Bhopal: Makeshift Drainage Puts Railway Tracks At Risk

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): A serious safety concern has emerged in the state capital after rainwater from two city flyovers was diverted directly onto the railway tracks at Rani Kamlapati railway station—without obtaining permission from the Railway Department.

The water, accumulated due to heavy rainfall at the cut point of Ambedkar Flyover (GG Flyover) and Savarkar Setu near the Ganesh temple, was released towards the railway lines through a temporary drainage system created by the PWD and Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Tuesday.

Following massive waterlogging a day earlier that resulted in a 3-kilometre-long traffic jam on Ambedkar Bridge. Rainwater had pooled up to 2–3 feet in front of the Ganesh temple due to the absence of a proper drainage system.

Officials from various departments arrived at the scene and dug a temporary outlet to drain the stagnant water. However, instead of identifying a suitable discharge point, the water was diverted directly onto the railway tracks—a move that sparked immediate concern.

Railway officials have warned that such uncontrolled drainage could weaken the track’s structure, increase the risk of electrical short circuits, and even disrupt train operation.

Despite BMC's claims that the temporary arrangement poses no threat, railway authorities are now inspecting the affected site. The situation has brought to light major negligence, especially since the issue arose during the very first spell of monsoon rains. Authorities are now looking for a more permanent and safe drainage solution.

No clearance from Railways

Naval Agrawal, spokesperson for Bhopal Railway Division, said that no prior permission or intimation was given by PWD or other civic agencies to railway office. Upon discovering the diversion, railway officials alerted the district administration, which then ordered redirection of water away from tracks.

Failed attempt

Before the temporary channel was created, authorities tried to revive an old, unused drain near the Ganesh temple, which once connected to Arera Colony and led towards Rani Kamlapati station. However, the effort proved ineffective in relieving the water accumulation, leading to emergency fix now under scrutiny.