Complete drain-cleaning work by June 15, before onset of monsoon, says PWD

Delhi Government Orders Immediate Drain-Cleaning Ahead of Monsoon

Complete drain cleaning work by June 15 - The Delhi government's Public Works Department (PWD) has issued directives to all field units to finalize drain-cleaning operations and inspect pumping infrastructure within the next fortnight as part of the annual monsoon readiness initiative.

Officials were instructed to ensure drains are cleared prior to the arrival of the rainy season. The directive emphasizes the importance of maintaining drainage systems to mitigate waterlogging during intense rainfall. A PWD representative highlighted the urgency, stating, "Drainage and pump checks must commence immediately, with all tasks completed before the monsoon begins. Field engineers are also required to document completed work through photographs and videos. Silt removed from drains should be transported within 24 hours to avoid re-entry into the system."

Coordination with External Agencies

The PWD has mandated identification of points where its drains connect to those managed by other bodies, such as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), and the Irrigation and Flood Control Department. Officials are tasked with collaborating with these agencies to maintain consistent cleaning of shared drainage areas.

Additionally, manholes across the city must be securely covered as part of safety protocols. Executive engineers are to provide certificates of compliance to their superiors, including chief engineers and a designated nodal officer, by June 15.

“Roadside bell mouths and rainwater pipes on flyovers must undergo regular cleaning throughout the monsoon season. Engineers are also to confirm that all installed pumps are operational and that pump sumps have been desilted. Compliance reports should follow the department’s reporting structure by June 15,” the official added.

Independent Verification Process

To assess preparedness, senior engineers have been assigned to evaluate pumping installations outside their usual jurisdiction. These inspections must be submitted by June 17, with detailed reports outlining pump locations, capacities, functional status, and sump conditions in a standardized format.