The Indian Express                 19.05.2013

BMC to install CCTV cameras to monitor waterlogging

BMC has decided to install CCTV cameras at chronic waterlogging areas in Mumbai in what it claims is an attempt to circumvent "unreliable" media coverage of the problem.

BMC will install cameras at Hindmata Circle, Maratha Mandir, Nana Chowk, Sakhubai Mohite Marg, Gawade Chowk, near Parel TT flyover, Sewri cross road close to Sewri railway station and Mukhyadhyapak Bhavan near Sion bus depot in the island city. It will install a CCTV camera at Kurla shed in the eastern suburbs. Two cameras will be installed on bridges at BKC and Kranti Nagar to monitor Mithi river.

"Based on TV reports, we dispatch our personnel to the areas where there is waterlogging. However, in many cases, footage shown on TV is old. Hence, we have decided to invest in our CCTV cameras," said deputy municipal commissioner and chief engineer of the storm water drains department, L S Vhatkar.

The civic body will also connect footage from Mumbai Traffic Police's 80 cameras at various junctions. "Not all of these are flood-prone spots but they will help us track other areas that report waterlogging," Vhatkar said.

BMC has listed 17 days between June 23 and September 20 when high tides are expected. The highest tide of almost 5 m is expected June 25.

The corporation will share these dates with Mumbai University and corporate houses so that appropriate measures are taken on the days when a tide of over 4.5 m is expected.