Yamunanagar | Rama Kaushik

In a major infrastructure initiative to tackle urban flooding, the Yamunanagar Municipal Corporation has launched a ₹2.72-crore Intermediate Pumping Station (IPS) project in Gulab Nagar, a move expected to provide long-term relief from chronic waterlogging in the area and its surrounding localities.

The foundation stone for the project was laid on Thursday by Mayor Suman Bahmani in the presence of former Haryana Cabinet Minister Kanwar Pal, Ward Councillor Reena Rastogi, municipal officials and local residents. The ceremony began with Vedic rituals and the traditional breaking of a coconut before construction work officially commenced.

The project is aimed at strengthening the city’s stormwater management system by ensuring the rapid evacuation of rainwater during the monsoon season. Once completed, the pumping station will lift accumulated rainwater and discharge it into the main drainage network, significantly reducing the risk of flooding in low-lying residential areas.

Addressing the gathering, Mayor Suman Bahmani said residents of Gulab Nagar have struggled with severe waterlogging for years, particularly during heavy rainfall, with floodwater often entering homes and disrupting daily life.

“This project will provide a permanent solution to one of the area’s biggest civic problems. The Intermediate Pumping Station will ensure the quick disposal of rainwater, preventing waterlogging and making life safer and more convenient for thousands of residents,” she said.

Bahmani added that the Municipal Corporation is committed to modernising the city’s drainage infrastructure and implementing long-term solutions rather than temporary measures.

During the inspection, the Mayor directed Municipal Corporation engineers and the executing contractor to maintain the highest standards of construction quality and ensure that the project is completed within the stipulated timeframe.

“There will be no compromise on quality. The project must be completed on schedule so that residents can benefit before the next monsoon season,” she instructed.

Former Cabinet Minister Kanwar Pal said the Haryana Government remains committed to strengthening urban infrastructure and providing essential civic amenities in every ward.

“Our government’s priority is to ensure that the benefits of development reach the last person. There will be no shortage of funds for public infrastructure, and projects that improve the quality of life of citizens will continue to receive priority,” he said.

Ward Councillor Reena Rastogi described the project as the fulfilment of a long-pending demand of local residents. She thanked Mayor Suman Bahmani, former Minister Kanwar Pal and the Municipal Corporation for initiating the work, saying the project has brought renewed hope to thousands of families who have endured waterlogging for years.

Residents present at the ceremony welcomed the commencement of construction and expressed confidence that the pumping station would provide lasting relief from flooding during the rainy season.

Municipal officials said the project forms part of the city’s broader strategy to upgrade drainage infrastructure and build a more resilient urban environment capable of handling future rainfall challenges.

POD/DESK