Thiruvananthapuram: The state govt will initiate measures by the end of this year to remove accumulated sand, silt and other deposits from rivers and deepen their channels to improve water flow and reduce the risk of flooding, revenue minister A P Anilkumar said on Monday.The move is part of govt’s efforts to shift from a reactive approach to disaster management to a system that anticipates flood risks and strengthens preventive measures, the minister said.Anilkumar said govt had begun assessing the condition of rivers and their water flow during the current monsoon itself. The assessment would form the basis for interventions aimed at restoring the natural flow of rivers and improving their water-holding capacity.“Instead of looking for solutions after floods and waterlogging occur, govt wants to assess the condition of rivers and their flow during the monsoon itself and take necessary preventive measures,” he said.The removal of accumulated sand, soil and other materials is expected to facilitate the smooth movement of water through river channels and increase their capacity to accommodate excess water during periods of heavy rainfall. Anilkumar pointed out that the state has been witnessing a significant change in its flood and waterlogging pattern. “There was a time when the state received rainfall for up to six months without facing widespread waterlogging. Today, even relatively short spells of rain can leave large parts of towns and cities inundated,” he said.The 2018 floods had clearly demonstrated the importance of maintaining unobstructed river channels and ensuring adequate water flow, the minister said. However, the measures required to remove the sand and soil deposited in rivers after the floods and restore their depth had not progressed at the desired pace.Govt now intends to accelerate the process, he said, adding that the proposed interventions would form part of a broader strategy to strengthen the state’s flood-prevention and disaster-management mechanisms. Restoring the natural flow of rivers, improving their capacity to carry excess rainwater and strengthening preventive infrastructure would be prioritised to minimise the impact of future extreme rainfall events.The decision assumes significance against the backdrop of recurring flooding and waterlogging in several parts of the state during the monsoon. Govt is expected to assess river-wise requirements and initiate the necessary interventions towards the end of the year.
