Category: City of Dreams, Mumbai

  • Is India prepared to fight Coronavirus?

    Is India prepared to fight Coronavirus?

    I have always wondered India’s ability to fight coronavirus. You may call me a pessimist, but to date I have been right. Our honourable PM makes an appearance on the TV to speak to all of us about the epidemic Coronavirus. And the best thing he could come up with is to follow something that people started doing across infected countries.

    Updated article available here: 18 days of lockdown report: India fighting COVID19

    Yes, I am talking about clapping and appreciating the warriors at the front of the war against Coronavirus and the curfew. Sure, it is a great sign of homage and salute. It is a small action in fighting coronavirus.

    Many of the medical community came together to urge the government and people at large – they are okay if they don’t stand at their balconies at 5:00 pm on Sunday.  They want you do to something else. And they do have a strong point to make.

    The make-believe WhatsApp University

    In a world where many are praising the government for taking all the right steps in advance, this may not sound right, does it? The slew of WhatsApp forwards are absolutely unbelievable, some downright stupid.

    From NASA claiming that Coronavirus has left India after millions clapped at 5:00 pm in India, Chanting “OM” helping create positive energy that virus cannot stand to gow-mutra (Cow’s urine) can cure Coronavirus. It is absolute disaster when people actually believe it. It is fake news all over again.

    I saw multitude of people who perhaps may be supporters of PM Modi appreciate the move. A trend, like everything else he does, carries in our country. Is it an eye-wash?

    Untameable educated fools

    It is a well know fact that most people who can afford to travel out of India are well educated or rich, or both. We have had many instances, including foreigners, where people who were supposed to be in home quarantine freely roamed around in the country.

    They flew in aeroplanes, traveled in trains and cabs after they arrived back in India. A Kalyan resident even attended a wedding! I for one, felt they should be punished for putting so many lives at risk of getting infected with Coronavirus. And weakening the stand of India in this fight against coronavirus.

    The Janta Curfew

    In perhaps a bizarre announcement, the curfew of 14 hours on 22nd March is in a way a half bake approach. Many people started sharing on social media site as another masterstroke of the Modi government in fight against coronavirus. They spread the fake news that Coronavirus will die in 12 hours outside of a body.

    No one in the world for sure knows how long Coronavirus is alive outside. Best estimate we have is 36 hours – something that is not even conclusive yet.


    However, what the curfew did is exactly opposite in certain pockets of the country. Just look at this tweet for example, people came together, doing garba (folk dance of Gujarat) after clapping and clinging vessels. They came on to streets to fight coronavirus and celebrate it’s death. Stupidity.

    More importantly, I just loved the comment – that a simple message did not get delivered by the great ‘orator’ in 29 minutes of the speech.

    I really do not know what to make of the planning behind it. Janta Curfew plus clapping is perhaps the only two actions PM called out loud. And even that is just too little, too late in our fight against the coronavirus. What the medical fraternity needs is greater support & equipment from the government than an appreciation. The real battle has just started.

    How many do we test for Coronavirus today?

    Today we are testing very limited number of people. A strategy called “symptomatic testing”. So far, India has conducted 12,000 test. This is far less than people flying into India between Jan 15 and March 15 in the fight against coronavirus.

    South Korea, a smaller country in size and population than India, has conducted 2.5 Lakh tests. That is ~4000 tests per million. India, has done only 5-10 per million.

    Female doctor taking a throat culture
    Female pediatrician using a swab to take a sample from a patient’s throat

    India is only testing people who have traveled to a country that has widespread infections. Or have got in contact with any one who has traveled from such a country. Even in this shortlist, the testing is prioritised for those who show Coronavirus symptoms. Dry Cough, Fever, and Shortness of breath.

    It is indeed sad that because as we are testing less, we do not have any information if we have more people infected. The true number eludes us. The exact mistake Italy and US did in the early stages of Coronavirus, but South Korea did not.

    Making hay when the Coronavirus shines

    Many of the medical community came together to urge the government and people at large – they are okay if they don’t stand at their balconies at 5:00 pm on Sunday. But to compel the government to arrange for these necessary arrangements.

    In a very unfortunate development, an investigation by news website Scroll.in has revealed there are irregularities in government‘s plan. As has been anticipated by the medical community, they will soon run out of their supplies and stocks of essentials. These include sanitisers, masks, eye-wear, hazmat coverall suites (PPE), etc. And then, the government favours some manufacturers a bit more than others.

    Pic: Businessman receiving bribe or money bonus from partner client boss at work, bribery in business, corruption or employee reward concept, close up view of hands with envelope.
    It is not a surprise that something amiss is happening when India is looking for fight coronavirus

    In a way, it was expected. We in India know well that corruption, irregularities and malpractices run deep in the country. In a month and half since the first case was reported, the government yet did not place an order for additional PPEs.

    What’s worst? The manufacturers do not know what standards they need to comply to when they manufacture. Yet. They have followed up with the ministry a couple of times, and have not received a response.

