Mumbai: In the wake of the recent flooding in Mumbai, Suburban Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar, accompanied by a BJP delegation, met Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani at the BMC headquarters on Wednesday.
The delegation demanded the release of a white paper outlining the expenditure of Rs 1 lakh crore on various civic projects including the long-delayed BRIMSTOWAD stormwater drainage system over the past 20 years.
Shelar questioned the municipal commissioner on the incomplete BRIMSTOWAD project, meant to handle 25–50 mm rainfall, despite heavy funding till 2017. Noting Mumbai’s frequent heavier downpours, he demanded a breakdown of funds spent and a concrete plan to address high-intensity rainfall.
Shelar alleged corruption in the Mithi River project involving fake contracts and false records, denied by authorities. With investigations ongoing, he urged BMC to clarify its position to citizens. Referring to a recent death from a tree fall in Vikhroli, Shelar said, "BMC must intervene to prune hazardous overhanging branches regardless of ownership, and do so free of charge."
He highlighted a recent meeting with MHADA, BMC, SRA, and the District Collector addressing 82 dangerous sites in the suburbs, 47 of which are landslide-prone. While MHADA has installed some protective nets, work remains incomplete due to funding shortages.
Shelar directed BMC to allocate funds and complete safety measures immediately, warning the Commissioner will be held responsible for any monsoon accidents if action is not taken immediately.
Meanwhile, he has requested a written reply from the Commissioner, who assured all works will be completed within eight days, with pumps installed in waterlogged areas within 24 hours. Shelar said "BJP’s former corporators will closely monitor progress during this period."
