Kolkata’s Tala pipe burst spills 5 million gallons, leaves thousands dry

Thousands of residents in Kolkata’s Tala neighbourhood have been without water for three days after a 72‑inch supply pipe burst on Monday, November 9, 2026, spilling more than 5 million gallons, The Hindu reported.

What triggered the water crisis in Kolkata?

The leak occurred when the 72‑inch pipeline under the Tala bridge was damaged on the morning of November 9, causing over 5 million gallons of water to gush out, according to the Kolkata Municipal Corporation.

Which areas lost water and how are train services affected?

Water supply to Central Avenue, Rajabazar, College Street, Bidhan Sarani, Park Circus, AJC Bose Road and parts of Ballygunge was halted, and the line running beneath the railway track led to water‑logging that disrupted Sealdah‑division train services, The Hindu noted.

What actions are being taken to restore water and rail operations?

KMC has begun repairs, estimating two to three days to fully restore the system, while the Tala reservoir, capable of holding up to 44 million gallons, will feed five booster stations. DRM Rajeev Saxena said all Mail/Express and suburban trains will resume normal routes from the following day, and the railway has added drainage to prevent future water‑logging. Eastern Railway’s General Manager Gitika Pandey convened a high‑level team with the West Bengal government and arranged food, water and refreshments for passengers, especially those traveling for Chhath Puja, as circular railway services remained regulated through Monday to Wednesday.