Simultaneous implementation of UGD and storm water drain works led to delay in completion of civic works: Minister

Minister Thiaga Rajan addresses delays in civic works due to simultaneous UGD and storm water drain projects.

A major reason for delay in completion of civic works was the mistake done in simultaneous implementation of underground drainage (UGD) works and storm water drain works under the same system, said Minister of Information Technology and Digital Services Palanivel Thiaga Rajan.

Speaking to press during the public grievance redressal meeting for residents of Madurai central assembly constituency on Wednesday, he admitted that the plan to implement both the works at the same time in the State was a mistake. 

“As the UGD works deal with untreated water which should be treated at the sewage treatment plants, it should not be done together with the storm water drain project which is meant for rainwater,” he added.  

The water from the storm water drains should be collected and directed to river which would then replenish the groundwater level, he explained.  

As studies show that the water storage capacity in the State has drastically gone down, suitable measures to recharge groundwater should be taken effectively to address the issue, he noted.  

“When I served as the Finance Minister, we discussed a project to implement both UGD and storm water drain projects separately. As it entails a complicated process, it took longer time than expected, but, as I learned now, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the work is soon to be submitted to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin,” Mr. Thiaga Rajan said. 

Taking into account the complicated process associated with the project, they expect the works to at least start within this year, he added.