BMC Chief Sets Road-Wise Completion Dates, Orders Surprise Inspections

Mumbai: Mumbaikars may finally experience pothole-free roads this monsoon as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has set a strict deadline of May 31, 2025, to complete the ongoing cement concretization of roads.

BMC Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani has directed officials to implement micro-planning, set road-wise completion dates, and ensure seamless coordination with utility departments to prevent delays. The move aims to enhance road quality and minimize monsoon-related disruptions.

In a high-level meeting at BMC headquarters, Commissioner Gagrani instructed engineers to focus on both speed and quality, emphasizing that digging on newly concretized roads will be strictly prohibited. Senior engineers must conduct surprise site visits, especially at night, to monitor progress and enforce quality control.

Utility Delays to be Addressed

During the meeting, engineers reported that delays were caused by water and sewerage pipelines and other utility agencies’ infrastructure. Gagrani ordered these agencies to set fixed timelines for their work to prevent further roadwork delays.

Action on Citizen Complaints

Several complaints from local representatives and residents regarding missing barricades, debris, and cement-filled stormwater drains were discussed. The commissioner instructed officials to take immediate corrective measures.

Final Road Finishing & Safety Measures

Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects) Abhijit Bangar announced that completed roads would be marked with thermoplastic paint, zebra crossings, cat eyes, and intersection grids to enhance safety and aesthetics. Contractors will also be held responsible for filling potholes on roads not completed before monsoon.

Strict No-Digging Policy on Completed Roads

Commissioner Gagrani stressed that no excavation will be allowed on newly concretized roads. Ward offices and central agencies have been directed to ensure compliance.

With 701 km of roadwork underway, BMC has taken an aggressive approach to complete the project on time and minimize disruptions for Mumbaikars.