Appalled by Filth & Chaos: Hansal Mehta on Mumbai’s Infrastructure
Mumbai, the city of dreams, is often plagued by its own set of problems. From overflowing garbage to potholed roads, the city’s infrastructure is a constant reminder of the chaos that lies beneath its gleaming facade. In a recent statement, filmmaker Hansal Mehta voiced his concerns about the city’s “filth and chaos” and the residents’ collective indifference towards it.
Mehta, known for his thought-provoking films like “Shahid” and “Aligarh”, expressed his frustration and disappointment with the state of affairs in Mumbai. In an interview, he addressed the authorities and the residents, saying, “How long will we continue to live like this?…I still believe I love this city…But it’s strangled by those in power…They profit from its decay and dress it up as resilience.”
Mehta’s comments come at a time when Mumbai is grappling with a plethora of issues, from garbage management to traffic congestion. The city’s infrastructure has been in shambles for years, with residents bearing the brunt of the chaos. From overflowing garbage dumps to crumbling roads, the city’s neglect is evident in every nook and corner.
One of the most pressing issues in Mumbai is garbage management. The city generates over 11,000 tons of garbage every day, but the civic body, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), is struggling to keep up with the demand. The result is a city filled with overflowing garbage dumps, stench, and filth. Mehta’s comments are a stark reminder of the issue, which has been plaguing the city for years.
Another major issue in Mumbai is traffic congestion. The city’s roads are notorious for their potholes and congestion, making it a nightmare for commuters. The problem is exacerbated by the lack of public transportation, forcing residents to rely on private vehicles, which only adds to the chaos. Mehta’s comments about the city being “strangled by those in power” is a potent critique of the authorities, who seem more interested in lining their own pockets than addressing the city’s infrastructure issues.
Mehta’s comments have sparked a debate about the city’s infrastructure and the role of residents in addressing the issue. While some have accused him of being overly critical, others have praised him for speaking truth to power. The issue is complex, and it’s difficult to pinpoint a single solution. However, one thing is clear – the city’s infrastructure is in dire need of attention, and it’s time for the authorities and residents to take action.
One possible solution is to increase investment in infrastructure development. The BMC has been struggling to allocate funds for infrastructure development, and the result is a city that is falling apart at the seams. The authorities need to prioritize infrastructure development, and allocate more funds for garbage management, road construction, and public transportation.
Another solution is to encourage public participation. Mehta’s comments about the city’s residents being indifferent towards the issue are spot on. It’s time for residents to take ownership of the issue and demand change. Residents can start by demanding better infrastructure from their elected representatives and participating in civic initiatives to improve the city’s infrastructure.
Finally, it’s time for the authorities to take responsibility for the city’s infrastructure. The BMC and other government agencies need to take concrete steps to address the issue, rather than just paying lip service. The authorities need to prioritize infrastructure development, and allocate more funds for garbage management, road construction, and public transportation.
In conclusion, Mehta’s comments about Mumbai’s “filth and chaos” are a wake-up call for the city’s residents and authorities. The city’s infrastructure is in dire need of attention, and it’s time for everyone to take action. By increasing investment in infrastructure development, encouraging public participation, and taking responsibility for the city’s infrastructure, we can work towards creating a better Mumbai – a city that is clean, efficient, and livable.
