Slum rehabilitation body to build malaria-free sites
Furthering the civic body’s efforts to prevent the spread of malaria, the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) has stated that it would impose a fine or issue stop-work notices if the developers working on projects under its scheme are found flouting hygiene norms.
Furthering the civic body’s efforts to prevent the spread of malaria, the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) has stated that it would impose a fine or issue stop-work notices if the developers working on projects under its scheme are found flouting hygiene norms.
Currently, there are 450 construction sites under the SRA scheme of which 78 are in the island city while the rest are in the suburbs. Some of the guidelines prescribed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) include the presence of appointed doctors and pathologists on the construction site, arrangements for medical and blood test for workers and prevention of accumulation of water.
“We have written to the 450 developers asking them to abide by the norms to control the spread of malaria. Nearly 60-70% developers have replied to us after taking the prescribed action. The BMC ward officers will verify the status of these sites and issue health cards to each worker,” said an SRA official requesting anonymity.
If found flouting the norms, the developers will have to cough up a fine of Rs10,000. They could also receive stop-work notices from the SRA.
SS Zende, chief executive officer, SRA, said: “We are working with the BMC to ensure that the workers at the site are given proper mosquito nets and waterlogging is prevented. We will take strict action against flouters. If appropriate measures are not taken in time, we could stop issuing further permissions.”
Emphasis is also being laid on clearing the debris after demolition. “We are trying to avoid spaces which could act as breeding ground for mosquitos. We will make sure that the developers seek a no objection certificate from the pest control office,” said the official.
The BMC and SRA officials met last week to discuss malaria preventive measures at the SRA construction sites. A follow-up meeting on the same agenda is scheduled for Monday.