All the crores allocated towards infrastructure in the budget and hot-button phrases like growth spurt have little meaning when we continue to go wrong on smaller basics and people suffer because of easily preventable slip-ups by authorities.

A report in this paper cited how, two months ago, when the municipal corporation first began repairing drainage pipes in Andheri West, residents were happy about clogged lines being cleared. That happiness has turned to regret, as the drains have been left open. The stagnant water and stench has made life unbearable for residents. They claim the mosquito menace is growing, thanks to the drains. Their complaints have resulted in zilch action.