Prayagraj: After days of intense rain and widespread waterlogging, residents heaved a sigh of relief on Thursday as the weather remained largely dry and accumulated rainwater was drained from almost all major roads and affected localities, barring one road in Georgetown area.The administration, however, has decided to use the experience to review the city’s drainage network, with a proposal for new drains to be prepared after a detailed survey once the water recedes completely.District magistrate Manish Kumar Verma said the major drains would be thoroughly cleaned after the accumulated rainwater is siphoned off. A survey would then be conducted to identify areas where the existing drainage network is inadequate, following which a proposal for construction of new drains would be prepared.The DM, accompanied by municipal commissioner Seelam Sai Teja, inspected waterlogging-affected areas including George Town, Tagore Town, Sohabatia Bagh and other localities. Most of these areas were found free of stagnant water following intensive drainage operations.Municipal staff had to break open portions of some drains at several locations to clear blockages and facilitate the flow of rainwater.The DM directed officials to maintain round-the-clock pumping arrangements and ensure that pumping stations remain operational. He also ordered cleaning of drains and nullahs on a war footing so that they do not get choked again. The Mori gate pumping station was inspected as part of the exercise.With several localities having faced prolonged waterlogging, the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation will undertake intensive fogging in affected areas after the water recedes. Officials have been asked to ensure cleaning, lime sprinkling and other preventive measures so that there is no outbreak of water-borne or vector-borne diseases.The administration will continue monitoring vulnerable areas and respond immediately if waterlogging is reported again. Officials have also been instructed to ensure smooth movement of traffic and pedestrians.Meanwhile, schools up to Class 12 remained closed on Thursday as a precautionary measure in view of the weather.
