Mumbai: Western Railway has significantly bolstered its monsoon preparedness this year, reporting a 17% increase in the number of high-capacity dewatering pumps to combat track flooding and minimize disruptions to both suburban and long-distance train services. The network now operates 126 high-capacity pumps, 22 more than last year, strategically positioned to expedite water removal from vulnerable stretches during heavy rainfall.
Key Infrastructure Upgrades
Officials have recommended track lifting at flood-prone stations such as Vasai, low-lying areas of Matunga and Nallasopara, along with platform raising where necessary. The Matunga Road–Mumbai Central section, notorious for waterlogging, faces challenges from inadequate and clogged drainage, compounded by external constraints like permissions from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). With drain augmentation already approved, coordinated efforts with the BMC and planned track lifting are expected to significantly mitigate flooding issues before the monsoon season.
Preventive Civil Works
In addition to pumping capacity, Western Railway has accelerated preventive civil works. Approximately 60 kilometers of drains are being cleaned, and desilting of culverts is underway at 58 locations. The railway has deployed 'muck specials' to remove silt and debris from tracks and drainage channels, with about 600 trips planned to clear accumulated muck quickly and systematically. Construction and repair of drains are in progress, with over 4 kilometers of drains repaired and about 7 kilometers of new drains constructed. Other measures include cleaning of culverts, collection and disposal of muck, and monitoring through flood gauges and rain gauges to enable faster response during intense downpours.
Collaboration and Monitoring
These efforts are part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure minimal service disruption during the monsoon. The railway is working closely with the BMC and other agencies to address external factors contributing to waterlogging. Enhanced monitoring systems will allow for real-time tracking of water levels and rainfall intensity, facilitating quicker decision-making and deployment of resources.
