Mangaluru: Narrowing of stormwater drain with pipes at Padil raises fears of artificial flooding

Team Udayavani, Dec 20, 2024, 6:36 PM IST

Mangaluru: Construction activities at the new Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) office premises in Padil have led to alterations in the stormwater drainage system, raising concerns among residents. Pipes have been installed in one of the major stormwater drains near the DC office complex, reducing the drain’s width. Locals fear this could cause artificial flooding in the Padil area during the monsoon.

The DC office complex in Padil is situated in a low-lying area. Rainwater from elevated regions such as Maroli, Kembaru, and Alape flows through this stormwater drain, making it a critical channel. During heavy rains, the drain often reaches its full capacity. However, as part of the second phase of the Smart City project, a pipe has been installed in the drain to manage water flow, reducing its size. Residents believe this modification could hinder smooth water flow and lead to blockages.

Flooding Threat to DC Office

Residents fear that narrowing the drain could place Padil on the list of artificial flood-prone areas, similar to other parts of the city. Until now, water had flowed freely through the channel without any issues. However, with the pipe installation, there are concerns that rainwater could overflow into the DC office premises, causing potential flooding.

The stormwater drain passes beneath the Padil-Pumpwell main road. Any blockage or overflow from the narrowed drain could submerge the road, creating hurdles for commuters.

Smart City Officials Respond

Officials associated with the Smart City project stated that the pipe installation was carried out only after thorough assessments. The overall dimensions of the drain and the volume of water flow were calculated before the modifications were implemented.

The installed pipe has a diameter of 1,200 millimeters, which matches the original capacity of the drain. Additionally, manholes have been constructed inside the DC office premises to provide a mechanism for clearing blockages if necessary. Smart City authorities assert that this arrangement ensures smooth water flow and prevents flooding in the area.

Public Concerns Remain

Despite assurances from officials, locals remain skeptical. They argue that narrowing a critical drain in a low-lying area is risky and could lead to avoidable disruptions. The fear of artificial flooding and its potential impact on the DC office and nearby roads continues to trouble residents.

As the modifications proceed, the effectiveness of the new system will be tested during the upcoming monsoon season. For now, residents are calling for a more thorough review to ensure the safety and functionality of the stormwater management system in Padil.