The Mumbai government on Monday firmly rejected a recent report by the Praja Foundation concerning the civic services provided by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The issue, raised twice in the state council, has led to a directive for an inquiry into the report’s findings, alongside a separate probe into contractors responsible for public toilet upkeep. Government representatives stated significant disparities exist between the report’s observations and the BMC’s official records, particularly regarding crucial infrastructure for public sanitation.
Specifically, while the Praja Foundation report alleged that 69% of public toilets lacked water connections and 60% were without power supply, government officials countered these claims. They asserted that 82% of public toilets are equipped with water connections and 88% have power. The city is also set to receive 14,166 new public toilets under the Swachh Maharashtra Abhiyan 2.0, with an additional 500 urinals from the BMC. Legislators in the state council strongly demanded an inquiry into the report’s methodology and findings, which the government has now committed to.
In a written response, government representatives maintained that the BMC is not neglecting civic issues and is delivering services according to set standards, addressing complaints within 24 to 72 hours. The Praja Foundation’s report, published in May, had claimed a 70% increase in complaints related to solid waste management, water supply, schools, roads, and toilets, with 1.15 lakh total complaints in 2024. The report also cited a higher average number of users per public toilet than recommended, a figure also disputed by the government, which provided its own statistics on toilet availability and water supply across the city.
This dispute highlights ongoing debates about urban governance and civic service delivery. The impending inquiry underscores the government’s intent to scrutinize findings and ensure transparency, aiming to validate public service standards and address citizen concerns in India’s financial capital.
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Mumbai Government Rejects Praja Foundations BMC Services Report Orders Inquiry