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‘Prioritize Lights Over Firecrackers’: BMC’s New Guidelines to Curb Diwali Pollution

October 29, 2024, 1:46 pm

In response to rising pollution levels, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued new guidelines on Tuesday, urging Mumbai residents to celebrate Diwali with lights rather than firecrackers. The guidelines focus on reducing air and noise pollution in the city, which has experienced a marked decline in air quality over recent months.

Pollution Concerns Prompt Stricter Regulations

The BMC’s statement highlights the significant impact firecrackers have on Mumbai’s air quality, especially during Diwali festivities. “Pollution is rapidly increasing across the country, and the air quality in Mumbai has also deteriorated significantly,” the BMC noted, attributing part of this decline to firecracker usage. Residents are advised to avoid bursting firecrackers after 10 PM and to limit their use overall.

The guidelines stipulate that firecrackers should only be ignited in open areas, avoiding narrow streets or crowded places to ensure safety and reduce pollution. The BMC also stressed health risks associated with pollution, which disproportionately affects children, the elderly, pregnant women, and asthma patients.

Emphasis on a “Festival of Lights”

The BMC’s advisory encourages citizens to celebrate Diwali, focusing on traditional lighting and decoration, which generates minimal pollution. They further recommend the use of soundless or low-smoke firecrackers as an environmentally friendly alternative.

The BMC has advised safety measures such as wearing cotton clothing, ensuring adult supervision, and keeping water or sand nearby for those who still choose to use firecrackers. Residents are also warned not to ignite dry leaves or paper near firecrackers to reduce fire hazards.

These guidelines aim to foster a safe, pollution-free Diwali celebration, aligning with the BMC’s call to prioritize the festival’s spirit without compromising environmental and public health.

BMC Cancels Demolition of Alleged Illegal Mosque in Dharavi Amid Protests

September 21, 2024, 7:08 pm

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has halted its plans to demolish an alleged illegal section of a mosque in Dharavi, Asia’s largest slum, following large-scale protests from local residents. Mumbai Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad confirmed the cancellation, stating, “Action scheduled for today has been cancelled. We met the Chief Minister last night and urged for this. Everyone expressed their views peacefully.”

Peace Maintained After Gatherings

Deputy Commissioner of Police for Zone 5, Tejaswi Satpute, reported that the atmosphere in Dharavi remains peaceful despite the gathering of a significant crowd on the 90-foot road. “A huge crowd had gathered, but after being requested to disperse, they left the area. I urge everyone not to trust misleading messages circulating on social media,” she said.

BMC’s Initial Actions

The BMC had previously issued a notice for the removal of encroachments on the mosque. The administration indicated that it would typically enforce this notice but decided to allow a 4-5 day grace period after the mosque’s trustees submitted a written request to remove the construction voluntarily.

Official Comments on the Situation

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis referenced a court decision regarding the demolition of unauthorized constructions, noting that the BMC had acted accordingly. He emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order and expressed confidence that the mosque trustees would adhere to their commitment to remove the encroachment.

Political Reactions

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray criticized the situation, suggesting there were attempts to incite communal tensions. “These people are planning to start a Hindu-Muslim riot and divide communities,” he stated, condemning the politicization of the issue and advocating for unity.

WATCH | How Hoarding Collapses Across The Country Are Becoming A Growing Threat

August 2, 2024, 3:18 pm

Hoarding collapses have emerged as a pressing concern in India, with a series of tragic incidents highlighting the urgent need for stricter regulations and enforcement. These structures, often towering over our cities, pose a significant risk to public safety, as evidenced by the numerous casualties and injuries reported across the country.

One such incident occurred in Thane, Maharashtra, on Friday where a massive hoarding came crashing down on parked vehicles. Fortunately, no lives were lost, but the close call served as a stark reminder of the potential dangers.

Watch video:

#WATCH | Maharashtra: A wooden hoarding collapsed at Sahajanand Chowk of Kalyan in Thane at 10:18 am this morning. No casualties reported, 3 vehicles were damaged in the incident.

(Source: District Information Officer, Thane) pic.twitter.com/daMjcqFhOi

— ANI (@ANI) August 2, 2024

In Pune, a spate of hoarding collapses, including one that injured three people and a horse, exposed the rampant issue of unauthorized structures.

