Srinagar with its picturesque Dal Lake and charming Mughal gardens, beckons tourists from across the world. Yet, beneath its beauty lies a pressing issue that threatens the very fabric of daily life – an inadequate drainage system. The city, cradled by the Himalayas, is no stranger to the whims of nature, with frequent rainfall and snowmelt often culminating in the streets turning into rivulets.
The recent recurring flooding due to incessant rains in Srinagar are stark reminders of the city’s vulnerability. The need for a comprehensive drainage system is not just a matter of convenience but a critical infrastructure necessity that can no longer be sidelined. It is a call to action that requires immediate attention and collective resolve.
Srinagar’s existing drainage infrastructure is a patchwork system, a relic of the past, struggling to cope with the demands of a growing urban population and the new challenges posed by climate change. The city’s rapid urbanization, with concrete replacing the traditional porous surfaces, exacerbates the problem as the rainwater now has nowhere to seep through, thereby overwhelming the drains.
Moreover, the haphazard construction activities, often flouting environmental norms, have led to the choking of natural drainage channels. The Jhelum River, which once flowed freely, aiding in the natural drainage of the area, now gasps as its tributaries and floodplains are encroached upon, reducing its capacity to act as a runoff for excess water.
The repercussions of this drainage deficit are manifold – from the destruction of property and infrastructure to the outbreak of waterborne diseases, and the undermining of Srinagar’s economic vitality, particularly its tourism industry. In this context, a comprehensive drainage system is not merely an infrastructure project; it is an investment in the city’s future and the well-being of its inhabitants.
A modern and efficient drainage system for Srinagar must include both short-term and long-term strategies. It requires an overhaul of the existing network, incorporating advanced engineering solutions such as stormwater retention basins, permeable pavements, and rain gardens that allow water to percolate and recharge the groundwater. The restoration and re-engineering of traditional water bodies and channels that once adeptly managed the water flow must be a part of this strategy.
In parallel, there must be strict enforcement of building codes and land use policies that prevent further ecological degradation. Public awareness campaigns are essential to sensitizing the populace about the importance of maintaining a sustainable relationship with the environment.
The responsibility for this Herculean task lies not solely with the government. It must be a collaborative effort involving urban planners, environmentalists, civil society, and the local communities. The central and UT governments must ensure that funds are allocated, and expertise is sought. International models of urban flood management can be adapted to fit the unique topographical and ecological context of Srinagar.
The need for a comprehensive drainage system in Srinagar cannot be overstated. It is a pivotal step towards safeguarding the city from the recurrent wrath of nature. The consequences of inaction are too grim to contemplate. Srinagar deserves a drainage system that is reflective of its status as a jewel in the crown of India’s natural beauty – a system that not only drains water but also renews hope for a resilient future.
(Author is a retired civil engineer and columnist)
