• Source:JND
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Mumbai: The vigilance wing of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has sent a follow-up notice to A-Ward, directing it to submit documents concerning suspected irregularities in beautification and slum redevelopment projects conducted from 2023 to 2025, totaling Rs 103 crore. A-Ward encompasses neighborhoods including Colaba, Cuffe Parade, P D’Mello Road, Marine Drive, and sections of Ballard Estate.

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The ward received its first notice on August 14, followed by a second on September 22, issued after a preliminary site inspection conducted by the department in response to a complaint from RTI activist Santosh Daundkar.

The inspection revealed serious irregularities in slum improvement initiatives and the execution of the beautification project, including lapses in record-keeping and alleged financial mismanagement. Additionally, key documents were missing, work orders appeared dubious, and several constructions were reportedly unnecessary.

According to the HT, a copy of the letter issued by the vigilance department to the ward, also instructed to provide original work order files along with all supporting documentation for review. The letter referenced multiple prior directives, including those issued by the Additional Commissioner on July 24, 2025, and the Chief Engineer on August 14, 2025.

“Although the A-Ward had assured in a letter dated September 1, 2025, that the requested documents would be submitted following the Anant Chaturdashi festival, no such submission has been made to date,” the letter states. Jaydeep More, acting assistant commissioner, A-Ward, however told HT on Wednesday, “I have submitted the documents asked by the vigilance department on September 29.”

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The site inspection uncovered fake repair orders at Colaba, incomplete beautification work at Badhwar Park, and partial execution at a Shivaji memorial, resulting in savings of Rs 76,594 and a penalty of Rs 45,000. A broader audit of 29 projects revealed significant irregularities, leading to total savings of Rs 28.32 lakh and penalties amounting to Rs 12.72 lakh.