Nagpur: Nearly three years after the devastating floods of September 2023, the damaged retaining wall along Nag River on Canal Road remains unrepaired, with civic officials admitting that reconstruction has been stalled due to a lack of funds.
The damaged stretch runs along one of Nagpur's busiest roads, used daily by thousands of motorists, pedestrians, and morning walkers. Despite the passage of time, large sections remain exposed, with only remnants of the original structure separating the road from the river below.
NMC Dharampeth Zone chairperson Dhanashree Deshpande and Public Works Department (PWD) executive engineer Manoj Gadre acknowledged that the project remains pending. Gadre said the work has not commenced because of financial constraints.
"The proposal has been submitted, but due to lack of funds, the reconstruction work has not yet been taken up," Gadre told TOI.
He, however, said the department prioritised repairs at locations considered more vulnerable after the floods.
Residents say the explanation is difficult to accept, arguing that a damaged safety structure on one of the city's most prominent roads should not remain unattended for so long. With the monsoon approaching, many fear heavy rainfall could expose the same vulnerabilities witnessed during the 2023 floods and highlight the administration's failure to restore critical infrastructure.
A visit to the site found extensive portions of the retaining wall still damaged. Vehicles were parked close to the exposed edge at several locations, while pedestrians were forced to walk dangerously near the riverbank. Residents described the stretch as a serious safety hazard.
"It appears the authorities have simply forgotten about it," said resident Yana Laddhad. "The wall has remained broken for three years. Every monsoon brings fresh concerns, but nothing changes. If something goes wrong, who will be responsible?"
Residents also questioned the effectiveness of river improvement works undertaken at high cost, pointing to the persistent foul odour from Nag River and the deteriorating condition of nearby infrastructure.
Poor street lighting has further compounded concerns. Residents said inadequate illumination reduces visibility after dark, increasing the risk of accidents for both motorists and pedestrians.
Another resident, Shilpa Sarda, said repairs should have been completed long ago given Canal Road's importance to the city. "Three years is more than enough time to rebuild a retaining wall. The delay is difficult to justify," she said.
Mahesh Rathi called for immediate action and accountability. "The retaining wall must be rebuilt before disaster strikes. Authorities cannot continue citing delays while public safety remains compromised," he said.
As another monsoon sets in, the damaged retaining wall serves as a reminder not only of the floods of 2023 but also of the prolonged delay in restoring a key piece of civic infrastructure.
