In Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, overflowing drains have exposed critical failures in the Lucknow Municipal Corporation's (LMC) pre-monsoon sanitation preparations. Despite spending crores annually on cleaning efforts, many internal nullahs remain clogged with waste, raising fears of waterlogging and the spread of vector-borne diseases. A recent inspection revealed serious issues, particularly behind the Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences in Gomti Nagar, where sewage overflowed onto footpaths, creating an unsanitary environment for patients and staff. Similar problems were reported in the Ashiana area and near Lohia Park, where open drains were filled with garbage. Residents have voiced concerns that the LMC primarily focuses on larger drains during desilting, neglecting smaller internal nullahs that ultimately contribute to overflow issues. According to LMC environmental engineer Sanjeev Pradhan, smaller drains are managed by private agencies, but the effectiveness of these outsourced services has come into question. With recent rainfall exacerbating the situation, the lack of proper drainage maintenance poses significant risks for the upcoming monsoon season.