Completed Mitigation Works
The deluge, triggered by around 109mm of rainfall in a few hours, sent a massive volume of water downstream of Ambazari Lake, flooding several parts of west Nagpur. The disaster exposed vulnerabilities in the city’s stormwater network and the carrying capacity of the Nag River.
Concerns Over Stormwater Management Amid Infrastructure Changes
Recent infrastructure changes in areas like Shankar Nagar, Yeshwant Nagar, and Ambazari Layout have raised concerns about stormwater management during heavy rainfall. Many homes in these localities are now situated below the newly elevated road levels, prompting questions about where stormwater will be directed.
Local resident Deshpande highlighted the potential issues, particularly near the Ambazari overflow point and the Nag River. She expressed concern about the cumulative effects of raising road levels, stating, “When roads are raised year after year, houses naturally go below the road level. Where is the water going to go?”
A study by the Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS) identified limited water flow under a low-lying bridge on the Nag River as a significant factor contributing to flooding during the 2023 events. In response, the old bridge was demolished, and a new structure designed to improve water passage has been constructed.