Beautification work below flyovers to start soon

With an aim to beautify the unattended corners and spaces below bridges and flyovers in the city, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will soon undertake beautification of these spots. Areas below bridges and flyovers are often used to dump debris or become den for anti-social elements.

"We are currently in the process of identifying flyovers, work under which would be undertaken first. It should be over in the next 15 days," said a civic official.

The decision was primarily taken following complaints from locals over such areas turning into dens of anti-social elements, a cause for concern for residents as well as commuters passing through the area. A list of about 30 flyovers will be prepared and the beautification work will cost around Rs30 crore.

"The project will solve both the utility and the beautifying purposes, as flowering shrubs will be planted in the areas after cleaning. Turns can also be created there for motorists," said additional municipal commissioner SVR Srinivas.

Last year-end, Bharatiya Janata Party corporator from Andheri Ameet Satam had taken up the beautification of the area under the Andheri flyover, following complaints from locals. However, local Congress MLA Ashok Jadhav, in a political rivalry, claimed his right on the beautification and also proclaimed the same by putting up banners in the area. However, ultimately, the residents suffered with both the politicos at loggerheads over who should get credit for the work. Nearly five months on, the work is still not complete.