BMC cracks down on dhobi ghat for polluting Dahisar

In a major boost for the proposed Dahisar river rejuvenation, BMC has finally begun a crackdown by permanently stopping the washing activities being carried out on the river bed at Dhobi Ghat, located near western express highway at Borivali.

Calling it a major step in saving the river, Gopal Jhaveri, founder of citizens movement River March, said that they were happy that BMC has finally taken the issue up. The move comes after an inspection of Dhobi Ghata that was carried out on May 8 by Ramakant Biradar, Assistant Municipal Commissioner BMC R/Central ward along with members of River March.

Jhaveri informed that despite having a designated area along the boundary wall the washermen operated on the river bed. "The bed is littered with mounds of plastic waste. Apart from that there were bamboo set ups to dry the clothes," said Jhaveri.

Interestingly around 25 washermen have participated in the clean up drive of Dahisar river organised on Sunday by River March. "They helped us remove 1000 kg of garbage," said local BJP leader Vikram Chogle who has been supporting the River March movement.

Meanwhile Biradar said that they will keep following up and carry out checks to ensure 100 per cent implementation. "During my visit I had seen that the activity was harmful for the river. Also washermen have alloted plots they operate from. The place also needs a waste water treatment plant so that the waste water is first treated before being released in the river. We will ask the washermen to install it," he said.