Noise Pollution, Air Pollution, Water Pollution and Environmental Pollution are increasing in Mumbai. Bombay’s Municipal Corporation (BMC) is primarily responsible for reducing pollution in Mumbai city.

The BMC’s annual Environmental Status Report (ESR) shows that Noise and Air quality is deteriorating in Mumbai. Fortunately, there is some progress in combating Water Pollution.

Noise Pollution In Mumbai

 (All numbers in Decibels, db)

The effects of high Noise Pollution are loss of hearing, hearing impairment, ischemic heart disease, heart attacks (estimate of 4% of heart attacks because of noise pollution), premature ejaculation, decreased sexual capability, irregular bowel movements, sleep disturbance, irritability, hypertension, high blood pressure, change in immune system, birth defects, etc.

NOTE:

• 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm is the nosiest time of the day in Mumbai city.
• Day time is from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm
• Night time is from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am
• Mumbai has 1,112 notified Silence Zones which are area up to 100 meters around premises such as hospitals, educational institutions, courts, etc.

Complain Against Noise Pollution in Mumbai

Mumbai residents can use any of the below methods of complaining against noise pollution in their area:

• Call Mumbai Police’s Control Number at 100 or the local Police Station where noise pollution is taking place. Complaint can be raised anonymously. Alternately send a SMS or call on Mumbai Police’s 24 hour helpline numbers 7738133133, 7738144144. Mumbai Police is expected to send a prompt SMS for issues raised on these helpline numbers. These helpline numbers are not just for noise pollution, but for any issues related to Mumbai’s Police.
• Raise a complaint on the Mumbai Police Website. This Mumbai Police complaint link is not just for noise pollution, but any complaint which can be handled by the police.
• Raise a complaint on the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board website. This link can be used to raise complaints for noise, air and water pollution issues. Telephone number of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board’s Sion office is 022-24020781, 24014701, 24010437.

How to check Noise Pollution Level in Mumbai

“Noise Watch” is a free smartphone application which acts as a decibel meter and updates the noise level on the “Noise Watch” Map. This free app can be downloaded at the following sites:

• iPhone: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/noise-meter-eoe/id486395795?mt=8
• Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tsystems.humanSensor

Air Pollution In Mumbai

SULPHER DIOXIDE LEVELS IN MUMBAI

(All figures are in µg/m³ - micrograms per cubic meter of air)

NITROGEN DIOXIDE LEVELS IN MUMBAI

(All figures are in µg/m³ - micrograms per cubic meter of air)

SUSPENDED PARTICLE MATTER (SPM) LEVELS IN MUMBAI

(All figures are in µg/m³ - micrograms per cubic meter of air)

India’s National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP) classifies air pollution into four air pollutants:

1. Sulphur Dioxide,
2. Oxides of Nitrogen, including Nitrogen Dioxide,
3. Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM),
4. Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM/PM10).

NOTE:

• At almost all observation points, there has been an increase in air pollution in Mumbai in 2012 – 2011 as compared to the last two years.
• The month of December experiences the highest level of air pollution in Mumbai. Air pollution levels in Bombay start rising after the monsoon.
• 451 new vehicles are registered in Mumbai every day. These motor vehicles are deteriorating the quality of air. Also, slow moving traffic jams lead to increased air pollution as compared to smooth flowing traffic.
• Increased construction (housing, Metro, bridges, roads, etc) has increased dust and Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM).
• International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which is a part of the UN World Health Organization (WHO), declared in October 2013 that Air Pollution is carcenogenic which increases the risk of lung and bladder cancer. WHO’s cancer research department came to this finding after reviewing thousands of scientific papers.

Sulphur Dioxide and Air Pollution

Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) is a pungent smelling, toxic gas. Petrol, Diesel, Coal contains Sulfur compounds, which when burnt lead to Sulfur Dioxide.    Excess Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) in the air can cause respiratory illness, breathing problems, reduced functioning of lungs, cardiovascular problems, etc. Mumbai residents who suffer from heart disease or asthma or other respiratory problems are most at risk to exposure to Sulphur Dioxide.

Sulphur Dioxide, in combination with Nitrogen Oxides, causes “Acid Rain” which impacts plants, animals, reduces visibility and accelerates corrosion of buildings and infrastructure.

Permissible level of Sulphur Dioxide is 50 µg/m³ (micrograms per cubic meter of air).

Nitrogen Dioxide and Air Pollution

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂) is a Reddish-Brown, sharp, foul smelling toxic gas. Motor vehicle exhaust contributes to most of the nitrogen dioxide in Mumbai and other cities. Exposure to increased levels of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂) leads to respiratory problems because it inflames the lining of the lungs. Illnesses associated with excess Nitrogen Dioxide are lung infection, bronchitis, flu, cough, cold, wheezing, etc. Mumbai residents who suffer from heart disease or asthma or other respiratory problems are most at risk to exposure to Nitrogen Dioxide.

Permissible level of Nitrogen Dioxide is 40 µg/m³ (micrograms per cubic meter of air).

Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) and Air Pollution

Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) is a mix of small air borne particles, dust, fumes, smoke, nickel, lead, mist, etc in the air. Usually the size of SPM is less than 100 µm or 10 micrometer (PM10) in diameter. Particles of such small size can are able to infiltrate the deepest part of the lungs such as the bronchioles or alveoli.

Increased exposure to Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) can lead to respiratory ailments such as lung cancer, asthmatic attacks, bronchitis, pneumonia, etc and heart disease. Among very young children, it can also lead to birth defects, lower IQ and premature deaths. Exhaust from motor fuels like Diesel contain Benzopyrenes which are Carcinogenic (cancer causing).

Permissible level of Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) in the air is 200 µg/m³ (micrograms per cubic meter of air).

Air Pollution in Mumbai and Indian Metros

According to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO), when it comes to air pollution, India is the 13^th most polluted country in the world. Among the four metros of India, the most polluted is Delhi, followed by Kolkatta, then Mumbai and finally Chennai.

Water Pollution in Mumbai

(All figures in Percentage)

There has been a reduction in the number of contaminated water samples tested by the BMC in Mumbai. A water contamination of 16% is hardly good. One in 6 glasses of water that a Mumbaikar drinks is impure. This leads to water borne diseases such as Cholera, Gastroenteritis, E Coli, Jaundice, Dysentery, Diarrhea, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, etc.

The most contaminated samples were taken from Goregaon, followed by Kalbadevi. The lowest samples of dirty water was taken at Matunga.

Sea Water Pollution Along Mumbai’s Coast

• Faecal Coliform (or Fecal Coliform) is a bacteria that can grow in salt water. Coliform Bacteria usually originates in faeces. High levels of Faecal Coliform indicate that Mumbai’s human sewage system has a problem and its water treatment measures are inadequate.
• BMC’s plans for water and sewage treatment plants at Worli, Bandra, Malad and Versova are in legal and administrative problems. Hopefully the Colaba Sewage Treatment plant will start by January, 2014.
• Lower the “pH” level of the sea, higher is its acidity level. Because of the increase in Carbon Dioxide in the atmosphere, there is an ongoing decrease in the pH in seas and oceans. This phenomenon is called “Ocean Acidification”. The lowering of sea water pH has an adverse impact on sea life.

• Please visit this link for – 2014 Monsoon Rainfall and Water Level in Mumbai’s Lakes.
• Please visit this link for – Water Levels in Mumbai’s Lakes in 2013.

2012 water levels in the Mumbai lakes that provide drinking water to the city are listed below. Water height of the lakes during the rains is closely monitored since this is the primary source of water for Mumbai City.

