BMC to draw plans with Navy, Army

In order to take precautionary measures and discuss its preparations ahead of the monsoon season, the civic body is likely to hold a meeting with Indian Navy, Army cable operators, mobile operators, MMRDA and other stakeholders.

According to the disaster management department of BMC, the authorities will discuss chronic details and an action plan will also be chalked out. The disaster management will coordinate with these agencies in case of any eventuality.

A senior official of BMC's disaster management said a representative of the Army and the Navy will be present at the disaster control room to assist operations during emergency. "The purpose of the meeting is to coordinate better with other agencies during emergency," said an official. He also added that mobile operators can be used to flash SMS during an emergency.

"This year, we have identified more number of flooding spots and this needs to be shared with other agencies like Navy and Army, so that they are aware and can reach the spot in case their help is required," said the official. On their part, the disaster management department is prepared and is in touch with over 30 different agencies.

It has already sent out banners, with details of officials and other agencies at landslide prone and flooding areas. The team has been in process of identifying schools or similar places where residents can be given immediate shelter if the situation arises. "We are identifying more than three to four places like schools where citizens can be given shelter during emergency," said the official.

Last year, there were around 284 spots which were prone to landslide. The banner or board that will be put up in all such landslide-prone or flooding areas, will have information like do's and don'ts, emergency contact numbers, local civic officials, police, fire brigade and school or an address of a similar place where locals can take shelter.

A STEP AHEAD

• This meeting is held every year, wherein crucial information is discussed.
   
• The disaster management department is in touch with over 30 different agencies.
   
• It has already sent out banners, with details of officials and other agencies at landslide prone and flooding areas