Mumbai was hit by heavy rainfall this week starting September 25, resulting in significant water-logging and flash floods across the city. Five days later, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) identified seven critical locations near the Central and Harbour railway lines that significantly contributed to the flooding.
Civic officials pointed out that many of these locations are near the railway tracks, and overflow from nearby drains. The BMC highlighted specific locations along the Central Line that need immediate attention:
Central Line:
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Railway yard at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT).
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Storm water drains near Bhandup station.
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Storm water drains near Vidyavihar station.
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Connecting areas between Sion and Matunga.
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Connecting areas between Vikhroli and Kanjurmarg.
Harbour Line:
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Railway tracks between Sewri and Wadala.
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Railway tracks between Kurla and Mankhurd.
The main cause of waterlogging in these areas has been clogged drainage networks. Officials have highlighted that the narrow drainage lines beneath the railway tracks are a significant issue.
According to reports, the BMC and Railway Officials have agreed to widen these drainage lines and cover the networks with protective nets to prevent further waste disposal. However, some projects face delays due to the relocation of project-affected parties (PAP). In the Harbour Line, encroachments from slum areas have worsened the problem, with waste being dumped into the drainage system. The drainage improvements are expected be completed before the monsoons next year.
