As the city gears up for monsoons, fire brigade is busy preparing a plan to ensure quick response to crisis call. With rise in number to tourists visiting the beaches or sea shores the fire department has to be on toes to avoid any untoward incidents. Prabhat Rahangdale, Chief Fire Officer of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) talks about monsoon preparation and also seeks residents' contribution in making this monsoon incident-free.
How prepared is Mumbai fire brigade for monsoon?
We have already conducted special session on monsoon preparation where officials have been given standard operating procedure to follow during emergency. The fire brigade team will be available for any kind of emergency. We have also started creating awareness among residents to be very cautious while visiting near beaches or seashore. We advised them to do not venture in sea during monsoon.
What steps have been taken to secure beaches?
There are six beaches in city—Juhu Versova, Girgaum, Aksa, Gorai and Dadar. During monsoon visitors assemble to enjoy the rains especially on holidays and Sundays. However, during high tide, these places can turn dangerous. We have deploy additional lifeguards during monsoon but I also believe it is the responsibility of visitors to be safe. They should not venture into the sea during high tide. If any incident happens at Nariman Point, Bandstand (west) and Worli seaface, where there are rocks placed it becomes difficult for lifeguards to rescue in time, so we expect people to not venture in water during rough seas.
Is fire department well-equipped?
We are well-equipped when it comes to rescuing people during floods, or building collapse or saving someone from drowning in the sea. We have rescue buoy, life jacket, life saving reel, high speed boat, ring buoy, fire engines, water tanks among others. In addition, around 70 fireman will be available round the clock during monsoon. Lifeguards are also hired on permanent and contract basis
What are major steps being taken to strengthen Mumbai Fire Brigade?
The 2005 Mumbai deluge gave us a rude shock. We did not have enough gears then to carry out the rescue operation, but post that we have learnt our lessons. Now as monsoon nears we keep our rescue boats ready and have hired swimmers. A special emphasis is laid on increasing the manpower.
What is your expectation from Mumbaikars?
Small contribution can resolve big issues and helps us save lives. We need to create awareness among people to volunteer and be available whenever there is need.
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