The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) is poised to receive a substantial grant of Rs500 crore from the Central Government, earmarked for enhancing flood management systems within the city. This funding, which was confirmed through a communication from the Centre received last week, is part of a broader disaster management initiative aimed at fortifying the city’s infrastructure against flooding.
The KMC’s sewerage and drainage department has outlined a comprehensive plan to utilise the grant effectively. The proposed measures include the restoration of water bodies, the implementation of an advanced flood monitoring and warning system, the modernisation of drainage pumping stations, and the dredging of the city’s outfall canals. These actions are expected to significantly alleviate the perennial issue of waterlogging faced by Kolkata residents. An official from the KMC sewerage and drainage department indicated that the funds would be channelled into creating infrastructure designed not only to manage deluge but also to contribute positively to the environment. “Our goal is to leverage this funding to construct systems that provide relief from waterlogging while also being environmentally sustainable,” the official stated.
Plans include the restoration of two prominent ‘jheels’ in Kudghat and several ponds in the Bansdroni-Garia area, as well as regions along the Bypass. These restored water bodies will enhance the city’s capacity to manage storm water, with a projected absorption capability of up to 346 million litres. Additionally, the project will feature the creation of green zones around these water bodies as part of an environmental improvement strategy.
This funding allocation marks a significant step towards modernising Kolkata’s flood management infrastructure, reflecting the Centre’s commitment to addressing urban flood challenges and enhancing the quality of life for the city’s residents. By upgrading critical infrastructure and improving water absorption capacity, the KMC aims to mitigate the impact of heavy rains and flooding, thereby providing a more resilient urban environment.