Watch video

"5NDRF#Tragic incident at Chheda Nagar , Mumbai. Hoarding collapse at petrol pump. NDRF on scene, rescued Three. SAR ongoing. #CSSR#NDRF#RRCMumbai@ANI @sdmamaharashtra @NDRFHq @ndmaindia @PIBMumbai pic.twitter.com/YBvu1sTNx5

— 5 NDRF PUNE (@5Ndrf) May 13, 2024

Mumbai post heavy rains:

Ghatkopar, Mumbai post the heavy rains. The earth seems both angry & hungry. The soundtrack needs a ‘burp’ at the end of the clip… pic.twitter.com/Y4oEdzEtZC

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) June 13, 2021

The most devastating incident took place in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, where a colossal hoarding collapsed during a dust storm, claiming 17 lives. This tragedy prompted a strong response from authorities, with the Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission issuing notices to the BMC and police for negligence.

Watch video:

In India, 54 people were injured and over 100 are feared trapped following a hoarding collapse at the Police Ground Petrol Pump on Eastern Express Highway, Pantnagar, Ghatkopar East. Search and rescue operations are underway.

? @ANI pic.twitter.com/LRbpMJLt9T

— Volcaholic ? (@volcaholic1) May 13, 2024

#WATCH | Mumbai's Ghatkopar hoarding collapse incident: Rescue and search operation underway by NDRF

The death toll in the Ghatkopar hoarding collapse incident has risen to 14. pic.twitter.com/YpdCDeu5fb

— ANI (@ANI) May 14, 2024

Beyond these high-profile cases, numerous other cities have grappled with the menace of collapsing hoardings. Loni Kalbhor, Pune, and Moshi, Pimpri-Chinchwad, witnessed similar incidents, underscoring the systemic failure in regulating these structures.

Iron Hoarding Collapsed In Pune, Killed 5 Including 4 Women on 18 Apr 2023.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the government and legal bodies have initiated steps to address the problem. The BMC has established a panel to develop new guidelines for billboards, while the Supreme Court has directed authorities to implement safety measures. Maharashtra has also announced a new hoarding policy for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

However, preventing future tragedies requires a multi-faceted approach. Local bodies must diligently enforce safety norms and conduct regular inspections. The Bureau of Indian Standards guidelines for wind load calculations should be strictly adhered to. Additionally, the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change necessitates a reassessment of structural safety standards for outdoor structures.

Ultimately, the responsibility for preventing hoarding collapses lies with multiple stakeholders, including landowners, advertising agencies, and government authorities. By working together, we can create a safer urban environment and prevent such heart-wrenching incidents from recurring.

The time has come for a comprehensive overhaul of hoarding regulations. The lives of countless citizens depend on it.

BMW Hit-and-Run Case: Prime Suspect Confesses To Driving; BMC Demolishes Bar’s Illegal Sections

July 10, 2024, 1:12 pm

Mihir Shah, the primary suspect in the Mumbai hit-and-run case, has reportedly confessed to driving during the incident. Authorities have demolished the unauthorized sections of the bar where Shah allegedly consumed alcohol prior to the accident. On Tuesday, the state excise department suspended the license of Vice-Global Tapas Bar on Juhu Tara Road for serving hard liquor to Shah, who is under 25 years old. State regulations dictate that only individuals aged 25 and above can consume or be served whisky, rum, vodka, or similar Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL).

The incident occurred on Sunday morning in Mumbai’s Worli area, where Shah’s speeding BMW collided with a scooter, resulting in the death of a 45-year-old woman who was riding with her husband. Shah was apprehended from a Virar hotel on Tuesday, nearly 60 hours after the incident. He and his family had been evading authorities since early Sunday, with their phones switched off. However, police managed to track them down by monitoring numbers frequently contacted by Shah and his friends. One of these numbers became active on Tuesday morning, leading to Shah’s arrest.

BMC Demolishes Illegal Portion Of Vice Global Tapas Bar

On Wednesday, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) demolished the unauthorized section of Vice Global Tapas Bar where Shah had consumed alcohol before the accident.

#WATCH | Mumbai: Illegal portion of the bar in Juhu where Worli hit and run case accused went before the accident, is being demolished by BMC. pic.twitter.com/JwykktZGbS

— ANI (@ANI) July 10, 2024

The BMC used a bulldozer for the demolition after the excise department had sealed the bar the previous day.

Mumbai Hoarding Collapse: ‘Action Will Be Taken Against Illegal Hoarding In The City’, Says BMC

May 14, 2024, 4:02 pm

In the wake of the tragic hoarding collapse incident in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a sweeping crackdown on illegal hoardings across the city. The BMC Commissioner, Bhushan Gagrani, has stated that stringent action will be taken against all unauthorized hoardings, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to safety regulations and permissions.

