Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC) has stepped up efforts to prevent waterlogging in the city. Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, May 3, 2026 (BSS) - Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC) has stepped up efforts to prevent waterlogging in the city during the upcoming monsoon, with its Sanitation Department carrying out extensive drain cleaning and maintenance activities.

A special drive is underway to remove silt and mud from primary and secondary drains using excavators, while smaller drains are being cleared manually to ensure smooth water flow.

RCC Administrator Mahfuzur Rahman Riton is actively overseeing the operations on the ground, conducting inspections day and night to minimize public suffering during the rainy season.

Last night, he visited several key areas, including Bornali Mor Dhalaan, Bheripara and Adarsha Point, continuing inspections until midnight. 

Earlier, he also monitored drain cleaning work in Bornali, Mathurdanga in Ward No. 16, and Apple Decorator Mor in Ward No. 6, where he reviewed silt removal progress and issued directives to concerned officials.

He stressed the need to complete the work quickly to ensure the drainage system remains functional before the monsoon begins.

Speaking on the initiative, Mahfuzur Rahman said the administration is working round the clock following directives from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to ensure proper civic services and urban development.

He said a special programme has been taken to eliminate waterlogging, with night-time operations being carried out in areas where daytime work could cause inconvenience to residents.

"Our goal is to keep the drainage system functional and reduce public suffering. We seek the cooperation of city residents in this effort," he added.

The RCC administrator also highlighted a major challenge, noting that many building owners have permanently covered drains in front of their properties, blocking drain pockets ranging from 40 to 50 feet, which hampers cleaning efforts.

"Despite these obstacles, we are trying our best. I urge residents not to permanently concrete over drains and block drainage lines," he said.

RCC Chief Executive Officer Md Rezaul Karim, Chief Conservancy Officer Sheikh Mamun Dollar, Superintending Engineer Ahmad Al Moin Parag, Deputy Chief Conservancy Officer Selim Reza Ranju, and other officials of the Conservancy Department were present during the inspections.