The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a cautionary advisory urging citizens to avoid Mumbai’s beaches over the next four days as the Arabian Sea is projected to experience unusually high tides from December 4 to 7. The civic body’s disaster management cell highlighted that the tidal levels will remain above four metres, with a potential peak exceeding five metres on December 6.
According to officials, the anticipated high tides pose both a direct threat to public safety and potential disruptions to beachside activities, especially during weekends when footfall typically increases. “We are asking residents and visitors to refrain from venturing near the seashore during this period,” said an official from the BMC’s disaster cell. “Even short stays near the water can be risky under these elevated tide conditions.” The BMC operates 12 public beaches across the island city and suburbs, spanning a 145-kilometre coastline. Typically, these areas witness significant gatherings, particularly during festive periods or long weekends. The advisory comes at a time when Mumbai is preparing for Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s death anniversary on December 6, which draws large crowds at Chaitya Bhoomi. Authorities have stressed the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to prevent accidents and potential casualties.
Industry experts note that rising sea levels and unusually high tides are becoming more frequent due to a combination of seasonal lunar cycles and long-term climate impacts. “Mumbai’s coastal resilience is constantly tested during these tidal events,” said a senior urban planner. “Proactive advisories, along with strengthened beach monitoring, are crucial to preventing avoidable emergencies.” In preparation, the BMC has deployed additional lifeguards along the coastline, stationing one lifeguard every 100 metres and reinforcing patrols across the most frequented beaches. Safety measures include warning signages, barricades near vulnerable spots, and constant monitoring by emergency response teams. Officials emphasised that compliance with these advisories not only ensures personal safety but also helps the city manage emergency services efficiently.
The civic body’s communication underscores a broader focus on sustainable urban management and citizen safety. By anticipating high-risk natural events and issuing timely advisories, Mumbai aims to reduce preventable incidents while maintaining orderly public access to its coastal resources. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary trips to the shoreline, and follow updates from official channels until tide levels stabilise after December 7.
BMC Warns Citizens To Avoid Beaches During Four Days High Tide
