“Swachhta hi Sewa” : Singhal urged citizens to dedicate an hour for a cleanliness drive on October 1st
The newly constructed Bondajan Pumping Station, a project implemented by the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) under the Department of Housing & Urban Affairs (DoHUA), was inaugurated today by Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Ashok Singhal. With a project cost of Rs 1120 Lakh, this station is set to play a pivotal role in addressing the persistent issue of waterlogging in Guwahati.
During his inaugural speech, Minister Singhal highlighted the significance of the newly inaugurated pumping station. He emphasized that it would significantly enhance the pumping capacity at the sluice gate and effectively alleviate waterlogging by diverting excess water back to the Brahmaputra River. He stressed that this initiative would bring substantial relief to the people of Guwahati who have long endured the challenges posed by waterlogging.
Minister Singhal also underscored the importance of active citizen participation in government schemes and called upon all residents to contribute to the city’s cleanliness. He referred to the “Swachhta hi Sewa” campaign and encouraged citizens to dedicate an hour for a cleanliness drive on October 1st at 10 AM.
The inaugural event witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including GMC Mayor Mrigen Sarania, GMDA Chairman Narayan Deka, Deputy Chairman (GMDA) Mukuta Deka, and others.
The construction of the new Bondajan Pumping Station was undertaken to augment the pumping capacity at the sluice gate. The existing pump station, equipped with 2x 1700 liters per second pumps, faced various challenges, such as the absence of sump pits, limiting its operational duration and rendering it insufficient for pumping out the required discharge. The new pump house addresses these issues by incorporating sump pits, allowing for longer and more effective control of flash floods in the upstream area.
Key features of the Pump House include the provision of two 500 KVA transformers with dedicated lines, ensuring a stable power supply. Additionally, the project encompasses the widening and excavation of a 1500-meter-long Bondajan Channel, removal of encroachments along the channel, and excavation of a 2000 sqm water reservoir upstream.
The Bondajan Pumping Station marks a significant step forward in Guwahati’s battle against waterlogging, demonstrating the government’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure and the overall quality of life for its residents.