Ashish Shelar, Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister, instructed various authorities in Maharashtra to collaborate closely for flood preparedness during the monsoon season. He emphasized the need for an integrated emergency response plan to manage crowds at railway stations, evacuate passengers, ease traffic congestion, and provide essentials to stranded commuters. Shelar also stressed the importance of coordination among surveillance systems, public announcements, and emergency control rooms of all concerned agencies.
In addition, Minister Shelar called for structural audits of pedestrian and vehicular bridges, as well as hoardings near railway stations. He urged the preparation of an integrated deployment plan for pumps owned by the Railways and BMC. Officials were tasked with compiling a detailed report on rehabilitating residents in dilapidated buildings and slum structures within railway jurisdiction.
During the meeting, Western Railway reported the construction of 15 micro-tunnels under railway tracks for water drainage, with four completed this year. The number of dewatering pumps has been increased to 126, and significant silt removal has taken place. Central Railway also raised its pump deployment to 220, completed drain cleaning along its network, and installed CCTV cameras and rain gauges.
Railway officials highlighted drainage improvements at Usha Nagar and Brahmanwadi drains to enhance water discharge during heavy rains. The BMC and Fire Brigade officials offered suggestions after presentations by railway authorities. Improved coordination between Railways and BMC was acknowledged by both agencies.
