Varanasi: Reviewing pre-monsoon preparations, divisional commissioner S Rajalingam directed officials to complete the cleaning of drains and channels by the end of June, while municipal commissioner Himanshu Nagpal expressed displeasure over the slow pace of works under the CM Grid scheme and issued a final warning to agencies concerned.
During a meeting with officials of the Municipal Corporation and other departments on Sunday evening, Rajalingam reviewed the monsoon action plan and sought updates on works to be completed before the rainy season. He directed power department officials to raise underground electricity distribution boxes above ground level and remove plastic sheets used to cover junction boxes.
He also instructed officials to share information regarding power supply disruptions and technical issues during floods with public representatives through dedicated WhatsApp groups. Directions were issued to ensure all streetlights remain functional and faulty lights are repaired promptly.
The commissioner stressed the need for barricading and covering pits dug for sewer and electricity works. He directed the PWD to repair potholes, replace damaged or missing sewer covers and clear debris from road-widening sites.
To strengthen flood preparedness, Rajalingam called for installation of an integrated public address system, CCTV cameras, emergency sirens and a control room at the ghats. He made life jackets mandatory in all boats and ordered siren testing before the monsoon season. Officials were also asked to prepare advance plans for night shelters and food packet distribution during floods.
Meanwhile, Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal inspected CM Grid works at Sigra, Ghanti Mill, the Municipal Corporation fruit market, Tilak statue area, Aurangabad, Lanka, Ravidas Gate and the Trauma Centre route. Expressing dissatisfaction over poor finishing, slow progress and disorganised cabling, he directed cable operators to shift wires into underground ducts within three days.
To address waterlogging in Bhagwanpur, Nagpal instructed officials to immediately prepare a proposal for constructing a floodgate on the Samne Ghat drain. He warned agencies that delays in executing infrastructure works would not be tolerated.
