Encroachments being removed from rivulets to ensure smooth water flow

After floods in the Malwa region,the drainage department in Hoshiarpur district is now working to remove encroachments from various choes. These seasonal rivulets have been enroached upon by slum dwellers and by farmers for agricultural purposes in many areas. Around two years ago,floods played havoc in the region due to encroachment in these choes which led to water flooding the neighbouring localities. Sources in the Drainage department said the department has been registering two cases on an average in a week against encroachers.

Nasrala and Bhangi choes in Hoshiarpur districts has been encroached upon by a large number of slum dwellers who have built their huts blocking the natural flow of water. Due to these encroachments,even moderate amount of rainfall can result in floods,said sources. In 2008,an average 86 mm to 100 mm of rain in various parts of the Doaba region led to heavy floods because of the choked rivulets.

This year,before the monsoon season the Drainage department of Hoshiarpur had spent Rs 1.25 crore to construct studs and spurs in Nasrala,Bhangi,Mahngrowal,Chohal choes. Drainage department XEN D P S Brar,when contacted,said they had removed encroachments from the choes and strict action is being taken against the encroachers. We are keeping close vigil against the encroachers,he added.