Cyclone Tauktae a wake-up call ahead of monsoon

This picture has been used for representational purpose

Cyclone Tauktae brought with it rain, tree falls and waterlogging. While Mumbaikars are unsure of what to expect over the next three days, manic Monday did shine the spotlight on Mumbai's most challenging season, the monsoon.

The cyclone aside, we need to gear up for the monsoon. Maharashtra's Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has spoken out about monsoon preparedness by the officials which has started early on because of the outbreak. Thackeray said that they are working on infrastructure and doing all they can to prevent any damage and plug all loopholes for the rains.

While we may scoff at all such so called assurances, we have to see that we ourselves as individuals are prepared for the season.

Keep vehicles in fine fettle even though we are in lockdown, as one would need them for emergency use at any time. Brakes should be working, wipers on cars ready to move. We see so many private vehicles in poor condition because of the restrictions. Car owners need to ensure their cars are in absolutely prime and rain-ready.

Shops should be repaired, there has to be a special effort to mend roofs, entrances. There is a tendency to put off these absolute necessary works because of a labour crunch. Yet there are buyers at essential shops, so there has to be attention to these roofs, slick entrances to prevent any injuries.

Housing societies must ensure lifts are maintained as this is an emergency facility in a building. Overhead wires in staircases, around entrances need work and attention to prevent any short circuits or other dangers during the upcoming wet season. Staircases kept as dry as possible and passageways wiped down, to prevent falls as visiting medical facilities for any reason is more challenging in these times. Cyclone Tauktae is our wake-up call for the few days that we have ahead.