Mumbai: Cuffe Parade residents have blamed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) inaction, resulting in waterlogged streets after heavy rainfall on Monday morning. The residents have alleged that the flood-like situation is a direct consequence of the failure to address the longstanding issue of clogged stormwater drains and gutters.
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region was lashed with rains and thunderstorms since Sunday night, which continued on Monday morning. While areas like Colaba recorded 83 mm of rainfall from 9 am to 10 am, CSMT recorded 80 mm, and Malabar Hill recorded 63 mm of rainfall, Nariman Point recorded the highest rainfall with 104mm in an hour. This left the streets of nearby Cuffe Parade flooded with water.
The residents of Cuffe Parade alleged that BMC chose to turn a blind eye to the clogged drains even after repeated cleaning requests from the residents, which led to this situation in one of the most upscale localities of Mumbai. Members of the Cuffe Parade Residents’ Association (CPRA) claimed that they have written to BMC officials repeatedly and attended meetings over the last two months, but their efforts have been met with empty promises. They alleged that the stormwater drains are blocked due to rampant encroachment and are not able to prevent flooding.
Demand Made By The Residents
The residents demanded immediate attention from the BMC to clear the encroachments and clean the stormwater drains to prevent such incidents in the future. “This raises serious concerns about the BMC's ability to handle the impending monsoon season, expected to bring more regular and heavy rainfall. It's frustrating to see that despite our best efforts, nothing seems to be done. Are we, as citizens, expected to keep running around trying to get them to do their job? When will the BMC be held accountable for their inaction?" said a resident who did not wish to be named.
Dr Laura Dsouza's Statement
Dr Laura Dsouza, a medical doctor and the president of CPRA, said, "It's baffling that the BMC can't seem to grasp the severity of the situation. Flooding isn't just an inconvenience, it's a public health crisis waiting to happen. Waterlogged areas become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, leading to outbreaks of life-threatening diseases. Not to mention the risk of leptospirosis and other illnesses. Why can't they prioritize cleaning the gutters and stormwater drains? It's not rocket science, it's basic civic maintenance. We just want our city to be safe and healthy for its residents."
