BMC Clears 118.5 Tonnes of Debris from Mumbai Highways in Special Drive

Mumbai, India: In a massive clean-up effort, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) removed 118.5 tonnes of debris from the Western and Eastern Express Highways over the past three nights. Additionally, 37 tonnes of solid waste were cleared as part of the special drive.

The initiative includes mechanical sweeping, dust removal, and water jet cleaning of service roads and ramps. However, activists argue that the BMC’s lack of vigilance allows illegal dumping in the first place. They have urged the civic body to strengthen its Debris on Call service and deploy clean-up marshals to monitor highways.

Meanwhile, the BMC is considering reducing debris disposal charges. Currently, while disposing of up to 500 kg is free, the cost per tonne ranges from ₹400 to ₹500. A full truckload costs around ₹1,500, but officials are considering cutting this by more than half.

To combat illegal dumping, a special squad may soon be formed in coordination with Mumbai Traffic Police. Since the launch of the Debris on Call helpline, around 30,000 metric tonnes of debris have been collected and treated at plants in Dahisar and Kalyan.

Debris Disposal Helpline: