Mumbai: As Mumbai braces for the monsoon season, the Western Railway (WR) has completed a comprehensive set of pre-monsoon preparedness measures to ensure uninterrupted operations and passenger safety across its suburban network.
"With lessons from past years and a focus on continuous improvement, WR aims to replicate its 2024 success, which saw no major waterlogging or service disruptions due to the rains," said an official of WR.
Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, stated that preparations were undertaken in “mission mode,” with targeted interventions across vulnerable sections of the Mumbai Central Division. These include extensive cleaning, drainage enhancement, structural reinforcements, and advanced monitoring—forming a multi-pronged strategy to tackle potential monsoon-related challenges.
Western Railway’s Monsoon Preparedness: Drainage Cleared and Flood Defenses Strengthened | File Photo
Key measures undertaken include the desilting and cleaning of over 55 km of existing drains and 58 culverts, along with the addition of 3 km of new drainage lines and manholes. Additionally, WR has deployed 104 high-capacity dewatering pumps at key flood-prone locations—a 10% increase compared to last year. Micro-tunneling works have also been carried out at Goregaon–Malad, Prabhadevi–Matunga, Borivali, and Virar to improve water discharge.
Apart from that, a 4.5 km retaining wall has been constructed in the Vasai–Virar section to shield tracks from flood damage. Low-lying tracks have been raised, and vulnerable locations identified from past flooding have received special attention. SCADA-based water level monitoring systems have been installed on four strategic bridges, sending real-time SMS alerts to key personnel.
In addition to that, a dedicated “Muck Special” train has operated approximately 480 trips to clear debris along the tracks. Heavy machinery, including JCBs, Poclains, and specialized wagons, was deployed to remove accumulated muck, aiding smooth water flow.
Similarly, to prevent track obstructions during high winds or rains, 36 trees within 4 meters of the tracks have been trimmed or removed.
Advanced tools such as floater cameras, drones, and suction machines are being used to inspect and clean culverts, monitor flooding, and oversee overall monsoon readiness. Five automated digital rain gauges have been installed for accurate rainfall tracking, while drones have conducted surveys in flood-prone zones.
Joint inspections with civic bodies like BMC, MBMC, and VVCMC have been carried out to ensure inter-agency coordination. Monsoon-specific training, revised patrolling charts, and strategic stockpiling of materials like boulders and quarry dust at locations such as Virar are in place. Patrolmen and bridge guards have been trained for monsoon vigilance duties.
"With our extensive on-ground work and integration of modern monitoring systems, we are well-prepared to handle the monsoon. Passenger safety and reliable operations remain our top priority," the official further added.
Key Monsoon Readiness Measures Implemented by Western Railway to Ensure Safe and Smooth Operations
. Over 58 culverts and 55 km of drains have been cleaned and desilted.
. 3 km of new drainage lines and several new manholes have been constructed.
. A 4.5 km retaining wall has been built along the Vasai–Virar section to prevent track flooding.
. 104 high-capacity dewatering pumps have been installed—an increase of 10% in pumping capacity compared to last year.
. Flood gauges are now operational at 36 flood-prone locations.
. Vulnerable and low-lying tracks have been elevated.
. SCADA-based water level monitoring systems are active on four major bridges, automatically sending alerts to railway personnel.
. Approximately 480 trips of “Muck Special” trains have been deployed to clear garbage and earth along the tracks.
. A total of 36 trees within proximity of the tracks have been trimmed or removed to avoid obstructions during storms.
. Drone and floater camera surveillance is being used to monitor and document culvert cleaning and drainage work.
. Five new Automated Digital Rain Gauges (ARGs) are now active, delivering real-time rainfall data.
