Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Ashwini Bhide has urged officials to update Mumbai’s Development Plan to better reflect the needs of evolving economic sectors, including businesses driven by the gig economy and digital services.
Speaking at a monthly review meeting with senior civic officials, Bhide stressed the importance of moving beyond conventional planning approaches and incorporating infrastructure that supports modern industries. She directed officials to work towards enabling facilities that cater to sectors such as online food delivery and other emerging services. She also instructed the administration to formulate a comprehensive policy for land reserved for public amenities and to map such plots using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology.
During the review of civic works, the Commissioner directed that road projects crossing 70 per cent completion should be finished before June 1. She also emphasised that ongoing or incomplete works must be made safe and accessible for vehicular movement ahead of the monsoon.
Highlighting the need for preventive action, Bhide instructed officials to ensure that all manholes are properly covered and fitted with safety grilles to minimise risks during the rainy season. She also underscored the importance of protecting utility lines and maintaining uninterrupted service networks during infrastructure work.
Addressing recurring flooding concerns, Bhide called for a structured long-term strategy with defined timelines. “Even if it is not feasible to implement this plan this year, the necessary work can be executed before the onset of the next monsoon season. A specific methodology for this purpose should be established, and the requisite timeline for its completion should be determined,” she said.
She further emphasised the importance of regular communication with elected representatives and the timely dissemination of information. “We were able to achieve success during the COVID-19 pandemic precisely because the administration proactively, objectively, and consistently made information available on its own initiative,” she said.
Source: Hindustan Times