Water Level in Mumbai Lakes in 2012 Mumbai Monsoon Season

 (All figures in Meters, except “Usable Water” which is in Million Litres)

• EXCELLENT NEWS – Water Levels in the 7 lakes that supply water to Mumbai is 12,03,860 million liters (ML). In the same period last year, Mumbai’s lakes had usable water of 12,42,000 ML (last year Middle Vaitarna had not been commissioned). In the last one month, water levels in Bombay’s lakes have gone up by 5,52,000 million litres. The whole of August, 2012 has seen an increase of over 2,85,800 ML in usable water in Bombay’s lakes. July on the other hand had seen an increase of 5,50,000 ml of usable water. Mumbai’s lakes have the capacity to supply 12,54,000 million liters of water every year at 3,500 million liters per day. Note that Mumbai’s lakes only provide 75% to 80% of Mumbai’s total requirement of water; the rest is supplied by ground water, wells, tanks, etc.
• GOOD NEWS – Three of Mumbai’s lakes have overflowed in 2012; these are Modak Sagar Lake (overflowed on 8 August, 2012,  Tansa Lake (3 September) and Tulsi Lake (4 September). Excess water from Modak Sagar is now being diverted to Vihar Lake and Tansa Lake.
• GOOD NEWS – Not just Mumbai’s lake catchment area, but also Bombay city and its suburbs have received heavy rains. The rain deficit in Santacruz is now down drastically to 19% and in Colaba it is down to 35%. Throughout July and August, 2012, the rain deficit in Mumbai in Colaba has been around 54% and in Santacruz it has been around 30%. Mumbai receives almost 60% of its rainfall in end July and early August.
• Mumbai’s fourth largest lake, Bhatsa Lake, is Mumbai’s most important lake. Bhatsa caters to 60% of Mumbai’s water requirement. It currently contains over 55% of Mumbai’s Usable Water.
• As on 3 September, 2012, the usable water in Mumbai’s 7 lakes (including Middle Vaitarna) is  1,203,860 million litres, which is enough for 344 days at 3,500 million liters per day. This is an increase of over 552,000 million litres in the last 30 days. Every year Mumbai city requires at least 1,254,000 million litres from the end of the monsoon to the start of next year’s monsoon.
• GOOD NEWS – From October 2012, Middle Vaitarna Lake and Dam will start supplying 275 Million Liters of water per day to Mumbai. From next year Middle Vaitarna will supply 455 MLD. Due to a controversy about a PWD bridge near Middle Vaitarna, only 275 million litres a day will be supplied this year. The PWD has agreed to increase the height of the bridge in 6 months. Excess water from Middle Vatairna will flow into Modak Sagar Lake. This is a positive step in Mumbai’s long term water security.
• This year the monsoon started 6 days late on 16 June, 2012. Rainfall too has been less than normal. BMC has cut water supply to Mumbai by 10%. BMC will review this cut on 15 September. View chart of Daily Rainfall in Mumbai in 2012.
• Given the smart pick up in Monsoons, BMC have decided to keep on hold it’s decision to go in for “Cloud Seeding” in the lake catchment areas of Bhatsa and Upper Vaitarna  Lakes. Earlier “Cloud Seeding” was to start from 1 September. Sodium Chloride or Silver Iodide crystals were to be sprayed in water bearing clouds. When done in 2010, this technique of inducing rain was not successful.
• Of the six lakes, Tulsi and Vihar supply water to South Mumbai, whereas the other lakes provide water to the other parts of the city. Tulsi Lake and Vihar Lake are within the island city of Bombay, whereas the other lakes are outside of Mumbai. Upper Vaitarna Lake, Modak Sagar (Lower Vaitarna Lake), Bhatsa Lake and Tansa Lake are artificial lakes that were built by constructing dams on rivers in this region. All 4 dams are located North and North-East of Mumbai.
• The city of Mumbai requires 4,200 million litres of water daily. The BMC supplies around 3,350 to 3,500 million litres of water daily to Mumbai. The water treatment plant at Bhandup is the largest in Asia.

Water Supplied By BMC To Different Parts Of Mumbai

 (Water Quantity supplied to Mumbai is in “Million Liters per Day”)

As per the Chitale Committee, by 2021, Mumbai will require 5,300 million liters of water per day.
The BMC rate or charges for supplying water to Mumbai is Rs 106 per 10,000 litres of water.

Lakes That Provide Mumbai Drinking Water

Bhatsa Lake

Even though Bhatsa Lake is only the fourth largest of the seven lakes that provides water to Mumbai, it is Mumbai’s MAIN LAKE since it provides 60% of Mumbai’s water needs . Situated North East of Mumbai, the Bhatsa Lake/Dam is in Thane district at a distance of 95-100 km from Bombay. Bhatsa Lake is formed behind the Bhatsa Dam and it receives water from 2 local rivers – Bhatsa River and Corna River. The Bhatsa Dam was completed in 1981. Tansa Lake is nearby at a distance of 17 km East from Bhatsa. Further North is the Modak Sagar Lake.

Bhatsa Lake’s overflow level is 142.07 meters, and it’s lowest drawable level is 104.9 meters.

Vihar Lake

Located in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Vihar Lake receives water from the Mithi River and the Powai-Kanheri hill ranges around it. Vihar Lake was the first piped water supply scheme to operate in Mumbai. Work on “Vihar Water Works” was completed in 1860.

This lake provides water to South Mumbai and covers around 3% of Mumbai’s drinking water requirement. Access to Vihar Lake is restricted.

Vihar Lake’s overflow level is 80.42 meters.

Tulsi Lake

Tulsi Lake is located in the island city of Mumbai in the mist of the Borivali National Park (Sanjay Gandhi National Park). Tulsi Lake is a restricted area. The Tulsi Lake was created by putting up a dam on Tasso River. Water also flows in from the Powai-Kanheri hill ranges.

Tulsi Lake’s overflow height is 139.17 meters.

Upper Vaitarna Lake

The Vaitarna Lake is located North of Mumbai near Igatpuri in Thane District. Vaitarna River is the largest river in the Konkan. In 1972 a dam was created in the upper reaches of the Vaitarna river and the lake around the dam is the Upper Vaitarna Lake.

Vaitarna Lake provides drinking water to the Northern suburbs of Mumbai. It is the largest of all the lakes that provide water to Mumbai.

Upper Vaitarna Lake’s overflow level is 603.51 meters, and it’s lowest drawable level is 118.87 meters.

Modak Sagar (Lower Vaitarna Lake)

Just like Upper Vaitarna Lake was formed by a dam on the Vaitarna River, Modak Sagar too was created by a dam on Vaitarna River. Further downstream to Upper Vaitarna, a dam was constructed on the Vaitarna River in 1957 and the lake behind the dam is the Modak Sagar, also called Lower Vaitarna Lake. Modak Sagar is located in Thane district.

Modak Sagar’s Lake’s overflow level is 163.15 meters.

Tansa Lake

Construction of the Tansa dam on the Tansa River started in 1892. It is the world’s largest Masonic dam covering a distance of 320 sq kms. The lake bedind the Tansa Dam is the Tansa Lake. The Lake is surrounded by the “Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary”. Tansa Lake is 85 km North East of Mumbai in Thane district.

Tansa Lake’s overflow level is 128.63 meters, and it’s lowest drawable level is 118.87 meters.

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Bombay experienced its worst communal riots in December 1992 and January 1993. Justice B. N. Srikrishna headed a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to understand the background of the riots, what happened during the riots and how to prevent similar riots in the future. After examining 502 witnesses and 2,903 exhibits, the Commission submitted its report on February 16, 1998.

Important Links Related to the Justice Srikrishna Commission

• Full Text of the Justice Srikrishna Commission Report – Volume 1
• Full Text of the Justice Srikrishna Commission Report – Volume 2
• Action Taken Report on the Srikrishna Commission Report by Government of Maharashtra
• Teesta Setalvad’s take on the Srikrishna Report.
• Information on 1992 – 1993 Mumbai Riots and Justice Srikrishna Commission

Terms of Reference of the Justice Srikrishna Commission of Inquiry

At the instance of Indian Prime Minister, P.V. Narasimha Rao, the Government of Maharashtra constituted a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to inquire into the violence and riots that occurred in Bombay in December 1992 and January 1993.

Ad verbatim from the Srikrishna Report:

By a Notification, Home Department No.FIR–5693/Bombay–1/Appointment/SP–2, dated 25th January 1993, the Government of Maharashtra constituted this Commission of Inquiry with the following Terms of Reference:

i) The circumstances, events and immediate causes of the incidents which occurred in the Bombay Police Commissionerate area in December 1992 on or after the 6th December 1992 and, again in January 1993, on or after the 6th January 1993;

ii) Whether any individual or group of individuals or any other organization, were responsible for such events and circumstances;

iii) The adequacy or otherwise of the precautionary and preventive measures, taken by the police preceding the aforesaid incidents;

iv) Whether the steps taken by the police in controlling the riots were adequate and proper and whether the police firing resulting in deaths was justified or not; and

v) The measures, long and short term, which are required to be taken by the administration to avoid recurrence of such incidents, to secure communal harmony and also to suggest improvements in law and order machinery.

When the Shiv Sena – BJP came to power in Maharashtra in March 1995, they expanded the terms of reference of the commission to include the following (taken Ad verbatim from the Srikrishna Report):

vi) The circumstances and the immediate cause of the incidents commonly known as the serial bomb–blasts of the 12th March 1993, which occurred in the Bombay Police Commissionerate area;

vii) Whether the incidents referred to in term (i), have any common link with the incidents referred to in term (vi) above; and

viii) Whether the incidents referred to in term (i) and in term (vi) were part of a common design.

Justice Srikrishna Commission’s Findings And Conclusions on Mumbai Riots

Justice Srikrishna Commission Report contains Justice B. N. Srikrishna’s findings on all the 8 terms of reference of the commission. To view all 8 results, please visit this link for the FULL SRIKRISHNA REPORT.

