Himalaya Harbinger, Rudrapur Bureau.
The headquarters of Udham Singh Nagar district, Rudrapur, has been grappling with severe waterlogging issues for decades, as its drainage system remains undeveloped despite repeated promises by public representatives. The growing population, now exceeding three lakhs across 40 municipal wards, continues to suffer from waterlogged streets and homes during monsoons.
The district, formed in September 1995, has seen rapid urbanization since the establishment of a Nagar Panchayat in the 1960s. Post-state formation, Rudrapur transitioned into a Municipality and later a Municipal Corporation in 2012-13. The establishment of SIDCUL in 2004 further accelerated urban growth. However, infrastructure development, particularly the drainage system, has lagged significantly behind.
In October 2022, heavy rains from the 18th to the 20th submerged the city, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate. Following the crisis, MLA Shiv Arora directed the Public Works Department (PWD) to devise a drainage plan. A Delhi-based organization was awarded a Rs 80-lakh tender to survey the drainage requirements in Rudrapur, Kashipur, and Sitarganj. Despite nearly two years passing, the survey remains incomplete, leaving residents frustrated and vulnerable.
“The situation is deplorable,” said Suman Lata Seth, a resident of Awas Vikas. “Despite numerous announcements, no concrete action has been taken to address the drainage issue.”
Unplanned urbanization has exacerbated waterlogging in areas like Jagatpura, Awas Vikas, Dariya Nagar, Malik Colony, and DD Chowk. Temporary drains have been constructed in some localities, directing water into the Kalyani and Gul rivers. However, these measures have proved insufficient, with dirty water frequently flooding homes and businesses during rains.
“There’s constant talk of developing Rudrapur on the lines of Indore,” said Mukesh Sarkar from Azad Nagar. “Yet the city’s infrastructure paints a very different picture.”
The recurring issue has sparked protests and demands from residents and traders, but the administration has failed to act decisively. “The plan for drainage was proposed after the 2022 floods,” said Ramesh Sharma of Kalyan View. “If no action is taken soon, history will repeat itself.”
MLA Shiv Arora said that the issue would be addressed promptly. “We are fully committed to resolving the drainage crisis in Rudrapur,” he said. “Necessary steps will be taken to ensure the work progresses without further delays.”
With civic elections approaching, the unresolved drainage issue remains a stark reminder of unmet promises and delayed governance.
