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The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has set a record budget of INR 60,000 crore for FY 2024-25, focusing on roads, bridges, stormwater drains, and sewage management. Major allocations include INR 12,000 crore for roads like the Goregaon-Mulund Link Road and INR 26,000 crore for sewage treatment plants in Dharavi, Ghatkopar, and Bandra. Despite these investments, critics highlight delays and lack of transparency in fund utilization, especially since the suspension of elected representatives in 2022. The BMC has invited public feedback on the budget by January 17, 2025, aiming to enhance citizen involvement and accountability in addressing Mumbai's pressing infrastructure challenges.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has earmarked a substantial budget of INR 60,000 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25, prioritizing infrastructure development across Mumbai. With INR 18,191 crore already spent on capital projects up to December 31, 2023, the civic body's focus remains on addressing the city's pressing needs in roads, bridges, stormwater drains, and sewage management. However, concerns about transparency in fund utilization continue to be raised by civic activists and former corporators. Advertisement
Among the major undertakings, INR 12,000 crore has been allocated for road construction, including significant projects such as the GMLR (Goregaon-Mulund Link Road). Additionally, work on the coastal road from Versova to Bhayander is expected to cost INR 20,000 crore, while the BMC has committed INR 26,000 crore to sewage treatment plants in areas like Dharavi, Ghatkopar, and Bandra. These projects are aimed at addressing Mumbai's infrastructural challenges, particularly in traffic decongestion and water management.
Former corporator Ravi Raja criticized the pace of work, noting that large sums have been allocated year after year, but many projects remain delayed. He noted that funds are being cleared for bills without adequate checks, highlighting inefficiencies in both the tendering and execution processes. This sentiment is echoed by residents and civic groups, who have long demanded greater accountability in project implementation.
The BMC's expenditure under the administrator's rule has drawn scrutiny. Since the suspension of elected representatives in 2022, decisions about infrastructure spending have lacked public oversight. Critics argue that this has led to a lack of clarity on how funds are distributed among contractors and whether value-for-money audits are being conducted. Samajwadi Party MLA Rais Shaikh described the situation as a "mismanagement of public resources," urging stronger measures to ensure transparency.
In response, the BMC has invited public suggestions on the budget for 2024-25. Residents can share their feedback through emails or written submissions by January 17, 2025. This initiative is part of the civic body's effort to involve citizens in decision-making processes and address concerns about the allocation of funds.
Despite the criticism, the BMC remains optimistic about its infrastructure goals. Key projects, such as the redevelopment of parking lots, open spaces, and bridges, are expected to gain momentum in the coming months. Officials have assured that ongoing projects are being closely monitored to prevent further delays.
As Mumbai continues to grapple with its growing urban demands, the efficient use of the BMC's record budget will be critical. While the focus on infrastructure is welcome, ensuring transparency and accountability will be essential for winning public trust and delivering sustainable solutions for the city's future.
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