Mumbai: Drain Silt Left on Roads in Govandi, Residents Slam BMC for Poor Planning

Govandi, 30th April 2025: Despite the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) initiating pre-monsoon drain cleaning across Mumbai, residents of Govandi and Mankhurd have raised strong objections over the failure to dispose of the removed silt, which remains piled on the roadside, creating unhygienic conditions and foul smell.
According to locals, though desilting work has been completed in parts of Jotirlinga Nagar, Sonapur, and other areas, the silt remains unattended for more than 48 hours, exceeding the limit set by civic regulations. As per rules, the removed sludge must be kept at the spot for a maximum of two days before proper disposal. However, residents allege that the BMC is violating its own norms.
The unattended sludge is now causing public nuisance. Stray dogs have been seen scattering the silt, spreading it across roads and worsening the situation. Citizens have taken to social media to highlight the issue and demand immediate action.
Every year, the BMC cleans around 80% of the drains before the monsoon, 10% during the season, and 10% post-monsoon to reduce waterlogging. While cleaning is essential, residents argue that poor planning and delayed disposal of silt defeats the purpose.
“The civic body begins cleaning but doesn’t finish the job. The silt is rotting on the roads,” a local resident said. Citizens are demanding immediate clean-up and strict implementation of disposal rules.
The BMC is yet to respond to the complaints.