On the important second term of reference “Whether any individual or group of individuals or any other organization, were responsible for such events and circumstances”, the Srikrisha Commission states (ad verbatim):

1.1 December 1992

i) As far as the December 1992 phase of the rioting by the Muslims is concerned, there is no material to show that it was anything other than a spontaneous reaction of leaderless and incensed Muslim mobs, which commenced as peaceful protest, but soon degenerated into riots. The Hindus must share a part of the blame in provoking the Muslims by their celebration rallies, inciting slogans and rasta rokos which were all organised mostly by Shiv Sainiks, and to a marginal extent by BJP activists.

1.2 January 1993

i) Turning to the events of January 1993, the Commission’s view is that though several incidents of violence took place during the period from 15th December 1992 to 5th January 1993, large–scale rioting and violence was commenced from 6th January 1993 by the Hindus brought to fever pitch by communally inciting propaganda unleashed by Hindu communal organizations and writings in newspapers like Saamna and Navaakal. It was taken over by Shiv Sena and its leaders who continued to whip up communal frenzy by their statements and acts and writings and directives issued by the Shiv Sena Pramukh Bal Thackeray. The attitude of Shiv Sena as reflected in the Time magazine interview given by Bal Thackeray and its doctrine of ‘retaliation’, as expounded by Shri Sarpotdar and Shri Manohar Joshi, together with the thinking of Shiv Sainiks that ‘Shiv Sena’s terror was the true guarantee of the safety of citizens’, were responsible for the vigilantism of Shiv Sainiks. Because some criminal Muslims killed innocent Hindus in one corner of the city, the Shiv Sainiks ‘retaliated’ against several innocent Muslims in other corners of the city.

ii) There is no material on record suggesting that even during this phase any known Muslim individuals or organizations were responsible for the riots, though a number of individual Muslims and Muslim criminal elements appear to have indulged in violence, looting, arson and rioting.

For Term of reference V, the commission states states (ad verbatim) “police personnel were found actively participating in riots, communal incidents or incidents of looting arson and so on. The Commission strongly recommends that Government take strict action against”. The commission goes on to list these police personnel.

Attempts to Thwart and Prevent the Srikrishna Commission

•  On January 23, 1996, the Maharashtra Home Department sent a notification (No.FIR–5696/Mumbai–1/Appointment/JC) to disband the commission on the grounds “that it had taken unduly long time to produce its report and that its report, even if produced, was only likely to open old wounds which had healed”.
• During the two weeks in 1996 that Atal Bihari Vajpayee was Prime Minister, he sent a letter to the Maharashtra Shiv Sena Chief Minister, Manohar Joshi, to revive the Commission. Subsequently the Commission was reconstituted on May 28, 1996.
• The Justice Srikrishna Commission’s Report was on submitted on February 16, 1998 and placed in the Maharashtra assembly on August 6, 1998.

Hindi Cinema or Bollywood has completed 100 years. Listed below are key historical milestones in Hindi Films. Important Hindi movies, film events, actors, directors, artist are mentioned below. The Indian Hindi Film industry is based out of Mumbai.

1896 Screening of Lumiere moving pictures: 6 short films by the Lumiere brothers were seen on 7 July 1896 at the Watson Hotel in Bombay.

The Flower of Persia (1898) First Indian Short Films: Hiralal Sen’s The Flower of Persia” was the first short films from India. Sakharam Bhatvadekar (Save Dada) exhibited two short films in 1899 which he had shot in 1897.

“Shree Pundalik” (1912) First Indian Film: Ram Chandra Gopal “Dadasaheb” Torne’s “Shree Pundalik” was first shown in Mumbai on 18 May 1912. This is the FIRST INDIAN MOVIE. Even though “Shree Pundalik” was shown almost one year before “Raja Harishchandra”, the later is considered India’s first feature film because it 40 minutes long as compared to “Shree Pundalik” which was 22 minutes long and it was completely processed in India, whereas “Shree Pundalik” was processes overseas. “Shree Pundalik” is a recording of the play “Pundalik”

“Raja Harishchandra” (1913) First full length feature film from India: Dadasaheb Phalke’s “Raja Harishchandra” was first publicly screened on May 3, 1913 in Mumbai. This 40 minute movie is considered the FIRST FULL LENGTH FEATURE FILM from India.

Censor Boards (1920): Censor boards in major cities like Bombay, Chennai, Kolkatta, Lahore came into existence. These censor boards were under the jurisdiction of the local police chiefs. With the implementation of the Cinematograph Act in 1952, one central Central Board of Film Certification was established.

“Alam Ara” (1931) India’s First Talkie: Ardeshir Irani directed India’s first Sound movie “Alam Ara” in 1931. This movie was also the first movie to feature songs. “Alam Ara” set the template of songs in Hindi movie. One distinct element of Bollywood as compared to cinema of the rest of the world is the songs in Indian movies.

“Alam Ara” (1931) India’s First Sountrack: In addition to Alam Ara being India’s first talkie, it also was the first Indian film with songs. “De de khuda ke naam per” is the first song in Hindi films. There were 7 songs in the movie.

“Sham Sundar” (1932) – India’s First Silver Jubilee Film: Made by Producer Dadasaheb Torne, this Hindi and Marathi movie was released in 1932.

“Dokhtar-e-Lor” (1933) India’s First Persian Talkie: “Dokhtar-e-Lor” was the first Persian sound movie in India.

“Noor Jahan” (1934) India’s First English Language Film: Ardeshir Irani made Noor Jahan, India’s first English Langauge film.

“Hunterwali” (1935): Starring Fearless Nadia (Mary Ann Evans), this movie is among the earliest movies with a female lead in Hindi movies.

“Achhut Kanya” (1936): This bold film is a love story between an untouchable girl (Devika Rani) and a Brahmin boy (Ashok Kumar), a taboo subject in those days. This was Ashok Kumar second film. Earlier in 1936 he had made his debut in “Jeevan Naiya”.

“Kisan Kanya” (1937) India’s First Colour Feature Film: Once again Ardeshir Irani directed India’s first color feature film “Kisan Kanya”. V Shantaram’s “Sairandhri” (1935) was India’s first color film that was processed in Germany.

Lata Mangeshkar’s First Hindi Song (1943): Lata Mangeshkar’s first Hindi song “Mata Ek Sapoot Ki Duniya Badal De Tu” in 1943 was ironically for a Marathi film “Gajaabhaau”. The Mangeshkar sisters, Lata and Asha Bhosale, have sung the most number of Hindi songs. The versatile Lata Mangeshkar has sung songs in 20 Indian languages. Her contribution to Indian, especially Hindi cinema is immeasurable.

“Kismet” (1943) Ashok Kumar played an anti-hero for the first time: A big hit, this was probably the first time that the main hero (Ashok Kumar) played the role of an anti-hero in a Hindi Movie. Kismet also has an unmarried girl getting pregnant; themes that were bold for the 1940s. Ashok Kumar was considered a Superstar after this movie.

“Neecha Nagar” (1946) First Hindi Film to win the Palme d’Or at Cannes: Chetan Anand’s 1946 social film “Neecha Nagar” was the first Hindi Film to win the highest prize at Cannes, the “Palme d’Or” (Golden Palm).

First FilmFare Awards (1954): The first Filmfare Awards were given in 1954. The Best Film was “Do Bigha Zamin”. Best Director was Bimal Roy for “Do Bigha Zamin”. Best Actress was Meena Kumari for “Baiju Bawra” and Best Actor was Dilip Kumar for “Daag”. Dilip Kumar and Shahrukh Khan have won the maximum number of Best Actor Filmfare Awards with each winning 8.

“Mother India” (1957) India’s First Foreign Language Film nomination at the Oscars: Mother India was nominated in the Foreign Language Film category at the 30^th Oscars in 1957. Fedrico Fellini’s “The Nights of Cabiria” beat Mother India to the Oscar.

“Kaagaz Ke Phool” (1959) India’s First Cinemascope Movie: Guru Dutt’s masterpiece was India’s first Cinemascope film.

Golden Age of Hindi Cinema, from late 1940s to early 1960s: This period is considered the Golden Age of Hindi cinema. Famous movies during this era are Raj Kapoor’s Awaara (1951), Vijay Bhatt’s Baiju Bawra (1952), Bimal Roy’s Do Bhiga Zamin (1953), Bimal Roy’s Pareenita (1954), Satyajit Ray’s Pather Panchali (1955), Bimal Roy’s Devdas (1955), Raj Kapoor’s Shree 420 (1955), Mehboob Khan’s Mother India (1957), B R Chopra’s Naya Daur (1957), Guru Dutt’s Pyaasa (1957), Binal Roy’s Madhumati (1958), Shakti Samanta’s Howrah Bridge (1958), Guru Dutt’s Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959), BImal Roy’s Sujata (1959), K. Asif’s Mughal-e-Azam (1960). Famous Indian Hindi movie stars of this era were Dev Anand, Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor, Guru Dutt, Nargis, Madhubala, Meena Kumari, Vyjayanthimala, Nutan, Waheeda Rehman, Mala Sinha, etc. This period was also the era of Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor and Dev Anand.

