‘Security at key water installations deficient’
Tansa lake— file photo
The BMC is withdrawing security guards from key water installations, even as it is still installing CCTVs and watch towers at dams and water purification centres.
The BMC security force has 287 guards to protect six dams and 27 reservoirs; 41 of these posts are presently vacant. However, to add to this, civic sources claimed that the BMC recently removed 28 guards from Tansa and Vaitarna lake areas and 18 guards from the Bhandup water purification complex. Another 40 are likely to be transferred soon, the source claimed.
“Mumbai’s large water distribution system needs adequate surveillance to prevent breaking of water mains and water theft. However, the curtailment has increased work pressure on the remaining security guards. Despite bringing it to the notice of the higher authorities, they are turning a blind eye to the issue,” said Prabhakar Bagwe, former civic security official and general secretary of Municipal Mazdoor Union.
However, additional municipal commissioner Rajiv Jalota refuted allegations of scaling down the security force at dams. “Guards posted at dams have not been removed. Only the unnecessary guards near lake areas have been brought down,” he said.
Of the total 3,825 posts in the BMC security force, 950 are currently vacant.
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