Flood Risk Alert in Bengaluru: Authorities Told to Clear Drains, Ensure Free Flow Before Monsoon
Bengaluru, May 4: With pre-monsoon showers already exposing waterlogging and flooding risks across the city, the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has issued urgent directions to civic bodies to clear stormwater drains and prevent urban flooding.
Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao has instructed officials to ensure complete desilting of drains, cleaning of shoulder drains, and removal of blockages in gratings along all major arterial and sub-arterial roads. The move comes after recent rains on April 29 led to water accumulation on roads and flooding in residential basements, triggering multiple public complaints.
Public Safety & Drainage Under Focus
Authorities have been directed to conduct on-ground inspections across every kilometre stretch, opening drain slabs at multiple points to check whether water is flowing freely or if silt and debris are causing obstructions. Immediate action has been mandated wherever blockages are identified.
Special emphasis has been placed on ensuring that local drains are properly connected to main stormwater channels (rajakaluves), as poor connectivity is a major reason behind flooding in many areas.
Coordination Between Departments
Officials have also been told to coordinate with water supply and sewerage departments where pipelines intersect with drainage lines, ensuring that any obstruction is removed or infrastructure is relocated if required.
Additionally, civic bodies must verify that desilting work in major drains is being carried out regularly and take action to remove fallen trees or other obstructions with support from the forest and other concerned departments.
Strict Deadline for Action
To ensure accountability, all municipal teams have been asked to form dedicated task forces and complete inspections and corrective measures by May 8, 2026, submitting road-wise reports with photographic evidence.
The directive highlights rising concerns over Bengaluru’s preparedness for heavy rains, as recurring flooding continues to disrupt daily life, damage property, and pose safety risks to residents.
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