As the monsoon season approaches, the Una district in Himachal Pradesh finds itself grappling with a recurring issue: choked drainage channels that significantly heighten the risk of urban flooding. Residents and local officials alike are expressing concern over the inadequate maintenance of stormwater drains, which have become clogged with debris, silt, and solid waste over the past months. This neglect, they warn, could lead to severe waterlogging and property damage when heavy rains arrive.
Current State of Drainage Infrastructure
The drainage network in Una town and surrounding areas has not been properly cleaned or desilted for an extended period. Many channels are almost entirely blocked, reducing their capacity to carry rainwater. During last year's monsoon, several localities experienced waist-deep flooding, causing disruptions to daily life and economic activities. The situation is exacerbated by unplanned construction and encroachments that narrow or obstruct natural water flow paths.
Community Concerns and Calls for Action
Local residents have been vocal about their frustrations. Ramesh Kumar, a shopkeeper in the main market, stated, "Every year, we face the same problem. The drains are cleaned only after the floods occur, not before. We need proactive measures." Similarly, Sunita Devi, a homemaker, emphasized the health hazards posed by stagnant water, including mosquito-borne diseases. Community groups have submitted multiple representations to the municipal corporation, demanding immediate desilting and widening of key drainage channels.
Administrative Response and Preparedness
The Una Municipal Corporation has acknowledged the issue but cites limited resources and manpower as constraints. Officials claim that a tender for desilting work has been issued, and cleaning operations will commence shortly. However, residents remain skeptical, pointing to past delays. The district administration has also convened meetings to review flood preparedness, including the deployment of pumps and rescue teams in vulnerable areas.
Long-Term Solutions Needed
While immediate cleaning is critical, experts argue that sustainable solutions require comprehensive urban drainage planning. This includes regular maintenance schedules, stricter enforcement of anti-encroachment laws, and public awareness campaigns to prevent littering in drains. Additionally, incorporating green infrastructure such as rain gardens and permeable pavements could help manage stormwater runoff. The state government has been urged to allocate special funds for flood mitigation in Una, which is part of a broader initiative to climate-proof Himachal's urban centers.
As the monsoon clouds gather, the clock is ticking for Una. Whether the authorities will rise to the challenge or once again be caught off guard remains to be seen. For now, the community braces for another test of resilience.
