BBMP Chief Orders Swift Action to Prevent Monsoon Waterlogging and Pothole Hazards
Maheshwar Rao issues strict directives for flood-prone zones, drainage clearance, and pothole repair across Bengaluru
Bengaluru, August 4, 2025 — In a proactive move ahead of peak monsoon activity, BBMP Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao has directed civic officials to take immediate and comprehensive measures to prevent waterlogging and pothole-related disruptions across Bengaluru.
Chairing a high-level review meeting at the BBMP Head Office on Monday, Rao underscored the urgent need to tackle chronic flooding spots, particularly along the Outer Ring Road (ORR) and other key traffic corridors, where rain-induced inundation is a recurring concern.
Flood-Prone Hotspots Identified for Priority Action
Rao identified several vulnerable junctions and underpasses that demand urgent intervention, including:
Hebbal Junction, Nagawara Junction, Vidyashilpa Junction, Rupeena Agrahara, Marathahalli Police Station vicinity, Karthik Nagar, Kasturi Nagar Flyover, Palace Guttahalli, Panathur Railway Underpass, Nayandahalli Junction, RR Nagar Arch, Sumanahalli Junction
“These are not new problems. The issue recurs every year,” Rao stressed.
“We must act before the rain hits hard. Identify local causes and implement lasting solutions. Delays are unacceptable.”
The Commissioner called for immediate desilting and cleaning of roadside drains and proper slope management to ensure smooth flow of rainwater. He also instructed officials to ensure seamless coordination with BMRCL at sites where metro construction is underway, so that civic and transport infrastructure projects don’t exacerbate flooding risks.
Pothole Repairs to Be Prioritized Citywide
In addition to waterlogging, Rao turned his attention to the surge in potholes that disrupt traffic and endanger commuters, particularly during the rains. A compiled list of pothole hotspots by the BBMP traffic division was reviewed in the meeting.
“The presence of potholes during monsoons not only worsens traffic but poses a serious safety hazard,” Rao stated.
“These must be addressed on a war footing, based on priority. Let our response be fast, visible, and accountable.”
Senior Officials Ordered to Monitor Implementation
The meeting saw the presence of several senior BBMP officials, including Special Commissioners Karigowda and Suralkar Vikas Kishor, Zonal Commissioners Ramesh, Ramya, Digvijay Bodke, and Snehal, as well as Chief Engineers and departmental heads. Each was assigned zone-specific responsibilities to monitor field-level execution and report progress in real-time.
Rao reiterated the importance of inter-departmental coordination, timely resource allocation, and community communication to avoid chaos during heavy rainfall.
A Push for Preventive Governance
As Bengaluru continues to face the compounded challenges of urban growth and climate variability, the BBMP Commissioner’s directives reflect a push towards preventive civic governance.
With weeks of unpredictable rain ahead, city residents and commuters await visible improvements—and faster responses—in dealing with the annual monsoon woes.
🗣️ Key QUOTES:
🗨️ “We must act before the rain hits hard. Delays are unacceptable.” — Maheshwar Rao, BBMP Chief Commissioner
🗨️ “Flooding and potholes are not just inconveniences—they’re public safety risks.” — Maheshwar Rao
🗨️ “Let our response be fast, visible, and accountable.” — Maheshwar Rao
🗨️ “Metro work or not, roads must stay motorable. Inter-agency coordination is non-negotiable.” — Maheshwar Rao
🗨️ “Every monsoon brings lessons. This time, we act before it’s too late.” — BBMP Official (Meeting Attendee)
