The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has directed its engineering and civic departments to undertake extensive maintenance and safety measures across the city following heavy rainfall between July 1 and July 8. The civic body has prioritised road repairs, drainage improvements and infrastructure inspections to minimise disruptions and enhance public safety during the ongoing monsoon.
During a special review meeting held recently, Municipal Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde instructed officials to immediately repair potholes, inspect all manholes and strengthen preventive measures across Navi Mumbai. The meeting was attended by City Engineer Shirish Ardawad along with executive engineers from the civil engineering, water supply, sewerage, electrical, mechanical and environment departments.
To improve the durability of city roads, the Commissioner advised greater use of asphalt and concrete surfaces instead of paver blocks while carrying out repair works. Officials were also directed to identify locations that frequently experience waterlogging, investigate the causes and implement permanent corrective measures.
The engineering department has been asked to inspect roadside drainage systems where drain openings are positioned above road level and modify them to improve stormwater flow. Additional dewatering pumps will also be deployed in low-lying areas, along with suitable drainage arrangements to prevent flooding during periods of intense rainfall.
Following recent accidents involving uncovered manholes in neighbouring cities, Dr Shinde ordered a comprehensive inspection of every manhole across Navi Mumbai to ensure all are securely covered. He also instructed officials to examine the feasibility of installing protective wire mesh beneath manhole covers as an additional safety measure.
The civic body has further launched a citywide cleanliness drive to remove silt, sand and debris deposited on major roads after heavy rainfall. Construction debris blocking roadside drains will also be cleared to improve water discharge.
Addressing electrical safety, the Commissioner directed the civic administration to coordinate with the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) to relocate power lines passing through drainage channels wherever required.
Departments have also been instructed to promptly address water supply complaints, monitor water quality and ensure sewage treatment plants function efficiently during the monsoon. In addition, NMMC will promote the Centre’s ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign by encouraging housing societies to install rooftop rainwater harvesting systems.
Residents have been advised to prevent water stagnation within residential premises, observe weekly dry days to curb mosquito breeding and regularly clean water storage tanks to reduce the risk of monsoon-related diseases.
Source: Prop News Time
