The water logging experienced on Sunday following the record breaking rainfall also exposed the apathy of the authorities towards planned urban development. The natural rainwater drainage channels and reservoirs which were once an integral part of Dehradun’s topography have been replaced by constructions which have exacerbated the water logging problem.
Dehradun was originally a swamp land dotted with many small and medium sized reservoirs. However, the majority of these reservoirs have been filled with soil to facilitate construction of residential and commercial buildings. The naturally formed gullies (locally called khalas) which played a major role in draining rainwater to the reservoirs and rivers have also been encroached in many places.
The gully beside Rajpur Road is one such example which has been encroached upon by prominent hotels, clubs and even an educational institution. The residents of Dobhalwala, Kalidas Road and other localities have to face water logging because the encroachments on this gully have blocked the natural drainage of water. However, the authorities have turned a blind eye to such encroachments by influential persons. The canals like East Canal, the ones in Garhi Cantt and other areas have been covered to facilitate development but this has again blocked another important route for water drainage.
Observers point out that while the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority and other bodies concerned are making plans for development and allowing continued urbanisation of Dehradun, they are turning a blind eye to the natural factors which used to prevent water logging and other anomalies in the city.
The type of urbanisation being facilitated in the State capital is proving detrimental to the city but the authorities do not appear to be bothered by this alarming fact. Dehradun Mayor Vinod Chamoli has also said that the MDDA and Public Works Department should take cognisance of this factor and ensure proper drainage facilities in constructions being approved.