kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The monsoon season approaches, Kolkata's civic administration is intensifying its efforts to mitigate the perennial issue of urban flooding. On May 5, 2025, Mayor Firhad Hakim convened a high-level meeting at the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) headquarters, bringing together key stakeholders to strategize on monsoon preparedness. The meeting included officials from the Public Works Department (PWD), Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA), Irrigation Department, Fire Services, Kolkata Police, CESC, and the Kolkata Port Trust.

A central focus of the meeting was the desilting and maintenance of Kolkata's drainage infrastructure. The Beleghata Circular Canal, a critical waterway spanning over 7 kilometers from Kolkata Station to Chingrighata, was highlighted for its role in draining rainwater from vast areas of the city. State irrigation officials reported that desilting work on the canal is nearing completion and is expected to be finalized by the end of May.

Mayor Hakim emphasized the importance of ensuring that stormwater recedes quickly through the city's network of outfall canals, which form the backbone of Kolkata's drainage system. He directed the drainage department to monitor the functioning of pumping stations closely, as they play a vital role in preventing waterlogging during heavy rains. 

In addition to drainage concerns, the meeting addressed the structural integrity of buildings across the city. Kolkata Police's Additional Commissioner D.P. Singh requested the KMC to provide a list of buildings deemed extremely insecure, allowing for timely action to relocate residents before the onset of the monsoon.

The condition of the city's roads was another point of discussion. The KMC's roads department has been tasked with identifying potholed roads and ensuring their repair before the monsoon to prevent further deterioration and potential hazards during the rainy season. 

Mayor Hakim also addressed the issue of rooftop establishments, expressing concerns over the proliferation of rooftop restaurants and bars in the city. He highlighted the potential risks these structures pose during emergencies, such as fires, where access to rooftops is crucial for rescue operations. The mayor indicated that the civic body would take a firm stance against unauthorized rooftop constructions to ensure public safety.

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from all departments to work in unison to prepare Kolkata for the upcoming monsoon season. Mayor Hakim assured citizens that with the coordinated efforts of various agencies, the city aims to minimize waterlogging and ensure the safety and well-being of its residents during the rainy months.