Ludhiana: Polluted stream Buddha Nullah overflows after heavy rains, floods residential areas

The polluted black water from the stream overflowed and spilled on to the roads in residential areas including Haibowal, Vivek Nagar, Chander Nagar, among others.

Drenched in rain, many teams from the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation, comprising over 600 employees, remained on duty and continued the process of cleaning the road gullies across the city amid heavy rainfall.

MC officials said that after an alert was raised by the field staff about the rising level of Buddha Nullah and complaints of waterlogging were received from Chander Nagar, Vivek Nagar and adjoining areas, steps were taken immediately and sand bags were placed to strengthen the banks of the nullah.

MC Commissioner Dr Shena Aggarwal said waterlogging was witnessed in the city due to heavy rainfall on Wednesday, but the civic body teams remained on their toes to ensure that the accumulated water was drained out in a short period of time from the roads, streets, underpasses etc.

The nullah also overflowed in other areas, including colonies near Tajpur road flooding several slums. (Express photo)

Dr Aggarwal further stated that eight Poclain and JCB machines have been deployed for the regular cleaning of Buddha Nullah. Staff has also been deputed on night duty as the civic body is committed to take strong measures to avoid water logging in the city.

Sand bags have been placed to strengthen the banks at Chander Nagar, Vivek Nagar and nearby areas. Officials have been directed to arrange the required number of sand bags in the stores to tackle any kind of emergency situation during monsoon season.

Dr Aggarwal stated that senior officials are continuously monitoring the situation at ground level and are ready to tackle any kind of situation that arises during the monsoon season.

The civic body officials stated that a 24×7 flood control room has also been set up by the civic body and residents can submit their complaints regarding waterlogging at 0161-2749120.

Ludhiana Municipal Corporation officials have also been directed to not to leave the station/city without getting prior permission.