The “Tide of the Century” may hit Mumbai on 24th July 2009. Mumbai could be facing a re-enactment of the catastrophe that devastated life and property four years ago perhaps on the very same dates, says an advisory released by automotive giant Mahindra and Mahindra's Special Services Group. The...
The “Tide of the Century” may hit Mumbai on 24th July 2009. Mumbai could be facing a re-enactment of the catastrophe that devastated life and property four years ago perhaps on the very same dates, says an advisory released by automotive giant Mahindra and Mahindra's Special Services Group.
The advisory was publicly released a short while ago.
While the severity of the flooding would probably be unabated, better preparedness and closer co-ordination among government bodies, corporate and general public can help in minimising its impact.
What caused floods in 2005
Mumbai is at an average elevation of 10-15 meters above sea level and receives an annual rainfall of 2,200 mm out of which 50% is in the month of July.
On 26 July 2005, Mumbai got a record single day rainfall of 944mm (42% of the city’s annual rainfall). This coupled with a high tide of more than 4.8m, overwhelmed the drainage systems and flooded the city.
Mumbai lost close to $200 million of revenue and over 1,000 lives. The floods also caused serious damage to property, infrastructure and left serious diseases in its wake. Many were even traumatised.
Mumbai faces a similar situation now
The Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) has indicated the possibility of a high tide of 5.01m and 5.05m on 23rd and 24th July 2009 respectively.
The South West Monsoon which is expected to hit Mumbai by 10th June could prove disastrous if it rains heavily on any of these two days. Low lying areas could experience flooding even with moderate rains.
While MCGM has apparently undertaken measures to improve the city’s disaster management capabilities, it is imperative for individuals and corporate’s to review their preparedness for responding effectively.
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For respective Ward Representative & Emergency Contact Details visit www.mcgm.gov.in
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