LUCKNOW, July 18 -- : With the monsoon intensifying, Uttar Pradesh urban development minister AK Sharma on Friday directed officials to complete all ongoing drain construction and desilting works within the stipulated timeframe, saying citizens should not face waterlogging or civic inconvenience during the rainy season.

Inspecting drainage and desilting works in Vishwas Khand and Vivek Khand, Sharma reviewed the progress of the 600-metre drain under construction in Vishwas Khand. Officials informed him that nearly 500 metres had been completed and work on the remaining stretch was progressing quickly.

Calling monsoon preparedness the government's top priority, Sharma asked officials to keep a close watch on waterlogging-prone areas and ...