mid-day editorial: Don't let manholes become our downfall

As the rains intensify, the authorities need to station their people or at least put caution signs at manholes. These cannot be the rickety sticks with a piece of cloth, which is what we saw this time. Have special equipment made for the Mumbai monsoon. Tough, all-weather signage that peeks over waist-high water to warn passers-by that there is a manhole ahead, closed or open. Do not rely on shouting to alert people. Sometimes, these sounds are drowned out by rushing water and cars. Use flashing lights to grab attention. A complete monsoon disaster package made with technology needs to be handed to the police, BMC and other agencies that are pressed into service during the rains. There can be no more dilly-dallying, or the consequences will be disastrous.