BMC renovation proposed at Rs 57 cr

Mumbai, May 9 (UNI) It is proposed to renovate the BMC headquarters at an estimated cost of Rs 57 crore.

A proposal in this regard was presented in the Standing Committee meeting today.

Among the major changes proposed is the zoning of the first floor and a change in the Mayor's office. The proposal, presented by Shashi Prabhu and Associates, envisages shifting the Municipal Commissioner's office to the second floor above the Mayor's office.

A bigger conference room and an updated gymnasium for corporators, are also on the anvil.

The proposal, if implemented, will cost the Corporation Rs 57 crore. Video conferencing facilities have been planned for additional municipal commissioners so as to avoid delays or cancellation of meetings. The proposal includes fire fighting services for the Corporation and more air conditioning to improve human efficiency.

That apart, parking space for vehicles and a refurbished press room have also been planned.

Mr Prabhu said, ''The Standing Committee has orally agreed to the development plans and we are expecting the proposal to be cleared in the next meeting. The project will be completed within two years from commencement.'' A survey conducted by Shashi Prabhu Associates and Shrayu Zaveri associates has shown that there is a wastage of around 40 per cent space in the present set-up which can be better utilised in the new plan. The new plan envisages total usage of available space.

UNI