Bengaluru’s stormwater drainage system is under stress from rapid urban growth, encroachments, and infrastructure that no longer matches the city’s hydrological realities. In a recent opinion piece in Deccan Herald, our Advanced Associate – Urban Design, Surjyatapa Ray, argues that the existing box-drain approach has repeatedly failed to deliver reliable performance during monsoon events, flooding streets and leaving infrastructure and communities vulnerable. The article makes the case for upgrading to modern pipe-and-chamber systems that can improve conveyance, reduce illegal sewage inflows, and enhance opportunities for recharge and manageability with available expertise and technology.
Below is a companion design deck that outlines practical approaches, standards, and implementation considerations for pipe and chamber stormwater drain systems — detailing how these designs can address the limitations of legacy infrastructure and support more resilient and sustainable drainage outcomes for the city.
