Pragati Maidan Tunnel Remains Closed For 4th Day Due To Waterlogging

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Severe Waterlogging Forces Prolonged Closure

The Pragati Maidan tunnel in Delhi has been shut for the fourth consecutive day due to severe waterlogging caused by heavy rainfall. It is expected that the closure will persist for several more days.

Persistent Closure

The closure of the Pragati Maidan tunnel commenced on Saturday, July 9, when heavy rains inundated the area. The waterlogging reached a height of up to five feet, necessitating the closure.

Slow Drainage Process

The Public Works Department (PWD) has been diligently working to drain the water from the tunnel, but progress has been slow. The PWD anticipates that it will take additional days to successfully remove the water and ensure the tunnel’s safety for traffic.

Traffic Congestion and Alternative Routes

The tunnel’s closure has led to significant traffic congestion in the vicinity. Commuters who typically rely on the tunnel have been forced to seek alternative routes, resulting in extended travel times.

Efforts to Reopen the Tunnel

The PWD has expressed its commitment to reopening the tunnel as soon as possible. However, the precise timeline for the tunnel’s restoration remains unclear.

Causes of Waterlogging

Several factors contributed to the waterlogging within the Pragati Maidan tunnel:

Heavy Rains

Delhi experienced substantial rainfall on Saturday, July 9, leading to waterlogging in various parts of the city, including the vicinity of the Pragati Maidan tunnel.

Ongoing Construction Work

The ongoing construction activities within the Pragati Maidan complex have disrupted the area’s drainage system, exacerbating the waterlogging issue.

Overwhelmed Drains

The existing drains in the area have been unable to handle the volume of water generated by the rainfall and construction work, resulting in overflow and subsequent waterlogging.

Remedial Measures

The PWD has initiated several measures to address the waterlogging problem in the Pragati Maidan tunnel:

Water Drainage

Efficient pumping systems are employed to drain the accumulated water from the tunnel. Additionally, excavators are being utilized to remove silt and debris obstructing the drains.

Drainage System Repairs

The PWD is actively repairing and upgrading the drainage system in the area. New drains are being installed to enhance the overall drainage capacity and mitigate future waterlogging risks.

Tunnel Elevation

To prevent future flooding, the PWD is raising the height of the tunnel by several feet.

Reopening Schedule

Although the PWD has not specified an exact reopening date for the Pragati Maidan tunnel, the department affirms its determination to expedite the restoration process. Public safety and efficient traffic flow remain paramount considerations throughout the reopening efforts.