    Are we already on Coronavirus Stage 3?

    In a nutshell, yes.

    There is no clear announcement from the government if we are there yet. But a slew of measures announced are in direct correlation with how they are now preparing for eventuality.

    The strain of Novel Corona virus is also known as COVID19 but the final naming designation is SARS-2
    The strain of Novel Coronavirus is also known as COVID-19 but the final naming designation is SARS CoV-2

    The blockage of entire cities, janta curfew etc. are steps taken suggesting that government knows something they are not telling us. Of course, they do not want people to panic. A panic situation is not politically good for them, and they would want to hide their ill preparedness as well. And it is bad for the business in an already battered down economy.

    Coronavirus spreading is defined in various stages. Let’s understand what are the stages.

    Stage 1:

    Getting infected by Coronavirus. Traveling mostly from China or other countries where it is widespread.

    Stage 2:

    Spreading in small numbers when coming in contact with someone who has traveled from such countries and may carry the infection. Also called, Local Transmission.

    Stage 3:

    When it starts spreading across a larger group of people. The multiplier effect can be four times of the previous detected number or more, also called Community Transmission. 

    Stage 4:

    The numbers increase very heavily and the spread is very fast. This stage sees a very heavy increase in count of dead from Coronavirus as well. Starts breaking the back of the Medical and Hospital infrastructure, overall health system and people managing it.

    Stage 5:

    Health system collapses. More people die due to non-coronavirus related diseases/illnesses as health system is unable to sustain itself.

    What’s next?

    The next 7 days are absolutely crucial in the fight against virus. It is important for India to get it’s act together and start preparing for the worst. It is best to stay put in comforts of your home unless you are an essential part of this City’s health infrastructure.

    #Salute to those who are helping fight this endemic.

     

  • Weekend Getaway at Herb Farm in Igatpuri

    Weekend Getaway at Herb Farm in Igatpuri

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]It had been two months since my last outing to Goa, and in between then and now I have already started feeling stressed out. Due to the hectic working hours and constant travel to work and back, I needed a break. For people who live on the central lined (railways) suburbs beyond Thane, Lonavala and Igatpuri are often the quick break spot. I have been struggling to decide between the expensive Lonavala (yep, demand was higher during Diwali) and scarce Igatpuri/Bhandardara belt.

    The idea was to get to a place and relax with nothing to be done actually. And if it was closer to nature, it will be a bonus. I was constantly seeing the option for Herb Farm in Igatpuri for quite a while, with no rooms available for booking on online sites. I prefer Cleartrip to book hotels more often than not, unless the place isnt listed there.


    Room view outside, The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

    Room view outside, The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

    So when I was just scanning for hotels on Friday, suddenly the Herb Farm came up as available at I booked it immediately. I will be traveling with my family to the farm for a quite one-night outing the very next day. Look for the video review below, if you want to skip reading. 🙂


    Natural Igatpuri-Bhandardara

    Igatpuri has been my frequently visited place, be it for breakfast rides or office outings. And every time I had been there, I have enjoyed my time. So much so that I feel that Igatpuri as a place to travel is often not weighted in its worth. In a way, better for people like me who frequent the place.

    Igatpuri is approachable via the Mumbai-Nashik highway from Mumbai, and is a hill station in itself. Surrounded by lush Western Ghats and highest peaks of Sahiyadri range, it is best visited during the monsoons. The approach can be tricky due to heavy rain the region witnesses, however it is experience that you must not miss.


    Outside River and Lake View at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

    Outside River and Lake View at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

    I prefer going to Igatpuri because it close, and it is not as crowded as Lonavala, the closest Hill Station to Mumbai. Be it the lush green or the golden brown mountains as the season changes, this place has always lived up to my expectations.


    The Herb Farm at Igatpuri

    Situated just near the highway, Herb Farm is an eco-conscious resort / hotel. If you are traveling from Mumbai, travel about 11 kms after you cross Ghoti junction (you will need to take a U-turn and travel 500 meters towards Ghoti) and the resort is on your left side. The place is visible from far, thanks to the large board. Parking space is ample for the number of rooms available – eight.


    What is really likable about this place is the it offers exclusivity, closeness to the nature and yet be remarkable at their service. The service was really spot on, something that I would expect from a niche hotel provider. The one thing that may irk a lot of you is – this place is vegetarian only. Yep, you heard that right. So all those non-veg aficionados, you may want to change your taste for the weekend.

    Having said that, the food is good and tasty. Overall, the look and feel of this place is a nice fusion between old-world-charm and modern amenities. The place is thoughtfully designed, and does not show any signs of overdoing.


    Swimming Pool

    I really liked the swimming pool though  it is only approx. 5 feet at its deepest and not very big. The quality of water was something I found to be much better than similar sized hotels I have seen around Igatpuri. It is best enjoyed with the kids!


