Cleanliness could well be the focus of the next corporation budget, with the Solid Waste Management department tipped to launch several new multi-crore initiatives
With the nation so focused on the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, it should come as no surprise if the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) upcoming budget shows a similar emphasis on cleanliness and sanitation as well.
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Mayor Snehal Ambekar also took to the streets last year to promote the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. File pic
After roping in actor Amitabh Bachchan to be the face of its TB control campaign, sources said the civic body is considering appointing a brand ambassador for the cleanliness programme as well.
Apart from provisions for other development work, officials said the Solid Waste Management department will seek a multi-crore budget for waste segregation and disposal, as well as enlisting a brand ambassador, as both projects will cost upwards of Rs 10 crore each.
According to sources, the department also plans to look for a location for a new dumping ground, which could be another announcement in the new budget. The three current dumping grounds of the city Kanjurmarg, Mulund and Deonar, have reached their maximum capacity, even as the city continues to generate about 8,000 metric tonnes of waste every day.
“As the dumping grounds have reached their full capacity, we need to look for alternatives. New places for a dumping ground are being discussed and it might be announced in the budget if a decision is taken,” said an official requesting anonymity.
Prakash Patil, the deputy municipal commissioner, said there would be continued effort for the cleanliness mission, but did not confirm provisions in the budget. “Swachata Abhiyan is an ongoing drive and will be continued, but we cannot disclose anything about the budget provisions beforehand,” he said.
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