Brihanmumbai Municipal Commissioner and Administrator Iqbal Singh Chahal Tuesday said that a unified city administration, similar to major cities abroad, should be established to resolve diverse issues in Mumbai. Chahal was speaking at the “Loksatta Shaharbhan” event held in Mumbai. During the programme, the commissioner extensively discussed Mumbai’s various challenges, potential solutions, and ongoing projects. Chahal said that there were over 14 different authorities operating in Mumbai and getting clearances from multiple agencies for infrastructure projects was a cumbersome process. He said that a single authority for Mumbai would simplify decision-making and implementation. Mumbai is the most densely populated city with over 22 million people, presenting a significant challenge for urban planning. The municipal commissioner discussed how all city departments are functioning and what future plans they have in store. Commissioner Chahal highlighted that until 2018, the the civic body mainly provided civic services. However, in recent years, they have started taking up infrastructure projects as well. Chahal added that in the past four to five years, the municipal corporation has issued directives for various development projects worth billions. These include Coastal Road project, Goregaon-Mulund Link Road project, and the reclamation of salt pan lands.