    • Swimming Pool in Night at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

      Swimming Pool in Night at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri
    • Swimming Pool at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

      Swimming Pool at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

    The swimming pool is lit at night with lights and it is a nice setting if you want to spend the night time near the pool area. You can also lie down and go a star gaze.


    River and surrounding

    The other things that are close by to this place is a dry lake and a river. I know it sounds a bit odd, however the dry lake is something of a bummer that is played right in due to the changing climate. The river though, is accessible but way is through mud and grass. I did try going there, however decided to stop and come back as it was too slippery.


    • Weekend Getaway to the Herb Farm at Igatpuri

      Weekend Getaway to the Herb Farm at Igatpuri
    • Outpost near River and Lake View at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

      Outpost near River and Lake View at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri
    • Outside River and Lake View at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

      Outside River and Lake View at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri
    • Outside View of the dry lake at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

      Outside View of the dry lake at The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

    The hotel is situated right at the highway, so you tend to hear the typical highway noise. Truck and car tires screeching through the road day and night. Add to that, there is the Mumbai-Nashik rail route passing through right next to the highway. You need to be a deep sleeper to be sure, as the sleep quality I felt will not be that great for very light sleeping folks.


    Rooms at the Herb Farm, Igatpuri

    Rooms at The Herb Farm are limited to eight – yes it is a small property. However, they are tastefully designed and named after the herbs. Oregano and Cilantro are the furthest rooms and should be preferred if you are light sleeper. Other rooms are named Dill, Thyme, etc. so you get the drift.

    All rooms are built on rails, and have beach sand play area beneath them. And you have hammocks for each room, if you prefer to lie down outside. You need to climb up the stairs to get to your room and greeted by the faux grass mats, couple of chairs and a tea table.


    • Oregano and Cilantro, Room view outside, The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

      Oregano and Cilantro, Room view outside, The Herb Farm, Igatpuri
    • Room view outside, The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

      Room view outside, The Herb Farm, Igatpuri
    • Room view outside, The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

      Room view outside, The Herb Farm, Igatpuri
    • Room view inside, The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

      Room view inside, The Herb Farm, Igatpuri

    Inside, you have one king size bed, and a tea-coffee maker. All rooms offer air-conditioning, and are very neat and clean. The interior design is subtle and a perfectly mixed fusion of old-world-charm with modern fixtures. French windows double up as door. You can lie down and absorb in the view that you can see from your bed. It is the best view to wake up and see in the morning, right from your bed.

    One thing that I might have to put out as a warning though, is mosquitoes. Given it is located near a river and a lake, dry at that, with patches of puddles across, it is bound to be mosquito prone. It is advised that you carry a mosquito repelling creme with you.

    The washroom is small, however the ceiling is made of glass giving the near open-air experience. Of course, the dried leaves and dust on top do give away the glass surface. It still is a welcome change to a typical small bathroom and experience you may well like.


    Experience!

    The overall experience has left a positive impact on me and my family, and it is definitely a place I will consider to stay at, again. The thing is, very rarely you find a place that is neat and modern, yet has the old-world charm blend into a perfect fusion. In my view, the Herb farm at Igatpuri does this to great effect.

    PS: This is not a paid/sponsored post, as it may look like with my generous praise for this place. It is purely my heart felt thoughts after I visited this place.

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  • Spirit of Mumbai: Farmers fed after 180 kms of walk in 6 days!

    Spirit of Mumbai: Farmers fed after 180 kms of walk in 6 days!

    We all heard about the farmer protest that is currently undergoing in Mumbai. The protest showcased events that are unprecedented. It leaves me in awe of the spirit of Mumbai and the farmers themselves. What a day it has been of twists and turns. It all started off with someone deciding to protest differently.

    So why are farmers and tribals protesting?

    Maharashtra farmers see successive droughts and are unable to make as much money as they should. They are in financial distress and are seeking financial relief. To save themselves from further droughts, they want to ensure that promises of river linking projects are implemented.

    Tribals who joined the protest are not looking to seek any financial help though! “Their participation in the agitation in such large numbers suggests a new edge in the countryside’s despair — while successive drought years, inequitable water management and pricing policies have seen a slow impoverishment of the farmer community everywhere in Maharashtra, the circumstances for the landless are ever more exacting” (reports Indian Express).

    The quintessential Maharashtra farmer is following a protest model from TN Farmers, who marched on in New Delhi last year. Tamil farmers raised slogans, shaved their half head and facial hair to protest their apathy. Mind you; the protest still did not gain the intended results. And farmers from UP got a loan waiver around the same time, based on a poll-promise by the Yogi government.

    I wrote about this briefly, after a Quint video brought forth a question: UP farm loan waiver, in a way, is funded by Tamilians based on how fragmented our taxation system is. I do not want to diverge from the topic; you can read more on that post.

    They decided to walk in the night, to avoid inconvenience to Mumbaikars!

