In a significant boost to urban infrastructure, Panaji has successfully completed a massive three-year project to reconstruct and refurbish its drainage network. The initiative, spearheaded by the Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Corporation Limited (IPSCDL), has revitalized 35 kilometers of drains across the capital city, aiming to put an end to chronic waterlogging issues.
A Strategic Overhaul of City Drains
The extensive work was part of a broader urban development plan that also included widening footpaths, installing parking signage, and demarcating parking spots. An IPSCDL official detailed the geographical spread of the project, noting that 16 kilometers of drains were reconstructed in the city's central part, a 7-kilometer stretch in St. Inez, and approximately 12 kilometers in Ribandar.
The official explained that the older drainage systems were built with materials that could not withstand the pressure of heavy water flow, leading to frequent failures. To ensure longevity, the new drains have been constructed using reinforced cement and plump concrete. This upgrade significantly enhances durability and allows the infrastructure to withstand the force of gushing water during intense monsoon rains.
Overcoming Challenges and Key Locations
The project, which commenced in 2022, faced substantial hurdles due to weather conditions. "Due to incessant rains, we had to halt work every six months," the official stated. Construction could only resume consistently each November, after the water table had sufficiently reduced.
The drainage work focused on key waterlogging-prone areas across Panaji. Critical zones that received attention include:
- The stretch from Panaji market to the old education department building.
- Areas along Governador Pestana Road in Altinho.
- The corridor from the church square area to DB Marg.
- The section from the Taad Maad shrine to the Tonca sewerage plant.
The entire project was finalized this year, marking a major milestone for the city's resilience planning.
Impact and Future-Proofing the City
The reconstruction effort has already yielded positive results. According to the IPSCDL official, the new drainage network has greatly helped in preventing waterlogging in the city. Beyond just replacing pipes, the project considered practical urban factors like vehicular movement and the types of vehicles using the roads to design a robust and sustainable system.
This infrastructure upgrade is a cornerstone of Panaji's transformation into a smarter, more livable city. By addressing a fundamental civic issue, the project not only improves daily life for residents but also lays a stronger foundation for future urban development, ensuring the capital can handle environmental challenges for years to come.
