Secunderabad: The Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in the Secunderabad Cantonment have called for the establishment of an emergency disaster management system to address persistent flooding issues.
Despite experiencing significant floods in both 2000 and 2020, the Secunderabad Cantonment Board (SCB) has yet to implement a dedicated emergency response unit. The recent heavy rains have intensified demands from the RWAs for a specialised disaster management system from the SCB chief executive office. The residents noted that while the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) deploys emergency teams promptly to manage water stagnation and remove uprooted trees within hours of rainfall, the SCB’s sanitation wing, operating with limited staff, requires at least 18 hours to respond to similar issues. A key concern for the residents is the maintenance of an open nala that traverses residential colonies and poses a significant flooding risk when clogged. “The blocked nala causes substantial inconvenience to families,” one resident stated. Additionally, there is an urgent need to update the decades-old drainage system in Cantonment’s fifth ward, which frequently overflows, exacerbating the flooding problem.
The RWAs have urged SCB officials to adopt proactive measures to mitigate flood risks, emphasising the need for immediate action to safeguard affected families. The recurring floods have highlighted the inadequacy of the current infrastructure and response mechanisms, prompting calls for a comprehensive review and upgrade of the existing systems. The establishment of an emergency disaster management system would not only enhance the SCB’s ability to respond swiftly to flooding but also align its capabilities with those of the GHMC. The disparity in response times between the two bodies underscores the need for a robust and well-resourced disaster management unit within the SCB. In addition to the nala maintenance and drainage system upgrade, residents have also recommended the implementation of regular monitoring and cleaning schedules to prevent blockages and ensure efficient water flow. These measures, combined with an effective disaster management strategy, could significantly reduce the impact of heavy rains on the community.
As climate change continues to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the call for a dedicated flood management system in the Secunderabad Cantonment is both timely and critical. The proactive involvement of SCB officials, in collaboration with the local community, is essential to developing a resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding future floods. The RWAs’ appeal highlights the urgent need for strategic planning and investment in disaster management to protect the lives and properties of Secunderabad Cantonment residents. Addressing these issues promptly will not only alleviate immediate concerns but also contribute to long-term resilience against flooding.
