MahaMetro Targets May Completion for Nag River Widening Project to Prevent Flooding
MahaMetro has set an ambitious deadline to complete the widening of a 450-metre stretch of the Nag River, located near Krazy Castle, by May 31, 2025. The project, which aims to alleviate frequent flooding in downstream areas of Ambazari Lake, has seen substantial progress, with approximately 15% of the work already completed. According to a senior MahaMetro official, while the completion timeline is challenging, the primary goal is to finish the project before the onset of the monsoon season in July. “We have factored in a buffer period to address unforeseen challenges and ensure a thorough assessment of the work once completed,” the official explained. The project is crucial for mitigating the flood risks that have plagued the area in recent years.
The narrow width of the Nag Riverbed has been a significant cause of flooding in the areas downstream of Ambazari Lake. Severe flooding in September 2023 caused significant property damage, highlighting the urgent need for intervention. An irrigation department study revealed a drastic reduction in the river’s carrying capacity. The flow capacity has decreased from 193.3 cumecs at the Ambazari Lake spillway to a mere 86.2 cumecs at 425 metres downstream. The study recommended increasing the river’s width to 18 metres to restore the flow capacity to a safer level. Currently, the riverbed within the Krazy Castle area ranges between 9 to 14 metres in width, far below the recommended capacity. The planned widening project aims to address this issue by increasing the width, which will, in turn, reduce the likelihood of flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
The Nag Riverbed widening project is a significant infrastructure development, with multiple phases of work in progress. The widening will create an uninterrupted pathway for water flow, enhancing the river’s ability to manage heavy rainfall and monsoon runoff. To ensure that the work is completed efficiently, MahaMetro is collaborating with the irrigation department, which is also in the process of floating tenders for the construction of escape gates. These escape gates are critical to managing excess water flow and preventing any structural damage to the nearby Ambazari Dam. However, the tendering process has faced challenges in the past. Previous attempts to invite bids for the gates were unsuccessful due to concerns raised by contractors over the safety of the dam and the nearby Swami Vivekananda statue. To address these concerns, the department revised its plans, opting for radial gates and relocating the installation site to a safer location behind the Gajanan Maharaj temple.
The completion of the Nag River widening project is expected to significantly reduce the risk of flooding in Ambazari Lake’s downstream areas. It will also enhance the river’s overall flow capacity, enabling better management of water during monsoon periods. The widening project is crucial for the city’s infrastructure, not just for flood prevention, but also for ensuring the long-term safety and wellbeing of local communities. Divisional Commissioner Vijayalakshmi Bidari expressed optimism about the timely completion of the project, noting that the necessary approvals are in place, and the final phase of work is progressing well. “We are committed to completing this vital project by May, ensuring that the region is better prepared for the upcoming monsoon season,” she said.
The Nag River widening project forms part of a broader initiative to improve urban infrastructure and mitigate environmental risks in Nagpur. Alongside the riverbed work, the Public Works Department (PWD) has been directed to expedite bridge construction projects in the area to enhance mobility and ensure safer commuting for residents and visitors alike. As the project progresses, the people of Nagpur remain hopeful that these critical measures will not only help to prevent future flooding but also improve the city’s long-term resilience against climate challenges. The efforts being made by MahaMetro and the irrigation department are integral to the ongoing transformation of Nagpur’s infrastructure, aimed at providing a safer and more secure environment for all. With the deadline for the completion of the Nag River widening fast approaching, MahaMetro’s project represents a vital step towards flood prevention in the region. If successful, it will significantly improve the safety and infrastructure of Nagpur, addressing long-standing concerns about flooding while preparing the city for future growth and resilience against environmental challenges.
