Apropos the editorial "Monsoon woes" (June 24), it is rightly stressed that antiquated drainage cannot meet our changing circumstances. The main factors involved in this misery are change in weather conditions and topography due to the enhancement of construction activities and the involvement of multiple agencies. The storm flow depends on topography, soil, land use and the climatic characteristics of the area. Surface drains are designed to handle the flow from storm frequencies of past few years. These drains were constructed on the basis of old storm run-off, which has adapted to the climatic changes, resulting in a new pattern of rainfall. Looking at all these factors, there is an urgent need to redesign the drainage system. This is essential since the existing facilities are not good enough.
In addition to this, the drainage system can work efficiently if there is regular maintenance, which would entail periodic checking and immediate clearance of choked drains. Moreover, natural waterways used as drains should be left in their natural state as much as possible.
Sushil Bakliwal Jaipur
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