    That’s where things started to change. The Government, instead of walking towards them, shamelessly requested the group to delay their march to avoid inconvenience to SSC and HSC students who are appearing for their exams. This was a bid for them to delay the political inconvenience they will face!

    However, the smart among them help decide that they would walk in the night, saving themselves from the scorching sun. And avoiding the fragile Mumbai infrastructure, often lamented, further trouble. This small gesture, and the smart thinking is downright awesome.

    The Spirit of Mumbai invoked!

    Wow! That was an incredible thought which touched Mumbaikars deeply. And Mumbaikar responded!

    I am amazed at the thought itself, and the speed with which Mumbai realized the importance of the farmers. I have often lamented the Spirit of Mumbai as something of an adjustment they do with their helplessness of the infrastructure (during floods mostly). However, the 2007 blasts and yesterday’s event highlight the spirit and how heartfelt they are.

    The farmer’s protest in huge numbers brings out Mumbaikars on the road, to be the Good Samaritan they always have been in crisis. Farmers are in crisis today, and the Spirit of Mumbai in invoked. Keep up Mumbai! The hands that feed deserve this small, but meaningful gesture.

  • Anyone can sail on Yacht in Mumbai – and sail you must!

    Anyone can sail on Yacht in Mumbai – and sail you must!

    You cannot, not love sailing, and if you do, then this perhaps your best way to change your mind. Go sailing in the vast Arabian Sea, on a Yacht in Mumbai, and come back refreshed and with a newer perspective.


    Top post on IndiBlogger, the biggest community of Indian Bloggers

    A good friend and fellow blogger, Ethel Da Costa sent in an exclusive invite to experience sailing, herself a hydrophobic. The event, named CEO Regatta, immediately put my online searching skills to test. I need to know more, and it was clear that this is something else than what I have experienced to date. If you are in a hurry, let me help you with a visual trailer. Take a look.

    Aquasail has established into this new niche of the experiential game of travel and entertainment. I have been talking about the experiential tripping for a while, and sailing is one of the latest trends in the travel and tourism industry.

    Visiting Royal Bombay Yacht Club

    On the D-day, I ride my RE Himalayan all the way to Royal Bombay Yacht Club, near Gateway of India in the southern tip of Mumbai. The architecture from the 18th century has been tediously maintained to give the rusty but sophisticated at the same time. A perfect way to transfix the nature of Yachting in India.

    The who’s who of corporate India was in presence, part taking in the sail yacht racing called CEO Regatta. Sponsored by Axis Bank and Air Vistara, it perhaps is one of the most high-powered meets I have visited, ever. The leaders from the industry sorted into teams and then proceeded towards the vast open sea.

    Upon arrival at the jetty (2 minutes walk from the Yacht Club), all the competitors got on a transporting boat which will take them to their Sail Yacht. Watch the part one video, if you are in a hurry to skim through. Make sure to subscribe to Indianomics.tv on YouTube.

    Watching the racing yachts in Arabian Sea

    I got on the boats with photographers, as I wanted to watch the race from as close as possible, even though I had an option to go on top the luxury yacht, as some others did. The sky was brilliant for a change, and it helped in the video and photographs I took. I am sure you will agree. I could not stop myself looking into the display of my phone (a Lumia 950XL and iPhone 6S)

    Watching the Yachts race was fun, and something new for me. It brought back memories of the year 2007. I was working for ABN AMRO Bank back then, and our bank had two sail yachts participating in Volvo Ocean Race. It was the first time I heard about racing Yachts. A decade later, I could fulfill my wish to do a race myself, although much smaller in comparison, of course.

    After the first set of teams finished their race, a winning team emerged and sent back to the Luxury Yacht Eesha. Time for some action, then! I got on to the event winning Yacht at the first instant, mid-sea.

    Racing the Yacht in Mumbai!

    Racing the Yachts is difficult unless you know tons of things. Wind speed, changing direction, and which ropes to pull. If you get a thing wrong, the boat can turn turtle any time. During the race itself, everyone was sitting on the edge. The adrenaline rush was at its peak, and we all were trying our best to stay afloat and race to the victory line.

    Thanks to the instructor Moksh, who made it look pretty easy-peasy. He knew precisely what and when to talk to us novices. I was sitting in the corner, close to the water than everyone else taking videos and pictures of our race.

     

    It was fun and an experience that will stick with me for a long time to come. Going back to the Royal Bombay Yacht Club for the high-tea after party, I was memorizing lessons. Being on a boat on a day when the sky was perhaps its best, what more could I have asked!

    Kithna kharcha bhai? (How much will it cost brother?)

    Before I left the venue, I had a 45-minute conversation with Zia Hajeeboy, Director of Aquasail, talking about various topics. While speaking, I realized that having your boat party is not so much expensive as one would believe. At ₹9000 for 4 hours (for six people), the cost per head worked out to be just ₹1,500! You not only are a passenger, but the sailor too. Now that is affordable for sure!

