BMC Upgrades Vehicle Fleet for Officials with Rs 1.5 Crore Investment

In a significant move aimed at enhancing the comfort of its elected officials, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to replace the Mahindra Scorpio-N SUVs currently used by six key office-bearers, including deputy mayor Sanjay Ghadi, with Toyota Innova Crystas. This upgrade, which is estimated to cost around Rs 1.5 crore, comes in response to concerns raised by Ghadi regarding his lengthy commute from Dahisar to Byculla. The decision reflects the BMC's commitment to providing better transportation options for its officials, particularly those who travel from distant suburbs. The proposal includes not only Ghadi but also other prominent figures such as Ganesh Khankar, the leader of the House, Kishori Pednekar, the leader of the opposition, and several committee chairpersons. The cost of a Toyota Innova Crysta ranges between Rs 25 lakh to Rs 35 lakh, which is a notable increase compared to the Scorpio-N, which is valued at up to Rs 30 lakh.

The BMC's decision to upgrade its fleet follows a previous initiative where the mayor, Ritu Tawde, and additional municipal commissioners were allotted Toyota Innova Hycross hybrids, which can cost as much as Rs 40 lakh. Mayor Tawde highlighted that many committee chairpersons have long commutes from areas like Dahisar, Kandivli, and Borivli, emphasizing the need for more comfortable vehicles. She clarified that no separate tender process is being initiated for this vehicle change; rather, the officials have collectively expressed their desire for a different type of vehicle. However, not all officials are in agreement with this decision. Pednekar, for instance, stated that she did not request a new vehicle, having received one earlier this year upon her appointment as the leader of the opposition. She expressed her satisfaction with the current vehicle and saw no justification for a change.