Parag Masurkar, Assistant Municipal Commissioner of D-ward, talks to us about his plans to improvise the areas
"Since the monsoon has arrived, our immediate attention is to make the ward monsoon-friendly so it does not create inconvenience to the locals. The drive for making the ward malaria and dengue-free is being monitored, as these diseases start spreading during this season. Hence, we ensure that these places do not become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. This is done by cleaning the localities, keeping it garbage-free and taking other relevant measures. Another issue is the potholes on the roads created because of the rains. We keep a close watch on the roads which need to be repaired. On receiving any complaints, we make it a point to take care of the potholes within the 24-hour deadline.
Like every other ward, D-ward also has a disaster-control helpline, which is available 24x7. The staff here is trained and equipped to deal with situations like flood. Overgrown trees can be fatal especially during monsoons, so we trim trees when required. We also help if anyone from the nearby residential complexes call in for assistance on trimming trees.
Lastly, as a part of the monsoon drives, we have shortlisted dilapidating buildings. There are eight such buildings in my ward and we have already vacated them. These buildings are declared dangerous and we have planned to either repair or demolish them.
Immediately post monsoon, the celebrations for Ganesh Chaturthi will get into full swing around here. Since Girgaon Chowpatty is a part of the D-ward, we have to look into the elaborate arrangements for the festival. This year, we have started arrangements early; tenders by the agencies have already been decided. By month-end, the work list will be finalised and we will assign work accordingly.
Another project that needs to be looked at is decongesting Mumbai Central railway station. This station is extremely important as it is a juncture for both local and long-distance trains. Thousand of passengers access it and hence, making it cleaner, decongested and hawker-free is a priority. There is also a huge plot near the station which can be turned into a garden. The proposal for the same has received Commissioner Kunte's nod and after a month, we have decided to start work on it."
—As told to Pooja Patel
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