Citizens equally responsible for keeping city clean

The proposed site for the reservoir at Malabar Hill. Pic/Anurag Ahire

Several reports cite a number of city streets undergoing a facelift. There is beautification planned for a Cuffe Parade road, deep cleaning is going on in several spots and pedestrian-only initiatives are being looked at, so that the city gets a charming, old-world vibe. We have several efforts ongoing all designed to beautify Mumbai, make it international, spruce it up or whatever.

There will always be debates about these with some slamming the aestheticism, others claiming that the intent is good and yet others saying that holistic vision and long-term planning are essential to make all this work. While differences are always there, we must not forget certain basics in our zeal to give the city a makeover in whatever mode possible.

When it comes to cleaning, ensure enough trash cans on our streets. Building residents must be told to keep their immediate surroundings clean. Ensure that trash cans are in good condition, not dilapidated or broken at the bottom.

See that rubbish is not stowed away in corners, between pavements, in some open spaces so that it is out of immediate sight but is present and continues to fester and pose a health hazard. Real makeovers also mean tackling the parking problem which is easier said than done. How exactly is one going to get people to park at designated pay 'n' parks and not anywhere on the streets? They also mean leaving our green spaces alone, removing encroachment and not usurping them in the name of enhancing them. Instead, simple repairs, equipment in good condition, workable toilets should suffice in these spaces.

Tackle the hawker problem and overrun pavements. Footpaths are original, genuine pedestrian places which should belong to citizens. New measures may have good intent and enthusiasm, but let us ensure our existing infra is also looked at.