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Mumbai could be facing a re-enactment of the catastrophe that devastated life and property four years ago. Is your organization prepared? Read this advisory from the Mahindra Special Services Group to find out more
NC News Network, June 16 2009, 1200 hrs
Mumbai is at an average elevation of 10-15 meters above sea level and receives an annual rainfall of 2,200 mm, of which 50 percent is in the month of July.
The 2005 Deluge
On July 26, 2005, Mumbai received a record rainfall of 944 mm in a single day (42 percent of the city’s annual rainfall). This coupled with a high tide of more than 4.8 m, overwhelmed the drainage systems and flooded the city.
Mumbai lost close to $200 million of revenue and over 1,000 lives. The deluge also caused serious damage to property, infrastructure and left serious diseases in its wake. Many were traumatized in the aftermath of the deluge.
2009: A Similar Situation?
The Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) has indicated the possibility of a high tide of 5.01 m and 5.05 m on July 23 and 24, 2009 respectively. The South West Monsoon, expected to hit Mumbai by June 10, could cause further disaster in case there is heavy rain on either of these two days. Low-lying areas could experience flooding even with moderate rain.
While MCGM has apparently undertaken measures to improve the city’s disaster management capabilities, Mahindra Special Services Group (SSG) advises that it is imperative for individuals and corporates to review their preparedness in responding effectively.
Mahindra SSG, a consulting firm that advises organizations on threat assessments and risk mitigation strategies, visited the Disaster Management Cell of the MCGM to check it’s preparedness in handling potential flood situations. The firm has hosted a video which includes interviews with MCGM staff, measures being taken to prepare for the floods, and a message on how Mumbaites can face a flood situation. This video may be viewed from http://www.mahindrassg.com/videos/monsoon_challenge.html
Checklist: Preparing for the ‘danger days’ >>
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