Residents of Model Town in Versova, Andheri West, have voiced serious safety concerns over exposed electrical wires and utility pipes left uncovered amidst ongoing road concreting works by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Locals fear that such hazards, particularly during the monsoon when waterlogging is common, could prove dangerous—even fatal.
Renowned filmmaker and social activist Ashoke Pandit, who resides in the area, expressed deep frustration over the poor coordination between civic authorities and utility agencies. “We’ve patiently waited for the roadwork to finish. While most of the work is complete, electrical wires and pipes remain carelessly left on the surface, rather than being placed in designated ducts under the road,” he said.
The roads in this locality were supposed to include two separate ducts—one for electrical wiring and another for gas pipelines. However, the current state of the road suggests a lapse in implementation. “We’ve already faced multiple electrical issues during the construction. Several residents, including myself, have had to replace appliances that were damaged due to short circuits,” Pandit added, pointing to the risk of wires deteriorating further with the onset of rains.
He further criticised the lack of coordination between BMC and utility providers. “Since the wires are now exposed, they’ll have to dig up the newly concreted roads to place them properly, causing more disruption and wastage.”
Residents have urged authorities to take swift and responsible action before the situation worsens, particularly as the monsoon approaches. The lack of foresight and collaboration, they say, not only undermines the quality of civic work but also endangers public safety.
Source: Mid-day
