BMC says 90% potholes in Mumbai fixed

According to BMC data, 2,089 complaints of potholes have been filed since June, of which 1,897 have been filled. Of the 192 pending complaints, the highest (34) are from Andheri (East), followed by Malad (21).

In the wake of the row over filling of potholes, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday claimed they have resolved 90% of the complaints received.

Potholes near Mahim station in Mumbai on Monday. (Pratik Chorge/HT Photo)

According to BMC data, 2,089 complaints of potholes have been filed since June, of which 1,897 have been filled. Of the 192 pending complaints, the highest (34) are from Andheri (East), followed by Malad (21).

Civic body claims there is no pothole in Malabar Hill and Girgaum, while one each in Bhendi Bazaar, Mohammad Ali Road and Chembur. Only two potholes are to be filled in Deonar and Govandi. Civic officials claimed the month-long dry spell reduced the number of potholes.

BMC receives complaints from its website, www.mcgm.gov.in, WhatsApp numbers of 24 ward officers and its toll-free number, 1916. The civic body has to fix the potholes within 48 hours of receiving the complaints. In addition, the Urban Development Department (UDD) on Saturday issued a directive asking all municipal bodies to make public within three weeks the report on the action taken to improve roads.

Under fire for its shoddy road maintenance, BMC last month released an eight-point circular for its staff on how to fill potholes. The directives include a method to fill potholes with the cold mix (material used to fill potholes) and record the amount of material used. According to the circular, the cold mix is to be put in a pothole in a packed gunny bag. It should be used to fill potholes, but not rough patches. According to a senior civic official, the performance has improved following the circular.