Hyderabad: HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath reviewed Monsoon preparedness measures ahead of the rainy season and directed departments to complete critical flood-mitigation works to reduce waterlogging and traffic disruptions across Hyderabad.
The review meeting brought together officials from the Traffic Police, GHMC, Irrigation Department, India Meteorological Department, Telangana Development Planning Society, Urban Biodiversity wing, Water Board and other agencies. Ranganath said timely preventive measures could significantly reduce rain-related problems and improve emergency response during heavy downpours.
He stressed that smooth movement of stormwater is essential to prevent traffic congestion and minimise inconvenience to commuters. Therefore, he asked departments to accelerate ongoing works before the onset of the monsoon.
The Commissioner reviewed measures being implemented to tackle flooding, improve drainage systems and strengthen coordination among civic agencies. He also assured departments of HYDRAA’s support in carrying out priority works.
According to officials, GHMC has identified 523 waterlogging points across the city. These include 105 major locations, 157 medium-risk points and 261 minor locations. Ranganath instructed officials to take preventive action at all vulnerable sites and ensure continuous monitoring during the rainy season.
He noted that waterlogging often leads to severe traffic jams and public inconvenience. Consequently, departments must address problem areas before heavy rainfall begins.
Departments intensify Monsoon preparedness measures
The Commissioner directed civic authorities to speed up desilting of stormwater drains and improve drainage capacity in flood-prone areas. In addition, he emphasised close coordination among departments and asked officials to immediately report operational challenges requiring intervention.
Ranganath also instructed GHMC’s Urban Biodiversity wing to identify weak and vulnerable trees. This step aims to reduce disruptions caused by fallen branches and uprooted trees during storms.
Furthermore, he advised the Irrigation Department to maintain lower water levels in reservoirs wherever required. This would help excess floodwater flow smoothly into lakes during periods of intense rainfall and reduce pressure on urban drainage systems.
Officials discussed emergency response mechanisms, flood mitigation strategies and coordination plans during the meeting. Khairatabad Zonal Commissioner Santosh said GHMC would address issues raised by various departments. Meanwhile, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) D. Joel Davis and senior traffic officers explained measures being prepared to manage monsoon-related traffic challenges.
Police officials proposed setting up Monsoon Emergency Teams linked to every police station to ensure faster response during emergencies. Earlier, HYDRAA Additional Director Varla Papaiah presented a report on challenges faced during last year’s monsoon and reviewed stormwater drain expansion and desilting works completed across the city.
HYDRAA Additional Commissioner R. Sudarshan, RFO Jayaprakash, DFPOs Gautham and Sridhar, along with other officials, attended the meeting.
