The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) has initiated an extensive creek cleaning campaign across its Athwa, Limbayat, and Udhna zones, deploying heavy machinery and coordinated manpower. This proactive measure aims to remove both structural and natural impediments from key waterways, thereby ensuring unobstructed water flow and enhancing the city’s defence against urban flooding during the ongoing monsoon season. The comprehensive drive underscores the civic body’s commitment to building a more resilient and sustainable urban environment, critical for the well-being of its citizens.
In the Limbayat Zone, a significant operation commenced with the demolition of a deteriorated RCC bridge, measuring 35 metres in length and 7 metres in width, that was obstructing the Mithi Creek. Located between Final Plot No. 219/2 and 225/1, this structure’s removal was executed with precision using specialised machinery, including Poklen Long Boom Breakers and JCBs, under the vigilant supervision of a large team of engineers and support staff. The demolition was immediately followed by dredging activities to clear debris, restoring the natural alignment and flow capacity of the creek, a crucial step in preventing backflow and waterlogging in surrounding residential areas.
Simultaneously, the South West (Seventh) Zone witnessed the commencement of extensive creek widening and realignment operations along the Kankara Creek. Identified as a critical choke point, a narrowing of the creek by 50-60 metres downstream of the bridge connecting Bamroli and Althan (TP-43, FP-18) is being addressed with dedicated machinery. Further efforts include clearing old stones and debris near a recently constructed SMC residential complex at TP-43, Bhimrad, FP No. 81, and realigning the meandering path of the creek along the Bhimrad to Sachin Magdalla Bridge stretch. These efforts are vital for accommodating higher water volumes and preventing inundation during heavy rainfall events.
In the Udhna Zone (South Zone-A), the focus is on dismantling an old pipe culvert near Bhamroli village’s Vidhneshwar Mahadev Temple, which significantly obstructed the Bhedwad Creek. Additionally, creek widening is underway along the 45-meter-wide road connecting Bhimrad to Bamroli, near the Bhamroli Pumping Station. These actions, executed by contractors with a range of heavy equipment under the guidance of senior municipal officials, highlight a multi-pronged approach to enhance Surat’s drainage infrastructure.
These intensive operations reflect a robust, pre-emptive strategy by the SMC to mitigate the recurring threat of urban flooding, which has historically plagued parts of Surat. By investing in the clearance and structural enhancement of its natural creek systems, the city is not only addressing immediate monsoon preparedness but also laying down the foundations for long-term urban resilience. Such proactive measures are indispensable for fostering eco-friendly and equitable urban development, ensuring that Surat’s rapid growth is matched by a robust and reliable civic infrastructure capable of safeguarding its inhabitants and their livelihoods from environmental challenges.
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