Mumbai Advances Flood Protection with New Drainage Plan

Mumbai, Jun 26 (PTI): Mumbai is set to receive a new drainage master plan designed to manage rainfalls exceeding 100 millimeters per hour. Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar announced the initiative on Thursday, highlighting a significant upgrade from the current system that handles only up to 55 mm per hour.

Following a meeting on flood situations and drainage measures, Shelar announced the construction of four new pumping stations in the city. These developments are crucial in light of increasing rain intensity and past incidents like the July 26, 2005, deluge when nearly 1,000 mm of rain fell in just 16 hours.

Currently, Mumbai receives heavy rainfall, often more than 100 mm in an hour, for 16 to 20 days annually. As such rain frequently coincides with high tides, the city has encountered severe flooding. Following the Chitale Committee's recommendations post-2005, the city's stormwater drainage capacity was enhanced to 55 mm/hour; however, further upgrades are now essential.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) plans to construct four new pumping stations across Mumbai. Two small stations will be added in Maharashtra Nagar and Dharavi T-Junction, while two larger stations are planned for Mogra and Mahul. These developments aim to improve drainage in flood-prone areas such as Kurla and Andheri.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), recognizing the recurrent flood issues, has allocated Rs 500 crore in the first phase for immediate flood-mitigation measures. The NDMA has also instructed BMC to develop a real-time action plan, currently under IIT expert review. The preliminary project estimate is about Rs 5,000 crore, with substantial funding expected from NDMA.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had previously explored Japanese drainage technologies during his Japan visit. This international innovation is now being integrated into Mumbai's new master plan. Officials are tasked with coordinating this plan with the Railways, Metro Rail, and MMRDA, and a comprehensive plan is set to be finalized within a month.

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