Praja, a renowned research organisation, has released its annual report shedding light on critical civic issues plaguing Mumbai in 2023.
The comprehensive analysis delves into various aspects of public service, including complaints received by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), availability and quality of public toilets, sewage treatment plant (STP) performance, air quality, and staff vacancies within the BMC.
Public Toilets and Gender Disparity: The report uncovers a significant gender disparity in public toilet facilities, with a stark ratio of 3:1 in favour of men. Particularly concerning is the inadequate provision of toilet seats for women, with only one seat available for every 1,820 women. Furthermore, community toilets suffer from water and electricity shortages, exacerbating the sanitation challenges faced by residents.
Sewage Treatment Plants: While most sewage treatment plants maintain consistent performance levels, facilities in Versova, Malad, Bhandup, and Ghatkopar have failed to meet prescribed standards for treated sewage outflow, raising concerns about environmental pollution.
Air Quality Concerns: The report highlights fluctuations in air quality throughout the year, with poor levels recorded during certain months, particularly post-monsoon. Dysfunction of air quality monitoring stations further compounds the challenge of assessing and addressing air pollution effectively.
BMC Complaints and Vacancies: BMC complaints surged to 1,20,296, the second highest in a decade, covering a range of issues from garbage disposal to pollution. However, the average resolution time far exceeds the mandated duration, indicating inefficiencies in complaint management. Additionally, the BMC grapples with high staff vacancies across various departments, with critical sectors like labour, water supply, and sewerage projects experiencing alarming shortages. As Mumbai navigates these civic challenges, the Praja report serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, highlighting areas requiring urgent attention and systemic reforms to enhance public service delivery and governance efficiency.
