Mangaluru: Mahakalipadau railway crossing permanently closed; residents fear monsoon flooding at new underpass

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Feb 21, 2026: The Railway Department has permanently closed the Mahakalipadau railway crossing following the opening of the new railway underpass for vehicular traffic. Ignoring requests from local residents not to shut down the crossing, the department not only closed the gate but also constructed a concrete barricade about four to five feet high on both sides of the railway track.

Locals have expressed concern that water may accumulate in the newly built underpass, making it difficult for vehicles to pass during the monsoon. Even at present, water has been seen collecting near the underpass, raising fears that it could be completely submerged during heavy rains.

In this regard, residents had appealed to the Railway Department and the local Member of Parliament to keep the railway crossing operational at least until the next monsoon season. They had suggested locking the existing gate temporarily and reviewing the situation after the monsoon before taking a final decision. However, the department did not respond to their request and has now constructed a permanent barricade.

Earlier, due to severe water accumulation, the construction of the Mahakalipadau underpass could not be completed as planned. During the previous monsoon, heavy seepage led to significant waterlogging. A nearby lake also contributes to the problem, as excess water flows towards the underpass. Since there is no proper drainage system to ensure smooth outflow of the collected water, it tends to stagnate at the site.

Although the underpass work has now been completed and vehicular movement has begun, residents remain anxious about how the situation will unfold during the upcoming monsoon season.