How is Gurugram Preparing for Floods? GMDA's Mock Drills Explained!

Synopsis
In a proactive move towards flood preparedness, the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) has successfully conducted mock drills across 21 underpasses. These initiatives aim to ensure effective water management during the monsoon season, minimizing disruption for citizens. Discover the details of these drills and their significance for Gurugram's infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- GMDA's proactive measures include mock drills for 21 underpasses.
- The drills tested the efficiency of pumping systems and drainage.
- Issues were identified at certain underpasses, prompting immediate action.
- Additional machinery and maintenance efforts are underway to prevent waterlogging.
- Community safety is a top priority for the GMDA during the rainy season.
Gurugram, May 15 (NationPress) The Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) has successfully completed mock drills for all 21 underpasses in the city, a crucial part of the ongoing flood preparedness efforts by the Authority conducted on Thursday.
The drills for the underpasses managed by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and Public Works Department (PWD) were carried out timely by the officials.
During the drills, recycled water from fire tenders was introduced into the underground sumps located in the underpasses. As the sumps filled, the pumps installed within the underpasses were activated to evaluate their performance and efficiency in removing the water.
The functionality of the DG Sets was also assessed to ensure a reliable electric supply for the smooth operation of pumping machinery during the monsoon season.
It was noted that the pumping machinery in 18 underpasses was operating at full capacity and was in good condition. These pumps effectively removed accumulated water, preventing any instances of waterlogging during the drills.
Furthermore, the drainage systems in these underpasses successfully mitigated any waterlogging issues during the mock drill. However, it was found that the pumping machinery at the Medanta, Rajiv Chowk, and Sector-84/36B underpasses under NHAI was not fully operational.
The NHAI has been urged to address this issue promptly to ensure all pumping systems are functional during the monsoon.
Moreover, no pumping machinery was discovered in the Dhanwapur underpass, prompting PWD to be notified for the installation of appropriately sized pump sets to prevent water accumulation during heavy rainfall.
The mock drills conducted at the underpasses were integral to flood preparedness measures aimed at ensuring citizens experience minimal inconvenience and that traffic flows smoothly without congestion during the rainy season.
“These mock drills at the underpasses have provided valuable insights into the on-ground situation and the performance of our machinery and dewatering systems. Most underpasses were well-equipped with the necessary machinery and drainage infrastructure. Directives have been issued to the relevant departments to take necessary actions and remedial measures where needed,” stated Vikram Singh, Executive Engineer, GMDA.
The mock drills were conducted at underpasses including Ambiance Mall, Subhash Chowk, Shankar Chowk, Iffco Chowk Metro Station to MG Road, Signature Tower, Rajiv Chowk, Hero Honda Chowk, Medanta Road, Vatika Chowk, Sector-110/113, Sector-109/110, Sector-102/104, and Sector-84/36B by GMDA officials alongside NHAI.
Concurrently, mock drills for underpasses on Golf Course Road were performed in collaboration with DLF. This encompassed both U-turn underpasses in DLF Cyber City, Sikanderpur Underpass, DLF Phase 1 underpass, and the Genpact underpass.
Mock drills at Atul Kataria Chowk, Mahavir Chowk, and Dhanwapur were conducted by GMDA along with PWD officials. The drill at the Huda City Centre underpass was also executed by GMDA. As part of its flood preparedness strategy, GMDA is focusing on other essential areas and initiatives to combat waterlogging in the city during the rains.
Efforts include the installation of additional pumping machinery, cleaning and maintaining drains, creeks, road gullies, chutes, and connecting drains to ensure the free flow of rainwater and prevent waterlogging on roads.