Mumbai: As monsoon hit, rescue teams to survey vulnerable spots in city

Agreeing that a quick response from the rescue team can save many lives during untoward episodes related to heavy rainfall, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Army and Fire brigade, along with BMC civic wards, will visit the most vulnerable spots in the city.

Mumbai Fire Brigade department has completed the recce of 20 landslide-prone areas in Kurla, Ghatkopar and Vikhroli, besides dilapidated buildings, while the BMC will start its survey next week.

The civic body last month trained people living in landslide-prone areas such as Ghatkopar, Chembur, Kurla, and Jogeshwari in rescue operations.

The BMC, along with other agencies, surveys the vulnerable spots every monsoon. Accordingly, 72 landslide-prone areas, 386 chronic flooding spots and 337 dilapidated buildings have been identified by the civic body.

Some of these are located in densely populated areas with narrow lanes that pose a major challenge for rescuers. Heavy rainfall further makes rescue operations difficult and increases the possibility of casualties.

The recce of vulnerable spots will be conducted along with people familiar with the area so that rescue teams can access the spot easily in case of any incident. The team will also rationalise evacuation strategies and the requirement of equipment and manpower.

Moreover, "locals will be made aware that they will receive messages from the authorities about either leaving the area in dire situations or taking precautions," civic officials said.

“In any mishap, quick response helps minimise casualties. The recce will help us identify the most vulnerable areas and strategies needed to tackle untoward incidents,” said Mahesh Narvekar, director of the BMC’s Disaster Management Cell.