With severe cyclonic storm Nisarga expected to hit the north coast of Maharashtra bringing heavy rains and winds gusting up to 110 kmph, Mumbai’s civic body Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has put out a list of dos and don’ts for citizens.
Mumbai is bracing itself for cyclone Nisarga which is expected to make its landfall in Alibag at noon, according to meteorological department. The cyclone is also very likely to hit Gujarat’s Surat some time in the evening.
This will be the first time that a cyclone will threaten Mumbai in over a century.
Prohibitory orders have been issued under Section 144 of Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), in view of cyclonic conditions in the city to ensure that there is no danger to human life, health or safety, said Office of the Commissioner of Police, Greater Mumbai.
The BMC has advised people to stay indoors during heavy rainfall, But if, for some unavoidable reason, someone needs to drive a car, the civic body has asked them to ensure that they carry a hammer or objects that can help break glass in case the car doors get jammed.
Here are the DOs and DON’Ts:
DOs
- Loose things outside the house should be tied or moved indoors
- Seal important documents and jewellery in a plastic bag
- Regularly inspect battery-operated as well as reserve power system
- Pay attention to official instructions on TV and radio
- Practise actions to be taken in case of emergencies
- If you do not live in a mud house/hut, choose a part of the house as an emergency shelter and practise how members of the house will use the space during the cyclone
- Keep an emergency kit ready
- Stay away from windows. Close some windows and keep some open so the pressure is maintained.
- Stay at the centre of the room. Stay away from the corners as debris often accumulates in the corners
- Hide under strong furniture such as a stool or a heavy table or desk, hold it tight
- Use your hands to protect your head and neck
- Avoid large roof spaces such as auditoriums or shopping malls
- If you find an open space and there is enough time, find the right shelter in the nearest pit or pasture
- Relocate to a predetermined or administration determined location
- Disconnect power supply of all non-emergency equipment and tools
- Store drinking water in a clean place
- Help people trapped or injured. Provide first aid if needed
- Check for air leaks. If you smell gas or hear a leaking sound, immediately open the windows and exit the building. If possible, turn off the gas valve and report to the gas company
- Check for damage to electrical equipment. If you notice sparks, exposed wires, or burning smell of rubber, disconnect the main power supply and call the electrician
- Help those in need of special help like children, physically challenged, elderly, neighbours.
DON’Ts
- Don’t spread or believe in rumours
- Do not attempt to drive or ride any vehicle during the cyclone
- Stay away from damaged buildings
- Do not move injured people unless it is absolutely safe to do so. It may cause more harm
- Do not allow oil and other flammable substances to spill. Clean immediately
The Maharashtra Chief Minister’s Office also tweeted the preparedness done in view of Cyclone Nisarga.
Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday evening also appealed to the people of Mumbai to “stay indoors”.
The Chief Minister asked the residents of Mumbai to be prepared to face possible power cuts as strong winds hit the city. He asked them to charge their gadgets and if possible, keep emergency lights handy.
“The cyclone could be more severe than the ones the state has faced till now… Tomorrow and the day after are crucial in coastal areas… Activities which had resumed (as part of easing of lockdown) will be kept shut there for the next two days, people should remain alert,” Thackeray said.