Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reports significant progress in its pre-monsoon desilting operations across Mumbai.
With 82.31% of the targeted 9.68 lakh metric tonnes of silt already removed from the city’s rivers and drains, the BMC is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency and transparency in the process. The desilting initiative, crucial for preventing urban flooding during heavy rains, began in March. However, the early onset of monsoon on May 26 and unprecedented rainfall in May posed challenges to the schedule. Despite these hurdles, the BMC has managed to complete desilting in all major drains by the first week of June, with ongoing efforts focused on the Mithi River.
The Mithi River, a key component in Mumbai’s flood-prevention system, has seen 61.85% of its desilting target achieved, with 1.32 lakh metric tonnes of silt removed out of the planned 2.14 lakh metric tonnes. The BMC is deploying additional resources to expedite the remaining work. To ensure accountability and prevent malpractices, the BMC has implemented AI-powered monitoring systems. Contractors are required to submit 30-second video recordings and photographs of desilting work, along with CCTV footage for minor drains. These materials are analyzed using AI to detect irregularities. This approach has led to the recovery of over ₹3 crore from contractors found to be involved in fraudulent activities.
The integration of AI has not only improved oversight but also enhanced the overall efficiency of desilting operations. By automating the analysis of visual evidence, the BMC can swiftly identify discrepancies and take corrective actions, ensuring that the city’s drainage infrastructure is adequately prepared for the monsoon. Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Investigations into a ₹65 crore desilting scam involving the Mithi River have uncovered instances of bribery, kickbacks, and manipulation of tenders. The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Mumbai Police has registered an FIR against 13 individuals, including BMC officials and contractors, for their alleged roles in the scam. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also initiated a money laundering probe based on these findings.
In response to these revelations, the BMC has taken steps to strengthen its monitoring mechanisms. A ‘war room’ has been established at the BMC headquarters to oversee desilting operations in real-time. This facility utilizes AI tools to analyze videos and photos submitted by contractors, ensuring transparency and accountability in the desilting process. The BMC’s commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable urban management reflects a broader shift towards eco-friendly and equitable city planning. By prioritizing transparency and efficiency in critical infrastructure projects, Mumbai sets a precedent for other metropolitan areas grappling with similar challenges.
As the city braces for the monsoon, the BMC’s proactive measures in desilting and flood prevention underscore the importance of integrating technological innovations into urban governance. While the battlt corruption and inefficiency continues, these initiatives mark a significant step towards building a resilient and sustainable Mumbai.
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