“Yaadein” (1964) Hindi Movie with only Sunil Dutt in it: This was a unique movie produced and directed by Sunil Dutt which had only him in the movie. Nagris Dutt is also in the movie, but only her silhouette is seen. This movie finds a mention in the Guinness Book of World Records for the Fewest actors in a narrative film.

“Through the Eyes of a Painter” (1967) First Indian Film to Win Golden Bear at Berlin International Film Festival: Painter M F Hussain’s short film “Through the Eyes of a Painter” was the first film to win the highest award, Goldeb Bear for Short films, at the Berlin International Film Festival. There were no dialogues and the background music was composed by Elchuri Vijaya Raghava Rao

Dadasaheb Phalke Award instituted (1969): The government of India awarded the first Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1969 on the 100^th birth anniversary of Dadasaheb Phalke. It is a prestigious Lifetime Achievement award given for contribution to Indian cinema. The first recipient was Devika Rani Chaudhuri Roerich. Some famous recipients related to Hindi Cinema are Pankaj Mullick, Prithviraj Kapoor, Ruby Myers, Nitin Bose, Raichand Boral, Sohrab Modi, Naushad[,Durga Khote, V. Shantaram, Raj Kapoor, Ashok Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Bhupen Hazarika, Dilip Kumar, B. R. Chopra, Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Asha Bhosale, Yash Chopra, Dev Anand, Shyam Benegal, Manna Dey, Kavi Pradeep, K. Balachander.

Late 1960s to Early 1970s: Many romantic movies were made and romantic stars, such as Rajesh Khanna, Sanjeev Kumar, Dharmendra, Shashi Kapoor, Shammi Kapoor, Sharmila Tagore, Rakhee, Mumtaz, etc did well during this era. Action too became a part of the standard Hindi movie. Popular movies were Aradhana, Bandhan, Sachaa Jhutha, Kati Patang, Anand, Guddi, Amar Prem, Namak Haram, Roti, Phool Aur Patthar, Seeta Aur Geeta, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Dost, Chupke Chupke, Khilona, Sharmelee, Kabhi Kabhi, Jab Jab Phool Khile, An Evening in Paris, Brahmachari, Teesri Manzil, etc.

Salim-Javed in the 1970s: The decade of 1970s was when the writing partnership of Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar was at its peak. Practically all their movies during this period were hits. Salim and Javed played an important role in establishing Amitabh Bachchan as a superstar. He starred in many of their later films. Popular Salim-Javed films are Haathi Mere Saathi, Seeta Aur Geeta, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Zanjeer, Majboor, Deewar, Sholay, Chacha Bhatija, Don, Trishul, Kaala Patthar, Dostana, Shaan, Shakti.

Zanjeer (1973) Emergence of the Angry Young Man: Prakash Mehra and Salim-Javed’s Zanjeer saw the emergence of Amitabh Bachchan as the “angry young man”. It also marked a shift in Hindi cinema from romance to action.

Late 1970s to Late 1990s: This phase of Hindi cinema has not been artistically its best. Hindi cinema saw a large number of B grade action movies during this period. In the 1970s a parallel art cinema had started, but that fizzled out by the late 80s. In the late 80s and 90s, family dramas saw a return (Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Maine Pyar Kiya, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, etc). The early 1990s saw the emergence of today’s superstars – Shahrukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar.

“Chhota Chetan” (1984) First Hindi 3D movie: Actually this movie was a Malayalam film (“My Dear Kuttichaathan”) which was dubbed in Hindi.

“Salaam Bombay!” (1988) First Hindi Film to win Caméra d’Or at Cannes: Mira Nair’s Salaam Bombay! (1988) won the Caméra d’Or at Cannes. The Caméra d’Or (Golden Camera) is given awarded for the best first feature film. Salaam Bombay is only the second Hindi Film to be nominated for the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film.

Late 1990s and 2000s in Bollywood: Advent and success of multiplexes has allowed new directors and writers to create movies for niche audiences. Creative film makers who have done well are Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap, Aditya Chopra, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Rajkumar Hirani, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Farah khan, Milan Luthria, Ekta Kapoor.  Hindi movies have gone international and are now being viewed by the wide Indian diaspora. Technical Quality of Hindi movies has improved drastically and so has the marketing and publicity of movies. The first week of a film’s release has become critical for the producer. Artists are now open to try out new and sometimes risqué stories.

“Monsoon Wedding” First Hindi Film to win the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival: Mira Nair’s 2001 “Monsoon Wedding” won the first Hindi Film to win the prestigious highest prize, the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. Previously Satyajit Ray had won it in 1957 for his Bengali film “Aparajito (The Unvanquished)”.

Slumdog Millionaire (2008) Wins Best Original Song and Music and Best Original Score Oscars: “Jai Ho” was the first Hindi song to win an Oscar for Best Original Score for A. R. Rahman and Gulzar (lyricist).

“Ghajani” (2008) First Bollywood movie to earn more than Rs 100 crore: A. R. Murugadoss directed Ghajani was a Hindi remake of his own Tamil movie by the same name. Aamir Khan plays the role of hero who suffers from short term memory loss.

New generation of Hindi Cinema artist from the Film fraternity: Many Hindi movie artist are second or third generation film family people. Actors/actresses whose parents have been in the industry include Salman Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Karishma Kapoor, Tushar Kapoor, Sonam, Kajol, Rani Mukerji, Hrithik Roshan, Sanjay Dutt, Aamir Khan, Esha Deol, Saif Ali Khan, Soha Ali Khan, Sharman Joshi, Kunal Kapoor, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Abhay Deol, Imran Khan, Farhan Akhtar, Konkana Sen Sharma, Akshaye Khanna, Shahid Kapoor, Shazahn Padamsee, Vivek Oberoi, Fardeen Khan. Second/Third generation writers, directors, producers include Zoya Akhtar, Farhan Akhtar, Ekta Kapoor, Rohit Shetty, Arbaaz Khan, Sohail Khan, Karan Johar, Aditya Chopra, Bappa Lahiri, Sooraj Bharjatia, Arjun Kapoor, Rohit Dhawan, Ayan Mukerji, Shaad Ali, Sajid Nadiadwala.

All Colleges in Mumbai are listed below. Listing is on the basis of college location and courses/degrees taught (Science, Commerce, Arts, Medicine, Engineering, Management and Law).

Science Colleges in Mumbai (BSc, MSc, PhD)

These Mumbai colleges offer BSc, MSc, PhD Degrees and Diplomas for Science courses ranging from Biology, Zoology, Physics, Chemistry, Computers, Information Technology (IT), Home Science, etc.

Commerce Colleges in Mumbai (BCom, MCom, PhD)

Below Mumbai colleges offer BCom, MCom, PhD Degrees for Commerce courses. Some of these education institutions also offer Bachelor in Management Studies (BMS).

Arts Colleges in Mumbai (BA, MA, PhD)

Following Mumbai colleges offer BA, MA, PhD Degrees for Art courses ranging from Literature, History, Sociology, Music, Mass Media, Journalism, etc.

Engineering Colleges in Mumbai (BE, BTech, ME, MTech)

Mumbai colleges listed below offer BE, BTech, ME, MTech Degrees and Diplomas from Engineering courses ranging from Computers, Electronics, Chemical, Information Technology (IT), Civil, Mechanical, Production, Medical Instrumentation, Automobile, etc.

Management Colleges in Mumbai (MBA, MMS, PGDM)

Following Mumbai colleges offer MBA, MMS, PGDM, PGDMM Degrees for Management courses ranging from Finance, Marketing, HR, etc.

Medical Colleges in Mumbai (MBBS, MS, MD)

These Mumbai colleges offer MBBS, MS, MD, BPharm Degrees for courses in Medicine for doctors, surgeons, pharmacist, etc.

Law Colleges in Mumbai (LLB)

Below mentioned Mumbai colleges that offer LLB Degrees for law courses.

Most of the above colleges are affiliated to Mumbai University.

• Obama at St Xavier’s Mumbai: Image taken from Wikimedia Commons. Image by The White House from Washington, DC. Official White House Photo by Pete Souza.
• Inside St Xavier’s, Mumbai: Wikimedia Commons Image by Someone200. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.
• VJTI Image: Image from Wikimedia Commons by Vjtidemo. Image certified under GNU Free Documentation License, Version 1.2.
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2013 Mumbai Monsoon High Tide Dates That Can Cause Floods

Listed below are High Tide Dates during Mumbai’s Rainy Season when the tide is over 4.5 meters. These are the 18 Most Dangerous Dates of the 2013 Mumbai Monsoon, from a flooding point of view. A combination of HEAVY RAIN and HIGH TIDE can cause flooding in Mumbai. When sea High Tide is above 4.50 meters, BMC closes Mumbai’s storm water drain gates to prevent sea water from coming into the streets of Mumbai.

