CMC Explores Sponge Systems to Tackle Waterlogging
Cyberabad Municipal Corporation explores EcoBlock and sponge systems to curb waterlogging and boost groundwater recharge by next monsoon.
Roads in Cyberabad could potentially dry out faster after heavy rain as the Cyberabad Municipal Corporation (CMC) explores nature‑based solutions to capture stormwater, reduce waterlogging and recharge groundwater.
The civic body is examining the feasibility of adopting EcoBlock rainwater‑harvesting and sponge systems, similar to those in Coimbatore. The technology uses underground modular structures to temporarily store rainwater, filter it and recharge it into the ground.
The move follows recent rains that exposed waterlogging at 56 locations across CMC limits, with several areas inundated for one to two hours.
During a meeting with CMC commissioner T. Vinay Krishna Reddy, experts Dr Bhimamaraja and S. Shaktivel presented decentralised stormwater management approaches, including EcoBlock and sponge‑based systems.
The EcoBlock system consists of interconnected underground modules that create storage beneath roads, parks and open spaces. It is designed to capture and temporarily store rainwater, filter it and facilitate groundwater recharge, reducing surface runoff.
CMC engineer Sreelakshmi told Deccan Chronicle that suitable locations in each circle where waterlogging is reported will be identified. “We will hold a meeting with the consultant to assess feasibility. Based on this, we will take it up. We are planning completion by the next monsoon,” she said.
The CMC covers 637.19 sq. km. With increasing paved areas limiting natural recharge, the corporation is looking at decentralised systems to manage excess rainwater and improve groundwater levels.
