Mumbai: BMC Deep Cleaning Initiative Clears 150 MT Debris, Illegal Dumping Remains Concern

Mumbai, 21st April 2024: During a recent deep cleaning initiative conducted by the BMC, a substantial amount of construction and demolition debris, totalling 150 metric tonnes (MT), was cleared. Despite ongoing efforts, the persistent issue of illegal dumping of debris remains a significant concern for the city, with the civic body receiving the second-highest number of complaints on this matter. From November 2023 to March, the BMC addressed 715 cases of illegal dumping, amounting to a collection of Rs42.54 lakh in fines. Additionally, during the deep cleaning operation across seven zones, the civic team managed to collect 86 MT of garbage and thoroughly washed 384 km of roads.

According to municipal sources, there are over 6,000 active construction sites in the city, contributing to the problem of debris accumulation, often exacerbated by nighttime dumping. Despite vigilance efforts by civic teams to monitor and deter illegal dumping activities, success in curbing this practice has been limited.

In response to the challenge, municipal authorities have directed individual wards to pinpoint locations prone to frequent debris dumping for targeted intervention. In high-risk areas like R-Central (Borivali) and A (Colaba, Fort), the installation of CCTV cameras aims to enhance surveillance and facilitate swift action against violators by identifying individuals and vehicle registration numbers associated with illegal dumping incidents.

Although the BMC previously introduced an on-call service for debris removal, offering disposal of up to 300 metric tonnes of construction waste at nominal charges, instances of debris dumping persist. Municipal officials acknowledge the need for continued efforts to address this issue effectively and maintain the cleanliness and safety of the city’s infrastructure.