    It helps to break free from the chaotic Mumbai life and visit the seas to take a breath of fresh air and be relaxed while doing it. Not only the cost incurred is lower, but it also is refreshing, and you do not have to travel a lot far. Plus, the only time you get to see Gateway of India and Taj Hotel in a frame is from the sea! And what a lovely sight it is!

    To book yours, visit Aquasail India‘s website. Read what Ethel Da Costa wrote about the event as well.

  • Indianomics TV: Watch top videos now!

    Indianomics TV: Watch top videos now!

    I have been posting videos on Indianomics TV since October last year. Starting with Tata Hexa review (very armature), I have now added 34 videos on various topics, predominantly Cars & Bikes.

    Here is a playlist I have created with all of the best performing videos. Do not forget to like, share and subscribe to my YouTube channel.

    Here is an overview of videos!

    1. Tata Hexa Sound and Music System Review

    Tata Hexa’s much touted audio system is awesome and among the best in a class even higher than where Hexa is positioned. The 10 JBL speakers produce clean sound that makes your ride enjoyable.

    Song played in the video is Dada Dasse Re from movie Udta Punjab.

    2. Tata Hexa Off Roading capabilities

    Tata Hexa is an upcoming car from Tata Motors. The video here captures its off-roading capabilities using various drive mode and hill assist.

    Read the full review of Tata Hexa on Indianomics.

    3. TATA TIGOR Unique Review – Indianomics | Infotainment, Price, Performance

    At invitation of Tata Motors, ~60 bloggers met in Delhi to review the all new Tata Tigor, the styleback car. Based on Tiago, Tigor is a compact sedan that looks absolutely great. The car looks stunning and had a lot of passerby interested in it! We even had a review on the fly from one of them!

    ‘This is not your normal review but an experience of Tigor Styleback event!

    In this video, we drive from Aerocity in Delhi to Gurgaon in Tata Tigor Petrol and Diesel engined cars – en route visiting the Heritage Museum. My co-partners at the media drive were the gorgeous Dimpi Sanghvi and Venkatramana Manoharan

    4. TATA TIGOR Acceleration – Indianomics

    Tata Motor’s new Tigor will be launched on 29th of March. This video captures the acceleration of the Tigor petrol engine car that I drove from Delhi to Haryana.

    5. A Day In Park with my die cast car models

    I took out my small collection of die cast models of marquee cars and here is the result. Few nice pictures and videos that is fun. Though the video has not clocked as much views, I personally get a great satisfaction watching my die cast cars jumping and getting crazy at a children’s park near my place.

    6. Why you should wear a helmet! Bhandardhara Accident live recording

    PS: The date was not set on the cam, hence 2016. Incident happened on 24 June 2017.

    Video taken by Shiv Vishwakarma, my friend who rode with us to Bhandardhara. We had stopped at a location where I had shot video previously, exactly when we saw this accident happen on the curve ahead.

    A Hero Honda CD 100 was hit by Red Maruti WagonR who took a long turn. Both were to blame, primary though was the Wagon R who took the wrong side. The biker was not wearing a helmet (common across in the rural side, like this one) and had his headphone on.

    It did not appear that his outer injuries were life-threatening, with no way we could identify inner impact. We stopped a few vehicles but no one was interested in helping. After about 4-5 mins, a small pick up truck came by and agreed to help take him to the nearest hospital. We ensured the driver of WagonR, an old man, accompany him to the hospital as well.

    7. Hemal Shah’s #HexaExperience | Indianomics Quick Bytes

    The video was shot last year by Tata Hexa team! All credits to Tata Motors to get out all the blogger videos out on their YouTube Channel. I do not know WHY I NEVER SAW THIS! They uploaded them two months after the event, may be that is why? Haha… here is uploading it on my channel for all my subscribers to see.

    They got my blog name wrong! The URL shown in the video is pre-2009 domain blog and I wonder from where they got it.

    8. Mumbai to Kerala on Himalayan and Dominar – Road trip to God’s Own Country

    So my fellow TGW wolf, Tyjo Thomas got 7 days off on a short notice. He decided to go on a solo ride to Kerala and back. When he shared it with us, I was quick to decide that I should go along. Thus, with 3 days to go, I started my prep for the ride.

    Subscribe to the channel, click on the bell button so you are among the first ones to watch them!

    Write up of this part of the video, Mumbai to Kerala, is now available at my blog. It has in very detail, the entire route plan and our experiences. Music Credits: https://www.bensound.com

    9. Mumbai – Kerala – Mumbai: A Photo Journey

    Pictures from our recent road trip to Kerala by Hemal and Tyjo on Himalayan and Dominar. Route map and other details are in the follow up video, including the epic Wayanad Choram

  • Floods in Mumbai, mockery of the sprirt

    Floods in Mumbai, mockery of the sprirt

    For those who know me, also know that I ended up marrying a stranger I met during the floods of 2005 in Mumbai. It was a dark day, for many who lost lives of loved ones and a livelihood. Some passed away in extremely precarious circumstances, completely avoidable. I have often wondered why Mumbai has this strange connection with floods and rain?

