BMC had also expressed that the actor's support of the ODF drive would help keep the megapolis clean to the tune of Centre's Swachh Bharat Campaign
In December 2016, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) chief Ajoy Mehta had announced that Bollywood superstar Salman Khan would be brand ambassador for the Open Defecation Free (ODF) drive of the civic body. BMC had also expressed that the actor's support of the ODF drive would help keep the megapolis clean to the tune of Centre's Swachh Bharat Campaign. However, apart from repairing four blocks of public toilets in Aarey Colony, there has been no progress in the drive.
The objective in approaching Khan was to sensitise and educate Mumbaikars on the menace of open defecation through the actor's Being Human foundation, considering his fan following and popularity.
In his very first visit in January under the ODF drive, the actor had to face hurdles, as a disappointment to the foundation. Khan visited Madras Pada, a slum in Aarey colony and met the residents with the intention of setting up mobile toilets. Khan was instead asked by them to repair the existing toilets, which were damaged to extent of being unusable. However, the actor was told by BMC officials that they could not repair the toilets as the area fell under the forest department.
After the actor's request, the BMC's solid waste management department sought clearance from the forest department and the Being Human Foundation is undertaking repairs of four toilets in Madras Pada now.
A representative of the foundation, while speaking to DNA, said, "Systemic issues delayed the ODF drive. When we visited Madras Pada, the toilets there were in a pathetic condition due to faulty water connections. We decided to repair those, but the civic body took at least 25 days to get clearance from the forest department, due to the many restrictions on repairs."
"We expect that since the work is for public health, clearances should be given easily. It encourages work on the campaign," he added.
Municipal Commissioner Ajoy Mehta said, "It is true that the forest department took time to give sanctions, thereby delaying the ODF drive. But BMC will ensure that for further projects, the Being Human Foundation gets required clearances soon."
"The four toilet blocks have been repaired and water supply will be provided within the next few days. After Salman Khan returns from Australia on March 3, we plan to inaugurate the toilets," said Kiran Dighavkar, Assistant Municipal Commissioner.
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