Trash cleared from a gutter at Mazgaon. Pic/Ashish Raje

Starting from June 1, the BMC introduced a dedicated WhatsApp chatbot number, 9324500600, to report drain desilting complaints. Citizens can use this number to report the removal of silt from drains in their respective areas. It is essential to provide accurate details, including the location, department, date and time of the complaint. An officer from the BMC stated, “Uploading photos with GPS location will aid in identifying the complaint location. After filing the complaint, the complainant will receive a complaint number. Once resolved, the photo will be shared with the complainant.” However, citizens can only use this number to share information and not engage in conversations.

Poll

Who will win the Punjab Elections?

BJP 32.76%

AAP 43.10%

INC 24.14%

Submit

View All In Poll

Activists argue that there are already numerous helpline numbers and online platforms available for registering civic complaints, but most issues raised remain unresolved. The BMC has provided the 1916 helpline, the MCGM 24'7 app, email IDs for officials and ward offices, a centralised Twitter handle (@mybmc), as well as individual handles for each of the 24 wards and key departments. Additionally, there is the MCGM website and letterboxes for submitting complaints. Trivankumar Karnani, an activist from the Mumbai North Central District Forum (MNCDF), stated, “Instead, efforts should be focused on strengthening and addressing the shortcomings in the existing grievance-redressal mechanisms.”

Civic activist Anil Galgali criticised the current helpline, stating, “No work gets done through the current helpline. They use a computer system, but there is no two-way communication to inform complainants about the progress of their complaints.” While the civic body mentioned introducing feedback mechanisms for online services in the 2023-24 budget, it remains merely a theoretical proposal.

8169681697
WhatsApp chatbot number to register garbage complaints