This is an archive article published on February 12, 2024
BMC files 142 cases in three months for open burning of garbage
According to civic officials, the BMC registered 142 cases between November 2023 and February 10, 2024, against people who burnt garbage in the open in Mumbai. A sum of Rs 61,900 was collected in penalty over the same violation.
Written by Nayonika Bose
Mumbai | Updated: February 13, 2024 12:53 AM IST
3 min read
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For the first time in 17 years, after its solid waste management bylaws were approved in 2006, the BMC, starting November 2023, had mandated a penalty of Rs 100 and registering of cases for burning garbage in the open. Express file photo
In the three months since BMC launched a new feature on its hotline number 8169681697, which enabled citizens to lodge complaints related to open garbage, the civic body has received 111 complaints of garbage burning.
According to civic officials, the BMC registered 142 cases between November 2023 and February 10, 2024, against people who burnt garbage in the open in Mumbai. A sum of Rs 61,900 was collected in penalty over the same violation.
During the same period, the civic body also registered 489 cases against dumping of unauthorised construction and demolition debris and slapped a penalty of Rs 26.36 lakh against violators.
Additionally, a sum of Rs 40.44 lakh was collected in penalty against 1,368 violators for failing to keep their premises clean under the Swachh Angan (clean premises) programme.
Launched on June 7 by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the Swachh Mumbai WhatsApp Helpline enabled residents to register complaints related to waste management in Mumbai through WhatsApp.
Since its launch, 2,200 complaints have been registered over debris at construction sites, while 8,200 grievances have been recorded. However, it was only in November, at the behest of the CM, that citizens were allowed to raise grievances pertaining to open garbage burning.
Speaking to The Indian Express, an official from the Solid Waste Management (SWM) department said that since then, the feature has only received 111 complaints related to open garbage burning until February 9.
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“At 111, the number of complaints related to open garbage burning is not very high. But besides these complaints, we have been taking action by identifying violators ourselves and registering cases against offenders,” the official added.
Between November 2023 and February 10, 2024, data procured from the civic body shows that BMC registered 142 cases against people found burning garbage in the open across the city.
The maximum such cases were registered in M/East ward which encompasses Deonar, Mankhurd etc., where 32 cases were registered, followed by 27 cases in P/North ward which includes Malad and 15 cases in R/South, which includes Kandivali.
For the first time in 17 years, after its solid waste management bylaws were approved in 2006, the BMC, starting November 2023, had mandated a penalty of Rs 100 and registering of cases for burning garbage in the open.
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Maximum number of cases of unauthorised construction debris were registered in S ward (Bhandup) at 217, followed by 88 cases in M/East ward.
Nayonika Bose is a Trainee Correspondent with The Indian Express’ Mumbai bureau. While in the early stages of her career, her focused reporting on local governance and community welfare already demonstrates clear Expertise and Trustworthiness in covering essential civic issues impacting Mumbai's residents.
Expertise & Authority (E-E-A-T)
Specialized Focus: Nayonika's reporting is dedicated to civic and community issues, providing readers with highly relevant, ground-level information about the functionality and administration of India's largest metropolitan area.
Core Coverage Areas: Her articles highlight a strong focus on the fundamental quality of life and public safety in Mumbai, including:
Civic Infrastructure: Reports on critical failures and initiatives related to public works, such as the recurring problem of unauthorized building collapses in Navi Mumbai, the construction of new infrastructure projects (like the Dahisar-Bhayandar Link Road and the Mahalaxmi cable-stayed bridge), and the maintenance of essential city services (e.g., manhole cover theft).
Urban Governance & Crisis Management: Provides detailed coverage of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) response to major crises, particularly during the monsoon (e.g., heavy rainfall, water cuts, and public health concerns like dengue and malaria) and large-scale public safety incidents (e.g., the hoarding collapse fallout).
Community Welfare & Rights: Reports on key social issues, including the financial aid scheme for persons with disabilities, the struggles of Mumbai's hawkers protesting eviction drives, and the dangers faced by workers due to the continuation of manual scavenging in water tanks.
Cultural & Heritage Reporting: Covers significant community stories, including the restoration of British-era fountains and the history of institutions like the 126-year-old Chinchpokli cemetery, showing a breadth of interest beyond pure administration.
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