Most of the city’s statues, built to commemorate the achievements of historical leaders and and nation builders, have been languishing in neglect these days, with the passers-by looking the other way in disgust and authorities turning a blind eye towards their upkeep and maintenance. If they aren’t covered by a thick patina of dust, their heads are crowned by an embarrassing coat of bird droppings.

The city has about 12,000 statues, almost all of which have become an eyesore for passers-by, often encrusted with dried bird droppings. A case in point is the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Nariman Point. File pic