LUCKNOW, April 2 -- The Uttar Pradesh government has approved a Rs.176 crore-billion remodelling project for the Qila Mohammadi drain in Sarojini Nagar, a move expected to provide long-term relief from waterlogging to more than 2.5 lakh residents. The project, cleared under the urban flood, waterlogging control and storm-water drainage scheme, is aimed at improving drainage across over 35 km of urban area, including Ashiana, Sharda Nagar, Kanpur Road and more than 240 localities. According to an official release, the ageing drain-constructed between 1983 and 1986 from Pakri Pul to the Sai river-had become narrow and dilapidated over the years, severely affecting water discharge during rains. Under the sanctioned plan, 7.156 km of the existing drain from VIP Road to Ithauriya Puliya will be rebuilt, along with a 3.415-km diverting drain, taking the total upgraded stretch to 10.571 km. A modern RCC drainage network will be developed, with widening work around the airport zone and conversion of kutcha stretches into permanent concrete channels. The release said the project received approval following sustained follow-up by Sarojini Nagar MLA Rajeshwar Singh, who had been pursuing the issue with officials and the state government, including repeated representations to chief minister Yogi Adityanath....