Mumbai: Clean-up marshals are back, armed with digital fines this time

Updated On: 28 November, 2023 06:36 AM IST | Mumbai | Prajakta Kasale

Discontinued in 2022, the marshals had an ill reputation for thuggery and extortion; and now, they will be empowered to penalise citizens for air pollution, too

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Clean up marshal fining people for not using masks outside Dadar station. File Pic

Finally, a year later, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is in the final stages of reappointing clean-up marshals to keep the city clean. Alongside this, the BMC aims to address air quality concerns by having these marshals monitor the open dumping of debris in public areas and the burning of waste, both significant contributors to air pollution.

The BMC also plans to introduce a digital payment system for fine collection to ensure transparency. The BMC had discontinued the marshal services in 2022 after their contract ended amidst extortion allegations. While the appointment of clean-up marshals to regulate citizens has always been in the pipeline, it faced delays due to resistance from citizens, citing alleged rude behaviour and extortion issues. The BMC had previously considered a plan for `Swachhata doot` without fining capabilities, but that plan remained shelved.

BMC marshal collecting fine from tourists who are taking selfies without masks at Bandra. File Pic/Shadab Khan