22 April,2026 08:04 PM IST | Mumbai | Abhitash Singh
Pic/Special Arrangement
The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) Commissioner, Dr. Kailas Shinde, on Tuesday directed all civic departments and allied agencies to complete ongoing pre-monsoon works by May 15 and ensure seamless coordination to avoid inconvenience to citizens during the rainy season.
Chairing a high-level review meeting of the City Disaster Management Committee at the NMMC headquarters, Shinde emphasised that preparedness must be time-bound and that execution on the ground should be closely monitored. Additional Commissioner Sunil Pawar, City Engineer Shirish Aradwad, Deputy Commissioner (Disaster Management) Lalita Babar, along with officials from CIDCO, MIDC, MMRDA, PWD, police, transport authorities, and utility agencies, were present.
The commissioner directed officials to expedite the desilting of nullahs and major drains and ensure that the silt removed is promptly lifted after drying. "Leaving debris along drains can worsen flooding risks," he noted, calling for strict compliance.
Taking serious note of recent slab collapse incidents in Koparkhairane last month and Nerul earlier this week, Shinde ordered immediate structural audits of all buildings. Assistant commissioners have been asked to ensure the evacuation of residents from âC-1' category dilapidated structures on priority.
With multiple infrastructure works underway, especially in MIDC areas, the civic body has been asked to prioritise pothole repairs, zebra crossings, and road signage. Authorities were also told to jointly inspect landslide-prone areas and relocate residents from vulnerable spots if needed. Illegal settlements obstructing natural water channels must be removed urgently.
The commissioner made it clear that no new road excavation permissions should be granted unless absolutely necessary. All ongoing digging works must be completed and roads restored before May 15.
Officials were instructed to carry out systematic trimming of dangerous tree branches and remove dead trees. All agencies, including CIDCO and the Railways, have been asked to conduct structural audits of hoardings and remove illegal ones.
Power utilities were directed to repair damaged substations, exposed cables, and faulty distribution boxes immediately, and to push for underground cabling.
Shinde directed the deployment of adequate pumping machines and manpower at flood-prone locations, especially during high tides and heavy rainfall. Fire stations will be equipped with mobile dewatering units for quick response.
Special attention has been given to the APMC market, a chronic waterlogging zone. Joint inspections will be conducted this week to identify solutions. Railway authorities and CIDCO have been told to coordinate on drain cleaning near tracks.
The health department has been asked to prepare for vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue, ensure sufficient stock of medicines, and monitor water quality. Departments have also been directed to finalise temporary shelters and submit updated emergency contact details within a week.
"Disasters don't come with warnings, but preparedness can minimise impact," Shinde said, urging all agencies to remain alert and work in coordination to ensure a hassle-free monsoon for citizens.
