Thousands face water crisis in Kolkata after massive pipeline leak

Thousands of residents living across several neighbourhoods in Kolkata have been left without access to clean water following a severe infrastructure failure near the Tala bridge. A massive 72-inch water supply pipeline suffered a significant rupture, leading to the discharge of millions of gallons of water and triggering major disruptions in local train networks.

According to the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, the incident occurred on the morning of Monday, November 9, 2026. The damaged pipeline, which ran beneath a railway track, caused extensive waterlogging on the tracks. This led to serious disruptions in train services, including the regulation of Circular Railway passenger services across Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. The Sealdah Division of railways closely monitored the situation while technical teams worked continuously to restore normal operations.

Neighbourhoods affected by the water supply disruption include Central Avenue, Rajabazar, College Street, Bidhan Sarani, Park Circus, AJC Bose Road, and parts of Ballygunge. Municipal officials stated that more than five million gallons of water gushed out due to the damage. While repair work has begun, authorities have warned that restoring the entire system could take between two to three days.

A major pipeline leak in Kolkata left thousands without water and disrupted local train services.

To mitigate passenger hardship, particularly for travellers heading to destinations for Chhath Puja from Kolkata Station, railway authorities distributed food packets, drinking water, and other refreshments. Eastern Railway General Manager Gitika Pandey held discussions at senior levels with the Government of West Bengal, leading to the formation of a dedicated team. Additionally, the Sealdah Division developed an additional drainage system and made alternative arrangements to prevent future waterlogging on railway tracks.

Why it matters

The infrastructure failure highlights the vulnerability of urban water supply systems and rail networks during major structural damages. The disruption directly affects thousands of residents relying on the Tala reservoir and booster pumping stations, while also impacting daily commuters and festive travellers who faced delays and transport adjustments across the city.