Railway Administration Clears Illegal Encroachments in Tikiapara to Prevent Waterlogging

Howrah, West Bengal : In a major operation to ease rail traffic and tackle waterlogging issues during the monsoon, the Railway administration took strict action in the Tikiapara area of Howrah. The Railway Administration arrived by bulldozers, with a large police force, and central paramilitary personnel, cleared illegal settlements along the Tikiapara bypass that had long disrupted drainage systems.

More than 100 families had been living in unauthorized shanties and concrete structures beside the South Eastern Railway tracks for several years. These encroachments blocked large drains running alongside the Railway, causing the tracks to flood during heavy rains. The waterlogging not only slowed down train movement but also affected signaling systems, resulting in inconvenience for thousands of passengers.

The surprise demolition operation led to strong protests from local residents as their homes were razed. However, security forces acted quickly to control the situation. Following the clearance, the Railway administration has begun cleaning the drains on a fast-track basis to ensure smooth Rail operations ahead of the monsoon season.

Affected families have been relocated safely away from the railway tracks. The situation is under control and efforts are ongoing to prevent future disruption caused by flooding at this critical Railway section.

Key Points:

• Illegal settlements along Tikiapara bypass demolished to clear railway drainage.
• Over 100 families had been living in unauthorized shanties close to the tracks.
• Blocked drains caused railway tracks to flood during heavy rains, disrupting train services.
• Strong police and paramilitary presence accompanied the demolition operation.
• Initial protests by local residents were quickly controlled by security forces.
• Affected families have been relocated to safer areas.
• Drain cleaning work has started to prevent future waterlogging during monsoon.
• Railway administration aims to ensure smooth and safe train operations for passengers.