Residents of Cooke Town, as well as motorists and pedestrians in the area, were taken aback when they discovered water overflowing from the roadside drain near the ITC Bus Stop on Pottery Road. Despite Bengaluru facing a reported water scarcity, witnessing such an event was both surprising and concerning for locals.
According to R Albert, President of the Cooke Town Residents’ Welfare Association, water overflow has become a frequent occurrence, happening three times a week, posing challenges for commuters navigating the road. Despite repeated complaints to the authorities, no concrete action has been taken to address the issue, leaving residents frustrated.
Residents suspect nearby apartment complexes of contributing to the problem by allowing waste or treated water into the stormwater drain. Despite visits from concerned authorities, no punitive measures have been taken against those responsible.
Seeking a solution, residents have urged the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) stormwater drain department to desilt the drains to prevent flooding, especially during the monsoon season. Questions have been raised about the allocation of funds for desilting and the urgency of completing the necessary work.
In response to mounting pressure, a joint inspection involving the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) and BBMP engineers was arranged by residents and the Cooke Town Residents’ Welfare Association. While the authorities have agreed to remove silt from the drain, no penalties will be imposed on those responsible for pumping water into the drain.
BBMP assistant executive engineer stated that the desalting work will commence after the Lok Sabha elections, indicating a delayed resolution to the ongoing issue.
