MMRDA to install CCTV camera at Monorail station

MUMBAI: Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has told Bombay high court it will install a CCTV camera below a Monorail station to get immediate alerts in case of a fire at a Wadala highrise next to it.
It was replying to an HC query on its preparedness in case of an “unforeseen and untoward incident or an emergency’’ at the 22-storey Bhavya Heights. Its residents moved HC in 2016 stating that Dadar (East) monorail station had turned it into a fire-trap as its staircase was barely two metres from its entrance, leaving no space for a fire engine or an ambulance. They wanted the staircase shifted. On March 18, the court directed MMRDA to outline measures it will take to help the residents.

MMRDA’s reply, filed by a deputy planner, said before carrying out a mock drill, it had “strengthened and paved’’ open spaces in front of the building as per requirements of the fire brigade “to place a fire truck in case of a fire emergency”. It also demarcated the open space as a no-parking zone for the same purpose and is deploying security guards of Mumbai Monorail to monitor it.

It stated that “it is proposed to install a CCTV camera below the station to get an immediate alert in care of a fire incident and monitoring illegal parking or setting up of illegal pandals or any functions on the demarcated no-parking zones.”

MMRDA is also following up with BMC to plant trees at the site, as required by the fire brigade. The reply stated that the Monorail station has a wet riser system, FM200 gas-flooding system, communication system and face mask, which can be used in case of a fire at the station, as well as the adjacent residential and commercial building.” The matter is listed for hearing on Monday.