Pune: Rockfall Barrier Averts Disaster As Landslide Strikes Karjat-Lonavala Railway Section
Pune/Mumbai, 2nd July 2023: A landslide was successfully averted on Friday (30th June) in the Karjat-Lonavala section of the Central Railway, thanks to the rockfall barrier wall in place between Monkey Hill and Thakurwadi stations.
Central Railway had undertaken extensive pre-monsoon preparations in the Ghat section, ensuring the safety of railway traffic during the rainy season. Despite heavy rainfall of 185 mm on 30th June 2023 in the Karjat-Lonavala Ghat section, the rockfall barrier wall, constructed at a height of 60 meters, effectively trapped 2.5 meters of boulders resulting from the landslide.
The rockfall barriers played a crucial role in preventing these rocks from falling onto the railroad tracks. Approximately 50 laborers work to clear the debris and soil trapped in the barrier.
According to officials, the installation of rockfall barriers and wall fences, spanning about 300 meters in length, at various identified locations in Karjat and Kasara Ghats has proven instrumental in safeguarding the tracks and trains from potential damage. Additionally, a net measuring approximately 550 square meters has been installed at sensitive areas, further enhancing safety measures. Also, Central Railway has stabilized approximately 160 meters of hill cutting bank at vulnerable locations.