    Sure, floods or any other natural or human-made calamity has always brought the citizens together. The bond of a Mumbaikar is seen, often during such unfortunate circumstances. The never dying, ever famous Spirit of Mumbai!

    Does Mumbai hate rain because of floods?

    For starters, no Mumbaikar’s do not hate rain. Not because of anything to do with rain itself. It is, because of how city transforms itself into after a heavy rain. Choc-a-block traffic snarls, back breaking potholes, speed breakers and general public tendency to skip following rules. The last bit is people’s making, and that gets amplified when they need to get home as soon as possible given the situation. Rather, unfortunate.

    Mumbai attracts rain, and it is often bad and sometimes ends up in floods. The sub-urban railway system or the local train is always under stress during rains. Huge delays in train services are common place when it rains heavily. Every year, BMC and other agencies that are supposed to do good work for the city, fail to do so. The most common excuse is the rain itself.

    What it looked like?

    A collection of videos and pictures shared over WhatsApp is compiled as under, to show you how a few hours of rain wrecks a havoc. Subscribe to my YouTube channel, Indianomics.

    So why is Mumbai failing every time?

    This year, Radio Jockey Malishka, released a song in a format that has been trending – “Mumbai tula BMC var bharosa nahi ka.” It invoked the ire of BMC’s ruling party members who came up with a response in the same format. It was pathetic, to say the least. It included slur, a threat and it came from a senior leader of the party. BMC also served Malishka’s mother a notice for breeding Mosquitoes at her apartment, as a result.

    Mumbaikar’s spirit it unfathomable. They have come up to help themselves right in every instance there has been a natural or human made calamity. So in that sense, Mumbai has never failed. The people who are supposed to be managing Mumbai, the Brahin Municipal Corporation (BMC), India Meteorological Department (IMD) and many other have collectively failed over many times.

    One of the things many of us who watched the movie Home Alone 3 have noticed how the little boy Alex lies to his mother about the terrible weather she is about to encounter so that he can drive her away from home. The American counterpart of IMD has always predicted the weather right. Well, at least in movies. Hence, the expectations that IMD comes up right are always up.

    Is IMD responsible?

    IMD has failed to predict the very heavy rains. They never were able to predict the floods in 2005, and not in 2017. Or anytime in between. The joke often goes like “If IMD says carry your Umbrella today, then you don’t need to because it rained yesterday.” The same thing happened on 29th of August, 2017. They issued an emergency alert for 30th of August, 2017 and stated that heavy to very heavy rains can be expected. It was largely a sunny day.

    But they can only predict, not avert the disaster themselves and prepare us to expect weather conditions so we could decide to avoid it.

    Floods can be avoided, should it not?

    Of course. Else, why will a few of us be up in arms against this pathetic situation? If Mumbai roads can fail, ideally all of the highways near Mumbai should also meet the same fate. But they don’t. Potholes have made the roads miserable. The drive/ride is pathetic and bumpy. But hghways are smooth enough even after terrible monsoon season.

    Garbage

    Garbage collection is still worst at its best. The very Mumbaikar also contributes by throwing waste at all possible places including the sewage lines which clogs the exit of water into the sea. Prime Minister Modi’s Swacch Bharat Abhiyan has some effect, not significant enough to help Mumbaikar’s from themselves.

    BMC makes a lot of money

    Being the richest Civic body in India, BMC generates annual income in taxes and others fees to the tune of Rs. 37,000 crore. Seriously though, it’s hard to see where it went. Rs. 37,000 crore should have ensured futuristic mode of transportation for its citizens. Plus, Mumbai’s contribution to the direct tax (income tax) is also the highest in India by any city.

    So where does the money go?

    It is an interesting question; isn’t it? I have often been wondering the same thing. Most of it goes in corruption. There is an ambitious project to clean Mithi River (if you can call it a river indeed) every year, and we see hardly an impact. Well, there are encroachments alongside the bank of the rivers in many places which make it difficult to clean, the river also carries a lot of waste from all areas it flows.

    The other problem is an issue that cannot be improved. Mumbai is originally 7 islands connected to each other by reclaiming lands on the sea in the mid-18th century. The Hornby Vellard project reshaped Bombay into its current form.

    Add to that, lack of garbage dumping grounds does not make BMC efficient in its methods. The nexus is so strong that it is often difficult to fight them and sustain your life. If a Radio Jockey can get a notice served for breeding malaria causing mosquitoes at her house, anything can happen.

    It is appalling that Mumbai gets this step motherly treatment then? Share this page with your friends and family! Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

  • Air Cooler: Should I buy one in Mumbai? NO!

    Air Cooler: Should I buy one in Mumbai? NO!

