Maharashtra plans 490km concrete roads in Mumbai by May

The Maharashtra government has promised better quality concrete roads in Mumbai. Industries Minister Uday Samant announced this on Tuesday in the state legislative council. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) aims to complete 490 kilometers of roads by May 31. This is part of a larger plan to convert a total of 701 kilometers into cement concrete. To oversee this project, the government will appoint an IAS officer. This officer will ensure that the road work meets quality standards. The decision follows concerns raised by city lawmakers about the delays and disruptions in the road works. The BMC has also started appointing zonal officers to identify problems with the work done by contractors. A new order will stop utility companies from digging up the newly built concrete roads. This rule will be communicated to service providers like BEST, Adani, and Tata Power. Meanwhile, officials have been instructed to complete the ongoing work in the next 70 days. Plans for site inspections involving lawmakers and engineers are also being developed. Senior engineers will monitor progress closely, including making nighttime visits to construction sites. Delays in the project have been attributed to ongoing water and sewage projects. The BMC has received complaints about poor work conditions, such as scattered debris and improper drainage. Contractors will face penalties if roads are not completed before the monsoon season.