Dibrugarh, Dec 11: The Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation (DMC) has launched a large-scale cleaning initiative for the Dibrugarh Town Protection (DTP) drain, starting on December 7, 2024. The project aims to address severe waterlogging issues that have plagued the town this year, leaving several areas submerged for days.

In the first phase of the project, approximately 30,000 cubic meters of silt and debris are being removed from the drain. This critical stormwater drainage system, spanning a total length of 9.5 km, has been compromised due to illegal encroachments and the dumping of garbage and plastic waste. The initial phase focuses on cleaning a 5,000-meter stretch of the drain, which has an average depth of 1 meter and a width of 6 meters.

To ensure efficiency, the cleaning process employs advanced machinery such as super suckers, porcelains, and barges, with the choice of equipment tailored to the specific requirements of each section. This mechanized approach is expected to accelerate the de-siltation process, which is slated for completion by March 2025.

The DTP drain originates from Seujpur (zero point) and flows through densely populated areas of central Dibrugarh before emptying into the Sessa River. Of its total 9.5 km length, 5.56 km lies within Dibrugarh town, while 3.85 km is on the town’s outskirts. Persistent encroachments and waste accumulation have significantly reduced the drain’s capacity to flush out rainwater, exacerbating waterlogging in the town.

Speaking on the progress, DMC Mayor Dr Saikat Patra said, “We have started the de-siltation of the DTP drain from December 7. The cleaning is being carried out using super suckers and other advanced technologies. Work has begun from the zero point at Seujpur and extends to Laluka, covering a span of 5.1 km. Our target is to complete this project by March 15, 2025.”

Highlighting the broader impact, Patra added, “If proper cleaning of the drain is done, the waterlogging problem will be resolved to some extent. We have also started cleaning narrow drains in all the wards using mini-super suckers.”

Officials say the success of the project is expected to offer much-needed relief to the residents of Dibrugarh, who have faced repeated hardships due to waterlogging.

Also Read: ADB Loan to Transform Meghalaya’s Workforce and Education Landscape

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