HYDRAA Pursues Long-Term Remedy for Krishna Nagar Flooding as Monsoon Approaches

Hyderabad's flood management authorities are stepping up efforts to tackle chronic inundation issues in Krishna Nagar ahead of the approaching monsoon rains. HYDRAA Commissioner A.V. Ranganath stated on Friday that officials have prioritised clearing accumulated sediment from drainage channels to facilitate unobstructed water flow from higher elevations.

The locality has experienced seasonal flooding annually during periods of heavy precipitation. To address this, Ranganath conducted a site visit of the desilting operations, accompanied by local legislator Naveen Yadav and GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan. The inspection covered approximately 1.5 kilometres of the flood canal system in the area.

The Commissioner noted that HYDRAA and GHMC are collaborating on sediment removal from the drainage network. According to Ranganath, silt originating from Jubilee Hills and Venkatagiri flows into the canals during intense rainfall, exacerbating the flooding situation. The local MLA is simultaneously advancing plans for constructing a secondary drainage channel to provide additional relief.

Silt deposits ranging from six to seven feet have accumulated along multiple sections of the existing canals, causing floodwaters to spill onto roadways during the monsoon period. Ranganath acknowledged that extraction work presents challenges in areas where canals reach depths of eight to nine feet, but authorities intend to remove concrete slabs where necessary to complete the clearing operations.

During the inspection, officials identified one or two structures that have been built directly atop the drainage channels. Ranganath clarified that the authorities would pursue demolition only as a final resort. The standard procedure involves issuing formal notices and allowing residents adequate time before initiating any removal action.

Ranganath recalled that comprehensive desilting was last undertaken in 2021. HYDRAA teams had mobilised emergency crews during the previous monsoon to extract substantial quantities of silt, though the work remained incomplete. This prompted officials to commence operations during the summer months to ensure completion well before the monsoon onset.

To enhance safety, authorities plan to install protective grilles over canal sections where slabs are removed. The inspection team also included HYDRAA Additional Director Varla Papayya and representatives from HYDRAA, GHMC, and the Water Board.