In a proactive push to address recurring urban flooding and strengthen civic infrastructure, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has directed officials to identify suitable locations across the state for the installation of water harvesting systems, signalling a shift towards long-term, sustainable urban planning. The directive comes ahead of the monsoon season, with the state government aiming to mitigate waterlogging through preventive measures rather than reactive responses.
Chairing a high-level review meeting of the Urban Local Bodies Department at the state secretariat, the Chief Minister undertook a detailed assessment of drainage systems, sanitation mechanisms, and preparedness for the upcoming rains. Emphasising the urgency of the situation, he instructed officials to map out vulnerable areas where water accumulation is a recurring problem and to implement alternative solutions, including rainwater harvesting structures, to reduce pressure on drainage networks.
The Chief Minister underlined that waterlogging is not merely a seasonal inconvenience but a structural issue that requires integrated planning. By promoting rainwater harvesting, the government aims not only to reduce urban flooding but also to improve groundwater recharge, thereby addressing water scarcity in the long term. Officials have been asked to compile a comprehensive and updated database detailing existing water harvesting systems, their operational status, and gaps where new installations are required.
As part of this exercise, all government departments have been directed to ensure the proper installation and maintenance of such systems within their premises. Particular emphasis has been placed on flood-prone zones, where the adoption of rainwater harvesting is expected to significantly ease the burden on conventional drainage infrastructure.
Alongside water management, the meeting also focused extensively on improving sanitation systems across Haryana’s urban centres. Officials briefed the Chief Minister on the increasing use of modern technologies to enhance efficiency and transparency in waste management. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-based monitoring systems are being deployed to track waste collection processes, ensuring better accountability and real-time oversight.
Taking this a step further, the government is set to introduce enhanced surveillance of mechanised cleaning operations. Sweeping machines used in urban areas will now be equipped with multiple cameras to monitor performance and prevent operational lapses. The system will include front, rear, overhead, and ground-level cameras, enabling authorities to verify whether machines are functioning effectively during cleaning operations.
In a move aimed at enforcing accountability among contractors, the government has introduced strict compliance measures. Agencies operating these machines will be required to submit video evidence of their work along with monthly billing. Payments will be withheld if monitoring systems indicate non-compliance, such as inactive sensors during operations. Additionally, financial penalties have been incorporated, with provisions for fines calculated on an hourly basis in cases of negligence or underperformance.
The Chief Minister also reviewed the implementation of GPS-enabled waste collection systems, which are being integrated with RFID technology to streamline garbage collection and disposal. These systems are expected to reduce inefficiencies, eliminate irregularities, and provide a transparent mechanism for monitoring municipal services.
Beyond infrastructure and technology, the meeting addressed the welfare and working conditions of sanitation workers. The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure that all sanitation personnel are provided with proper uniforms, footwear, and essential safety equipment. He emphasised that improving the working conditions of frontline workers is critical to achieving overall efficiency in sanitation services. In a significant step towards standardisation, the government plans to introduce a uniform dress code for sanitation workers across the state.
Special attention was also given to major urban centres such as Gurugram and Faridabad, which frequently face challenges related to drainage, waste management, and water supply due to rapid urbanisation. The Chief Minister instructed officials to prioritise these cities and ensure that residents do not face disruptions during the monsoon season.
Senior officials, including Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi and other top administrators, were present during the meeting, reflecting the high priority accorded to urban infrastructure management. The discussions indicate a broader administrative push towards integrating technology, accountability, and sustainability into governance.
The Haryana government’s approach suggests a transition towards data-driven urban management, where preventive planning, digital monitoring, and strict enforcement mechanisms are combined to improve service delivery. As the monsoon approaches, the effectiveness of these measures will be closely watched, particularly in cities that have historically struggled with waterlogging and sanitation challenges.
With directives now in place and implementation mechanisms being strengthened, the state administration appears focused on ensuring that urban Haryana is better equipped to handle seasonal pressures while laying the groundwork for more resilient infrastructure in the years ahead.
