BMC Fines Operators Rs 40 Lakh for Pump Station Failures

Mumbai, May 28 (PTI) – The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has levied a fine of Rs 10 lakh on each of the operators of four mini pumping stations. These operators failed to install and manage pumps needed to clear water accumulation at key junctions across Mumbai following heavy rainfall. On Monday, Mumbai experienced significant rainfall, which resulted in waterlogging in multiple low-lying areas, causing a temporary suspension of suburban train services on certain routes. Vehicular movement was disrupted due to flooding in areas such as King's Circle, Mantralaya, Dadar TT East, Parel TT, Kalachowki, Wadala, Hindmata, Kemps Corner, Churchgate, Chinchpokali, and Dadar. According to a release from the BMC issued late on Tuesday, the mini pumping station operators at Hindmata, Gandhi Market, Yellow Gate, and Chunabhatti were each penalized Rs 10 lakh. These locations are known for being prone to waterlogging as they are low-lying areas. As outlined in the tender agreements, the operators were required to have installed and operationalized these pumping stations by May 25 as part of the pre-monsoon preparedness plan for the city. "The operators of these mini pumping stations, tasked with removing water from low-lying areas, failed to establish the system according to contract and did not operate it at full capacity," the release noted. The BMC has established 10 mini pumping stations throughout Mumbai aimed at resolving waterlogging problems, particularly in areas susceptible to flooding, with operational duties outsourced to private companies. Despite this, during what was described as "record rainfall" on May 26, where some areas saw up to 250 mm of rain in just 13 hours, the pumping systems at these sites were ineffective. This inadequacy led to waterlogging and subsequent traffic disruptions. The BMC highlighted that the inability to promptly and adequately drain water impacted vehicular flow in several localities and momentarily disrupted suburban train services near Masjid station. Even though Chunabhatti experienced relatively lesser rainfall, the pumps there were not working at full capacity, warranting inclusion in the sanctions. The BMC emphasized that any oversights or faults in managing monsoon-related issues will not be condoned and will face stringent action.

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