June 2013 – Dangerous High Tide and Flooding Dates in Mumbai

2013 Mumbai Rainy Season has 18 days when the High Tide level is 4.50 meters and more. Of these, 23 June (4.86 m), 24 June (5.0 m), 25 June (5.03 m), 26 June (4.94 m), 23 July (4.91 m), 24 July (4.95 m) and 25 July (4.88 m) are the most risky from a flooding point of view.

July 2013 – Risky High Tide and Flooding Dates in Mumbai

August 2013 – Dangerous High Tide, Flood Dates in Mumbai

BMC’s Disaster Management Cell (Phone 108)

During the Mumbai Monsoon season, Mumbai’s Municipality (BMC) operates a special Disaster Management Cell. In case of any emergency (flooding, broken tree, open drain, collapsed road, etc), residents can call BMC’s Disaster Management Cell on 108. The cell will in turn inform the relevant ward office where the crisis has taken place.

1916 is another number that Mumbai residents can call in case of rain related problems.

BMC, Ward-wise Telephone Numbers, for Monsoon Emergency

Listed below are the Mumbai BMC ward control room numbers that residents can call in case of monsoon related accidents and emergencies.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Water Levels in Mumbai’s Lakes
• Low Lying Flood prone areas in Mumbai and Advise for the Rains

Image by Amit Upadhyay. Image used under Creative Commons license CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

• Please visit this link for – 2014 Monsoon Rainfall and Water Level in Mumbai’s Lakes.

Water Level in Mumbai’s Lakes in 2013

(Mumbai Lake Level as on 15 September, 2013)

(Figures are in Meters, except “USABLE WATER”, which is in Million Litres)

• As on 15 September, 2013, the total usable water in Mumbai’s 7 lakes was 1,207,160 million liters. This is more or less similar to the lake levels at this time of the year in 2012.
• Mumbai’s 7 lakes have a total usable water quantity of 1,454,700 million litres.
• Bhatsa Lake is the Most Important Lake for Mumbai since it supplies over 40% of Mumbai’s lake water. Although Bhatsa Lake has a total capacity of around 942,000 million litres, not all of it is for Mumbai.
• Middle Vaitarna Lake is Mumbai’s Second Most Important Lake. A 50 meter road bridge across the Middle Vaitarna Dam has just been completed by the PWD. With the completion of the road, BMC will start filling the Middle Vaitarna Dam; but since it is late in the monsoon season, this dam may not fill to its full capacity. The PWD road is 2 years behind schedule.
• Mumbai’s Monsoon season has started 1-2 days ahead of schedule. Rains in Mumbai in June and July, 2013 were higher than average, but below average in August.
• In 2012, rains started late and water levels in Mumbai’s 7 lakes were very low in June and July, 2012. BMC had imposed a 10% reduction in water supplied to Mumbai until mid September. Late rains in August and September of 2012 helped fill up Mumbai’s lakes.
• Of the seven lakes that supply water to Mumbai, only Vihar and Tulsi Lakes are within Mumbai. This link has information on Mumbai’s Lakes.

2013 Actual Vs Normal Rainfall Level in Mumbai

(Figures in MM)

• On an average, Mumbai receives 2,200 mm of rains a year during the Monsoon season.
• Apart from 1971, this year’s June month rainfall level has been been the highest in 50 years.
• The wettest date in the 2013 Mumbai Monsoon season was on 10 June, 2013. Colaba received 91 mm and Santacruz received 181 mm of rain on that day.
• Mumbai’s monsoon season has started well; though a little ahead of schedule.
• The first two weeks saw heavy rains, followed by a lull in the monsoon. Week from the 19 July to 25 July saw the highest weekly rainfall in 2013.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Dangerous High tide dates in 2013, Mumbai Monsoon
• Pictures of Mumbai Hill Stations in the Rain
• Mumbai Lake Levels in 2012

Image by Elroy Serrao. Image used under Creative Commons license CC BY-SA 2.0.

Article has 2014 List of Holidays, both Public and Bank Holidays, in Maharashtra, Mumbai and India. “Gazetted Holidays” and “Restricted Holidays” dates for Indian Central Government employees are listed below.

2014 Public Holiday Dates in Maharashtra and Mumbai

-8d>Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj J

Bank Holidays in 2014 in Maharashtra and Mumbai

In addition to the above Government Holidays, Banks in Maharashtra and Mumbai will be closed on the following Bank Holidays in 2014. Banks settle their financial accounts on these days.

2014 Holidays that Fall On Sundays

The following public holidays in 2014 are on a Sunday, which is in any case a government holiday in Mumbai and Maharashtra.

2014 Government List of Holidays in India and its States

The below 14 “Gazetted Holidays” in 2014 are compulsory holidays for all Central Government of India employees both at the Centre and in the States.

2014 “Gazetted Holidays” List in India – List of Holidays in India

2014 “Restricted Holidays” Dates in India

In addition to the above 14 Indian “Gazetted Holidays” in 2014, State Governments have the flexibility to choose three more holidays from the below list as Gazette Holidays in their states.

Over and above this, government employees in India have the flexibility to choose two additional holidays in 2014 from the below list of “Restricted Holidays”.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Diwali in Mumbai
• Ganesh Chaturthi and Ganpati Visarjan in Mumbai
• Navratri, Garba and Dandiya Raas in Mumbai
• List of Holidays in India, Maharashtra and Mumbai in 2013

IMAGES:

• Image 1 (Holi): Image by Paina Uttar Pradesh. Image taken from Wikimedia Commons. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.
• Image 2 (Republic Day): Image by Anthony Majanlahti. Image taken from Wikimedia Commons. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license.
• Image 3 (Durga Pooja): Image by Dipankan001. Image taken from Wikimedia Commons. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

Results (Seats, Votes) of 2014  Mumbai Lok Sabha Elections

Mumbai’s 2014-19 MPs: Winners of 2014 Lok Sabha Seats in Mumbai

Following are the 6 Members of Parliament (MP) from Mumbai, for the 2014 – 2019 Lok Sabha (16th Lok Sabha).

Profiles, votes polled and contact information of Mumbai’s MPs are listed below.

Votes Polled by Political Parties in he 2014 Central Elections

Table has the number of seats won and the votes polled by political parties in Mumbai during the 2014 Central Government Elections (Lok Sabha).

Party-Wise Votes Polled in 2014 General Elections in Mumbai

16^th Lok Sabha (2014) Winners (MP) and Candidates from Mumbai’s six Lok Sabha constituencies are listed below. Profiles of Mumbai’s 16th Lok Sabha (2014 – 2019) winners/candidates, including their contact details, education, assets, criminal records, political careers, family details and number of votes polled, are in the article. Information has been taken from the Form 26 (rule 4A) filed by Mumbai’s Lok Sabha candidates.

Votes Polled in Mumbai Lok Sabha 2014 Elections

1. Number of eligible voters in Mumbai for Lok Sabha Elections 2014 = 98 Lakh (95.74 Lakh in 2009)
2. Voter turnout in Mumbai for Lok Sabha Elections 2014 = 50.8 lakh (5.08 million) (39.65 lakh in 2009)
3. Percentage of Votes polled in Mumbai for Lok Sabha Elections 2014 = 51.8 % (41.4% in 2009)

Table has Mumbai Lok Sabha Constitiency-wise percentage of votes polled during Lok Sabha Elections 2014. It also has Mumbai assembly-wise voter turnout.

1. Mumbai Lok Sabha constituency with highest percentage of votes was Mumbai South Central with 53.3%, followed by Mumbai North East with 52.7%
2. Mumbai state assembly seats with the highest percentage of votes polled during 2014 Lok Sabha Elections was Wadala with 62.56%, followed by Mahim; both from Mumbai South Central.
3. Mumbai assembly constitiency with the least percentage of voter turnout was Mankhurd-Shivajinagar (Mumbai North East) with 40.8%, followed by Chandivli (Mumbai North Central) with 42.7%.

Details of Winners, Candidates of Lok Sabha 16 (2014) from Mumbai

Polling for Mumbai’s 6 Lok Sabha seats will be held on 24 April, 2014, which is Phase 6 of the 2014 Indian Lok Sabha elections. Counting for Mumbai’s constituencies will be held on 16 May, 2014.

