95% of major drains cleared, city prepped for rains, says BMC

Time of India

17-06-2025

Bhopal: As monsoon clouds gather over the state capital, Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) claims it is ready to tackle seasonal waterlogging, claiming 95% of large drains have been cleared.
With 495 large drains mapped across the city, BMC additional commissioner (in charge Swach Bharat mission) Devendra Singh Chouhan claimed the civic body is prepared to ensure smooth water flow before the downpours begin.
This year, monsoon preparedness goes beyond mere cleanup. Alongside the central control room operating out of the fire station near PHQ, each of BMC's 21 zones has been instructed to establish its own rapid response system, ensuring that flood-prone areas aren't left stranded, he added.
Still, past seasons have shown that clearance efforts alone aren't enough.
Recurring waterlogging in Shahpura, Alpana Intersection, Damkheda, Idgah Hills, Chhola and Sindhi Colony Intersections stems not just from clogged drains but from unchecked encroachments and aging drainage networks. While poclain machines are being deployed, the real test will come when the first heavy rains arrive.
For Bhopal's residents, the question isn't just whether drains are cleaned—it's whether their streets will stay above water when the monsoon makes landfall.
Complaint review: 53% resolved in June: Bhopal Mayor Malti Rai recently reviewed the Mayor Helpline to enhance complaint resolution. Officials reported that 52.8% of the 1,728 complaints in June were already addressed, with efforts continuing for the rest, as per a press release.
Expert findings suggest inadequate infra: Storm Water Drainage System of Bhopal City (WJERT, 2019) –highlights the lack of a comprehensive drainage system, encroachments on natural drains, and inadequate infrastructure leading to seasonal flooding.
Bhopal Urban Agglomerate NAQUIM 2.0 (CGWB, 2023-24) – Focuses on drainage patterns, groundwater contamination, and urban planning challenges affecting stormwater management.
A reconnaissance survey in 2009 found that most city drains theoretically have adequate capacity, except three key nalas that contribute to flooding: Patra Nala – Drains nearly the entire Old City, receiving flow from multiple smaller channels.
It ultimately discharges into the Islamnagar River, then the Halali River (50 km total network).
Saket Nagar Nala – Collects runoff from major urban areas including New Market, South T.T. Nagar, Arera Colony, and Katara Hills, before merging into Hathaikheda Reservoir and eventually the Betwa River.
Banganga Nala – Drains areas like Shamla Hills, Jawahar Chowk, and North T.T. Nagar, merging into Lower Lake (Chota Talab), which then flows into Patra Nala before reaching Halali River. Despite theoretical capacity, many drains are inefficient, leading to localized flooding due to blockages, encroachments, and inadequate drainage connectivity in parts of the city, especially at the time of rain and monsoon.