Varanasi Waterlogging: Executive Engineer Suspended After Urban Development Minister's Visit

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Executive Engineer Suspended Amidst Varanasi Waterlogging Crisis

In response to the persistent and severe waterlogging issue in Varanasi, the Uttar Pradesh government has taken stern action by immediately suspending Pawan Kumar Gupta, an Executive Engineer posted in the construction division of the Jal Nigam (Urban). The primary reason cited for this action is the failure to operate pumps at the Chowkaghat and Goithahan pumping stations, which led to a critical waterlogging situation in the city's low-lying areas.

The government has sent a clear message that any laxity or negligence in works related to public amenities will not be tolerated. A departmental inquiry has also been initiated against Executive Engineer Pawan Kumar Gupta under Rule 7 of the Uttar Pradesh Government Servants (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1999. Preliminary investigations revealed a lack of a concrete action plan to install gates and barriers at the Chowkaghat Sewage Pumping Station to prevent backflow from the river. Furthermore, there was a lack of promptness in complying with directives from higher authorities.

Minister's Inspection Leads to Swift Action

The most significant negligence surfaced on September 3rd and 4th when pumps at the Chowkaghat Sewage Pumping Station and Goithahan STP (Sewage Treatment Plant) were kept shut. Heavy rainfall during this period caused an unexpected surge in pressure on the city's sewer lines, submerging several low-lying areas and causing immense hardship to citizens, while exposing the department's operational shortcomings.

In light of this grave situation, Urban Development Minister A.K. Sharma visited Varanasi on September 12th and 13th. He personally inspected various waterlogged areas and issued directives to rectify the drainage system on a war footing. Minister Sharma expressed deep dissatisfaction with the waterlogging situation during his inspection and issued a stern warning to officials against any future negligence.

Departmental Inquiry and Future Course of Action

As per the order issued by the government, the Chief Engineer (Procurement), Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam (Urban), Lucknow, has been appointed as the inquiry officer for the entire matter. Pawan Kumar Gupta has been suspended and attached to the office of the Chief Engineer (Kanpur Region). He will continue to receive his subsistence allowance during the suspension period as per rules.

This significant action in Varanasi has sent ripples of concern among other departmental officials. The government's stance is clear: any future project found to have similar negligence or lapses will face strict punitive action against the responsible officials. The government's objective is to provide permanent relief to the citizens of Varanasi from waterlogging issues, and the Jal Nigam has been issued special instructions to immediately improve its operational procedures and ensure the uninterrupted functioning of pumping stations.