Mumbai South Lok Sabha 2014 Election: Info on Winner and Candidates

Mumbai South Lok Sabha Constituency consists of the following Legislative areas – 182. Worli, 183. Shivadi, 184. Byculla, 185. Malabar Hill, 186. Mumbadevi and 187. Colaba

In the 15th Lok Sabha (2009), Milind Deora of “Indian National Congress” (INC) was the winner having polled 2,72,411 votes (42.48%). His nearest rivals were Bala Nandgaonkar of Maharastra Navnirman Sena with 1,59,729 votes (24.91%), followed by Mohan Rawale of Shiv Sena with 1,46,118 votes (22.78%).

Mumbai South Central Lok Sabha 2014: Winning MP and Candidates

Mumbai South Central Lok Sabha  constituency consists of these Legislative Assembly constituencies - 172. Anushakti Nagar, 173. Chembur, 178. Dharavi (SC), 179. Sion Koliwada, 180. Wadala and 181.Mahim.

In the 15th Lok Sabha (2009), Eknath Gaikwad of “Indian National Congress” (INC) was the winner having polled 2,57,165 votes (43.00%). His nearest rivals were Suresh Gambhir of Shiv Sena with 1,81,524 votes (30.35%), followed by Shweta Parulkar of Maharastra Navnirman Sena (MNS) with 1,08,727 votes (18.10%).

Mumbai North Central Lok Sabha 2014: Info on Winner and Candidates

Mumbai North Central Lok Sabha constituency consists of 167. Vile Parle, 168. Chandivali, 174. Kurla (SC), 176. Vandre East, 177. Vandre West and 175. Kalina, Legislative constituencies.

Sanju Verma, CEO and MD of Violet Arch, was an independent Lok Sabha candidate from Mumbai North Central Lok Sabha constituency. She is a high profile candidate who has moved from a successful corporate profession to politics.

In the 15th Lok Sabha (2009), Priya Sunil Dutt of “Indian National Congress” (INC) was the winner having polled 3,19,352 votes (48.04%). Her nearest rivals were Mahesh Ram Jethmalani of BJP with 1,44,797 votes (21.78%), followed by Shilpa Sarpotdar of Maharastra Navnirman Sena (MNS) with 1,32,555 votes (19.94%).

Mumbai North West Lok Sabha 2014: Info on Winning MP and Candidates

Mumbai North West Lok Sabha  constituency consists of these Legislative Assembly constituencies - 158. Jogeshwari East, 159. Dindoshi, 163. Goregaon, 164. Versova, 165. Andheri West and 166. Andheri East.

Rakhi Sawant was the candidate from “Rashtriya Aam Party”, a party that she has started.

Kamaal Rashid Khan was the Samajwadi Party candidate. He is an actor, producer, director.

In the 15th Lok Sabha (2009), Gurudas Kamat of “Indian National Congress” (INC) was the winner having polled 2,53,899 votes (35.91%). His nearest rivals were Gajanan Kirtikar of Shiv Sena with 2,15,484 votes (30.48%), followed by Shalini Thackeray of Maharastra Navnirman Sena (MNS) with 1,23,885 votes (17.52%).

Mumbai North Lok Sabha 2014 Election: Info on Winner and Candidates

Mumbai North Lok Sabha  constituency consists of these Legislative Assembly constituencies - 152. Borivali, 153. Dahisar, 154 Magathane, 160. Kandivali East, 161. Charkop and 162. Malad West.

In the 15th Lok Sabha (2009), Gurudas Kamat of “Indian National Congress” (INC) was the winner having polled 2,53,899 votes (35.91%). His nearest rivals were Gajanan Kirtikar of Shiv Sena with 2,15,484 votes (30.48%), followed by Shalini Thackeray of Maharastra Navnirman Sena (MNS) with 1,23,885 votes (17.52%).

Mumbai North East Lok Sabha 2014: Info on Winning MP, Candidates

Mumbai North East Lok Sabha  constituency consists of these Legislative Assembly constituencies - 155 Mulund, 156. Vikhroli, 157. Bhandup West, 169. Ghatkopar West, 170. Ghatkopar East and 171 Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar.

In the 15th Lok Sabha (2009), Sanjay Dina Patil of “Nationalist Congress Party” (NCP) was the winner having polled 2,13,505 votes (32.60%). His nearest rivals were Kirit Somaiya of BJP with 2,10,572 votes (32.15%), followed by Shishir Shinde of Maharastra Navnirman Sena (MNS) with 1,95,148 votes (29.79%).

El Niño in 2014 – 2015 and its Effect on India

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that there is a possibility of El Niño occurring in 2014-15 and this may adversely impact the South-West Monsoon. According to the Indian MET department, there is a 70% chance of an El-Nino from August, 2014.

Q] What is El Niño? How and Where does El Nino Occur?

• When the surface temperature of the Pacific Ocean increases above the average, for a prolonged period of time, it is defined as “El Nino”. During El Nino, surface temperature of the Pacific Ocean increases by over 0.5° Celsius. “La Niña” is the reverse phenomenon; when the surface temperature of the Pacific Ocean cools below the average temperature.
• El Niño and La Niña typically last for nine to twelve months, although they can even last up to four years.
• Usually El Nino starts to form between June and August. El Nino (and La Nina) usually reach their pinnacle between December and April and start to fade away between May and July.
• Typically El-Nino occurs in intervals of two to seven years. El Nino occurs more often than La Nina.
• El Niño is also known as “El Niño Southern Oscillation” (ENSO).

What is the impact of El Niño on India’s Monsoon Season & Economy?

• Effect of El Niño in India is that India may receive below normal rainfall. El Nino caused droughts in India in 2002, 2004 and 2009. Over half of the major droughts in India the last 140 years have coincided with El Nino (please see para on Historical Impact of El-Nino).
• In case 2014 rainfall is below normal, the “Kharif” (July to October) crop may suffer, leading to reduced food production, which in turn may lead to food inflation. Reduced agricultural activity has an effect on other aspects of the economy, especially India’s rural economy. Many Indian industries (textile, construction, power, etc) are dependent on water; hence El-Niño can have an adverse impact on the Indian economy.
• This example from previous El Nina years will give the readers some idea on the impact of El Niño on agriculture and food production – Pulses grown during the “Kharif” season are heavily dependent on rain. During the 2002, 2004 and 2009 El Niño years, Indian production of pulses during the “Kharif” season was lower by 14, 23 and 27 per cent respectively.
• Since El- Niño affects global rainfall, global output of food grains maybe impacted. This may increase food prices all over the world.
• Another effect of El Nino is that there is an increase in incidents of mosquito related diseases, such as malaria, dengue, etc.
• Globally, Western part of South America gets more rain and warmer weather during El Nino, whereas South Asia, South-East Asia, Eastern Africa and Australia receive less rain fall than average. 1997 – 1998 experienced the worst El Nino in recent years; it is estimated that 24,000 people died in climate related events related to the El-Nino.
• This is an example of how El-Nino in other parts of the world has an impact on India – India imports agricultural products, such as palm oil from South East Asia (especially Malaysia). If Malaysia experiences El Nino related drought, prices of agricultural produce, such as palm oil, may go up. This may also have an adverse impact on other commodity prices too. Prices of crops such as sugarcane, rice, coffee, wheat, etc, that are grown in large quantities in South Asia and South East Asia are expected to go up.
• Typically, La-Nina tends to be beneficial for India. 2009 – 2010 was an El Niño year which caused a below normal monsoon in India (23% below normal). 2010 – 2011 was a La Niña year, where the South-East monsoon was prolonged and India received above average rainfall.

How will the 2014 El Nino Effect Mumbai?

• If El Niño leads to reduced rains In Mumbai, the Mumbai lakes may not fill up to their capacity. This can lead to water cuts in the city of Mumbai.
• El-Nino tends to increase the incidences of mosquito related illnesses. Almost half of Mumbai’s population lives in slums, where sanitation conditions are not good. These factors increase the possibility of a Malaria or Dengue outbreak in Mumbai, during the Monsoon season.

Past Historical Impact of El Nino on Rainfall levels in India

In the 20^th and 21^st century there were 26 occurrences of El Nino -  1902-1903, 1905-1906, 1911-1912, 1914-1915, 1918-1919, 1923-1924, 1925-1926, 1930-1931, 1932-1933, 1939-1940, 1941-1942, 1951-1952, 1953-1954, 1957-1958, 1965-1966, 1969-1970, 1972-1973, 1976-1977, 1982-1983, 1986-1987, 1991-1992, 1994-1995, 1997-1998, 2002-2003, 2004-2005 and 2009-2010.

