sustainable city planning.
