Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Reviews Irrigation Projects for Summer and Monsoon Preparedness
In a proactive move to bolster flood management ahead of the upcoming summer and monsoon seasons, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath convened a crucial meeting in Lucknow on Tuesday. The session focused on reviewing ongoing and upcoming irrigation projects across the state, with an emphasis on comprehensive preparedness and effective coordination to tackle potential floods and excessive rainfall.
Emphasising the Need for Robust Flood Management
During the meeting, CM Yogi Adityanath underscored the importance of being well-prepared to address natural challenges. He stated, "The better the preparation, the faster and more successfully a challenge can be solved." He mandated time-bound repair, strengthening, and monitoring of all embankments, drains, and sensitive locations. The Chief Minister highlighted that vigilance, coordination, and adherence to fixed timelines are fundamental keys to ensuring safe flood management in the state.
Identification of Sensitive and Extremely Sensitive Embankments
Anil Garg, Principal Secretary of Irrigation and Water Resources, provided detailed insights during the review. He informed that districts around major river basins in Uttar Pradesh, including the Ganga, Saryu, Rapti, Ramganga, Gandak, Yamuna, Gomti, and Son, are classified as flood-affected areas. Based on an analysis of river belts and rainfall patterns, the department has identified 18 embankments in 12 districts as sensitive this year, with a total length of 241.58 km.
Furthermore, Garg noted that 19 embankments in 11 districts, spanning 465 km, have been marked as extremely sensitive. Advanced safety works are currently being carried out at all these locations to mitigate flood risks. The irrigation department is also engaged in large-scale cleaning and dredging of drains to ensure smooth drainage in rural areas, with a network of 10,727 drains covering 60,047 km.
Ongoing and Future Initiatives for Improved Drainage
The officer reported that cleaning of several important routes has been completed, and dredging projects approved for 2025-26 are being implemented district-wise. These initiatives are expected to improve river flow and reduce waterlogging in riverine areas. Additionally, drawing from the experience of flooding in 2026, the department has floated various new proposals, which are currently undergoing testing and approval processes.
CM's Directives for Enhanced Monitoring and Coordination
CM Yogi Adityanath issued specific directives to strengthen flood management efforts. He emphasised the need for real-time monitoring at all embankments and barrages, advocating for enhanced coordination through drone mapping, water level sensors, and local administration support. The Chief Minister also prioritised dredging in river main streams where excessive silt has caused shallowness, recommending channelisation of rivers. He advised that embankments or other erosion control measures should only be considered if dredging proves unfeasible.
This comprehensive review underscores the state government's commitment to proactive disaster management, aiming to safeguard communities and infrastructure during the challenging summer and monsoon months.
