BMC to monitor trenches works online

Mumbai: For the effective implementation of trenches work, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to carry out online monitoring of these works with the help of computer software.

To prevent indiscriminate digging of roads for laying of underground utilities, the BMC has already gone online about its trenches permission work. All trenching works are uploaded online to ensure that they are carried out simultaneously.

“A computer software will be used to monitor trenches work online. The ward officers have been asked to ensure that digging and filling of trenches are being done properly in their areas. They have been also been said that these works should be monitored online regularly with the help of a software,” said a senior civic official.

According to civic officials, the ‘Trenching Permit Service’ has been made available online to all the utility agencies operating in the business of electricity cables, gas lines, and fibre optic cables. All utilities have been given login-Id and password of the municipal portal. Utility agencies can apply online through the portal for trenching permit.

“Trenching works is one of the biggest problems the civic body faces in the city. Out of 2000 km of roads, trenching is carried out on nearly 500 km of roads. It means nearly 25 per cent of roads is occupied with trenching works,” said a senior civic official.

According to the BMC’s trenching guidelines, a dug up footpath or road is expected to be restored to its original condition within seven days after the trenching activity is over. However, contractors often do a shoddy job leaving behind uneven roads and pavements inconveniencing pedestrians.

“It has been compulsory for concerned contractors to erect barricades around the utility works they are carrying out. They have also been asked to immediately reinstate the road or pavement after the trenches work is completed,” said the official.