09 June,2026 08:02 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
MMRDA has directed officials to strengthen preparedness across stations, depots and viaducts. Pic/MMRDA
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has activated a comprehensive monsoon preparedness plan across Metro Lines 2A, 2B, 7 and 9 to ensure safe and uninterrupted services during the rainy season.
The technology-driven strategy combines artificial intelligence, enhanced surveillance, flood mitigation measures and emergency response systems to strengthen passenger safety and operational reliability across the network, officials said.
This year's monsoon preparations carry added importance as Metro Lines 2B and 9 will experience their first operational monsoon season.
MMRDA has directed officials to strengthen preparedness across stations, depots, viaducts and metro infrastructure to minimise disruptions during heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions.
As part of the monsoon action plan, 64 CCTV cameras have been installed at each of the 39 operational metro stations, creating a surveillance network of 2,496 cameras.
The cameras will provide round-the-clock monitoring of platforms, concourses, station premises and other critical operational areas.
To tackle waterlogging risks, MMRDA has deployed 30 emergency pumps at vulnerable locations across the metro network.
Stormwater drainage systems at stations, depots and viaducts have been cleaned to ensure smooth rainwater flow. Viaduct cleaning has also been completed to prevent water accumulation during heavy showers.
The authority has additionally carried out preventive maintenance of 1,070 insulators and strengthened flood protection measures at traction substations.
Wind velocity monitoring devices have been installed at 14 key metro stations to provide real-time weather information.
These stations include Dahisar East, Dahanukarwadi, Valnai, Goregaon West, Andheri West, Rashtriya Udyan, Poisar, Aarey, Jogeshwari East, Gundavali, Mankhurd, Shivaji Chowk, Dahisar and Kashigaon.
Station inspections have also been conducted to identify roof leakages, drainage issues and other monsoon-related risks.
MMRDA has positioned five standby Mumbai Metro trains to handle unforeseen disruptions during the monsoon.
Three backup trains have been stationed on operational corridors, while two additional trains remain on standby at depots. Backup power systems have also been kept ready to minimise service interruptions.
A dedicated Disaster Control Room has been operational since May 25 and will remain active until October 15, 2026.
The control room will function as the central hub for emergency coordination and communication with civic authorities, police and state government agencies. During orange and red weather alerts, specialised teams will remain on duty around the clock.
Dedicated metro coaches have also been earmarked to assist the Mumbai civic body's disaster management teams during emergencies.
One of the key highlights of the preparedness plan is the deployment of an AI-enabled Automated Pantograph Condition Monitoring System on Metro Lines 2A and 7.
The system uses high-speed cameras and artificial intelligence to inspect train pantographs in real time, enabling early fault detection and predictive maintenance.
According to MMRDA, inspection time has been reduced from approximately 30 minutes to just a few seconds per train.
AI-powered video analytics have also been deployed across stations and depots.
These systems can detect:
- Wrong-direction passenger movement
- Yellow line violations before train arrival
- Unattended baggage
- Unauthorised access to emergency equipment
- Tampering with critical metro infrastructure
- Suspicious activity in restricted areas
- Passenger Communication Strengthened
Under the updated monsoon Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), passengers will receive weather-related advisories and operational updates through digital display boards, station announcements and mobile applications.
Potential hazards such as loose safety nets, banners and wind-sensitive materials have been identified and secured. Tree branches affecting metro operations have also been trimmed.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said resilient public transport is essential for Mumbai and the wider metropolitan region, particularly during the monsoon season.
Deputy Chief Minister and MMRDA Chairman Eknath Shinde said the combination of surveillance systems, emergency preparedness and AI-based monitoring would help ensure safe and reliable metro services during heavy rainfall.
MMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Sanjay Mukherjee stated that the authority's monsoon strategy is focused on passenger safety, operational continuity and rapid response, with special attention being given to Metro Lines 2B and 9 as they enter their first monsoon season.
