Mumbai: Not clean-up marshals but swachhata doot, says BMC

The BMC on Friday announced that it has put its plans to appoint clean-up marshals on the backburner. Instead, the civic body is planning to appoint 5,000 swachhata doots to raise awareness among Mumbaikars first. This came after mid-day on December 16 reported that the civic body was considering bringing back clean-up marshals, who have been heavily criticised by the citizens for alleged extortion. Swachhata doots will not have power to penalise people for littering or spitting.

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal on Friday held a meeting with additional commissioners and heads of civic departments on Friday and announced the appointment of swachhata doots. There will be no provision of penalising citizens and the emphasis will be on raising awareness about importance of cleanliness.

A clean-up marshal fines a citizen for not wearing a mask during the pandemic. File pic

A senior official from the solid waste management department said, "Clean-up marshals and swachhata doots are two different concepts. Swachhata doots will not have the power to fine people for littering and other activities. The proposal of appointing clean-up marshals is under consideration, but hasn't been finalised yet."

Also Read: Beware! Clean-up marshals will be back on roads

There will be 5,000 swachhata doots across the city. The BMC will also appoint one supervisor for every 10 doots. These cleaners will supervise cleanliness in the area assigned to them. Ward offices should also appoint staff for coordination at their level, said Chahal.

The BMC is in the process of formulating a policy regarding the same which will include the exact duties, working hours, and remuneration of the swachhata doots.

The civic body is also preparing a policy for the maintenance of public toilets.