Mumbai: In preparation for the upcoming monsoon, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated a rigorous 50-day desilting operation across Mumbai, with a firm deadline of May 31, 2025. Civic Chief and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani has instructed officials to implement a detailed, drain-specific plan, targeting major stormwater drains and the Mithi River across the city and suburbs.
During a crucial meeting held on April 11, Gagrani emphasized the need for proactive ground-level monitoring by engineers. He urged them to inspect ongoing desilting work daily and maintain close coordination with Deputy and Assistant Commissioners in their respective areas.
“It is essential that every officer is well-informed about the ongoing work in their jurisdiction. Plan for the upcoming challenges and ensure that the work is completed efficiently and on time,” Gagrani said.
The meeting saw the presence of senior officials including Additional Commissioner (Projects) Abhijit Bangar, Deputy Commissioner (Infrastructure) Shashank Bhore, and other key personnel. The discussions focused on ensuring the quality and transparency of desilting efforts ahead of the monsoon.
Gagrani instructed that waterlogging-prone areas be closely monitored, with a 100-meter radius around each location being thoroughly cleaned. Mobile pumps must be kept on standby, and designated staff should be assigned to ensure that the pumps remain operational during heavy rains. He also warned that contractors providing faulty pumps will face strict consequences.
The Commissioner further directed that drains heavily clogged with floating solid waste be cleaned multiple times after May 15. He also advised officials to monitor waste accumulation in drains and take preventive measures accordingly.
“Use the time wisely—complete smaller tasks quickly so we can focus on the bigger ones. Our goal is to ensure no lives are lost due to flooding this monsoon,” Gagrani stressed.
Officials were also reminded to stay in constant contact with other civic and state authorities, ensuring prompt action in case of waterlogging. All officers must be present at their posts during forecasts of heavy rainfall to ensure swift responses.
With these proactive measures, BMC aims to reduce the impact of the monsoon and ensure the city’s smooth functioning throughout the season.
