GBA to conduct drone-based surveys to identify choke points in drains

Bengaluru: To identify choke points in storm water drains (SWDs) and prevent flooding, the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has decided to conduct drone-based visual surveys.

Tushar Girinath, Additional Chief Secretary (Urban Development Department), who held a review meeting on monsoon preparedness, has instructed officials to conduct drone surveys before and after the desilting of storm water drains within GBA limits and submit detailed reports.

“Senior officials of respective city corporations, along with traffic police authorities, were instructed to personally visit flood-prone areas, inspect them, and resolve issues. Side drains along roads must be desilted and kept clean. Shoulder drains should also be cleared to ensure smooth flow of rainwater into side drains without obstruction,” GBA said in a statement.

Before the onset of the monsoon, the corporations will also form teams with officials from BESCOM and BWSSB. Additionally, a list of SDRF and NDRF personnel will be prepared.

“Subdivision-level control rooms must be made operational, and all necessary equipment for the monsoon should be kept ready,” Nath said.

GBA Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao also directed officials to identify and clear choke points in side drains along arterial roads to ensure uninterrupted water flow during rains. He also instructed the installation of cameras near SWDs and coordination with KSNDMC for necessary repair works.

On Friday, Girinath and Rao, along with senior officials from the five city corporations, visited various flood-prone areas in the city.