With the Ganesh festival set to commence on August 27, Maharashtra BJP ministers Ashish Shelar and Mangal Prabhat Lodha have assured that Mumbai’s roads will be free of potholes, addressing the city’s persistent road maintenance challenges. The announcement follows a surge of approximately 8,000 pothole complaints received by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), as reported by Shelar, the Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister and Mumbai’s guardian minister.

Shelar, after chairing a review meeting with BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, traffic police, and representatives from the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), Mumbai Port Trust (BPT), Slum Redevelopment Authority, and railway officials, issued a directive to repair all potholes within three days. “Heavy rains have caused potholes across Mumbai, prompting citizen complaints. I’ve instructed civic bodies, MSRDC, MMRDA, BPT, and others to ensure every pothole on highways, arterial, and internal roads is repaired before the festival,” Shelar stated.

The minister emphasized the use of mastic asphalt technology, noted for its durability and effectiveness in traffic management, to expedite repairs. Specific focus was given to filling potholes on key flyovers in Vakola, Vikhroli, and Goregaon to alleviate congestion. Shelar warned that if MSRDC fails to act promptly, the BMC will step in to complete the repairs. He also mandated officials to submit completion reports post-repair to ensure accountability.

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Skill Development Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, speaking to reporters, confirmed that BMC repair works are underway. “Mumbai’s roads will be fully repaired before the Ganesh festival begins,” he assured, reinforcing the commitment to smooth travel for festival-goers.

The initiative aims to ensure safe and hassle-free commuting during Ganeshotsav, a major cultural event that draws thousands to Mumbai’s streets for processions and celebrations. The timely repairs are expected to enhance the festival experience for residents and visitors alike.

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