36cr to desilt 800 MCD drains

New Delhi: To prevent waterlogging on city roads during the upcoming monsoon, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) prepared an action plan for large-scale desilting of drains.MCD Commissioner Sanjeev Khirwar directed officials to issue work orders for desilting of drains deeper than 4 feet this month. "Zonal offices were instructed to start issuing work orders in Feb itself, as in-principle approvals and financial allocations were already cleared," Khirwar said. The corporation earmarked Rs 36crore for desilting around 800 drains, with Phase I to be completed by June 15 and Phase II by Dec 31.According to an official letter issued by additional commissioner last week, funds were allocated for desilting 793 drains covering a stretch of about 545 km.The letter stated that the entire operation must be supervised by deputy commissioners. Proper documentation is also mandatory. MCD also laid down strict norms for debris disposal. Silt removed from drains must be cleared within 3 to 5 days.The civic body also decided to fix 2 days for citizens and stakeholders to submit feedback of clogged drains.