The "Tide of the century" may hit Mumbai on 24th July 2009

Mumbai could be facing a re-enactment of the catastrophe that devastated life and property four years ago--perhaps on the very same dates.

While the severity of the flooding would probably be unabated, better prepardness and closer co-ordination among government bodies, corporate & general public can help in minimizing its impact.

What caused floods in 2005

Mumbai is at an average elevation of 10-15 meters above sea level and receives an annual rainfall of 2,200 mm out of which 50% is in the month of July.

On 26 July 2005, Mumbai got a record single day rainfall of 944mm (42% of the city's annual rainfall). This coupled with a high tide of more than 4.8m, overwhelmed the drainage systems and flooded the city

Mumbai lost close to $200 million of revenue and over 1,000 lives. The floods also caused serious damage to property, infrastructure and left serious diseases in its wake. Many were even traumatized.

Mumbai faces a similar situation now

The Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) has indicated the possibility of a high tide of 5.01m & 5.05m on 23rd and 24th July 2009 respectively.

The South West Monsoon which is expected to hit Mumbai by 10th June could prove disastrous if it rains heavily on any of these two days. Low lying areas could experience flooding even with moderate rains.

While MCGM has apparently undertaken measures to improve the city's disaster management capabilities, it is imperative for individuals & corporates's to review their prepardness for responding effectively.