Patna: Urban development and housing minister Nitish Mishra on Monday warned officials of strict action if citizens face waterlogging during the monsoon.At a high-level review meeting, Mishra directed officials to ensure zero waterlogging in urban areas, making it the top priority under ‘Monsoon 2026’ preparations. The meeting reviewed the preparedness of Patna Municipal Corporation and municipal councils of Danapur, Phulwarisharif, Khagaul and Sampatchak, with focus on drain desilting, pumping arrangements, machinery and manpower.The minister asked officials to submit a detailed report based on last year’s experience, including works completed so far and steps taken over the past month to address waterlogging. He stressed that public convenience remains the department’s top priority and warned against any laxity.Mishra instructed that Quick Response Teams (QRTs) be strengthened and equipped with raincoats, safety gear, proper footwear and modern equipment to function effectively during heavy rains. He also emphasised the use of modern techniques for cleaning manholes and called for early adoption of new technologies.He directed officials to identify missing links in major drains and ensure their time-bound completion, increase the number of pumps and check their operational efficiency. For transparency and monitoring, he asked for physical verification of open drains and the use of geotagged photographs.Stressing strict supervision, Mishra said any slackness in public welfare work would not be tolerated. He also highlighted the need to improve urban services for people migrating from rural areas and urged officials to work with greater sensitivity.The meeting was attended by co-operative minister Ram Kripal Yadav, MLAs Shyam Rajak (Phulwarisharif), Ratnesh Kumar (Patna Sahib), Sanjeev Chaurasia (Digha) and Sanjay Kumar (Kumhrar), along with senior officials, including Principal Secretary Vinay Kumar, Buidco MD Animesh Kumar Parashar, BSRDCL MD Shirsat Kapil Ashok, Patna Mayor Sita Sahu, municipal commissioner Yashpal Meena and deputy mayor Reshmi Kumari.
