Mumbai rains have become a topic of discussion now-a-days and it's for all the wrong reasons waterlogging, being the chief contributor to these. But it's something you cannot ignore as the city comes to a standstill every single time there's a downpour. Mumbai has already seen two of the worst cases of waterlogging - in 2005 and in 2017, and the weather keeps throwing curve balls at commuters taking a toll on their cars and bikes. While the city's municipal corporation has been updating its citizens about the lashing rains, it's still up to every individual to make sure that the cars or bikes are parked safely especially if one stays in a low lying area. The biggest loss here though is for the car owners as there's nothing much one can do to avoid water getting into the car once the water levels rise. However, what does one do when it starts to pour and the situation starts getting bad to worse. Here are some tips which will help you in addressing some of these issues.
As much we would want to avoid driving on waterlogged roads, there may not be an option at times. However, should you have to, make sure to assess the water level and road conditions before wading in. Not every car is an off-roader and you will have to be cautious of your approach. Make sure to drive through the flooded area gently and in the first gear. Keep the engine rev higher than usual in order to keep the water from entering the exhaust and damaging the engine.
(Park at the side and walk towards your destination. It's a safer option)
If water levels do not show any sign of reducing, it is best advised to park your car in a corner while you move to higher ground. Water entering the car can short circuit the electrical system, which in turn could hamper the security system. There are chances of the car being locked from the inside due to electronic failure with the windows too not working. Hence, it is better that you look for a safe spot, pull your car over and leave it there till the water levels reduce. You can always salvage the car later.
If you happen to be stuck inside the car due to some kind of electrical failure, the first thing you need to do is exit the vehicle. If the doors don't open and windows are rolled up as well, you will have to break the window. While it is best advised to stow a small hammer in the glovebox or in the boot, the head rest can also double up as a glass breaker. Adjustable head rests can be removed and the pointed-end of the same can be used to break the window. Make sure to maintain some distance between yourself and the window when breaking the glass.
(Be gentle on the accelerator and brake pedals during rains, lowers the chances of aquaplaning)
Even if not stuck in flooded areas, it is pouring heavily which means visibility is low and traction is minimal. At this time, it is best advised to drive gently going easy on the brakes and throttle. Chances are high of aquaplaning during torrential rains like this one, which will cause you to lose control of your car. The braking distance increases as well by a healthy margin on wet roads, more so, on concrete ones likes that of Mumbai.
While it's not the most pleasant environment out there, things are still under control and it is best to keep it that way. Avoid any hoaxes that will be turning up on social media and other forms of communications. If you are stuck somewhere, make sure to call the civic officials on the following numbers.
Central Railway Control Room: 022-22620173
Western Railway Control Room: 022-23094064
BMC Helpline: 1916
