As part of its pre-monsoon preparedness, the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) has made significant headway in its drain-cleaning operations across the city. With a total of 97 major and 2,104 minor drains falling under its jurisdiction, PMC has already completed the cleaning of 68 major drains and 1,262 minor drains.
Commissioner and Administrator Mangesh Chitale conducted a site inspection on May 23 to review the ongoing desilting operations. The inspection covered key areas such as Kharghar’s Sector 12, the drain near the Mayor’s Bungalow, Utsav Chowk, Kalamboli Pump House, and the drain adjacent to Kalamboli Church. He was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Vaibhav Vidhate, City Engineer Sanjay Katekar, and other senior officials.
Given the early onset of the monsoon and the forecast of heavy rainfall, Commissioner Chitale emphasized the urgency of completing the remaining cleaning work swiftly. He also stressed the importance of proper disposal of the silt to prevent secondary pollution.
Large-Scale Operation in Motion
PMC’s sanitation department, led by Dr. Vidhate, is employing mechanical methods to accelerate the process. Currently, more than 700 workers, 15 JCBs, 15 poclain machines, and 17 dumpers are being used to clean drains across all four municipal wards. The extracted silt, which contains a substantial amount of soil, is being spread on vacant plots within the city limits.
The Commissioner highlighted that the ongoing drain-cleaning campaign is not just a routine exercise but a critical component of the city’s flood management strategy. With nearly 70% of major drains and 60% of minor drains already desilted, the PMC aims to complete the remaining work in the coming days to ensure the city is fully prepared for the rains.
