The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a pilot project to test a new Lidar-based waterlogging monitoring and reporting system at six major flood-prone spots in mumbai. The trial will tackle the city’s long-standing problem of flooding during heavy rainfall.
The selected sites include Hindmata, Gandhi Market, Andheri Subway, Malad Subway, and the holding ponds at St Xavier’s and PM Garden. The laser-based system will provide real-time data on flood levels and monitor rising water more accurately.
If the pilot is successful, BMC plans to connect the Lidar sensors with Internet of Things (IoT) devices. These IoT systems can automatically activate pumps or other flood control mechanisms when water levels cross a set limit. The new setup will reduce the need for manual checks and allow quicker responses during sudden downpours.
The project comes as Mumbai faces more frequent short and intense rain spells that often flood low-lying areas. The existing micro pumping stations at Hindmata and Gandhi Market will also be part of the trial setup.
Lidar, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, works by sending laser beams to find the distance between the sensor and the water. The technology can calculate water levels precisely and is less affected by debris or bad weather than traditional sensors.
The system can record the amount of water collected at any spot and share this data for both public awareness and flood control actions. Each lidar unit will cost around INR 3.5 lakh for the four main locations and INR 3 lakh for the two holding ponds. These costs include the first monsoon season’s operating and maintenance expenses.
Earlier this year, BMC submitted a Rs 12,705-crore proposal to the Disaster Management Authority for 26 flood prevention projects. The plan includes eco-friendly urban solutions such as bioswales, sponge parks, and advanced water retention systems.
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