Bhubaneswar, October 28 (UNI) In a significant move to tackle urban flooding and protect the state's natural water systems, the Odisha government has proposed a comprehensive statewide framework to identify, restore, protect and monitor natural drainage channels, water bodies and flood-retention areas across all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). The proposed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aims to prevent encroachment, unauthorised filling, blockage and diversion of natural drainage pathways, while ensuring that urban development does not compromise the free flow of rainwater or reduce the capacity of areas that store excess water during heavy rainfall. Additional Chief Secretary of the Housing and…
