02 June,2023 07:37 AM IST | Mumbai | A Correspondent
A BMC worker cleans Dharavi’s 60 Feet Road nullah using a JCB. Pic/Satej Shinde
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to launch a WhatsApp chatbot for citizens to register complaints regarding nullah desilting.
The system, ordered by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde during a visit on May 19, was initially to start by May 22 but was delayed and the chatbot service started on June 1. mid-day had reported about the delay in its May 26 edition.
According to a BMC official, citizens can upload photos of uncleared nullahs or drains with accompanying details such as location, date, and time to the WhatsApp number 9324500600. GPS locations shared with photos will facilitate efficient identification.
After filing a complaint, citizens will receive a complaint number and will be provided with information and photos once the complaint is resolved. Assistant engineers will monitor the system in all 24 administrative wards. The WhatsApp number does not support voice calls.
The deadline for desilting was set for May 31, but the BMC claimed to have completed 100% of the desilting work a week prior. Despite achieving the target, the Chief Minister ordered the BMC to continue desilting until the deadline.
