In preparation for the upcoming monsoon, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has planned to install 547 dewatering pumps across the city at an estimated cost of Rs 144 crore. This marks an increase from last year, when 510 pumps were deployed, reflecting rising demand from various wards.
According to an official from the stormwater drains department, “The increase in the number of dewatering pumps to be used this year is due to a higher demand from the wards.”
Out of the total pumps, 146 will be installed in the island city, covering areas from Colaba to Mahim and Matunga. The eastern suburbs, stretching from Sion to Mulund, will receive 178 pumps, while the western suburbs—from Bandra to Dahisar—will be allocated the highest number at 223.
Special attention is being given to chronic waterlogging spots. Hindmata Junction in Dadar, a low-lying area known for severe flooding, will be equipped with 14 pumps. The location had earlier witnessed water levels exceeding two feet for up to eight hours during heavy rains. However, the construction of an underground water holding tank in 2020–21 has already helped reduce water stagnation time significantly.
At Gandhi Market, five pumps will be placed within the market and another five in the surrounding areas. The Andheri subway, another persistent flooding hotspot, will have three pumps deployed. However, officials noted that limited sump pit availability restricts the installation of additional pumps at this location. Currently, one pump is stationed within the subway, while two are positioned nearby.
The stormwater drains department oversees waterlogged zones based on requests from ward offices. Control rooms at the ward level monitor the situation, while contractors handle the operation of the pumps.
Dewatering pumps play a critical role in flood management by quickly draining accumulated rainwater into nearby drainage systems during heavy rainfall. Their deployment helps reduce the duration and severity of waterlogging, improving overall monsoon preparedness across Mumbai.
Source: Mid-day
