Gurgaon: Following a tragic incident in Aug in which a 44-year-old man lost his life after falling into a flooded stormwater drain in Bhondsi, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has decided to build rainwater harvesting (RWH) system along Sohna Highway. The highway, particularly vulnerable in its low-lying sections, frequently experiences flooding during the monsoon, compounded by additional water runoff from the Aravali foothills.
The project involves constructing two rainwater harvesting structures, with installations planned near the Ghamroj toll plaza and GD Goenka University.
Recurring monsoon waterlogging has significantly deteriorated road infrastructure, worsened by unauthorised private construction along the highway, which has obstructed drainage outlets and hindered water discharge.
"The agency is already working on the design, and we aim to complete it before next year's monsoon. These rainwater harvesting systems will not only manage waterlogging during heavy rainfall but will also help recharge groundwater levels in the area and protect road infrastructure from water damage," an NHAI senior official explained.
Residents have welcomed the initiative, noting that similar measures are needed along other sections of the highway.
"There is severe flooding during the monsoon, making it difficult to commute, especially on the service road. With no proper drain outlets, water accumulates in low-lying areas. Even now, there is water accumulation near GD Goenka University despite no rain since Sept," said Ramkesh Nawada, a resident of Breez Global Height.