Be rock-solid and transparent while levying penalties

While BMC has started putting up nets at the mouths of several drains to stop garbage from entering the sea, the new civic commissioner Praveen Pardeshi has planned on posting clean-up marshals to monitor nullahs in the city round-the-clock.

AS the city waits for the rains and the question about its impending arrival dominates the conversation on train commutes and over cocktails, Mumbai is stepping on the gas pedal when it comes to monsoon preparation.

The solid waste management department has been asked to increase the number of sanitary inspectors and clean-up marshals. Pardeshi wants offenders caught dumping garbage to be penalised. Civic sources revealed Rs 200 will be charged as penalty for dumping in nullahs. Clean-up marshals currently charge Rs 200 for littering and spitting, whereas Rs 100 is charged for defecating in the open. These are important steps in arresting the dumping of garbage in the sea. Yet, these inspectors have to be educated properly about their roles. We must also ensure that clean-up marshals are themselves 'clean', and we mean that in a metaphorical sense.

There have been several complaints about abuse of power by clean-up marshals across the city, and about impersonators posing as marshals. The ordinary person is unaware of the bona fide marshals. There are complaints about people being fined out of proportion, or for no fault of theirs. The rampant misuse of power has even led to the term 'clean-up marshal terror'.

Penalties are required for the success of a clean-up drive. Disciplining people is one thing, but it is fines that pinch and those are unfortunately a necessity in a city which is stretched to its limit, infra-wise. The decision to levy fines is a good one; it needs rock-solid implementation and transparency.

Catch up on all the latest Mumbai news, crime news, current affairs, and also a complete guide on Mumbai from food to things to do and events across the city here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates