Acting on the suggestion of US-based consultant Deloitte, the BMC has planned to form a separate undertaking to manage its water and sewerage system. As per the plans, the undertaking will be headed by an IAS officer and have a panel of 11 members, including political representatives, civic officials and experts. The concept of having a separate undertaking was first mooted by former municipal commissioner Subodh Kumar.
Despite having enough water in the city lakes, the BMC has been facing a lot of flak for failing to ensure regular water supply to citizens. More than 20 per cent (700 MLD) of Mumbai’s total water supply of 3,450 MLD is frittered away due to leakage and pilferage. The civic body had appointed Deloitte to suggest measures to improve the system.
According to the interim report submitted by the consultant, the undertaking should also have engineers on deputation for at least two years, so that its functioning is not affected.
“In an attempt to implement these recommendations, we have appointed Arvind Madhuskar, a retired deputy municipal commissioner (DMC) level officer, to facilitate another undertaking. He will study legislations and the modifications needed to be made in the BMC Act,” said a senior civic official.
According to civic sources, a detailed presentation of the consultant report will be made before municipal commissioner Sitaram Kunte. After the civic body’s nod, the proposal will be sent to the state government for approval.