BMC Officials to Conduct House Visits to Promote Pre-Monsoon Relocation
In an effort to raise awareness about the importance of relocating before the onset of the monsoon season, officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) are preparing to visit households. The BMC recently appealed to residents and slum dwellers residing in the M/East and S wards to consider relocating promptly to prevent potential loss of life in landslides during heavy rainfall.
The M/East and S wards encompass areas such as Mankhurd, Shivaji Nagar, Govandi, Bhandup, and Vikhroli in the eastern suburbs of Mumbai. These regions are characterized by a significant presence of hills, and both the bases and slopes of these hills have been encroached upon by slum dwellers. While these encroached areas mostly belong to the state government or the collector’s office, the BMC is making efforts to facilitate the relocation of residents to safer places, particularly during the rainy season. However, many long-term residents are reluctant to move, despite the risks involved.
Tragic incidents of landslides occurred in Mahul and Vikhroli in August 2021, resulting in the loss of 29 lives. The S and M/East wards encompass both of these locations, with 19 casualties reported in Mahul and 10 in Vikhroli. As a precautionary measure, local ward offices have identified nearby schools and community centers that could serve as temporary shelters in the event of a natural disaster. These locations have been earmarked to provide backup residential units if needed.