Maharashtra Government Aims for Permanent Solution to Andheri Subway Waterlogging
The Maharashtra government has declared its commitment to developing a permanent resolution for the persistent traffic congestion triggered by waterlogging at the Andheri subway in western Mumbai during the monsoon season. This announcement was made in response to a calling attention motion presented in the state assembly on Friday.
Addressing a Critical Infrastructure Issue
Minister of State Madhuri Misal, while replying to the motion, emphasized that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is actively implementing multiple measures to tackle this long-standing problem. The issue was raised by MLA Murji Patel, who highlighted that the subway serves as the sole connector between Andheri East and Andheri West. He pointed out that it frequently becomes inundated during heavy rainfall, leading to severe traffic disruptions and inconvenience for commuters.
Technical Challenges and Current Mitigation Efforts
Misal explained that the subway is situated in a low-lying area, with the Western Railway's suburban network running overhead, which complicates any attempts at widening or deepening the structure. Waterlogging typically occurs when rainfall exceeds 19mm per hour. To manage the situation, the BMC deploys three pumps during the monsoon, boasting a combined drainage capacity of 2,250 cubic metres per hour. Additionally, the recently renovated Gokhale Bridge has been opened to traffic and is utilized as an alternative route whenever the subway is forced to close. Traffic from SV Road is systematically diverted to this bridge to prevent congestion in Andheri West.
Proposed Long-Term Project
In a significant move towards a lasting fix, the minister revealed that a Rs 197 crore project has been proposed to prevent flooding during extreme rainfall events exceeding 55mm. She further stated that a joint meeting involving all relevant departments will be convened to collaboratively devise and execute a permanent solution, ensuring the subway remains functional and safe during future monsoon seasons.
