June 10, 2025: Following severe public criticism over its inadequate flood response during the heavy downpour on May 26, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has stepped up its monsoon preparedness by increasing the number of dewatering pumps from 414 to 514.
The civic body has also hired ten vehicle-mounted mobile dewatering units to address flooding in areas where existing infrastructure failed. Each vehicle is equipped with two high-capacity pumps, capable of displacing 250 cubic metres of water per hour.
Last year, the BMC had deployed 482 pumps across low-lying areas. However, the number was reduced this year, citing upgrades to the city’s stormwater drainage network. But the early onset of the monsoon caught officials off guard, exposing major shortcomings in flood management. A total of 80 new waterlogged spots were identified during the May 26 rainfall event.
In response, several municipal wards submitted urgent requests for additional pumps. Mounting pressure from political parties and civic activists eventually compelled the administration to bolster its drainage infrastructure.
“Climate change has significantly altered rainfall patterns, with parts of Mumbai receiving 250–300 mm of rain in short spells,” a senior civic official said. “This May’s record-breaking rainfall led to an unusually early start to the monsoon. Given the city’s complex topography, we have increased the number of pumps to enable quicker drainage and minimise disruption.”
To ensure greater operational flexibility, the Stormwater Drainage Department has secured the mobile pump units on a rental basis for 2025 to 2028. One unit will be stationed in each of the seven administrative zones, while the remaining three will be based at the offices of Deputy Chief Engineers (Operations & Maintenance).
Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects), Abhijit Bangar, emphasised the need for rapid response. “Teams will operate these units in three shifts to ensure round-the-clock readiness,” he said.
Source: The Free Press Journal
