Mumbai: As the Southwest monsoon makes an early entrance into Mumbai, bringing much-needed relief from the scorching heat, residents are apprehensive about the city’s readiness to tackle the impending monsoon challenges. With rainfall already hitting several parts of the city, concerns mount over the municipality’s preparedness amidst ongoing construction activities and incomplete infrastructure projects.
According to reports from the Santacruz observatory, Mumbai and its suburbs have witnessed substantial rainfall, with areas like Dahisar and Borivli experiencing the heaviest downpours. While the early onset of monsoon is attributed to favourable weather systems, including a cyclonic circulation over Saurashtra and Kutch, concerns over the city’s infrastructure linger.
Residents express dismay over the perceived lack of coordination between the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the public. Issues such as incomplete nullah cleaning, potholes, and unattended cracks in roads remain unaddressed, raising doubts about the city’s preparedness for the monsoon onslaught. A Borivli resident highlighted the disconnect between citizens and municipal authorities, citing incomplete nullah cleaning and neglected maintenance work. Despite previous interactions with BMC officials during monsoon preparedness meetings, concerns raised by residents seemingly went unheard, reflecting a breakdown in communication channels.
Similarly, a civic activist from King Circle raised alarms over incomplete cleaning of minor nullahs and stormwater drains, warning of potential waterlogging issues. Despite efforts to clean major nullahs, the incomplete state of minor drainage systems poses a significant risk to the city’s drainage infrastructure. As Mumbai braces for the monsoon season, recorded rainfall figures serve as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. With Borivli recording 59 mm of rainfall and other areas experiencing substantial precipitation, the urgency to address infrastructure shortcomings becomes paramount to mitigate potential flood-related risks.
In light of these concerns, residents and activists emphasize the need for swift action from municipal authorities to address infrastructure deficiencies and ensure the city’s resilience against monsoon-induced challenges. As Mumbai navigates through the early stages of the monsoon, effective coordination and proactive measures are essential to safeguard the city’s infrastructure and residents’ well-being.
