From dewatering pumps working round-the-clock to costly new projects at chronic flood spots, the DCM insisted that the administration has both the intent and the resources to weather Mumbai’s storm
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde
As relentless rains left Mumbai battling flooded streets and stranded commuters, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde assured that the city’s civic body has been ordered to go all out in its monsoon response. Shinde told mid-day that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been asked to keep “all hands on deck and all feet on the ground” to safeguard lives, curb waterlogging, and fast-track long-term infrastructure upgrades. From dewatering pumps working round-the-clock to costly new projects at chronic flood spots, the DCM insisted that the administration has both the intent and the resources to weather Mumbai’s storm.
What are the specific directives given to the BMC on Monday and Tuesday, in light of the red alert issued by IMD?
The BMC has been directed to have all hands on deck and all feet on the ground, so to speak. The primary goal is to ensure that no harm comes to human life. The BMC has also been instructed to ease the experience for Mumbaikars who are forced to venture out during the rains, with proactive measures. This includes actively working to curb waterlogging and responding immediately with adequate administrative measures to ensure that there are no problems on the ground.
I took a briefing from Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani and was updated that all dewatering pumps are functioning as required in Mumbai to address waterlogging as quickly as possible.
I was also informed about a chief engineer at the BMC who has been on the field working long hours despite severe health issues. I was told he has only one kidney and is awaiting a transplant. This goes to show that everyone in the administration has prioritised the safety of Mumbaikars and is committed to ensuring a smoother experience.
After the learnings from the rainfall intensity last weekend and the subsequent strain on infrastructure, what long-term measures has the BMC been directed to take?
The city’s population growth, along with the unpredictability of rainfall and the extreme weather events reported in Mumbai, shows that we need to take a holistic look at our existing infrastructure and upgrade it where necessary. The BMC has been directed to carry out intensive studies to ensure we are up to date with the city’s requirements and can meet present-day demands. This may mean augmenting drain capacity, focusing on individual waterlogging spots to examine why flooding occurs, and ensuring that effective measures are put in place to tackle such problems.
Why is waterlogging still being reported at chronic spots despite BMC’s infrastructure upgrades?
There is no doubt that work has been carried out, but we are also dealing with dynamic situations. On the other hand, some projects were stalled for various reasons — such as decisions taken by the previous government. Since we came to power, these projects are back on track.
The works planned to upgrade infrastructure in Mumbai, such as measures at the low-lying Hindmata area and at Andheri Subway, are cost-intensive. With other big-ticket infra projects also demanding funds, does the BMC have the resources to support these new projects?
There is no reason to worry about a lack of financial resources for key projects that enhance safety for Mumbaikars. The BMC has the required funds. There is a deep commitment to ensuring that there will be no dearth of money for projects that benefit Mumbaikars.
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