Bhubaneswar’s 316-km Drainage Overhaul & Beautification SOP Unveiled
In a landmark move to address chronic waterlogging and elevate urban infrastructure, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced the takeover of 316 kilometres of drainage channels from the Roads & Buildings (R&B) department.
This decision, finalised during BMC’s 35th general council meeting, is poised to transform the city’s monsoon resilience and overall livability.
Mayor Sulochana Das emphasised that the transfer will enable regular maintenance, de-silting, and upgrades, especially in flood-prone zones like Patia and Nayapalli. “This marks a milestone in making Bhubaneswar a clean, beautiful, and convenient urban hub,” she stated.
Complementing the drainage overhaul, BMC will draft a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for city beautification within 30 days. The SOP will target unauthorised signage, roadside garbage, and illegal constructions, while ensuring consistent monitoring of parks, medians, and pavements.
To tackle faulty streetlights and nighttime safety concerns, BMC will invite tenders for modern lighting solutions across three zones—North, South East, and South West.
The plan includes LED installations, solar-powered systems, and grid upgrades, funded through the 2025–26 budget.
Furthering citizen engagement, BMC will launch a grievance redressal app and helpline, with rapid complaint resolution. An online portal will also allow public tracking of project progress.
These initiatives align with Bhubaneswar’s smart city vision, promising a cleaner, greener, and more resilient urban future.
