BMC proposes mapping utilities to curb road digging

The BMC is planning to incorporate in the new development plan a map of the existing utilities that could help in better co-ordination between the various agencies operating these services.

The map, prepared by the Geographical Information System, will display distinct layers, serving as a convenient guide. It will help to locate the position of utility lines running under public and private roads.

Details of the mapping proposal were submitted by the civic body to the state government recently.

The BMC's utilities, like sewers and water lines, will be described in distinct colours, while those maintained by other agencies would have a separate colour code.

This has been a matter of concern as repeated digging of public spaces by different agencies is not only an inconvenience, but often these stretches are not restored properly.

"After the city's roads are brought under the common umbrella of the BMC, the process of issuing permissions for digging trenches and restoring the spaces can be better coordinated. It would also ensure that dedicated civic staff are available for the work," the
official said. "This way the maintenance of all roads can be monitored effectively."

Ameet Satam, BJP corporator from Andheri, who had raised this issue in the standing committee in May, welcomed the mapping proposal. "Marking out the utilities in the development plan would solve 40 per cent of the problems of our roads. I hope it is implemented soon," said Satam.

The corporator had complained about a newly-laid footpath that was dug up twice by two companies. "They restored the footpath, but the quality of work was poor," he said.

Satam suggested providing a separate channel for internet lines, given the growing demand for the service.

A civic official pointed out that there have also been instances when the digging has been a waste as the exact position of the utility was not known.