Bhubaneswar: In view of the approaching monsoon season, Steel Authority of India Limited’s (SAIL) Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) has launched a comprehensive monsoon preparedness drive across its plant and township areas to ensure uninterrupted production, operational safety, and efficient flood management during the rainy season.
The extensive action plan for monsoon preparation has been formulated based on detailed site inspections carried out by the Task Force, along with lessons drawn from previous monsoon experiences across different plant units. The Civil Engineering Services (CE(S)) Department is leading the initiative in coordination with multiple departments, SAIL said in a release.
As part of the preparedness measures, large-scale de-weeding, de-silting, and cleaning operations are underway at Guradih Nallah, North Channel, and major roadside drains to ensure smooth stormwater flow. Underground drainage systems and drains beyond departmental battery limits are also being cleaned and maintained by CE(S), while individual departments have been directed to maintain internal drainage systems within their respective areas.
The steel plant has also prioritised preventive maintenance of pumps and dewatering systems in vulnerable zones, including Coke Ovens, CDCP, Blast Furnaces, SGP, SP-I, CPP-I, OBBP, Plate Mill, HSM, and Battery sections.
To strengthen flood preparedness, additional manpower is being deployed for flood control operations, with orientation training planned before deployment. Departments have also been instructed to complete repair and maintenance work related to roof gutters, downspouts and drainage infrastructure before the onset of heavy rainfall.
Significantly, the newly constructed embankment with Hume pipe culvert near the Pump House of HSM-II, identified as an obstruction to water flow, is being removed to facilitate smooth drainage during the monsoon. Obstructions in Guradih Nallah near WT#1 and the new CISF gate are also being cleared on priority.
The action plan further includes operational readiness of Lagoon Gates, deployment of vehicles and cranes for emergency response, illumination arrangements at critical drainage points, and round-the-clock availability of flood control support systems.
All monsoon preparedness activities are targeted for completion by June 10, 2026. Additionally, a 24×7 Flood Control Room will function at the CE(S) office from June 15 to September 30, 2026, to ensure continuous monitoring and swift coordination for handling any monsoon-related challenges.
