Bombay HC Asks Civic Body About Establishment Of Special Cell To Tackle Open Manholes Issue

The Bombay High Court recently passed a directive to the Mumbai civic body, seeking information regarding the establishment of a specialized cell dedicated to promptly addressing the concern of open manholes within the city.

A bench of acting Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice Sandeep Marne observed that urgent measures needed to be taken regarding the matter before the arrival of the monsoon season.

During the proceedings, the petition filed by advocate Ruju Thakker was being reviewed, wherein contempt action was sought against the civic authorities for their failure to comply with the High Court’s 2018 orders. These orders had instructed the repair of potholes on major roads in Mumbai and the establishment of a standardized system to address citizens’ complaints regarding poor roads and potholes.

Advocate Thakker had submitted an application expressing concerns regarding the presence of open manholes throughout the city.

In January 2023, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) informed the high court that they were considering the possibility of geo-tagging the manholes, chambers, and covers. This measure would enable ward officers to promptly address any incidents of stolen manhole covers.

Last month, the vacation bench of the high court ordered the BMC to provide updates on the actions being taken to cover all manholes across the city.

Following Thakker’s reference to a news report stating that a road in suburban Bandra (west) had four open manholes without protective grills, thereby posing a danger to pedestrians and vehicles, the matter was brought to the court’s attention. During the hearing, Thakker emphasized that the manholes lacked protective grills.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the bench highlighted the need for immediate action regarding the open manholes, especially with the approaching rainy season.

“There is a problem of coordination (between authorities). You (BMC) let us know in the affidavit whether you will constitute a special cell or task force to address open manholes,” the bench stated and scheduled the matter for further hearing next week.