With polls round the corner, the disconnect between raja and praja is stark. While politicians talk bird parks, golf courses, world-class projects, Mumbaikars want good roads, clean air, and safe commutes

This badly maintained road near the Santacruz Metro station is a prime example of how little the administration cares about citizens. PIC/Shadab Khan

As Mumbai heads towards the civic elections, the city is being flooded with big promises and shiny plans. But, what people truly want is a political party with a manifesto that has a clear commitment to end flooding, fix potholes, improve footpaths and air quality, and make the city liveable.

Politicians are talking about bird parks, golf courses, new tunnels, and bridges and sparkling world-class projects.  Yet, as metro cities rush towards earning the tag of “Smart City”, Mumbai and other urban centres still struggle with the most basic problems that have gone unresolved for decades.

Primarily, people living in Mumbai, Thane, Mira-Bhayander, and Vasai-Virar are tired of the daily struggles of navigating each day. Clean and safe streets and proper civic amenities are supposed to be fundamental rights, and every party lists them in their manifesto. 

But, once in power, almost everything on the list is forgotten. At........

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