Kolkata has embarked on a transformative journey to address its persistent flood challenges. On Monday, Firhad Hakim, the mayor of Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), officially launched a vital storm water network project aimed at mitigating the flooding risks in the Dum Dum Road area and its neighbouring wards.
The project, which spans the critical stretch from Dum Dum Road’s tail-end to the Birpara Pumping Station, is a significant step in the city’s ongoing efforts to improve flood management and protect its low-lying zones during the monsoon. The Dum Dum area has long struggled with severe waterlogging due to its natural topography, which has rendered it prone to flooding, especially during the heavy rains of the monsoon season. As per reports from KMC, this issue has been exacerbated by the lack of a comprehensive storm water drainage system. With heavy rain, the area’s inadequate drainage network often fails to cope, inundating key roads and causing severe disruptions for residents.
In response to this, KMC has devised a robust storm water management solution that integrates modern infrastructure with natural water flow channels. A crucial aspect of this project is its proximity to the Bagjola Canal, which was recently dredged to improve water flow. To further enhance the drainage system, two storm water pumping stations have been established—one along the canal’s banks and another near Birpara. These stations are designed to ensure that excess water is efficiently pumped away, reducing the chances of flooding in the area. The new storm water network project is part of the Urban Flood Risk Management Programme (UFRMP), which operates under the National Disaster Mitigation Fund. The initiative was approved by the Ministry of Home Affairs’ disaster management division and is funded by the Centre. With a total budget of Rs 28.56 crore allocated for the storm water network, KMC has also set aside an additional Rs 50 lakh to cover unforeseen expenses such as shifting cables and water lines that may obstruct the installation of the new system.
The implementation of this project is poised to benefit several key areas in Ward 2 and Ward 4 of KMC, helping to alleviate flooding risks and improve the daily lives of thousands of residents. KMC is expected to issue the work order soon, with tenders already floated and the project ready to commence. Once completed, this initiative will greatly reduce the vulnerability of these areas to flooding, offering residents the security of a more reliable drainage system. In line with its commitment to improving Kolkata’s urban infrastructure, KMC has also undertaken another significant project in December 2024, worth Rs 11 crore, which focuses on building a storm water network along the Eastern Metropolitan (EM) Bypass. This additional project aims to tackle waterlogging in low-lying regions of Borough XII, such as VIP Nagar, Gulshan Colony, and Martin Para, offering relief to these flood-prone areas.
By investing in sustainable flood management strategies like these, Kolkata is taking meaningful steps toward creating a more resilient urban environment. The city’s focus on flood risk mitigation not only addresses immediate concerns of urban residents but also lays the groundwork for long-term urban sustainability. The successful implementation of these projects will not only enhance the safety and comfort of Kolkata’s citizens but will also contribute to building a more climate-resilient metropolis. This initiative serves as a powerful reminder of the growing importance of robust urban planning in the face of climate change. By focusing on both infrastructural and environmental solutions, Kolkata is moving towards a future where sustainable, flood-free urban living is a reality.
Kolkata Takes Major Step to Combat Flooding
