CCTV cameras to monitor nullahs across Mumbai

Nullahs are cleaned every year before the monsoon but they still are filled with garbage. File pic

Besides levying a fine of Rs 200, the BMC plans to monitor nullahs using CCTVs, in an attempt to stop people from clogging them with garbage and plastic. Civic officials pointed out that this is the main reason for flooding in several parts of the city.

As per orders for this from the municipal commissioner, the civic administration has now also decided to create public awareness so garbage is not dumped in nullahs. Strict action will be taken against those who dump garbage in them and as per the municipal bye-laws, Rs 200 will be levied more effectively, said officials.

"It is observed that plastic, goods, garbage, etc. are being dumped in many places, which hinder the flow of rain water and as a result, the citizens of the area suffer due to flooding. Plastic bags in particular are shown to have increased waterlogging. We will undertake public awareness programmes to prevent these issues and at the same time, we are considering taking punitive action more effectively, including monitoring through CCTVs," said an official from the SWD department.

The length of the major nullahs is about 248 km and the length of minor nullahs is about 421 km. Apart from this, the remaining 20 km length of Mithi river is also managed by the Storm Water Drains department of the BMC.

248 km
Length of the major nullahs in the city