India, May 27 -- Once notorious for turning into a virtual river during the first spells of pre-monsoon showers, Saki Naka in Andheri East surprised residents and commuters on Monday with a smooth, waterlogging-free experience. After two consecutive years of severe flooding - widely covered by Hindustan Times - the change this year was stark. "It's a testament to what sustained civic pressure and media attention can achieve," said Mandeep Singh Makkar, head of the Chandivali Citizens Welfare Association. Following reports on May 22 about industrial waste blocking Nallah No. 10, the BMC cleared massive obstructions, including thermocol, plywood, and even bed sheets, from the 90-ft drain. Two JCBs are now permanently stationed to manage garbage removal, officials said. Additionally, two high-capacity pumps of 300 cubic metres per hour have been installed to prevent overflow. The relatively lower rainfall - 60-70 mm between 10 pm Sunday and 11 am Monday - also played a role in the improved situation. htc...