New Delhi: Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) commissioner Sanjeev Khirwar Saturday inspected the waterlogging-prone Qutub Road–Teliwara Akhara stretch in Sadar bazaar and directed civic agencies to work in close coordination to find a permanent solution to the recurring problem.During the inspection, which was attended by local officials from MCD, Delhi Jal Board (DJB), Delhi Metro, and other departments, Khirwar reviewed the area’s drainage infrastructure and issued directions to improve stormwater flow.Officials informed the commissioner that plastic waste frequently clogged a key manhole, obstructing drainage. To address the issue, a grill cover has been installed over the manhole to prevent solid waste from entering it. Khirwar also directed officials to replace the solid cover of another nearby manhole with a grill to facilitate faster drainage.Earlier this week, TOI reported how Tuesday’s rain left Sadar bazaar inundated, with waist-deep water swallowing its narrow lanes, cutting off access to market roads and a girls’ school, and bringing one of Asia’s largest wholesale markets to a standstill.People waded cautiously through the submerged streets, labourers carried goods through stagnant water, and stray animals struggled to move through the flooded market. Residents warned that hidden drains beneath the murky water and overhead electric wires made crossing the area extremely dangerous.Emphasising prevention over response, MCD commissioner has ordered 24×7 deployment of staff at the vulnerable location to continuously monitor the situation and coordinate with field teams for swift action.Khirwar also directed that all pumping stations and dewatering pumps in the area remain fully operational and be monitored regularly. He asked DJB to carry out timely desilting and cleaning of sewers under its jurisdiction to prevent blockages.
