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digital desk- Ahead of the BMC elections, Congress on Tuesday released its detailed manifesto for Mumbai. In this manifesto, Congress has made big and concrete promises keeping the everyday problems of Mumbaikars – water, transport, health, education, pollution and livelihood – at the center. The party made it clear that if Congress comes to power in BMC, then “people-first governance” will be implemented in Mumbai and basic amenities will be seen as a right. Congress has promised to strengthen public transport, considered the lifeline of Mumbai. The party has pledged to put more than 6000 new and stronger BEST buses on the roads. Congress says this will be the biggest reform of public transport in the history of Mumbai. Through these buses, every Mumbaikar will get cheap, regular and last mile connectivity. Feeder buses will be run from metro stations so that dependence on private vehicles is reduced and traffic and pollution are reduced.

Will get relief from water problem

The manifesto has also made a big claim regarding Mumbai’s water problem. Congress has said that Mumbai’s daily water supply will be increased to 5000 million liters per day (MLD). With this, every household will get clean, safe and adequate drinking water. The party says that this will completely eliminate water cuts and dependence on tankers.

Promise to reopen Marathi and BMC schools

Congress has announced the reopening of closed Marathi and BMC schools. The party says that Marathi identity and right to education will be protected through modern classrooms, trained teachers and quality education. Congress made it clear that the government education system will not be allowed to weaken.

Special focus on health services

The manifesto promises a “universal free health card” for every Mumbaikar. Under this, free essential medicines, tests, OPD services and affordable surgeries will be provided in BMC hospitals. Congress has also made it clear that no BMC hospital will be privatized. Instead, government hospitals will be upgraded with 24×7 services, facilities like MRI, CT scan, dialysis and ICU.

Emphasis on clean air and environment

Congress has talked about declaring clean air as a fundamental right. Real-time AQI monitoring, dust control at construction sites, reduction in traffic pollution and taking emergency measures on days with poor AQI have been promised. Plans to make Mumbai cleaner also include scientific waste management, vacuum sweeping and waste-to-energy projects. The manifesto promises immediate implementation of the Street Vendors Act, 2014. Eligible hawkers will be rehabilitated in the designated zone, and safety of pedestrians and traffic will be ensured.