Advertisement
When should a housing society in Mumbai start considering re...
From GST on JDAs to SEBI’s REIT reclassification and the S...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Mumbai police has established a special investigation team (SIT) to examine alleged financial irregularities in contracts awarded for desilting the Mithi river. The investigation, covering the period between 2005 and 2023, focuses on misappropriation of funds amounting to approximately INR 1,100 crore. Officials have identified 18 contractors involved in these projects, and three have already been summoned for questioning. The probe also extends to contracts related to sludge removal and the river's beautification. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been systematically desilting major and minor nullahs, with a significant portion of the silt removal occurring before the monsoon season.
The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Mumbai police has set up a special investigation team (SIT) to scrutinise alleged discrepancies in contracts awarded for desilting the Mithi river. The investigation is expected to cover suspected financial misappropriation amounting to INR 1,100 crore. Advertisement
According to the official, the SIT consists of the Joint Commissioner of Police (EOW), a Deputy Commissioner of Police, two Assistant Commissioners of Police, and an inspector. Their mandate includes reviewing all contracts issued for the river's desilting from 2005 to 2023. Preliminary findings indicate that 18 contractors were engaged in these projects during the specified period.
The official further stated that three contractors have already been summoned for an inquiry. Additionally, the EOW is looking into contracts related to sludge removal and the beautification of the Mithi river.
The Mithi River, stretching approximately 18 kilometres through Mumbai, originates from the overflow of Vihar and Powai lakes and empties into the Arabian Sea at Mahim Creek. Historically, it has functioned as a crucial natural drainage channel, especially during the monsoon season, mitigating the risk of floods in the city. Beyond its role in flood control, the river has supported local livelihoods and contributed to the urban ecosystem.
Following the 2005 Mumbai floods, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) initiated an annual desilting drive for nullahs across Mumbai and its suburbs before the onset of the monsoon. The city has an extensive network comprising 254.67 km of major nullahs, 443.84 km of minor nullahs, and 21.35 km of the Mithi river that require desilting. Annually, the BMC removes over nine lakh metric tonnes of silt as part of its maintenance efforts.
Simultaneously, the Maharashtra government established the Mithi River Development and Protection Authority (MRDPA) to spearhead restoration and flood prevention initiatives. Despite the allocation of substantial funds-over INR 1,400 crore in the past 13 years-the river continues to grapple with significant pollution challenges. Efforts have included constructing retaining walls, dredging, and implementing sewage treatment plants. Notably, in January 2023, a sewage treatment facility was inaugurated near Powai Lake to enhance water quality.
However, the effectiveness of these measures has been limited. The river remains heavily polluted due to continuous discharge of untreated sewage and industrial effluents. Recent assessments underscore the necessity for a comprehensive eco-restoration strategy that addresses pollution sources, rehabilitates riverbanks, and fosters community engagement to rejuvenate the Mithi River effectively.
The formation of an SIT underscores the gravity of alleged financial irregularities in Mumbai's desilting projects. With INR 1,100 crore under scrutiny, the probe aims to identify lapses in accountability and ensure corrective measures are implemented.
5th Jun, 2025
25th May, 2023
11th May, 2023
27th Apr, 2023
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