    It is summer time again, and Mumbai started to get heated up. Sun has not been among the kind to have treated us this way, unfortunately. And many are thinking of buying an air cooler or desert coolers. I remember writing an article way back in 2009 when Mumbai overheated and my last article about hot summer was in 2016. It is common for my blog to see increased hits on this subject every year during the summer season. And it is still relevant in 2019, as the temperature has just started going up that I started using Air Con at home already.

    One of the most common thing that people ask is – should I get an air cooler? Now, I have used an air cooler in Mumbai, and I can tell you based on my experience that you should avoid it. I have my reason to avoid it, and here they are;

    How does an Air Cooler work?

    Because of lower atmospheric humidity in many parts of India, air cooler (more appropriately called Desert Coolers) works well. The mesh behind the fan is wet (flowing water), the air sucks it and throws it outside into the room. The water droplets in the air then get evaporated thanks to the heat from the surroundings. The more the water evaporates, the more the room temperature comes down.

    Desert or Air coolers are fixed into a window (like Window A.C. unit) for the best effect to maintain humidity levels inside the room. If humidity levels go up, you will be sweating and would feel the heat. Hence it is essential to place the air cooler into a window. In summary, Desert / Air Coolers are meant for dry weather.

    Should I buy water-based Air Coolers or Desert Coolers in Mumbai?

    NO! First of all, the coolers work best in dry conditions, which is why they are called “desert-coolers.” Do not listen to anyone who sells or services air-coolers for a living. You should know that they have a vested interest, pretty straightforward. Then you have those who already have bought an ‘air cooler,’ but just because they do not want to appear to be the only fools, would recommend you to buy (yeah, though rare, there exists such a breed of men and women) as well.

    Kenstar Double Cool DX Air Cooler - Similar to cooler I own
    Kenstar Double Cool DX Air Cooler – Similar to cooler I owned

    Mumbai and surrounding areas are very hot and humid. If you add more humidity in a room, you will sweat even more. The expected cooling effect can last only for 10-15 minutes. The best use of a desert cooler in Mumbai and surrounding suburbs is as very costly fan! Do not use water cooling, whatsoever!

    But I checked out the cooler at showroom and it works well!

    Trust me, you totally ignored the fact that the Showroom already has A/C running to keep it cool. It is a common mistake that I have seen many make (including myself).

    Showrooms which sell the coolers do have air conditioned their premises. Thus, whenever you ask for a demonstration, the cooler throws in the cooler air from the surroundings, thanks to the air conditioner in the show room.

    You are inadvertently tricked into believing that its the cooler that is throwing in cool air.

    How can I check humidity levels?

    Well, sure there are scientific ways to measure Humidity, for us ‘aam aadmi’ common man it may not make sense to purchase a kit just for the sake of it. However, if you insist, here is a link to find the best and cheapest humidity meters.

    There is a way to gauge whether you can use an air-cooler without measuring humidity.
    If you are living about 20-40 kms away from sea shore, then chances are your humidity levels will remain higher than usual. If you live in 5-10 kms radius of a lake or a river, likewise, the levels may remain higher than normal.

    If you live near a water body, the area will be humid during summers. Those who stay in 20-40 kms from the sea shore will be living in humid areas as well!

    Are there any other reasons?

    Yes of course. As I said earlier, any desert cooler works the best if it is installed correctly like a window a/c unit (since everyone is familiar with it). In Mumbai, if you own a flat, chances are that you do not want to dig that big a hole in the wall for an Air Cooler unit! You may still decide to go ahead, and it is your choice. However, I do not think it is worthwhile the cost.

    Air Coolers also do not come in same sizes as A.C. units. But then, if you can do that why not go for an Air Conditioning unit instead? Primarily, it is only tenants who go after desert coolers to get respite from heat during harsh summers. Their flat owners care two cents to install an AC unit for the benefit of tenant.

    What are desert cooler alternatives?

    You only have two realistic options. One is to get yourself a window or split Air Conditioning unit and the other to get yourself a powerful fan. A.C. allows for consistent temperature in the room irrespective of climate changes outside. Though it is on the expensive side, it ensures pure comfort from heat.

    Remember, that fans operating especially during summers feel different than in other seasons.

    And you have any suggestions on how to reduce the heat?

    If super Khan can convince you to use a talcum powder in this heat to make you cool, then can I do it as well? I am sure you and I can talk at length on many ideas to manage temperature naturally, though realistically, only a few things are viable.

    You cannot redo a built building to include some innovative cooling solutions. You may or may not be in a financial position to add glass walls so that heat does not penetrate as much into the building. Still, there are a few things you can do:

    1. If there is one thing that is easy, it is planting many more trees. Plant more and more trees, and help nature get its balance back. Let’s try to be Bhutan, the only country in the world that is proudly carbon negative and promised to remain so forever.
    2. Go Solar: harness the power of sun-light (and heat) and stop burning fossil fuels to generate electricity. Not only solar, but any form of electricity derived from cleaner sources. Getting free electricity will help reduce the Air conditioning bill as well.
    3. Stop or aid in stopping pollution as much as you can. I know this is easier said than done, however doable.

