Mumbai Rains: BMC Plans 20 New Floodgates Across City To Combat Flash Floods

Mumbai: In an effort to tackle recurring flash floods during the monsoon, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) proposed the installation of 20 new floodgates across various parts of Mumbai, including both the island city and its suburban areas. The initiative aims to prevent the backflow of seawater during high tide and help manage excess rainwater, a growing challenge as the city experiences increasingly intense rainfall events.

Floodgates are mechanisms designed to regulate the flow of water, commonly used in flood control systems and dams. These gates operate either vertically or horizontally, remaining closed during high tides to block seawater from entering the city. During low tide, they can be opened to allow water to flow out, aiding in drainage.

New Floodgates Addition To Already Existing Ones In City

These new installations will add to the existing 30-plus floodgates already functioning in various low-lying zones of Mumbai. Civic officials from the Storm Water Department (SWD) have begun a survey to identify the most viable intertidal locations for these gates. The decision to expand the floodgate network was prompted by the severe flash floods that struck Mumbai on May 26, when the city received 250 mm of rain in just three hours, crippling transportation and daily life.

Over 80 Flood-Prone Spots Identified

Following that episode, the BMC identified 80 additional flood-prone spots, particularly in areas such as Colaba, JJ Flyover, and Metro Junction. The newly proposed floodgates are likely to be installed in key locations including Worli, Mahim, Colaba, and Dharavi, places currently vulnerable to seawater intrusion during high tides due to the absence of any barriers.

Along with floodgates, BMC plans to strategically place dewatering pumps to divert rainwater to holding tanks, natural outfalls, or nearby water bodies. Ahead of the monsoon, over 400 dewatering pumps had already been installed across the city. With the onset of heavy rains, the number was increased to 540 to manage large volumes of stormwater more effectively.

Civic officials believe that these new floodgates, along with enhanced pumping systems, will offer a long-term solution to Mumbai’s chronic waterlogging issues. “We are currently surveying intertidal zones to determine where these gates can be most effectively placed. Alongside, we’ll install pumps to redirect accumulated water and prevent future flooding,” said a senior civic official as quoted by The Indian Express.