Commissioner Gagrani declared, “…BMC has ordered that action will be taken against all illegal hoarding in the city…We are starting that today.” He further revealed that a case has been registered in connection with the Ghatkopar incident, highlighting the serious nature of the situation.

The tragic incident in Ghatkopar occurred when a hoarding collapsed, resulting in casualties and injuries. Investigations have revealed that the hoarding in question did not have any official permission from the BMC. Additionally, complaints were received regarding the illegal cutting of trees to ensure visibility of the hoarding, leading to environmental concerns as well.

Commissioner Gagrani addressed these issues, stating, “This hoarding did not have any permission… A complaint was also received that some trees were also cut so that this hoarding should be visible…We have also registered a case against this too.”

As the investigation into the Ghatkopar incident continues, authorities are focused on implementing preventive measures and holding accountable those responsible for flouting regulations related to hoardings and environmental preservation.

The BMC’s efforts to address this issue are part of a broader initiative to enhance safety standards and promote responsible urban development practices within the city.

Maharashtra: Hoarding Falls In Ghatkopar, 35 Injured, BMC To File Complaint

May 13, 2024, 7:30 pm

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced its decision to file a complaint against the Indian Railways and advertising company Ego Media following the hoarding falling incident in Ghatkopar. The incident resulted in injuries to at least 35 individuals. According to the BMC Public Relations Officer (PRO), the complaint aims to register a First Information Report (FIR) under the Disaster Management Act. This action underscores the seriousness with which authorities are approaching the matter, seeking accountability and legal recourse in the aftermath of the unfortunate incident.

#WATCH | Maharashtra | 35 people reported injured after a hoarding fell at the Police Ground Petrol Pump, Eastern Express Highway, Pantnagar, Ghatkopar East. Search and rescue is in process: BMC

(Viral video confirmed by official) https://t.co/kRYGqM61UW pic.twitter.com/OgItizDMMN

— ANI (@ANI) May 13, 2024

Amit Shah to visit Mumbai to discuss BJP’s poll strategy

April 15, 2023, 3:55 pm

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will travel to Mumbai on Saturday to meet with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state unit leaders. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and other senior leaders will greet Shah at Mumbai Airport.

According to sources, Shah will meet with BJP leaders from the state unit to discuss the party’s election strategy. The gathering will be held at the Sahyadri State Guest House. They stated that there will be discussions about the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, other civic elections, and the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Shah is also likely to hold a meeting with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to discuss the strategy of the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance and the functioning of the state government. The Union Home Minister will attend a grand function in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, where he will felicitate Appasaheb Dharmadhikari with the state’s highest civilian honour, the Maharashtra Bhushan.

Mumbai: BMC repairs pipe in Tansa Water channel

April 9, 2023, 4:04 pm

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) pipes were repaired on a war footing at the Tansa reservoir pipeline on Sunday, according to BMC.
According to the announcement, the hole was discovered in the Tansa Water channel on Saturday approximately 3:30 p.m., affecting the water supply of the ‘K East’ division and Dharavi of the ‘G North’ division. According to BMC, a 21-inch-long piece of the main Tansa water channel was damaged, and repair work began when a 2-inch-diameter hole was discovered.

BMC workers and engineers immediately started repair work on the damaged pipeline, which was repaired around 4:00 am on Sunday.
BMC Commissioner Iqbal Chahal congratulated the department workers and engineers for completing the repair work in record time.
Tansa Water channel services resume at 6:30 am on Sunday.

BMC TO Set Up Infra To Fight Covid

December 31, 2022, 4:43 pm

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said that it can set up the required medical infrastructure within 15 days due to the increasing Covid-19 cases, “We have 4,000 doctors, 7,500 nurses, and 4,500 paramedical staff that are trained to handle COVID-19.” Moreover, the civic body added that it has 4,000 metric tonnes of medical oxygen in stock.

Massive fire breaks out at godowns in Kurla

December 28, 2022, 12:15 pm

In a wooden godown in Mumbai’s Kurla area a fire broke out on Wednesday and later it spread to 20 to 25 godowns. Meanwhile, to extinguish the fire eight fire tenders were sent to the fire spot. So, far no casualties have been reported and the reason for the fire is still unknown. “Fire is confined to electric wiring, installation, scrap material, and vehicle spare parts, in the area of 400 to 500 sq ft. at 20 to 25 shops,” the BMC said.