The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has issued strict directions to contractors and project agencies working on metro, subway and major infrastructure projects across Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) to comply with monsoon safety regulations or face stringent action.
With several large-scale projects currently under construction, including metro corridors, tunnels and road infrastructure, authorities said precautionary measures are essential to prevent waterlogging, traffic congestion and accidents during the monsoon season.
MMRDA officials stated that roads have been dug up and partially closed at multiple locations because of ongoing infrastructure works, increasing the risk of civic disruptions during heavy rainfall. To address this, the authority has introduced a comprehensive monsoon safety framework applicable across all project sites.
The authority is presently executing work on seven metro lines along with major infrastructure projects such as the Orange Gate to Marine Drive Tunnel and the Thane-Borivali Tunnel. Contractors have been instructed to complete all critical pre-monsoon work before the onset of heavy rains.
Under the new safety regulations, contractors, consultants and implementing agencies have been directed to maintain high-capacity dewatering pumps, pothole-repair vehicles, emergency lighting systems, road safety infrastructure and drainage-cleaning equipment at project sites.
MMRDA has also ordered agencies to immediately remove debris and construction waste, repair damaged drains and footpaths and ensure that public inconvenience is minimised during the monsoon period.
The authority warned that failure to comply with these safety protocols would invite strict action against contractors and implementing agencies.
To strengthen emergency preparedness, MMRDA has activated a dedicated 24×7 control room that will remain operational from May 21 to October 15. Citizens can register complaints or seek emergency assistance through the toll-free helpline 1800228801 and mobile number 8657492090. Additional contact numbers include 022-65964176, 022-65967901 and 022-265591241.
Officials said emergency infrastructure has already been deployed across project corridors, including 49 ambulances, 431 dewatering pumps, 544 CCTV cameras and 55 emergency control rooms.
The authority stated that these measures are aimed at ensuring public safety, uninterrupted mobility and faster emergency response during Mumbai’s challenging monsoon season.
Source: Loksatta