    Let me know your thoughts in the comments section below.

  • RE Service Camp with The Himalayan Tribe

    RE Service Camp with The Himalayan Tribe

    THT has been my man-Friday for anything related to my Yeti, the Himalayan. Two weeks ago, THT and Royal Enfield met up at Borivali Service Center for a training camp. Unfortunately I missed that.  During the question answer session, the discussion turned to issues everyone faces.

    Yeti about to be stripped down
    Yeti about to be stripped down

    Taking a stone from the rock solid guys who were there, RE worked out details and collaborated with THT for a service camp. The date was 5th of Feb, 2017. And I had my clock (more…)

  • Auto Headlamps On or AHO in India to go live in April 2017

    Auto Headlamps On or AHO in India to go live in April 2017

    Alright, if you are a friend on Facebook, then you might have seen some of my posts talking about Auto Headlamps on or AHO. Government of India had issued a notification to all the two-wheeler manufacturers or importers in India. According to the rule, AHO is mandatory from April 2017. KTM, and other big bikes already have implemented it.

    In 2014, close 40,000 people died in two-wheeler accidents (source). This number is due to various issues including lack of safety gear (helmets) and driving carelessly. Either by the rider or another three or four wheeled vehicle. It is obvious that roads in India are not safe enough, and are way too (more…)

  • Hot Mumbai overheats during summer again!

    Hot Mumbai overheats during summer again!

    Burn up the energy this summer, but don’t buy a cooler.

    It is summer time again and Mumbai started to get heated up. Sun has not been among the kind to have treated us this way, unfortunately. I remember writing an article way back in 2009 about hot summer that year. And it is a post that has got more hits during summers every year.

    Last Sunday, the heat reached at it’s peak this summer, with night being hot as well. It did came as a surprise since the nights have been colder comparatively. As 90% of the working class these days works in Air conditioned offices, it is but obvious that you will be relaxed during the day. With the addition of recently announced A/C train on the Central line, it would make the travel cozy as well.
    (more…)

  • 10 not-so-common questions on home insurance policies

    I have been thinking a lot about a home insurance policy and in the process, did a lot of research. Me and my wife recently got our first house and for all of us, our home is one of our precious assets that gives me the comfort and peace after a long tiring day at work. It is the place where you sink in and to think of the risks of anything happening to it is seriously worrying. You put in all your savings, risking a huge EMI from a Bank. EMI stands for Easy Monthly Installments, but is should be HMI – hardest monthly installment. 😀

    PS: It is rather just coincidence that Vijay Mallya story doing rounds these days and I am writing this :P.

    Home is a name, a word, it is a strong one; stronger than magician ever spoke, or spirit ever answered to, in the strongest conjuration.” Charles Dickens

    So what can go wrong?

    I for one, cannot forget the day of 26th of July, 2005. Apart from holding a very special place in my heart for a different reason, that day scared the heck out of me. Yes, it did. Natural calamities like such as an earthquake, and flood has time and again caused loss of life and property alike. The life comes to an abrupt halt whenever any natural calamity strikes and the destruction it brings with it leaves unbearable financial and emotional pain. You cannot rebuild a life that could not be saved, but you can rebuild your life.

    You cannot rebuild a life that could not be saved, but you can rebuild your life

    (more…)

  • How life has changed after Modi?

    Modi winning the elections and becoming the Prime Minister was largely predicted. So how has your life changed after about 10 months of Modi rule?

    In essence, nothing much really. All of the actions Modi has taken so far are further promotions of what he wants to do. The Rs. 9 Lacs Modi suite he wore when meeting President Obama was a moral low, Ghaar Wapasi has been more damaging. Modi’s image of a doer has not yet to be seen on the ground.

    True, it may take time to really start seeing the change, but many from BJP has been already professing that since they are in the center inflation has come down. As with any oil consuming economy, the recent dive in prices of crude oil has lead this downward rally. But if you remove that from the picture, there is almost no effect. The realty prices are not going down making affordable housing too difficult to achieve. (more…)

  • Metro: It just got 'Mumbai'ed!

    Mumbai saw the newest addition to its glory in the form of Mumbai Metro, and it made every mumbaikar happy. But the sudden announcement of the metro was left for open debate. The state needed to show some progress and are under pressure due to the upcoming assembly elections. Started  construction in 2006, it was completed in the end 2013 after a 2 year delay. It is an astonishing delay, when you consider that Dubai built man made Palm islands in 8 years! The delay was attributed to getting the requisite permissions from various authorities and public protests.

    In the process, Mumbai also scrapped further expansion plans as they are not happy with the Mumbai Metro One Pvt. Ltd., the contractor. MMOPL is co-owned by Reliance (ADAG) Group and Veolia Transport, and Reliance has got one up by branding the Mumbai Metro as Reliance Metro. (more…)