MCGM gets tough on debris disposal
As part of the new rules, builders undertaking construction work must submit a Debris Management Plan to the mCGM
As part of the new rules, builders undertaking construction work must submit a Debris Management Plan to the mCGM
Large-scale construction and demolition activities in the city, have forced the Municipal Commission of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) to take stringent steps towards handling and managing debris.
The corporation has introduced a Debris Management Regulation, that aims to control the dust and debris generated during demolition and construction works. It will be mandatorily observed by any builders or developers undertaking such activity, says an employee of the MCGM.
The corporation has introduced a Debris Management Regulation, that aims to control the dust and debris generated during demolition and construction works. It will be mandatorily observed by any builders or developers undertaking such activity, says an employee of the MCGM.
These regulations are part of comprehensive management rules for a more environmentally-friendly city. Though these regulations were formulated only a few months ago, they are being followed successfully, claims Dr S Vishwanath, joint commissioner – development and planning, MCGM.
Proper debris disposal will also minimise any possible health risks. As part of these new rules, builders undertaking construction work must submit a Debris Management Plan to the zonal executive engineer of solid waste management (SWM) department. This plan, is a document which must include details such as the quantum of debris likely to be generated during the construction activity, arrangements for its on-site storage and the transportation plan for disposing the debris. The zonal executive engineers of the SWM department or the assistant engineer of the ward will issue an NOC or a permission document only after the receipt of this plan from the builders. Unless all details are duly stated, permission for construction activity will not given.
The Debris Management Plan will include not only the builders, but also the utilities like electricity and telephone. Additionally, for tenantable repairs (household repairs which dont result in any change in total area), the assistant commissioners are required to ensure that the applicants are notified for proper storage of debris and that the debris is cleared from site within 24 hours of the receipt of intimation.
Additionally, the MGCM is taking steps to promote safety at construction sites. New rules state that the builder, architect and all subcontracting agencies working on the site must strictly ensure provision of proper barricades and safety enclosures. They also have to ensure proper storage of debris on site and the subsequent disposal off within 48 hours of generation in covered vehicles, informs an MGCM employee.
To ensure successful implementation, the administration has sought citizens cooperation. The citizens can complain to their ward officer if they find any cases of debris mishandling or reckless dumping. With these new rules in place, ugly heaps of discarded debris seem to be a thing of the past!