Mumbai Rains: 'Formulate Robust Monsoon Contingency Plan For Crowded Metro Stations,' Says Suburban Guardian Minister Shelar

Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar on Monday held a meeting with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA)responsible for Mumbai Metro and  stressed for the need of a robust contingency plan in case of emergencies or disruptions in metro services, particularly at high-footfall stations like Andheri and Ghatkopar. The plan must include coordination with the BMC and BEST to facilitate smooth passenger evacuation and provide immediate alternative transport options.

Wherein Shelar also directed that they must not only maintain seamless coordination among themselves but also ensure constant communication and coordination with the competent authorities.

A comprehensive presentation was made during the meeting outlining the monsoon preparedness measures completed so far. Both MMRDA and Maha Metro have established dedicated emergency control rooms, with teams deployed round-the-clock to respond to any crisis. A pothole-filling system has been put in place for each project site, while 114 kilometres of road barricades have been cleared to ease traffic flow. Additionally, 19 ambulances have been strategically deployed and pumps installed at 107 key locations across the city.

Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar directed officials to conduct thorough safety audits of ongoing metro construction sites and to ensure uninterrupted Wi-Fi connectivity in underground metro stations.

Shelar also chaired a dedicated review session with officials from the State Health Department, BMC and the Directorate of Medical Education. The meeting focused on the current COVID-19 situation in Mumbai, including case trends and healthcare system readiness.

While new cases are being reported, there is no cause for alarm. However, high-risk individuals, particularly those with diabetes, hypertension or serious underlying health conditions, are advised to wear masks and consider getting re-vaccinated as a precautionary measure.