In a bid to combat the burgeoning issue of illegal debris dumping in Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has unveiled a strategic plan to install 117 CCTV cameras across four key wards. This initiative marks a significant step towards curbing a practice that has become a persistent eyesore and environmental hazard for the city.
The BMC’s decision to deploy CCTV surveillance is a direct response to the rising number of complaints regarding unlawful debris disposal, which has now become the second-most reported issue in the city. The cameras, strategically placed in Andheri, Goregaon, Malad, and Borivali, will serve as a powerful deterrent to individuals and vehicles involved in illegal dumping. By capturing visual evidence, the BMC will be able to identify offenders and take appropriate legal action. To enhance the effectiveness of the surveillance system, the BMC will equip its staff with a smartphone app that provides real-time monitoring of the cameras.
The app will offer valuable insights, including images and addresses of dumping sites, enabling swift response and remediation efforts. Additionally, the app will connect with LED screens in local waste offices, facilitating efficient coordination and oversight. While the project is currently on hold pending the state assembly elections, its implementation is expected to yield tangible results. The BMC’s commitment to addressing this pressing issue is evident in its previous efforts, which included a clean-up operation that removed an astonishing 150 metric tonnes of debris in a single day. The decision to install CCTV cameras is a testament to the BMC’s recognition of the need for innovative solutions to tackle the problem of illegal dumping. By leveraging technology, the corporation aims to create a cleaner, more sustainable city for its residents.
