Should BMC Impose Penalties on Negligent Road Contractors in Mumbai?

Synopsis
Mumbai's roads are facing scrutiny. Minister Ashish Shelar has ordered the BMC to penalize negligent contractors, ensuring accountability for road work quality. With residents voicing concerns, the call for immediate corrective measures is clear. Will this lead to better road conditions for Mumbai's suburbs?
Key Takeaways
- Minister Shelar has ordered penalties for negligent contractors.
- Public complaints have prompted inspections of road work.
- Immediate corrective measures are being enforced by the BMC.
- Accountability in road construction is a priority for the government.
- Completion of ongoing projects is essential before starting new ones.
Mumbai, May 21 (NationPress) - On Wednesday, Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar instructed the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to take action against negligent contractors responsible for road construction.
“These contractors have evidently failed in both planning and executing the necessary road works. Those who have not met the required standards must receive stringent penalties,” he remarked during an inspection in the eastern suburbs of Mumbai, aimed at assessing the progress of various road projects.
Starting his inspection at MP Vaidya Marg leading to Tilak Road Junction in Ghatkopar (N Ward), it was noted that a road which had been left excavated for six months was only concreted that very morning—a point of frustration for local residents.
Accompanied by BMC Additional Commissioner (Projects) Abhijit Bangar, Minister Shelar took serious note of public complaints and demanded immediate corrective actions, as stated in a release from the minister’s office.
During his inspection of the road from Ghatkopar West to Vikhroli Park Site in N Ward, it was discovered that cement concrete had been laid mere hours before the visit. Local residents voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the contractor, according to the release.
In S Ward, Minister Shelar examined Ashok Kedare Chowk and Tembhi Pada roads in Bhandup West, where work remained incomplete.
Only partial concreting had been accomplished, and the road levels were improperly set, raising serious concerns.
After local BJP representatives and residents expressed their frustration with the contractors, Minister Shelar highlighted these issues to Additional Commissioner (Projects) Abhijit Bangar and instructed immediate corrective measures for all identified shortcomings.
Shelar conveyed to reporters: “We accept full accountability for the state of roads in the suburbs of Mumbai. Our commitment is unwavering – we will inspect every street, identify the shortcomings, and firmly communicate our stance to the government to ensure prompt action. We have mandated the administration to halt any new road projects until the ongoing ones are completed adequately. If one side of a road is completed, it must be fully finished, leveled, and aligned with the other side to facilitate smooth traffic flow. As responsible public representatives, the BJP has mobilized with local leaders to ensure accountability and action.”