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Manhole covers are becoming quite a steal, BMC urged to take action

The iron manhole covers have a pretty high resell value, with a 2X2 feet cover fetching anywhere between Rs 3,000 and Rs 3,500: Farooque Dhala

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Activist and Mahim resident Farooque Dhala has filed a complaint to the Assistant Municipal Commissioner Ramakant Biradar and Mahim police amid the rising theft of manhole covers at Senapati Bapat road, Lady Jamshedji road, Cadell road and Mahim Causeway. Dhala said the BMC and police should step up their vigil in these areas as uncovered manholes pose a threat to motorists and pedestrians.

The BMC had in 2012 directed all wards to seal open manholes with fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) manhole covers as it was noticed that drug peddlers would pilfer cast-iron covers. However, these drains have not been covered despite complaints by Mahim residents in the past.

"The iron-cast manhole covers are usually stolen by drug peddlers. But sometimes contractors even remove them. The iron covers have a pretty high resale value, with a 2X2 feet cover fetching anywhere between Rs 3,000 and Rs 3,500. Manhole covers have been vanishing in the past few months. We have asked the ward officer and Mahim police to take action," said Dhala.

Biradar said, "We have received the complaints. We also ensure that when uncovered manholes come to our notice, we cover them with fibre covers".

Milind Idekar, Senior Police Inspector of Mahim police station said, "If the civic body informs us about manhole cover thefts, we will take appropriate action".

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