Gurgaon’s ambition to evolve into a resilient and sustainable urban centre faces a critical juncture as pre-monsoon assessments reveal significant deficiencies in its flood mitigation infrastructure.
Mock drills conducted across 21 underpasses in the city exposed a concerning reality. Four crucial underpasses lack fully operational or even existent water pumping mechanisms, potentially jeopardizing the safety and mobility of its citizens during the impending monsoon season. This revelation casts a shadow on the city’s readiness to tackle the intense rainfall that the season typically brings, raising pertinent questions about the robustness of its civic infrastructure. The Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) has brought to light that the underpasses at Medanta, Rajiv Chowk, and Sector 84/36B are equipped with pumping machinery that is not entirely functional. Even more alarming is the situation at the Dhanwapur underpass, which, according to the GMDA, lacks any pumping infrastructure whatsoever. These inadequacies were brought to the forefront following comprehensive mock exercises designed to evaluate the efficacy of flood preparedness measures across the city’s vital transit arteries.
The absence of reliable water evacuation systems in these underpasses poses a tangible threat to the seamless flow of traffic and the safety of commuters. During periods of heavy rainfall, such underpasses are prone to waterlogging, potentially leading to hazardous conditions, traffic congestion, and significant disruption to daily life. The functionality of these pumping systems is paramount in ensuring that rainwater is efficiently drained, maintaining the accessibility and safety of these crucial urban links. In response to these findings, the GMDA has reportedly engaged with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to expedite the rectification of the issues identified at the Medanta, Rajiv Chowk, and Sector 84/36B underpasses. The civic body has urged the NHAI to ensure that all pumping machinery is in optimal working condition before the full onset of the monsoon. Simultaneously, the Public Works Department (PWD) has been formally requested to undertake the installation of adequately sized pump sets at the Dhanwapur underpass, addressing the complete absence of such infrastructure.
The mock drills, which involved the simulated release of water into the underpass sump tanks, served as a practical assessment of the existing pumping capabilities and the operational readiness of the associated diesel generator sets, which provide backup power for the pumping machinery. While the GMDA noted that most underpasses were found to be reasonably equipped, the deficiencies identified in these four key locations underscore the need for rigorous and proactive infrastructure management, especially in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. The implications of inadequate flood preparedness extend beyond mere inconvenience. Prolonged waterlogging can lead to significant economic losses, disrupt essential services, and pose risks to public health. Ensuring that urban infrastructure is resilient to the challenges posed by the monsoon is a crucial aspect of building sustainable and liveable cities. The prompt action requested by the GMDA from the NHAI and PWD will be critical in mitigating potential risks and safeguarding the well-being of Gurgaon’s residents and its connectivity. The focus now shifts to the timely and effective remediation of these identified vulnerabilities, underscoring the importance of continuous monitoring and investment in essential urban infrastructure.
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