Life in a Metro (work): Cops gear up to handle rain of traffic chaos at BKC

2,000 constables trained to divert traffic; department to send alerts on Twitter, radio channels

MUMBAI:WHILE Metro-3 may give relief to commuters by 2021, work on the Colaba-bandra-seepz line is all set to hassle those using the western express highway, SV Road and link road in the western suburbs this monsoon.

This year, the traffic department expects additional trouble owing to the Metro work, especially at Bandra-kurla Complex (BKC). The construction had last year clogged a drain, leading to waterlogging in Bandra and Vakola. Learning a lesson, more than 2,000 traffic constables and 750 wardens have been trained to handle such incidents and divert the traffic, if the need arises. Despite their claims, managing the diversions and the resultant traffic pile-up may not be easy in case of heavy rain, say experts. “Commuters should keep a watch on Twitter and radio channels, as we will communicate through these mediums,” said Amitesh Kumar, joint commissioner of police (traffic).

The traffic police also met the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation officials to ask them clear the debris from certain areas as it has reduced the space on the roads. Apart from the ongoing Metro work, the traffic police have given a no-objection certificate for soil inspection for Metro 2B (DN Nagar to Mankhurd) and Metro 4 (Wadala to Mulund). “Barricading for the work may add to the traffic, mainly on LBS Marg, link road, western express highway and SV Road,” said Kumar.

Based on last year’s flooding on August 29, the traffic police have prepared a list of 66 spots that are prone to waterlogging. Bandra with 16 roads, Ghatkopar with 21 and Vakola with six are likely to be the worst-hit.

The authorities from areas surrounding the hills such as Ghatkopar, Sakinaka and Mahakali Caves that are prone to landslides have been asked to necessary precautions. In waterlogging-prone areas such as Dadar TT, Elphinstone Bridge, Malad subway and Hindmata, towing vehicles and electric water pumps will be kept ready.