Dinesh Kamath's Editorial 'NMMC should be lauded for focusing on gutter-cleaning' that was published in In New Bombay

NMMC should be lauded for focusing on gutter-cleaning

Just before the monsoon begins, NMMC is focusing on cleaning the nallahs and gutters so that there won’t be accumulation of rainwater. The waste management department is making all the efrots to complete the work by 30 May as instructed by municipal commissioner Dr Ramaswami N.

The municipal commissioner has given strict orders that during the monsoon period, the city residents should not face any kind of problems. He has asked the waste management department to get all the nullahs and gutters of the city totally cleaned so that no problem occurs during the monsoon. He has asked even the concerned department’s ward officers and executive engineers and the nodal officers of every ward to achieve the goal that he has set for them.

Why do gutters need to be cleaned? A debris-clogged gutter can cause a leaky roof or water damage to the interior or exterior of your home. They serve to control the flow of rainwater to protect your roof, walls, foundation and landscape. When neglected, experts say gutters can turn from a necessity to a nightmare.

How often do gutters need to be cleaned? Many experts recommend cleaning your gutters at least twice a year

What happens if you don't clean your gutters? An unfixed gutter leak can cause damage to your home. If the leak causes mold and rotting, it is possible that the gutter will give way and fall off of your roof. Gutters drain toward the bottom exterior of your home, but if they are not working properly or aren't cleaned, water can collect and leak into your basement

Why are clogged gutters bad? If a gutter gets clogged up by dust, leaves, dirt, etc, however, it can stop or slow the drainage off your roof, causing more damage than you may know. Clogged gutters can rot fascia boards, therefore making it easier for water to enter the house to cause wall and ceiling damage.

It is good to know that NMMC has realized on time the damages that unclean gutters can cause. Municipal commissioner Ramaswamy N is setting a good example by giving a lot of focus on gutter cleaning before the monsoon starts.