Historical data from the “Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology” shows the following:

• From 1870 to 2009, there have been 23 El Nino years when rainfall in India has been below the average. During this period, there have been only 5 El Nino years when rainfall has been above the average.
• From 1870 to 2009, there have been 20 La Nina years when rainfall in India has been above the average. During this period, there have been only 2 La Niña years when rainfall has been below the average.
• From 1870 to 2010 India had 24 major drought years – 1873, 1877, 1899, 1901, 1904, 1905, 1911, 1918, 1920, 1941, 1951, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1972, 1974, 1979, 1982, 1985, 1986, 1987, 2002, 2004, 2009.
• Of these 24 drought years, 13 occurred during years that coincided with El Nino (1877, 1899, 1905, 1918, 1951, 1964, 1968, 1972, 1982, 1987, 2002 and 2009). Over half the times that India has experienced drought since 1870 have been in El Nino years.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• Mumbai Monsoon 2014: Mumbai Lake Levels, Flood Risk High Tide Dates
• Western Ghat Hills Stations, Near Mumbai, in the Rains
• Mumbai Monsoon Pictures
• Mumbai Lake Levels in 2013

IMAGES:

• Dry river bed Darcha, HP: Image by Anks. Image is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0). Image has been altered. Original image at https://www.flickr.com/photos/anks/2937505134/in/photostream/
• Drought in Karnataka: Image by Pushkarv. Image taken from Wikimedia Commons. Image is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license. Image has been altered.

2015 List of Public Holidays, Bank Holidays and Government Holidays in Maharashtra, Mumbai and India are listed below. Dates for “Gazetted Holidays” and “Restricted Holidays” in 2015, for Indian Central Government employees are also listed below.

2014 Public and Bank Holiday Dates in Mumbai and Maharashtra

Dates of Public, Bank and Government Holidays in 2015, for Mumbai and Maharashtra, are listed below.

Public and Government Holidays in 2015 in Maharashtra and Mumbai

Bank Holidays in 2015 in Maharashtra, Mumbai and India

• Navratri and Garba Celebrations in Mumbai
• 2014 Dates of Public and Bank Holidays in Mumbai, Maharashtra

The 7 lakes supplying water to Mumbai have water only for 100 days. Mumbai lake levels and Actual Vs Normal rainfall are listed below.

Mumbai Lake Level: Latest Water Level in Mumbai’s Lakes, in 2014.

Water in Mumbai’s 7 Lakes as on 27 July, 2014.

[Mcum = Million Cubic Metre]
NOTE: In column 2, the “LAKE LEVEL” in brackets are 2013 water levels in Mumbai’s lakes.

• There is only 100 days of usable water in Mumbai’s lakes.
• Usable water in lakes and dams that supply water to Mumbai is 351,000 million litres. At the same time in 2013, Mumbai’s lakes had 1,130,000 million litres. There is a severe shortage of water this year.
• BMC, which manages water supply to Mumbai, has cut water supply by 20% to residential consumers and between 50% to 100% for commercial consumers.

Water Supplied By Mumbai’s Lakes and Mumbai’s Water Requirement

• Mumbai requires 4,200 million liters of water every day.
• BMC only supplies around 3,500 million liters of water daily to Mumbai; which is approximately 80% of Mumbai’s water requirement. The balance water is supplied by tankers, wells, rain water harvesting and water tubes. Mumbai has around 18,000 wells.
• BMC supplies 135 litres daily per person to housing societies, 135 litres daily per bed to hotels, 45 litres per person in slums and 70 litres per table in restaurants.
• As per BMC’s estimate the 135 litres supplied to each residential user is used for “Drinking” (10 litres), “Cooking” (10 liters), “Toilet (Flush)” (40 litres), “Laundry” (35 liters), “Personal hygiene” (30 litres) and “Others” (10 liters). Over 85% of water is used for non-cooking/drinking (potable) purposes.
• 1,454,700 million litres is the total usable water capacity of Mumbai’s 7 lakes and dams.
• Bhatsa Lake and Dam is the most important of Mumbai’s lakes. It supplies 40% of Mumbai’s BMC lake water.
• Middle Vaitarna Dam and Lake is the second most important water body for Mumbai. After missing deadlines, it was finally commissioned in 2013.
• In its search for water, BMC is planning the Pinjal Dam project, which is expected to be completed by 2022. Pinjal Dam will be connected to the Damanganga project. A 65 Km tunnel will connect Pinjal Dam to the Bhandup water treatment plant. The Rs 15,000 core Pinjal Dam is expected to supply 1,000 million litres of water daily to Mumbai.
• Asia’s largest complex water treatment plant is at Bhandup in East Mumbai. The Bhandup water treatment plant has a daily capacity to treat 2,100 million liters of water.
• Of the 7 lakes, only Vihar Lake and Tulsi Lake are within Mumbai.
• Navi Mumbai residents get water from Dehrang Dam in Panvel.

Mumbai Rainfall Level: Actual Vs Normal (Average) Rain in Mumbai.

In the last 3 weeks the rainfall level in Mumbai (Colaba) has changed from a deficit of 87% to a surplus of 9% and in Santacruz from a deficit of 83% to a surplus of 1%. Of late, even though the Mumbai lake catchment areas have received heavy rainfall, the low water levels in Mumbai’s lakes is still a concern.
Due to “El Nino”, rains during the 2014 Monsoon season in Mumbai (and India) are expected to be below normal.
 
 

High Tide Dates in 2014 Mumbai Monsoons that are a Flooding Risk

• In 2014, there are 23 days during Mumbai’s Monsoon season when high tide level will be over the danger mark of 4.5 meters. The maximum High Tide level of 5.0 meters will be on 14 July, 2014.
• Listed below are Mumbai Monsoon 2014 dates when the High Tide Levels in the Arabian Sea will be more than 4.5 metre. From a flooding perspective, these are the most dangerous or risky days during the 2014 Mumbai Rainy season.
• Excessive rain water in Mumbai is drained into the sea. When the Arabian Sea levels go over 4.50 metres, the BMC has to take a decision whether to close the storm drains to prevent sea water from entering into the city of Mumbai.
• If the Mumbai storm drains are closed on days when there is HEAVY RAIN and HIGH TIDE LEVELS are very high, then there is no outlet for rain water. This can cause floods in Mumbai.
• Mumbai residents are advised to be cautious on the High Tide dates and time listed below.

JUNE 2014: Dangerous High Tide Dates During Mumbai Monsoon

JULY 2014: High Tide Dates and Time that can cause Flood in Mumbai

AUGUST 2014: Dangerous High Tide and Flooding Days in Mumbai

SEPTEMBER 2014: Risky High Tide Dates During Mumbai Rainy Season

Effect of 2014 El Nino on India (and Mumbai)

• El Niño occurs when the surface temperature of the Pacific Ocean, mainly the Equatorial Pacific Ocean, increases by over 0.5°Celsius.
• When El-Nino occurs, India, South Asia, South-East Asia, Australia and EasteramAfrica receive below average rffall. On the other hand, Western South America and North America receives above average rains.
• The seven lakes that provide water to Mumbai may not fill up to capacity in case Mumbai’s rainfall is below average. This may lead to water cuts in the future.
• Typically El Nino starts between June and August, reaches its peak between December and April and fades away between May and July.
• Visit this link for further information on what is El Nino and its affect on India and its Economy.

BMC’s Disaster Management Cell and Ward-wise Telephone Numbers

• 108 is the BMC’s Disaster Management Cell’s contact number.
• During the Mumbai Monsoon Season, “Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation” (BMC) operates a special Disaster Management Cell. Also at the BMC ward level there are special telephone numbers set up for the Mumbai rainy season.
• The Disaster Management Cell handles rain related emergencies, such as open drains, broken trees, flooding, damaged roads, etc.
• In case of excessive flooding and rains, BMC issues caution and closure notice to the general public and education institutions, such as schools and colleges.

BMC Ward Telephone Numbers for Emergencies During Mumbai Monsoon

Mumbai’s Low Lying Areas that are at risk of Flooding in the Rains

DILAPIDATED BUILDING IN MUMBAI: In 2014, BMC has identified 1,236 dilapidated buildings in Mumbai, against 959 in 2013. Of these the maximum number of dilapidated buildings (129) are in “B” ward (D’Mello road, Bhendi Bazar, Abdul Rehman Street), followed by “P-North” ward (Malad) (116), “K-West” ward (Andheri West, Oshiwara) (94), “E” Ward (Byculla, Raey Road) (90) and “L” ward (Kurla) (89). Most of Mumbai’s dilapidated buildings are in Mumbai city (539), followed by Western suburbs (459) and the Eastern suburb (238).

LAND SLIDE ACCIDENT PRONE SITES IN MUMBAI: In 2014, BMC has identified 266 sites that are at risk from landslide. “S” ward (Bhandup) has 148 such spots.

LOW LYING FLOOD RISK PLACES IN MUMBAI: In 2014, BMC has identified 222 water logging sites. 2013 too had the same figure. Parel to Sion, Kurla, Malad, Goregaon and Borivali have the maximum number of sites at risk from water-logging and flood.

