Flooded Promises: Rain Halts Mangaluru Underpass Work, Sparks Public Outcry

Heavy rains have brought ongoing construction of twin railway underbridges (RUB) at Mahakalipadpu in Mangaluru to a halt, as the site was submerged, causing further delays. Originally slated for completion by the end of the month after multiple postponed deadlines, the project has now been interrupted once again.

The underpasses, being built over two railway tracks, were flooded after persistent showers. Although authorities acted promptly to remove the stagnant water, damage had already been done. A retaining wall of a nearby residence on the approach road to the RUB collapsed due to the downpour, raising serious safety concerns.

Local residents from Jeppu, Mahakalipadpu, and Shettybettu voiced frustration, holding Southern Railway and Mangaluru Smart City Limited (MSCL) accountable. According to resident Girish Kotekar, even minimal rain leads to water stagnation due to inadequate drainage planning and incomplete pits left open near homes. He warned that continued rainfall could jeopardize the structural safety of nearby houses, which are already showing cracks in walls and weak foundations.

The unscientific construction approach and slow progress of work have angered citizens. Falling compound walls and water seeping into foundations have only worsened matters.

In Jappinamogaru, MLC Ivan D’Souza inspected damage caused by poor drainage work by Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC). A grocery shop run by Prashant D’Souza suffered losses of nearly ₹3 lakh when its wall and door collapsed after rainwater overflowed due to MCC’s negligence. The MLC demanded accountability and immediate corrective measures.

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