Will an Audit Transform the 'Swachh Mumbai Prabodhan Abhiyan'?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Maharashtra government is set to audit the 'Swachh Mumbai Prabodhan Abhiyan' as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance urban sanitation. This initiative marks a crucial step since its inception in 2013, aiming to improve slum sanitation across Mumbai.
Key Takeaways
- Audit on sanitation scheme announced.
- Rs 6,000 monthly grant per unit.
- NGOs play a crucial role in sanitation efforts.
- Volunteers are not classified as sanitation workers.
- Future plans for Nag River pollution control in motion.
Nagpur, Dec 9 (NationPress) Minister of State for Urban Development Madhuri Misal announced in the Legislative Assembly that an audit will be carried out on the 'Swachh Mumbai Prabodhan Abhiyan' (Clean Mumbai Awareness Campaign) slum sanitation initiative, which has been operational since 2013, superseding the earlier Adopt-a-Slum Scheme.
The issue was raised through a Calling Attention Motion by legislators Tukaram Kate, Amin Patel, Amit Satam, and Prakash Surve.
Minister Misal elaborated that the 'Swachh Mumbai Prabodhan Abhiyan' scheme was launched across Mumbai starting February 1, 2013.
Each unit created under the scheme serves every 200 households and receives a monthly grant of Rs 6,000 from the Municipal Corporation (MC). This includes Rs 5,400 allocated for the unit and Rs 600 designated for awareness initiatives.
The design of the scheme involves Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) that spearhead slum sanitation. These organisations are tasked with collecting contributions of Rs 20 from each household and Rs 50 from commercial entities. The funds collected, along with the grant from the Municipal Corporation, are utilized to procure necessary sanitation supplies and maintain cleanliness in slum areas with the aid of volunteers,” noted the minister.
Minister Misal clarified that the volunteers engaged in this initiative do not qualify as sanitation workers, hence minimum wage laws do not apply to them.
She emphasized that this scheme is supplementary, as the municipal corporation’s regular sanitation staff continue to operate from ward offices as before.
Additionally, she informed the Assembly that the Municipal Corporation is contemplating a proposal to enhance support for volunteers and improve assistance for sanitation equipment.
In a related development, Environment Minister Pankaja Munde informed the Legislative Council that the government aims to expedite the completion of the Nag River pollution control project in Nagpur.
She confirmed that the proposal for the project, which amounts to Rs 1,926 crores under the National River Conservation Plan, has received administrative approval.
The Minister was addressing a Calling Attention Motion concerning Nag River pollution introduced by member Parinay Fuke. Member Prasad Lad also joined the ensuing debate on the subject.
Detailing the environmental initiatives underway, Minister Munde stated that plans for the Nag River pollution removal are divided into five packages, which include Sewage Treatment Plants (STP), sewer lines, and electric crematoriums. The pollution eradication project proposes a STP with a capacity of 92 million litres per day (MLD).
The Minister remarked that river water is being treated before further discharge, allowing fishing activities at the Gosikhurd Dam to continue regularly.
In response to Parinay Fuke's information regarding eleven STP projects being decommissioned, Minister Munde assured the Council that a committee would review the situation and take appropriate actions.
Point of View
It's vital to acknowledge the government's focus on improving urban sanitation through initiatives like the 'Swachh Mumbai Prabodhan Abhiyan'. While audits can enhance accountability, the real challenge lies in ensuring that these measures translate into tangible benefits for the communities they aim to serve. The nation's progress depends on effective governance and community engagement.
NationPress
09/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Swachh Mumbai Prabodhan Abhiyan'?
The 'Swachh Mumbai Prabodhan Abhiyan' is a slum sanitation scheme launched in 2013, aiming to improve sanitation and hygiene in Mumbai's slum areas.
Who is responsible for the sanitation in slum areas?
Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) take the lead in sanitation efforts, supported by grants from the Municipal Corporation and contributions from local residents.
How much funding is allocated per unit under the scheme?
Each unit receives a monthly grant of Rs 6,000, which includes Rs 5,400 for operational costs and Rs 600 for awareness activities.
Are volunteers considered sanitation workers?
No, the volunteers involved in this initiative do not fall under the category of sanitation workers, hence minimum wage regulations do not apply.
What are the future plans for the Nag River project?
The government plans to expedite the Nag River pollution control project, which is part of a larger effort to improve environmental conditions in Nagpur.
