Lucknow: Defence minister and Lucknow MP Rajnath Singh and CM Yogi Adityanath on Saturday discussed a proposal to construct a 5.5-km embankment along Gomti, from IIM Road to Pakka Pul, to provide a permanent solution to flooding in Faizullaganj. The proposed plan also includes improvements to sewerage, drinking water supply, roads and electricity in the affected colonies.Around 6,500 families across 21 localities were affected when Gomti’s water level rose to 108.60 metres on Oct 8, crossing the warning level of 108.50 metres. Officials said Faizullaganj’s ground level is around four metres below the river’s normal level, leaving the area vulnerable to flooding.Rajnath Singh called for work on the embankment, which will pass through Khadra and Pakka Pul towards IIM Road, to begin on priority. He also stressed the need to provide trunk drains, sewer lines, piped water supply, roads and reliable power to residents.The 12 pumping stations are intended to drain rainwater when the rising level of Gomti obstructs the natural flow of drains. A drainage network connecting Nyay Vihar to Eldeco drain is also planned.CM Yogi directed officials to prepare a time-bound plan and coordinate the embankment, drainage and pumping projects to prevent water from accumulating in residential areas during heavy rain or when the river level rises. He also ordered repairs to roads damaged by flooding. He called for the expedited dredging of Gomti and directed departments to prepare an integrated drainage plan, keeping Lucknow’s future requirements in mind.Govt is also planning to open an educational institution in Faizullaganj offering classes from pre-primary to Class 12. Primary health centres in areas prone to waterlogging will be upgraded to community health centres, and a 132-kVA substation will be set up to strengthen the power supply.During the floods, the administration set up 16 relief posts and eight shelters. The NDRF, SDRF and PAC carried out rescue operations using 106 boats, 40 motorboats and 19 steamers.Officials said 11,275 food kits, 67,800 lunch packets and 1.18 lakh litres of drinking water were distributed. Medical teams treated 8,591 patients and distributed medicines, ORS packets and chlorine tablets. Fourteen ambulances and two veterinary camps were also deployed.Sanitation, fogging and anti-larval spraying are underway to prevent disease outbreaks. Water tankers, mobile toilets, lighting and charging facilities have been arranged in affected areas. Residents can report problems to the 24-hour control room by calling the toll-free number 1077.Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak, local MLA Neeraj Bora and Mayor Sushma Kharkwal also attended the meeting.
