New municipal commissioner Praveen Pardeshi revived the idea and emphasised on the significance of public engagement. Citizens, activists and other local groups have backed its revival.
Common public partaking in civic activities either through ALMs or LACCs is a development that has been welcomed by citizens, activists, and BMC officials too. However, activists and officials have also expressed their concerns over a few ways followed by such groups at present. While citizens expect a more positive approach and better initiative on part of the BMC, officials said an inflexible attitude of some of the participants tend to become a hindrance. On the other hand, activists pointed out how over 50 per cent of Mumbaikars living in slums don't participate in ALMs and depend on councillors.
The concept of people participation through committee meetings that originally started in the nineties, was brought to a halt two years ago by the previous municipal commissioner.
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New municipal commissioner Praveen Pardeshi revived the idea and emphasised on the significance of public engagement. Citizens, activists and other local groups have backed its revival.
"People participation helps to get things done in a speedy and accurate manner," said James John, who works with Agni, a non-governmental organisation. However, some activists are skeptical of the reintroduction of ALMs. Vasant Patil, a member of the ALM at Ashok Nagar in Kandivali, said, "Civic officials lack in passion. As a result, very little work gets done under the ALM.There is no point in meeting every month if suggestions only remain on paper. The BMC only pushes forth ways to segregate solid waste and that too not in a scientific manner."
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Patil further said, "In 2009, we prevented 85 out of 105 trees from being cut down at Ashok Nagar through LACC. The trees were being cut down to construct a road. Later, the committee lost its importance." Transfer of officials and the kind of interest of new officials also impacts the work of ALMs. Patil said, "There is no continuity in the work. ALM members have to depend upon the initiative of individual officials."
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Civic officials have voiced similar sentiments. "It all depends upon the approach and attitude of civic officials, as well as ALM members," said a ward official. He further pointed out, "At times, demands of removing hawkers can't be dealt with easily as it is a complex issue. If members understand the limitations and advantages of the group, a lot of civic change can be brought about. Gardens, roads, dustbins, traffic islands, plantation areas and garbage can be managed efficiently through group activity."
"Slums lack in ALMs. People depend on local corporators or MLAs to get their work done. We have approached ward officials through our organisations," said Mumtaj Sheikh, from Right To Pee movement that helped design and improve public toilets in many parts of the city.
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