Siliguri, 05th July: Siliguri Municipal Corporation has intensified its drive to remove encroachments from large drains across the city to improve drainage and reduce waterlogging during monsoon.
On Sunday, a drive was carried out along Sevoke Road, where municipal workers removed concrete slabs that had been placed over drains years ago. The removal was undertaken to facilitate cleaning and restore the proper flow of stormwater.
According to sources, several business owners had covered the drains with permanent slabs and were using the space for shops and other commercial activities. These encroachments reportedly prevented regular maintenance and cleaning of the drains, leading to drainage issues during the rainy season.
During the drive, workers also cleared accumulated garbage from the drains and demolished illegal structures built over them.
Municipal officials said the anti-encroachment drive will continue in phases across different parts of the city. They warned that appropriate administrative action will be taken against those found illegally occupying drains or obstructing the drainage system.
The SMC said the initiative aims to strengthen the city’s drainage infrastructure and minimise waterlogging during the monsoon. Similar drives are planned in other areas of Siliguri in the coming days.