The Borivali subway culvert project, designed to alleviate monsoon-induced waterlogging in Mumbai, is set to become operational following a financial resolution between Western Railway (WR) and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Despite completing 90% of the work, the project faced delays due to pending payments. In a recent pre-monsoon meeting, WR agreed to activate the culvert, while BMC committed to processing the outstanding Rs.26.29 crore, ensuring the culvert’s readiness for the upcoming monsoon season.
The project, initiated in March 2024, involves installing three 1,200 mm diameter pipes spanning 90 meters across the Borivali subway. This infrastructure aims to channel rainwater effectively, reducing the persistent flooding that disrupts daily life during Mumbai’s monsoon. However, financial disagreements arose when WR received only Rs.2 crore from BMC, leaving a significant portion unpaid. WR had previously threatened to halt the project and withhold the culvert’s activation until the dues were settled.
During the pre-monsoon coordination meeting, WR officials informed BMC that work on the Borivali culvert, along with similar projects at Malad, Andheri, and Bandra Terminus subways, would be suspended unless payments were made. BMC agreed to process the payments but requested that WR prioritize project completion over land-use charges, a practice already in place with Central Railway. WR officials consented in principle, pending final confirmation.
The additional culverts at Malad, Andheri, and Bandra Terminus are part of a broader initiative to enhance Mumbai’s infrastructure against monsoon challenges. These projects, with combined costs exceeding Rs.78 crore, are designed to improve water drainage and prevent flooding in critical areas. The BMC has agreed to fund the project costs for these culverts while deferring land-use charges, which constitute a significant portion of the total expenditure.
In preparation for the monsoon, WR has also committed to desilting all culverts beneath its tracks between Bandra and Dahisar. This preventive measure aims to ensure unobstructed water flow, mitigating the risk of track flooding. The desilting process will be documented with CCTV evidence to confirm completion before the monsoon’s onset in May.
Mumbai’s susceptibility to monsoon flooding has prompted both WR and BMC to undertake these critical infrastructure projects. The timely completion and activation of the Borivali subway culvert, along with the planned projects at other subways, are expected to significantly reduce waterlogging incidents. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of coordinated action and financial commitment in addressing urban flooding challenges.
As the monsoon season approaches, the successful operationalization of these culverts will be a testament to the efficacy of inter-agency cooperation in enhancing Mumbai’s resilience against seasonal adversities. Residents and commuters can anticipate improved conditions, with reduced disruptions caused by waterlogged thoroughfares. The resolution of financial disputes and the prioritization of essential infrastructure projects reflect a proactive approach to urban planning and disaster mitigation.
