Mumbai’s Drain Cleaning Lag Could Cause Waterlogging This Monsoon

With the monsoon just around the corner, Mumbai's drain cleaning efforts are facing significant delays. According to a Lokmat report, Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Nagrani had set a deadline of May 31 for contractors to complete 80 per cent of the drain cleaning work before the rains, but only 12 per cent has been finished so far. This leaves just a short time to clean the remaining 68 per cent, raising concerns over how the work will be completed in time.

The drain cleaning work is divided into three phases: 80 per cent should be done before the monsoon, 10 per cent during, and 10 per cent after. The Municipal Corporation assigned 23 contractors the task of cleaning the drains, including those around Mithi River and other riverbeds, with a budget of Rs 395 crore. The goal is to ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging during the rainy season.

Despite clear instructions to contractors and strict monitoring by municipal engineers, the cleaning process is progressing slowly. Contractors are required to submit photos and videos before and after cleaning, and engineers must be present at the sites. However, the lack of progress has raised questions about the efficiency of the contractors.

Officials from the Rainwater Drainage Department are conducting inspections to ensure proper cleaning and maintenance. Mobile pumps have been placed at key locations in case of pump failures. The Municipal Commissioner has warned that contractors responsible for faulty pumps could face action if waterlogging occurs.

Advocate Amol Matele, spokesperson for the Nationalist Sharad Pawar group, expressed frustration with the slow pace of work, saying the delays are inexcusable given the supervision and clear guidelines. The pressure is mounting as the deadline approaches, and the city hopes the remaining work will be completed on time.