Haryana CM Orders Comprehensive Flood Control Measures to Combat Monsoon Waterlogging
Haryana CM Orders Swift Action on Flood Control, Desilting of Canals Ahead of Monsoon Season
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini issued a stern directive on Saturday for immediate action to prevent waterlogging and flooding across the state during the upcoming monsoon season. While chairing a meeting of the Haryana State Drought Relief and Flood Control Board, CM Saini instructed all Deputy Commissioners to ensure the timely desilting of drains and canals, as well as the construction and repair of flood control infrastructure.
The primary focus of the meeting was on ramping up flood control efforts and developing robust infrastructure to mitigate the effects of the monsoon season. CM Saini stressed the importance of building resilient structures to prevent floodwaters from entering homes and agricultural fields, which have been recurrent issues during past monsoon seasons.
Key Directives to Prevent Waterlogging and Flooding
CM Saini’s instructions covered several aspects of flood management, with an emphasis on both preventive measures and long-term solutions:
- Desilting and Canal Maintenance: The Chief Minister ordered the desilting of all major canals across Haryana, with a particular focus on older, dilapidated canals that require urgent repair. A priority list of projects was to be prepared, and the completion of these projects was scheduled before the onset of the monsoon.
- Upgrading Flood Control Infrastructure: Saini highlighted the need for strategic upgrades, including the construction of stone studs, stone steining, and permanent pump houses to control floodwaters. These efforts would be complemented by the installation of pipelines in low-lying areas to divert excess water and prevent waterlogging in vulnerable regions.
- Monitoring and Repair of Existing Infrastructure: A major part of the Chief Minister’s focus was on ensuring that existing flood control measures—such as stone studs—are in proper working condition. An online portal will be set up for the monitoring and review of these structures. Saini also instructed Deputy Commissioners to survey the condition of the flood control infrastructure in their districts, taking swift action to repair any non-functional elements. Contractors responsible for negligence in maintaining flood control infrastructure will face strict penalties, including the possibility of FIRs.
- Floodwater Dewatering Systems: As part of the flood control strategy, CM Saini pushed for the procurement of pumps, motors, and panels to efficiently dewater flood-prone areas. High Subsurface Water Levels (SSWL) in certain areas require specialized equipment to remove accumulated water and prevent long-term waterlogging.
Sewage Treatment Plants to Protect Yamuna River
The Haryana government is also focusing on a key environmental issue: the pollution of the Yamuna River. CM Saini emphasized that no sewage or polluted water should flow into the Yamuna, a move aimed at improving water quality and ensuring long-term sustainability for the river.
As part of the effort to combat pollution, the Chief Minister ordered the establishment of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) in Panipat, Sonipat, Palwal, and Yamunanagar districts. These plants will be responsible for treating sewage before it enters the river, thereby reducing harmful pollutants that impact water quality. CM Saini reiterated Haryana’s commitment to the permanent cleaning of the Yamuna River, which has been plagued by industrial and domestic waste for years.
In addition, Saini directed the concerned authorities to inspect the 6 Sewage Treatment Plants situated at Masani Barrage in Rewari to ensure proper maintenance and functioning.
Funding and Project Approval for Flood Control
The Haryana government is taking concrete steps to ensure that flood control measures are effectively implemented. During the meeting, the Haryana State Drought Relief and Flood Control Board approved 352 schemes worth Rs 657.99 crore. These schemes are designed to address flood control issues in both urban and rural areas. The projects are funded by the State Head and the Haryana Water Resources Authority (HWRA), with a clear deadline for completion before the monsoon season.
The Chief Minister instructed that short-term projects, such as the procurement of pumps and motors for dewatering, be prioritized and completed before June 30. These immediate measures will play a critical role in managing floodwaters during the peak of the monsoon.
A Call for Equitable Development Across the State
CM Saini’s focus on equitable development was clear, as he ordered that flood control measures be implemented uniformly across the state. Ensuring that no region is left behind is vital to maintaining the integrity of the entire state’s flood management infrastructure. The government will also monitor the progress of ongoing projects at the district level, ensuring that all measures are executed efficiently and on time.
Conclusion
Haryana’s proactive approach to flood control and infrastructure repair ahead of the monsoon season demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding the state from waterlogging, flooding, and environmental degradation. With the implementation of these directives, including desilting, infrastructure upgrades, and sewage treatment, the state is aiming to reduce the adverse impact of the monsoon and prevent waterlogging in urban and rural areas alike.
The establishment of Sewage Treatment Plants to protect the Yamuna River is a key step in Haryana’s efforts to clean the river and mitigate pollution, offering long-term environmental benefits. As the monsoon season approaches, the state government’s strategic initiatives signal a well-planned response to ongoing water management challenges.