With the monsoon season approaching, Central Railway (CR) has intensified its efforts to tackle the perennial challenge of waterlogging across the Mumbai division. In a recent high-level review, senior officials evaluated the progress of ongoing monsoon preparedness initiatives aimed at ensuring smooth train operations during heavy rainfall.
CR has identified 33 key waterlogging-prone locations where flooding frequently disrupts services. To mitigate this, 112 pumps will be installed across these vulnerable spots, including several high-capacity 100 HP pumps. Of these, 44 pumps will be supplied by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), while Central Railway will install the remaining 68 at critical points, according to a CR spokesperson.
In addition, the BMC is establishing major pumping stations at four flood-prone zones and will install four floodgates designed to prevent stormwater from overflowing onto railway tracks in low-lying areas.
“Culvert and nullah cleaning is already underway, with a completion deadline set for 31 May 2025. This maintenance is vital to avoid blockages and ensure effective rainwater drainage,” the official added.
To maintain uninterrupted train services, CR’s Traction Distribution Department has implemented measures to secure a reliable power supply to locomotives throughout the monsoon. The Signal & Telecommunication Department has nearly completed inspections and replacements of critical systems, including earthing, bonding, and lightning protection.
Meanwhile, the electrical department is enhancing infrastructure resilience by deploying additional diesel generator sets at five strategic locations to support dewatering pumps during potential power failures.
CR operates over 1,810 suburban trains on weekdays, serving approximately 3.8 million commuters daily. These comprehensive monsoon measures aim to keep Mumbai’s vital rail network functioning efficiently during the rainy season.
Source: The Free Press Journal.
