Rs 2.46 Cr Drainage Master Plan Advances in Sambalpur

In a major step toward resolving chronic waterlogging in low-lying areas, the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) has submitted six revised Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) to the Housing and Urban Development (H&UD) Department as part of a comprehensive city-wide drainage revamp.

Prepared by Bhubaneswar-based Ecometrix Consultants, the DPRs form part of a Rs 2.46 crore Master Plan focused on sustainable stormwater management and urban flood mitigation. SMC Commissioner Vedbhushan stated, “The department has shared its observations, based on which we’ve revised the DPRs. The updated reports will be submitted by the end of this week. Once approved, the tendering process will begin.”

The proposed plan includes the development and rejuvenation of key watercourses—Malti Jore, Harad Jore, Dhobi Jore, Tangara Nullah, Mandalia Nullah, and Power Channel—along with upgrades to all primary, secondary, and tertiary drains across the city's 41 wards. A DGPS survey covering 353 sq km was conducted, supplemented by ward-level consultations to identify bottlenecks and priority zones.

In the interim, SMC is carrying out immediate measures such as desilting and widening of drains to alleviate monsoon-related flooding in the worst-affected areas, including Sakhipara, Mandalia, and Charbhati.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.