‘Reconsider reports on physical segment’

Mumbai: The Ease of Living Index, a report by released after surveying 111 cities of the country, drew a mixed reaction from activists and government officials, who welcomed Mumbai’s performance.

A few of the environmentalists were also skeptical about the credibility of the report while ranking the Mumbai on top in the ‘Physical’ segment which also looks in the aspect of waste management, transport, among others.

Ajoy Mehta, municipal commissioner of BMC, said, “The corporation has been consistently trying for long term and short term planning to provide the best services to Mumbaikars. In future, the municipal corporation will also be active in this respect. This honour is the pride of Mumbai and the Brihanmumbai Munici-pal Corporation.”

Transport expert, Ashok Datar feels we are just less bad than others and there is a high possibility that we move to a fifth or sixth position in the near future.

“Even though the city provides convenient and affordable transport service to the common man, we are exploiting the nature’s gift,” said Mr Datar

According to Mr Datar, the recent initiative by the government like coastal road, metro projects, etc are ‘classic bad examples’ as its causing more traffic jams, congestion and environment troubles.

 “Mumbai being a compact city the government should bring a clean balance between nature and the concrete work for the better development,” said Mr Datar.

Also, the environmentalists feel that report should be considered again on the ‘Physical’ segment.

“The ground reality shows that Mumbai is lacking in waste and pollution management, the only good initiative to manage waste is the plastic ban. So the report should be considered again,” said Stalin Dayanand, a city-based environmentalist.