In an innovative approach that combines fitness with governance, Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation’s (NMMC) Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde initiated morning cycling inspections to personally evaluate the city’s cleanliness, road conditions, and infrastructure maintenance. The eco-friendly method allows him to closely observe ground-level issues that may be overlooked during standard vehicle inspections.

As Navi Mumbai aims for a top cleanliness ranking, the Municipal Corporation has launched a series of cleanliness campaigns across all eight divisions. To support these initiatives, Dr. Shinde has ramped up on-ground inspections to ensure that the city’s roads, footpaths, and public spaces are well-maintained and free from dust, debris, and encroachments.

On the morning of his surprise inspection, Dr. Shinde cycled through the Airoli division, focusing on road cleanliness, debris management, pedestrian pathways, and environmental upkeep. Starting from the Sector 5 T-junction, he pedaled through the underpass, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Nagar, Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj School, and MIDC Road.

The cycling method allowed him to stop frequently and issue immediate directives to civic officials. He stressed the importance of maintaining clean school premises, ensuring pedestrian pathways are free of obstructions, and managing construction debris effectively. He ordered the immediate removal of encroachments on footpaths to guarantee safe walking spaces for residents. Additionally, he instructed that high protective barriers be installed around active construction sites, with debris transported directly to the municipal waste management facility.

Dr. Shinde also expressed concern about the declining greenery along road dividers, particularly on MIDC roads, and called for immediate improvement measures. He proposed planting bamboo and other indigenous trees under the MIDC flyover towards Katai, reinforcing the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

At Ashwin Quarry, he directed repairs for a public toilet and called for the cleaning and beautification of the surrounding area. He further urged anti-debris squads to be more proactive in swiftly clearing dumped debris from public spaces.

“The main roads of a city reflect its character. Ensuring pothole-free roads, reducing dust levels, and maintaining cleanliness and beautification should be our ongoing priority,” Dr. Shinde remarked, emphasizing that these improvements should extend throughout the entire city.

Joining him on this cycling inspection were City Engineer Shirish Ardawad, Deputy Commissioner of Zone 2 Dr. Kailas Gaikwad, Deputy Commissioner of the Solid Waste Management Department Santosh Warule, Deputy Commissioner of Zone 2 (Airoli Division) Ankush Jadhav, Executive Engineer Madan Waghchaude, and other senior officials.