Mumbai : Mayor Sunil Prabhu says he was embarrassed by the souvenir given by the BMC to visiting dignitaries. It is a gold-plated coin with the BMC’s insignia on it but the gold plating peels off in a couple of months. This, despite the fact that the civic budget exceeds that of several small states. This year, it was Rs 31,000 cr.
“I get wonderful mementos such as miniatures of the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty etc but when it is my turn to give mementos, it is a small gold-plated coin which loses its shine in two months,’’ said
Prabhu.
The issue was discussed in the group leaders’ meeting last month and the commissioner was urged to improve the size and quality of the souvenir. Group leaders Raees Shaikh and Devendra Amberkar suggested that a replica of the Gateway of India or something other monument unique to Mumbai be given to visiting dignitaries.
According to Prabhu, an average of 10 mayors from foreign countries visit Mumbai every year.
Sachin Unhalekar
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