Navi Mumbai: Navi Mumbai Municipal Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde has directed that all ongoing civic works—including roads, footpaths, drainage lines, and sewage systems—must be completed by May 15 to ensure a smooth monsoon season. He emphasized the need for coordination between various agencies to avoid disruptions during heavy rains.
The directives were issued during a monsoon preparedness meeting of the City Disaster Management Committee, chaired by Dr. Shinde. Officials from NMMC, CIDCO, MIDC, MMRDA, police departments, health officials, and representatives from other civic bodies and utility services were present.
Dr. Shinde instructed authorities to fast-track the cleaning of nullahs and major drains, and to remove silt from their banks within 48 hours of drying. He also called for structural audits of hoardings, especially after last year’s fatal hoarding collapse in Ghatkopar, and demanded the removal of unauthorized ones.
Special attention was drawn to landslide-prone zones in Digha and slums located in natural drainage paths. He directed officials to assess these areas and relocate residents if needed.
The commissioner emphasized that no new road digging should be permitted unless essential, and existing works must be completed and restored by the deadline. Hazardous trees and overhanging branches should be pruned, and emergency shelters should be identified in all wards, equipped with food and basic supplies.
Instructions were also given for cleaning railway station toilets, monitoring dangerous buildings, dust control at construction sites, and ensuring mosquito-breeding prevention. Agencies were advised to keep pumping machines ready in flood-prone areas and ensure round-the-clock readiness of control rooms during the monsoon.
Health officials were directed to stock up on medicines, monitor water quality, and take steps to prevent the outbreak of diseases like malaria and dengue. Schools and transport services were also advised to stay alert and prepared.
Dr. Shinde made it clear that he will personally inspect the progress of pre-monsoon works, reiterating that all directives must be taken seriously and completed on time.
