GBA directs five corporations to step up pre-monsoon preparedness

In view of the approaching pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons, the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) on Thursday has directed all five city corporations to undertake comprehensive preparedness measures to prevent flooding and public inconvenience.

Chief Commissioner M. Maheshwar Rao, in a circular issued on Thursday, said that the disaster management responsibilities rest with the respective Commissioners of the city corporations. He instructed officials to ensure that all precautionary steps are completed well before the onset of rains.

The GBA has identified 49 flood-prone locations to be addressed this year. Officials have been asked to review measures taken so far and ensure permanent solutions are in place. Where long-term fixes are pending, Chief Engineers have been directed to coordinate with the GBA’s Project Implementation Unit to address the issues. Additional Commissioners must monitor progress and submit action taken reports, according to a release by GBA.

Stormwater drain (rajakaluve) works have been prioritised, with instructions to complete ongoing projects in vulnerable areas. Officials have also been asked to finish desilting and cleaning of roadside drains by the end of April, ensuring proper connectivity to stormwater drains to enable smooth flow of rainwater, the release stated.

To strengthen emergency response, officials from civic bodies, BESCOM and BWSSB will be deployed in control rooms, while coordination with fire services and disaster response teams has been mandated.

GBA said that special teams will also be formed to clear fallen trees and debris during rains. Among key locations flagged for attention are Panathur ‘S’ Cross, Silk Board, Madiwala, and Rajarajeshwari Nagar, which have witnessed flooding in recent years.