Maharashtra Minister Issues Stern Warning to Nagpur Civic Body Over Flood Preparedness
Nagpur district guardian minister and Maharashtra revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule delivered a forceful directive to the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) on Monday, emphasizing that no household should suffer financial losses due to flooding during the upcoming monsoon season. The minister's warning came during the swearing-in ceremony for newly elected standing committee chairperson Shivani Dani and transport committee chairperson Mangala Khekre.
Infrastructure Expansion Must Include Comprehensive Flood Management
Bawankule stressed that rapid infrastructure development must be accompanied by robust flood management strategies. He urged municipal corporators to maintain continuous oversight of cleanliness drives targeting rivers, nullahs, and stormwater networks to ensure complete protection against flooding. The minister highlighted a critical issue: approximately 40% water leakage in the city's distribution system, despite substantial water allocations for irrigation purposes.
"This situation is completely unacceptable," Bawankule declared, emphasizing that addressing leakages and strengthening groundwater recharge mechanisms are essential not only for preventing monsoon flooding but also for averting summer water shortages.
Major Groundwater Recharge Initiative Announced
In a significant announcement, the minister revealed an ambitious groundwater recharge infrastructure program. Approximately 1,000 recharge shafts are being constructed annually, with a five-year target of 5,000 installations. This initiative aims to:
- Enhance groundwater percolation
- Reduce stormwater runoff
- Mitigate flood risks in vulnerable areas
Bawankule directed civic officials to execute these projects in mission mode before the onset of heavy monsoon rains.
Transforming Nagpur into a Model City
Reflecting on NMC's 75-year history, the minister reiterated the vision of transforming Nagpur into a "Green City, Clean City, and Safe City." He identified choked drains as the primary cause of recurring waterlogging and called for urgent desilting of nullahs and effective river cleaning operations.
Bawankule appealed to mayor Neeta Thakre to actively monitor these critical works and emphasized the need for transparent, citizen-centric governance. The minister's comprehensive approach addresses both immediate flood prevention and long-term water security for Nagpur's residents.
