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| Edited By: Geeta Desai |Source: DNA |Updated: Dec 25, 2014, 05:30 AM IST
What do you have to say about CAG criticising the delay in the completion of the project?
No one can deny the delay. We (BMC) are not even justifying it, but one has to understand the amount of administrative delays we face for various permissions. We have been replacing and repairing the British era drains to ensure their discharging capacity is enhanced. These works are time-consuming and even expensive. With each delay in the project, cost is bound to escalate.
How much work has been completed so far?
Almost 70%... The progress, though slow, is on the right track. While widening and deepening of the Mithi River has been done, the holding capacity has been doubled and discharge capacity tripled after the augmentation work. Two pumps each at three pumping stations — Love Grove, Irla and Haji Ali — are already commissioned, and another two are about to be commissioned.
What is the biggest hurdle which has delayed the project the most?
Encroachments, the toughest hurdle faced by the civic administration while implementing the project. Moving people from where they have started their lives and have lived for decades was a herculean task. People approached various authorities and even court. All that took a lot of time.
What about the remaining work?
Proposals for phase II are pending with the Centre. We are awaiting permissions. Clearances for Mogra and Mahul pumping stations are pending with the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority.
Do you think work done until now has been satisfactory?
Yes. I am sure everyone can see and feel the difference in the city for the past few monsoons. The number of chronic flooding spots has been decreasing. Rainwater recedes faster and there are very few water-logging cases registered now as compared to earlier. However, several projects are yet to be given the final finishing touch and are to be commissioned. They will soon be falling in place by next monsoon.
