Madhya Pradesh Administration to Investigate Construction and Encroachments Along Mandakini River

Satna, September 11 (Daily Kiran) : The administration in Satna district of Madhya Pradesh has formed a five-member team to investigate construction activities and encroachments along the Mandakini River in Chitrakoot. This decision follows severe flooding that affected the area last week.

Collector Satish Kumar S. stated that the team, led by the sub-divisional magistrate of Majhgawan, will identify structures obstructing the river’s natural flow. They will also assess the river’s High Flood Level (HFL) in accordance with guidelines set by the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

During the flooding on the night of August 28-29, the water level of the Mandakini River near Arogya Dham reached 145.76 meters, significantly above its designated HFL of 139.60 meters. The flood resulted in the collapse of the Hanumandhara Bridge.

The team will focus on identifying constructions and other infrastructure that impede the river’s flow, with actions planned against those violating regulations. Members of the team include the Chief Municipal Officer, Naib Tehsildar, sub-divisional officers from the Public Works Department and Water Resources Department, and a sub-engineer from the Municipal Council.

The investigation will also cover illegal plotting along the riverbank and both government and private construction projects. The administration aims to identify old and structurally weak buildings to ensure compliance with regulations. Additionally, they will assess new constructions and recently rebuilt structures for safety.

The Collector emphasized that the initiative aims to reduce flood damage and ensure public safety should the river’s water level rise in the future. This action comes shortly after a statement by Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, who announced the removal of government and private encroachments obstructing the river’s flow.

The investigation is expected to aid the administration in identifying regulatory violations and in taking further steps to prevent obstructions in the river’s flow.