The Tragad underpass on SP Ring Road has been reopened to traffic following an intensive de-watering effort that lasted three days. The underpass, which was closed on Tuesday due to severe rainfall, resumed its normal operations on Friday evening.
The Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) undertook a significant maintenance operation to address the issue of rainwater accumulation. To expedite the clearance process, AUDA deployed 11 de-watering pumps continuously. This effort included six pumps from their own inventory, supplemented by four Varun pumps provided by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and one from the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation’s fire brigade.
An official from AUDA explained, “The heavy downpours on Monday and Tuesday led to substantial water accumulation in the underpass, necessitating its closure. We have been actively employing multiple de-watering pumps since Tuesday night to address the situation.” By Friday evening, the water level in the underpass had been reduced to approximately one metre. AUDA officials had anticipated that the area would be fully drained by 9pm, with traffic expected to resume shortly after 10pm.
This reopening marks a significant relief for commuters and reflects the swift response by AUDA and municipal agencies to restore normalcy following the disruption. The extensive use of de-watering pumps highlights the commitment of local authorities to maintaining infrastructure functionality during adverse weather conditions. The incident underscores the challenges faced by urban infrastructure in managing severe weather events and the importance of prompt, effective response strategies. As Ahmedabad continues to experience variable weather patterns, the efficient management of such situations will be crucial in minimising disruptions and ensuring smooth transportation flows.
