Prayagraj: For lakhs of residents, who face displacement due to floods every monsoon, the Prayagraj administration mulls large embankments along both banks of the Ganga from Phaphamau to Chhatnag to prevent floodwaters from entering densely populated low-lying areas.Officials said preliminary surveys for the project were already conducted jointly by the irrigation and the public works departments following directions from the administration. Initial estimates suggest that the project may cost between Rs 1,200 crore and Rs 1,500 crore.The proposed embankments are aimed at channeling the flow of the Ganga during the flood season so that excess water remains confined within the river course instead of spreading into nearby colonies.Every year, thousands of families in low-lying areas are forced to leave their homes and shift to temporary shelters during floods. Areas such as Beli, Ashok Nagar, Nevada, Rajapur, Beli Kachhar, Salori, Chhota Baghara and Mori Daraganj are among the worst affected. Officials estimate that nearly five lakh people living in these localities could benefit from the project.The survey report and preliminary details of the proposal have been shared with divisional commissioner Soumya Agarwal, who has sought a detailed report for further examination.The plan also includes construction of a check dam near Phaphamau to regulate and retain water according to requirements.Authorities believe the check dam would help control the river flow more effectively during floods and improve water management during lean periods as well.Meanwhile, the Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA) has started work on another major urban transformation plan inspired by Mumbai’s redevelopment model. Under it, several old and dilapidated govt buildings and municipal properties in the city will be demolished and rebuilt to improve their utility and commercial potential.Among the identified sites is the old municipal market located opposite Colvin Hospital. PDA and the municipal corporation are preparing to sign an agreement for redevelopment of such properties.PDA vice-chairman, Rishiraj, said consultants empaneled with the Union finance ministry’s department of economic affairs would be engaged to prepare a comprehensive redevelopment strategy.He added that Indira Bhavan and other ageing structures are also being considered for redevelopment.
