BJP Corporator Raises Alarm Over Safety Violations at Mumbai's GMLR Project
During a standing committee meeting of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Wednesday, BJP corporator Priti Satam brought to light significant safety lapses at the construction site of the Goregaon-Mulund Link Road (GMLR) project on Film City Road. Through a point of order, Satam emphasized that the absence of basic safety measures is creating hazardous conditions for both pedestrians and on-site workers.
Detailed Safety Concerns Highlighted by Satam
Satam criticized officials and the contractor for their lackadaisical approach, pointing out multiple critical issues:
- Unprotected Girders: The girders erected at the site lack any safety measures around them, posing a direct risk of accidents.
- Debris Dumping: Debris has been carelessly dumped at several locations, obstructing pathways and increasing the likelihood of injuries.
- Inadequate Barricading: There is no proper barricading around ditches filled with stagnant water, which not only creates a fall hazard but also poses a serious health risk due to potential waterborne diseases.
- Missing Safety Equipment: The site has not deployed anti-pollution misting units to control dust, and there is no traffic warden to manage vehicle and pedestrian movement, exacerbating the danger.
Satam demanded accountability, questioning what action would be taken against the contractor and concerned officials if an accident were to occur at the site. Her intervention underscores the urgent need for improved oversight in public infrastructure projects.
BMC's Response and Penalties Imposed
In response to these allegations, civic officials revealed that the BMC has imposed a total penalty of Rs 3 crore on the contractor to date. This includes a Rs 50 lakh fine levied in March for delays in constructing the flyover between Dindoshi court and Dadasaheb Film City, which is part of the GMLR project.
Additional Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar assured that safety-related issues would be addressed with seriousness. He stated that necessary actions would be taken to rectify the highlighted problems and that other concerns raised by Satam would be thoroughly investigated and resolved.
Overview of the GMLR Project
The Goregaon-Mulund Link Road project is a major infrastructure initiative proposed in four phases. Phase 3 (A) specifically involves the construction of a flyover and an elevated rotary. Currently, work is underway on the nearly 1.3-kilometer flyover between Dindoshi and Goregaon, with an expected completion date set for May 31, when it is slated to be opened to traffic.
This project aims to enhance connectivity and reduce traffic congestion in Mumbai, but the recent safety concerns highlight the importance of adhering to protocols to ensure public safety during construction.
