The Undertaking has approved a INR 20-crore emergency action plan to address recurring power outages in Girgaum and nearby parts of south Mumbai. The decision was taken on Tuesday, June 2, during a meeting of the BEST committee.

The approval came after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) threatened to walk out of the meeting. This comes after long power cuts in south Mumbai neighbourhoods.

On Monday, residents stormed the BEST centre at Pathakwadi to protest against a power outage that lasted nearly 12 hours on Sunday. Areas affected included Girgaum, Bhuleshwar, Opera House, Thakurdwar, Kalbadevi and surrounding localities.

According to reports, residents faced difficulties getting information during the outage. The BEST administration reportedly did not issue updates on the disruption. Now, BEST has presented the proposal.

The action plan focuses on these areas:

* Increasing manpower

* Deploying additional equipment

* Strengthening fault response systems

* Improving power restoration efforts.

As part of the plan, 690 field personnel will be recruited to speed up the detection and repair of cable faults. The undertaking will also temporarily deploy 127 drivers and 100 mechanics from its traffic division to assist with electricity-related operations.

The plan also includes the use of 350 diesel generator sets, aerial lifting equipment and trained personnel. This will help restore power more quickly during major breakdowns. A second fault control centre will also be established in Tardeo. The new facility is expected to improve monitoring and response during emergencies.

Officials have been directed to repair major cable faults on a war footing. The goal is to reduce disruptions in the affected areas. Interestingly, much of the underground cable network in the region was installed between 1985 and 1990. The cables are currently under heavy stress because of increased electricity consumption during this year’s intense summer.

Reports suggest that some of the problematic cables are located up to 15 feet below railway tracks. As a result, inspection work requires permission from railway authorities before the cables can be accessed.

On Tuesday, the BEST undertaking also acknowledged the condition of its electricity department. It stated that the department had been severely affected by a 12-year period of austerity measures, limited recruitment and a lack of investment in the power distribution wing.

Girgaum

Girgaum is a historic neighborhood in South Mumbai, India, known for its rich cultural and architectural heritage. Originally a village of the same name, it was one of the original seven islands of Mumbai and later developed into a bustling residential and commercial area during the British colonial era. The area is famous for its temples, including the iconic Mumba Devi Temple, and its vibrant Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, reflecting deep-rooted Marathi traditions.

Pathakwadi

Pathakwadi is a historic locality in the city of Solapur, Maharashtra, India, known for its traditional wada (courtyard) architecture and cultural significance. It was developed during the 19th and early 20th centuries by wealthy Marathi families, featuring intricately carved wooden facades and spacious inner courtyards. Today, Pathakwadi stands as a preserved example of the region’s heritage, reflecting the social and architectural history of pre-colonial and colonial-era Maharashtra.

Bhuleshwar

Bhuleshwar is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India. Dating back to the 13th century, it was built during the Yadava dynasty and showcases exquisite Maratha-era architecture, with intricate carvings and a unique blend of Islamic and Hindu design elements. The site is also known for its legendary connection to the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, adding to its cultural and religious significance.

Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is a world-renowned performing arts center located on Bennelong Point in Sydney, Australia. Its distinctive sail-like design, created by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, was completed in 1973 after a lengthy and controversial construction process that began in 1959. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic symbol of Australia’s cultural identity.

Thakurdwar

Thakurdwar is a historic neighborhood in South Mumbai, India, named after a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna (Thakur). The area developed in the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming a vibrant hub for the Gujarati and Marwari communities, with its narrow lanes lined with temples, old residential buildings, and bustling markets. Today, it remains a culturally rich enclave, known for its traditional sweets, street food, and the iconic Thakurdwar Temple that continues to be a center of worship.

Kalbadevi

Kalbadevi is a historic and bustling neighborhood in South Mumbai, India, named after the Kalbadevi Temple dedicated to the goddess Kali. The area developed rapidly during the 19th century as a major commercial and residential hub under British rule, becoming famous for its dense markets, jewelry shops, and textile trade. Today, it remains a vibrant cultural and economic center, reflecting Mumbai’s colonial past and its enduring spirit of commerce.

Tardeo

Tardeo is a bustling neighborhood in South Mumbai, India, known for its mix of residential and commercial spaces. Historically, it was part of the original seven islands of Bombay and later developed during the British colonial era, featuring landmarks like the Hanging Gardens and the Mahalaxmi Temple nearby. Today, it is a vibrant area with markets, eateries, and a blend of old and modern architecture.