The city does not need any more white elephants

Workers paint a skywalk at Goregaon. File/Anurag Ahire

It is repairs and reconstruction time for five skywalks in the western suburbs. According to a report in this paper, citing previous incidents of skywalks collapsing, the Opposition has stated that the skywalks are white elephants.

While political finger-pointing is to be expected, one does need to point out that some skywalks have been built only to be demolished for some other infrastructure. The Nana Chowk mammoth skywalk has a non-functional escalator for years now, and residents have spoken out about how nobody is using that part of the structure for years. Reports throughout have highlighted how women are on edge on certain portions of the skywalks as these are dimly lit and pose a danger.

These repairs must be comprehensive, of great quality and done with long-term vision and perspective. This means once undertaken, we cannot see them falling apart in a short while, which means a waste of money.

Look at lighting, too. Understand just how useful this infra will be in the future and move accordingly. If repairs are to be done, have a definite timeline and signboards explaining the nature of the work and date of conclusion.

This shows respect for citizenry and clears confusion and scepticism in minds about the work. Any instructions that are clear, lucid and communicated with that uppermost in mind, shows responsibility and will. For citizens it is reassuring and fosters a sense that authorities care. It does much more than all the banners plastered across the city, of local leaders promising the moon to Mumbaikars.

Do keep in mind that there may be hindrance to people's movement during repairs and this too must be stated clearly, rather than them having a hop, skip and jump routine and wondering where to go next. Skywalks are one aspect to the city's commuting bouquet.

Let us make these as effective as possible.