GVMC launches monsoon desilting drive

With the Southwest monsoon expected to intensify, the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has launched an extensive drive to desilt its 3,500-km stormwater drainage network to minimise the risk of urban flooding.

Following a field inspection on Monday, GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg directed officials to expedite desilting works, remove encroachments, and strengthen drainage infrastructure across flood-prone areas.

The city’s drainage network comprises about 128 km of primary stormwater channels and over 2,800 km of secondary and tertiary drains. Heavy silt accumulation and encroachments have long been identified as the primary causes of flash flooding in low-lying areas.

At Ward 21 near Park Hotel Junction, which recently witnessed severe waterlogging, the Commissioner ordered the immediate desilting of clogged drains, the installation of steel gratings at vulnerable locations, and the demolition of structures obstructing stormwater flow.

Mr. Garg also cracked down on improper waste disposal along the Lumbini Park–Samatha College stretch in Appughar, imposing a ₹10,000 fine on a rice shop owner for illegal dumping. Commercial establishments violating sanitation norms were warned of stringent action, including sealing of premises.

The Commissioner further directed all commercial establishments to maintain three separate dustbins for waste segregation and hand over sorted waste directly to GVMC collection vehicles. Daily inspections by sanitary staff will ensure compliance ahead of stricter enforcement.

Separately, a citywide drive is under way to remove encroachments obstructing stormwater channels and pedestrian pathways, with zonal commissioners tasked to ensure unobstructed water flow before the peak monsoon season.