Bhopal May 9, 2026. Department of Urban Administration and Development Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Sanjay Dubey, during his visit to Gwalior on Friday, reviewed the ground situation and expressed serious concern over the quality of ongoing drainage, water supply and road construction works. During the inspection, the ACS issued a strong warning to engineers and contractors. He said if houses get flooded during the rainy season due to poor planning or substandard work, the entire road would be dug up and rebuilt from top to bottom. The inspection was carried out in areas that often face waterlogging during heavy rains. ACS Dubey examined the drainage network, road slope levels and the pace of construction work. He directed officials to ensure proper flow of rainwater through scientifically designed drains so that water does not enter residential colonies. The ACS also questioned engineers about the technical aspects of the project, including drainage layout, road levels and construction quality. He expressed disappointment over visible shortcomings and irregularities found at several locations during the inspection.

Officials were directed to immediately rectify flaws in the drainage system and ensure that road construction follows prescribed engineering standards. Contractors were warned against negligence and told that any compromise in quality would invite strict administrative action. During the inspection, local residents also highlighted concerns related to water accumulation, damaged roads and inconvenience caused by incomplete civic works. Taking note of the complaints, the ACS instructed the concerned departments to prioritise public safety and complete the pending works before the arrival of heavy rains. Sources said special emphasis was laid on preventing urban flooding and ensuring that public money is not wasted on repeated repairs due to poor planning. The ACS stressed that development works must provide durable and long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes. Senior officials from the Public Works Department, municipal administration and other concerned agencies were present during the inspection. They were instructed to closely monitor the quality of construction and maintain regular supervision at the project sites. The inspection comes at a time when several towns across the region are undertaking pre-monsoon infrastructure works to tackle recurring problems of waterlogging and road damage. The administration hopes that stricter monitoring and accountability will help improve civic infrastructure and reduce difficulties faced by residents during the rainy season.

Gwalior’s fading sheen worries ACS Sanjay Dubey;

Gwalior, once counted among the most advanced cities of Madhya Pradesh, is today struggling with worsening civic conditions, poor planning and crumbling infrastructure. The concern was voiced strongly by Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Dubey during his visit to the city on Friday.

Interestingly, Dubey himself is an alumnus of Madhav Institute of Technology and Science (MITS), one of the oldest engineering institutions in the region. His emotional connection with the city was visible when he spoke about Gwalior’s rich past and present decline. Known for its glorious cultural and historical legacy, Gwalior has long been recognised as the land of music and classical traditions. The city earned the title “Surdhani” because of its deep association with musical gharanas and heritage. From education and healthcare to transport and architecture, Gwalior once stood far ahead of many other cities in the state. The city was known for modern civic facilities, reputed technical institutions, quality healthcare services, water bodies and iconic monuments. It also had an organised transport network, including the historic Scindia Light Railway system, which was considered a major achievement during its time.

However, the city’s current condition has raised serious questions about planning and governance over the years. Addressing reporters, Dubey said Gwalior was once a very beautiful city, but the present situation is alarming and disappointing. He openly blamed delays, poor planning and negligence by engineers and concerned agencies for the worsening civic mess.

According to him, the biggest failure was the lack of timely preparation. He said responsible departments ignored warning signs and failed to act before the situation went out of control. Dubey particularly raised concerns over damaged sewer lines, drainage problems and pending civic works linked to the Swarnrekha project. He warned that if urgent repairs are not completed before the monsoon, residents may again face sewage overflow and waterlogging on roads. His remarks reflected not only administrative concern but also personal disappointment as someone closely connected to the city’s educational and cultural roots. “What went wrong?” Now remains the biggest question for the politicians, administration as well as the people of Gwalior. Many believe the city still has the strength and legacy to regain its lost glory, but only if timely action, accountability and proper planning are ensured before it becomes too late.