Nagpur: Almost eight months after the flash flood, which wreaked havoc on the lives of 25,000 families, flood prevention measures in Nagpur seem to be moving at a snail’s pace. Residents are expressing frustration at the lack of tangible progress in critical projects, such as the construction of retaining walls and the Nag river clean-up drive. With the monsoon expected to arrive soon, concerns about the city’s preparedness to prevent flooding are mounting.
Residents have criticized the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) for diverting resources to repairing roads damaged in the flood instead of prioritizing flood prevention infrastructure. Only a fraction of planned projects are currently underway, with construction commencing on a limited number of retaining walls. Anxiety looms large among residents, who fear a repeat of the calamity if adequate precautions are not taken.
The sluggish progress of the Nag river clean-up drive is also causing unease, with only a portion of the planned stretch being covered so far. Despite assurances from officials, residents remain skeptical about the administration’s ability to effectively address their concerns and ensure public safety. As the monsoon season approaches, the slow pace of work on essential flood prevention measures is leaving residents disillusioned and afraid.
Concerns have also been raised about the technical expertise and composition of the high-powered committee overseeing flood prevention efforts. Residents are calling for more decisive action and better coordination among relevant departments to mitigate the risks posed by potential flooding. With memories of the past catastrophe still fresh in their minds, residents are urging authorities to expedite critical projects and prioritize public safety to prevent another disaster.
