Kolkata Municipal Corporation Launches Special Repair for Earthquake-Damaged Road in Behala
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has announced a detailed plan to address the significant damage caused by Friday's earthquake in the Parnasree Palli area of Behala. A freshly laid road developed a long vertical fissure following the tremor, prompting immediate civic action.
Priority: Rebuilding the Collapsed Guard Wall
The initial focus will be on reconstructing the guard wall that collapsed along a nearby pond during the earthquake. According to a KMC official, this step is crucial as it will provide protection for the foundations of adjacent buildings, which may have sustained minor damage due to the crack. "We will first need to rebuild the guard wall and then proceed with the road reconstruction. This wall acts as a safeguard for the building foundations," the official explained.
Comprehensive Road Restoration Strategy
After assessing the effects of the quake, senior officials from the KMC civil engineering department have devised a multi-phase approach:
- Dig up the cracked road section.
- Fill the gap with sand to stabilize the area.
- Prepare a new bed for reconstruction.
- Rebuild the road with enhanced strength to withstand future disasters.
A senior engineering official stated, "Our study concluded that we must restore the road and strengthen the building foundations. This process involves careful excavation and reinforcement to ensure durability."
Underlying Soil Issues and Historical Context
The road and surrounding buildings are constructed on soft soil, with locals noting that the area was originally part of a pond and had been reclaimed. Inadequate earth compaction led to soil settling during the earthquake, triggering the fissure. The proximity to the pond exacerbated the damage, as the collapse of the pondside guard wall immediately caused the road to crack.
Most buildings in the vicinity have been erected in the last four to five years, highlighting the vulnerability of recent constructions on such terrain. "The pond's presence made a significant difference. The earthquake's first impact was the guard wall collapse, quickly followed by the road crack," a KMC official added.
Additional Measures and Broader Inspections
Beyond the guard wall reconstruction, KMC engineers plan to refill the pond with water to bolster the new wall's strength. The corporation aims to invite tenders for both the road and guard wall projects before the state assembly polls declaration, targeting completion within a month.
Simultaneously, a team of civic officials is conducting area-wide assessments to identify other damaged roads and similar risks. Special attention is being given to roads located beside ponds or other water bodies to prevent future incidents. "We are searching for other damaged roads, particularly those near water sources, to ensure comprehensive safety," a KMC representative confirmed.
This proactive response underscores KMC's commitment to addressing infrastructure vulnerabilities in Kolkata's reclaimed areas, prioritizing public safety and long-term resilience.
