BJP MLA Calls for Third-Party Safety Audit After Mumbai Metro Line 4 Collapse
BJP MLA Mihir Kotecha, representing the Mulund constituency in Mumbai, has demanded a comprehensive third-party quality control and safety audit of the entire Metro Line 4 structure. This urgent call comes after he received approximately 500 complaints from citizens following a recent parapet slab collapse incident on the elevated corridor.
Citizen Concerns and Visual Evidence Highlight Safety Issues
Kotecha revealed that residents have expressed significant fear and anxiety in the aftermath of Saturday's collapse. Citizens forwarded him close to 500 photographs that clearly highlight visible alignment issues, gaps, and level differences in the parapet walls along the Metro Line 4 elevated corridor. These images were also shared with the T-Ward Disaster Management team, underscoring widespread public concern over structural integrity.
"There is fear amongst citizens," stated Kotecha. "Following the parapet collapse incident, residents sent me photographs highlighting visible alignment issues, gaps, and level differences. Close to 500 similar images were forwarded to me and the disaster management team."
Inspection Reveals Minor Defects but Assurances of Safety
On Wednesday, Kotecha conducted a detailed inspection of sections of Metro Line 4 along the LBS Marg in Mulund. He was accompanied by officials from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), T-ward authorities, and local corporators.
During this inspection, officials acknowledged the presence of minor technical and finishing defects, particularly in the alignment of parapet walls. However, they maintained that the overall structure is 100% safe and that its stability has not been compromised in any way.
Demand for Accountability and Comprehensive Audit
Kotecha emphasized that since the government has released full payment to contractors as per existing agreements, it is imperative to conduct a thorough third-party quality control and safety audit of the entire Metro Line 4 corridor. He demanded strict action against any consultants and auditors found responsible for lapses or negligence in ensuring construction standards.
Additionally, he urged the MMRDA to implement GIS tagging of all identified problematic locations and to issue a detailed technical advisory supported by photographic documentation. "It will help in reducing fear from the minds of people," he asserted, highlighting the need for transparency and public reassurance.
The incident has sparked a broader discussion on infrastructure safety and accountability in Mumbai's rapidly expanding metro network, with citizens and officials alike calling for enhanced oversight and preventive measures.
