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The tragic basement flooding at Rau's IAS Study Circle in Delhi, which claimed three lives, has sparked controversy and a series of contradictory statements from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). Initially, 36 hours after the incident, the MCD informed the Delhi government that there were no issues with the drainage system on Bada Bazar Road in Old Rajender Nagar. However, the MCD has now backtracked on this claim, stating that their teams have discovered leakages in the sewer line behind the coaching center.
The MCD claims the leakages were found at the junction where the Delhi Jal Board's (DJB) sewer line connects to the coaching center's system. They are planning to write to the DJB regarding the issue. However, the DJB has vehemently denied the MCD's allegations, stating that their sewer lines are functioning properly and did not cause any disruption in water flow. They have physically inspected the sewer lines behind the coaching center and found no blockages or bursts. Furthermore, DJB officials asserted that the water level in the back lane was low and clean, further supporting their claim that sewer line leakages are unlikely.
In addition to the sewer line issue, the MCD's inspection of the area revealed a saucer-shaped terrain profile from Shankar Road to Pusa Road, with the lowest point being in front of the coaching institute. This geographical feature makes the area prone to water accumulation during heavy rains. To exacerbate the situation, the coaching center's plinth level was found to be lower than the surrounding buildings. While neighboring buildings have a protective wall and a wider channel for water drainage, the coaching center lacked these features, making it more vulnerable to flooding. The MCD also discovered illegal ramps built across the road, blocking existing drains and hindering municipal cleaning operations.
In response to the incident and the ongoing investigation, the MCD has announced measures to prevent future waterlogging on Bada Bazar Road. A detailed project report for the construction of an 800-meter drain along the road is being prepared. The project involves clearing existing silt from the drain, demolishing illegal ramps, and connecting the new drain to the barrel drain through a larger pit on Pusa Road. These measures aim to facilitate proper water flow and mitigate the risk of future flooding.