Nagpur's MahaMetro Underpass Turns Hazardous Just Three Years After Inauguration
Barely three years after its grand inauguration on April 1, 2023, the railway under bridge (RuB) at Cotton Market square in Nagpur, developed by MahaMetro, is rapidly deteriorating into a severe commuter hazard. Reports indicate persistent issues with severe road damage and waterlogging across all seasons, transforming what was meant to be a congestion-easing infrastructure into a perilous passage.
Road Surface Deterioration and Safety Threats
While the underpass routinely floods during the monsoon, commuters report that the condition remains equally dangerous in summer and winter due to a badly deteriorated road surface. The stretch near the exit towards Cotton Market from the Tekdi Mandir side is among the worst affected areas. Here, exposed steel rods and pipes can be seen jutting out near a drainage point, posing a serious safety risk.
Water stagnation in the area has only worsened the condition of the carriageway. The road surface at multiple points appears broken and uneven, resembling mismatched puzzle pieces. Sudden dips and crater-like potholes force motorists to brake abruptly, leading to frequent near-mishaps and traffic disruptions in this busy square with heavy vehicular movement.
Commuters Voice Concerns Over Immediate Dangers
Deepak Meshram, a daily commuter, expressed his frustration: "It is extremely risky, especially for two-wheeler riders. You don't realise the depth of the pothole because of the water, and suddenly you have to apply brakes. During rains, it becomes worse, but even now, the condition is not any better."
Another commuter, Shrikant Navghare, highlighted the exposed rods as a critical threat: "If someone loses balance or skids, it can lead to serious injuries. This is a newly built structure, it shouldn't be in such a condition so soon."
Drainage System Failures and Maintenance Disputes
Despite the presence of a drainage system, locals claim it has failed to prevent water accumulation. One commuter noted: "The water collects near the drain itself even in summers, which shows something is wrong with the design or maintenance. Authorities need to fix this permanently instead of temporary patchwork."
Sources indicate that a minor tussle has emerged over the maintenance of the RuB, with uncertainty over whether the responsibility lies with the civic body or the implementing agency. However, as of now, the maintenance is confirmed to be with MahaMetro. After being contacted, a senior MahaMetro official acknowledged the issue, stating that cognisance would be taken and assuring that the matter would be resolved at the earliest.
Impact on Traffic and Urgent Calls for Action
The Cotton Market square is a key traffic junction connecting multiple parts of Nagpur, and the RuB was designed to play a crucial role in easing congestion. However, the current state of disrepair has negated its purpose, with commuters now forced to navigate cautiously through the stretch. Commuters are urging authorities to undertake immediate repairs and a thorough inspection to address both the surface damage and underlying drainage issues before the situation escalates into serious accidents.
This situation underscores the need for robust infrastructure maintenance and timely interventions to ensure public safety and efficient urban mobility.