Listed below are some of Mumbai’s low-lying areas:

• Colaba, near Badhwar Park
• Cotton Exchange (Kalbadevi)
• Girgaon Khetwadi
• Napean Sea Road
• Keshavrao Khade Marg
• Grant Road
• Nana Chowk
• Tardeo
• Worli Naka
• Senapati Bapat Marg
• E Moses Road
• Mumbai Central
• Nagpada
• Pydhonie and Null Bazaar
• Saat Rasta, Jacob Circle (Mahalaxmi Station)
• N M Joshi Marg
• Lalbaug
• Byculla Station
• Kalachowkie Junction
• Albert Circle
• Hindmata to Bharatmata (Parel)
• Dadar Chowpatty
• Khar Danda
• Khar Subway
• Milan Subway (Santacruz)
• Kalina
• Andheri Subway
• SV Road Andheri Market to Amboli Naka
• JP Road Junction
• JVPD Circle
• Nirlon Company, Goregaon
• Malad Subway
• Dahisar Subway
• Kranti Nagar
• Dharavi
• Mahim LJ Road
• Sitladevi Temple Road
• Dadar Circle
• King’s Circle (Matunga)
• Sion
• Mahendra Park
• Ghatkopar
• Chembur, Shell Colony
• Deonar
• Kurla
• LBS Marg Kurla
• Surve Chowk
• Sanjay Nagar
• Sunder Park
• Jai Bharat Society
• Khar (W)
• JVPD scheme (Juhu)
• Four Bungalows (Versova)
• Seven Bungalows (Versova)
• Kandivali
• Shastri Nagar
• Sarvodaya Nagar

RELATED ARTICLES:

• El Niño 2014: Impact On Monsoon In India And Indian Economy
• Western Ghat Hills Stations, Near Mumbai, in the Rains
• Mumbai Monsoon Pictures
• Mumbai Lake Levels in 2013

IMAGES:

• “Heavy rains revisist Bombay” Image by Hitesh Ashar. Image is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0). Image has been altered. Original image at https://www.flickr.com/photos/asharism/30476937/in/photostream/
• “Monsoon clouds arriving in Mumbai” Image by Karthikndr. Image is taken from Wikimedia Commons. Image is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license. Image has been altered.

Below tables have the list of candidates and winners for the 2014 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (MLA) Elections, scheduled for 15^th October, 2014. These candidates and winners for the 2014 Maharashtra State Elections (Maharashtra Vidhan Sabha) are from constituencies in Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai and Raigad.

Candidates for Maharashtra State Election 2014 From Mumbai, Thane

Mumbai Candidates for Maharashtra MLA Elections 2014

PLEASE NOTE: The party listed first in each row won this MLA seat during the 2009 state elections.
 

Candidates from Mumbai Suburbs for 2014 Maharashtra MLA Elections

PLEASE NOTE: The party listed first in each row won this seat during the 2009 state elections.

2014 Vidhan Sabha Candidates from Thane, Navi Mumbai, Palghar

Winners of the 2014 Maharashtra State Legislature (MLA) Elections

Mumbai Winners of 2014 Maharashtra State Legislature Elections

Mumbai Suburban Winners of 2014 Maharashtra State (MLA) Elections

Thane Winners of 2014 Maharashtra State (MLA) Elections

Raigad Winners of 2014 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Elections

RELATED ARTICLES:

• 2014 Mumbai Lok Sabha Winners, with their profiles

Listed below are the flood risk dates (high tide over 4.5 meter) for 2015 Monsoon in Mumbai. Also listed are the latest water levels in Mumbai’s lakes in 2015 and the Actual Vs Normal rainfall in 2015 in Mumbai.

Flood Risk Dates In 2015 Mumbai Monsoon Due to High Tide Over 4.5M

In Mumbai rain water flows into the Arabian Sea through the drain system. When high tide in the sea is over 4.5 meters, there is danger of sea water entering Mumbai via the drain pipes. In such situations Mumbai’s Municipal Corporation (BMC) closes the storm drains. When this happens, there is no exit for Mumbai’s rain water. When rainfall is heavy and high tide is over 4.5 meters, there is a high probability of flooding in Mumbai.

Listed below are the 36 flood risk dates and time when Mumbai is at risk of flooding during the 2015 Monsoon season.

JUNE 2015: Risky High Tide Dates During 2015 Mumbai Rains

JULY 2015: Flood Risk High Tide Dates in 2015 Mumbai Rainy Season

AUGUST 2015: Flood Risk High Tide Dates During Mumbai Monsoon

SEPTEMBER 2015: Dangerous High Tide Dates in 2015 Mumbai Rains

Latest Water Levels In Mumbai’s Lakes

Listed below are the latest 2015 water levels in the lakes that supply water to Mumbai city.

[Mcum = Million Cubic Metre]

Except for Modak Sagar and Middle Vaitarna, the water in Mumbai’s lakes is less than the 5 year average.

Mumbai’s Daily Water Requirements And Water From Mumbai’s Lakes

• Mumbai City’s daily water requirement is 4,200 million liters. Mumbai’s Municipality (BMC) supplies only 3,500 to 3,750 million liters of water per day. The gap between demand and supply is met by tankers, wells, bore wells, rain water harvesting, etc.
• Formula used by BMC to determine daily water requirement in Mumbai is 135 litres per person in housing societies, 45 litres per person in slums (almost 50% of Mumbai),135 litres per hotel bed and 70 litres per restaurant table.
• With a capacity to filter 2,100 million liters of water per day, the Bhandup water treatment plant is the largest such treatment plant in Asia.
• 7 lakes that supply water to Mumbai are Bhatsa Lake, Upper Vaitarna,Middle Vaitarna,,Tansa Lake, ModakSagar Lake, TulsiLake and ViharLake. The total annual water capacity of these 7 lakes is 14,47,000 million liters. Of these 7 lakes, only Tulsi Lake and Vihar Lake are within Mumbai city.
• Damanganga – Wagh – Pinjal water linking project and the Gargai project are the major new projects to increase water supply to Mumbai. For the Damanganga–Wagh-Pinjal Project, water from Damanganga River (in Gujarat), Wagh River and Pinjal River (both in Maharashtra) will be diverted to Mumbai using 3 dams and 2 tunnels. This will augment Mumbai’s water supply by a massive 1,600 million liters per day. An additional 865 million liters per day will be supplied once the Pinjal Dam is complete. The Gargai Dam project will increase Mumbai’s daily water supply by 227 million liters.
• Navi Mumbai gets water from Dehrang Dam in Panvel and Pune gets water from Panshet Dam and Khadakwasla Dam.

Latest Mumbai Rainfall Level: Actual Vs Normal Rain in Mumbai

Table contains the latest 2015 rainfall level in Mumbai. Table has the Actual Rainfall Vs Average (Normal) Rainfall in Mumbai.

Every year Colaba (South Mumbai) gets an annual average of 2220 millimeters of rain and Santacruz (Central Mumbai) gets an annual average of 2598 millimeters of rain.

• Pictures of Mumbai Hill Stations in the Rain
• Low Lying Areas in Mumbai that are at risk of flooding
• Top 10 Best Hill Stations Near Mumbai

2016 Public Holidays, Bank Holidays and Government Holidays in Maharashtra, Mumbai and India are listed below.

With 8 holidays on either Monday or Friday, there are many long weekends in 2016.

2016 Bank, Public Holiday Dates in Mumbai and Maharashtra

Listed below are the dates of Bank Holidays, Public Holidays and Government Holidays in Mumbai and Maharashtra, in the year 2016.

2016 List Of Holidays In Maharashtra And Mumbai

Bank Holidays in 2016 in Maharashtra, Mumbai and India

Holidays In 2016 In India That Fall On Sunday

• Best and Most Famous Ganpati Idols in Mumbai in 2014
• Best and Most Famous Ganpati Idols in Mumbai in 2013
• Best and Most Famous Ganpati Idols in Mumbai in 2012
• Navratri and Garba Celebrations in Mumbai
• Top 10 Hill Stations Near Mumbai and Pune
• Mumbai’s Top 10 Best And Most Famous Tourist Attractions
• 2015 Dates of Public and Bank Holidays in Mumbai, Maharashtra

This is a list of International Schools in Mumbai. IB schools in Mumbai and IGCSE schools in Mumbai are listed below. There are more International Schools in Mumbai than any other city in India.

Most International Schools in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane offer either “International Baccalaureate” (IB) (which includes “PYP”, “MYP” and “IBDP”) or “Cambridge International Examinations” (CIE) (which includes “CP”, “CS1”, “IGCSE”, “AS and A Level”) programs. Many international schools in Mumbai offer both the “IB” and “CIE” curriculum in the same school. Please go to the bottom of this article for more information on IB and CIE programmes.

List of All International Schools In Mumbai

List Of International Schools In South Mumbai

List Of International Schools In Central Mumbai

List Of International Schools In West Mumbai