TV
To end years of flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas, the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) has submitted six revised Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for a citywide comprehensive drainage system.
According to The New Indian Express, the plans have been prepared by Ecometrix Consultants Pvt Ltd, and are part of a Rs 2.46 crore master project. With the submission of the DPR, a final approval is required from the Housing and Urban Development Department for work to begin on the project.
The report stated that the master plan envisions an integrated stormwater drainage network covering all 41 wards of the city. Key natural water channels such as Malti Jore, Harad Jore, Dhobi Jore, Tangara Nullah, Mandalia Nullah, and the Power Channel will be redeveloped along with all major drainage lines.
Drain Surveys and Local Feedback Shape the Plan
Surveyors reportedly completed a DGPS survey spanning 353 sq km, mapping bottlenecks across the city. Local-level meetings were held to gather feedback from residents, NGOs, and senior citizens to identify missing links, undersized drains, and frequent chokes that worsen monsoon waterlogging.
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Short-Term Relief Measures in Motion
While the master plan is in the approval stage, the SMC has begun short-term steps to ease current monsoon impacts. Drains are being desilted, narrow passages widened, and new connections built to improve flow and reduce flood risk, said the reports.
Past Progress Lays the Groundwork
In December 2024, sources had reported that the groundwork began with an MoU for the drainage plan. The DPRs were earlier expected by August, and work was initially targeted to begin from February.
Despite having over 548 km of existing drainage, Sambalpur’s network remains outdated and overwhelmed during rains. However, with comprehensive planning, technical surveys, and public involvement, residents now hope the project will finally bring a permanent end to Sambalpur’s chronic flooding issues and set a model for other urban areas in Odisha.
