IAS officer Ashwini Bhide has been elected as the new Commissioner of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The richest municipal corporation in the Asia has now been taken over by a woman officer.
The appointment of Ashwini Bhide, who is known for her long legacy of administrative experience and disciplined work, is considered a very important decision by the Maharashtra government. As the term of the current Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani ends on March 31, Bhide will now take charge of mumbai in his place.
Approval after discussions between the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister
There had been intense political activity for the post of BMC Commissioner for the past few days. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was insistently demanding the name of Asim Gupta for this post.
On the other hand, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was insistent on the name of Ashwini Bhide. After discussions between these two senior leaders, Ashwini Bhide's name was finally approved in a meeting held on Monday.
Successful career and experience in metro projects
Ashwini Bhide has previously successfully handled the responsibility of the most ambitious underground metro project in Mumbai. Her expertise in completing large infrastructure projects on time has given her a strong hold in the administration.
Apart from this, she has also worked as a secretary in the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) and is considered one of Devendra Fadnavis' trusted officers. Having previously worked as an additional commissioner in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation, she has a good understanding of the intricacies of city administration.
Administrative challenges and development of Mumbai
While taking charge as the new commissioner, Ashwini Bhide will have a big challenge to get Mumbai's pre-monsoon works, concreting of roads and various pending projects on track. Her focus is likely to be on bringing administrative transparency while solving Mumbai's urban problems.