Shinde orders suspension of 'non-performing' civic officials on complaints of Thane corporators

Thane, Jul 8 (PTI) Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday ordered suspension of erring and non-performing officials for a week after corporators in Thane alleged "unresponsive attitude" of certain civic departments, particularly the Tree Authority, during emergencies. During his visit to the Regional Disaster Management Cell (RDMC) control room here to review monsoon preparedness, Shinde, who is Thane guardian minister, declared a "zero death tolerance" policy during the monsoon, while directing the immediate one-week suspension and transfer of non-performing officials. He pulled up senior officials heading the Tree Authority and the Disaster Management department over alleged laxity, delays in tree trimming, and acute staff shortages. An annoyed Shinde instructed the Thane Municipal Corporation Commissioner to strictly monitor the performance of these suspended personnel during this period. He also ordered that non-performing officials within the tree department be transferred forthwith and replaced with competent personnel from other departments. Addressing the media after the review, Shinde claimed waterlogging incidents in Thane had reduced significantly compared to previous years due to proper monitoring and the strategic installation of more than 80 high-capacity de-watering pumps. He, however, expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of tree falls. "The cases of tree falls are higher compared to the previous year. I have ordered an immediate and comprehensive tree audit to identify precarious and dangerous trees across the city," Shinde said, adding that tree experts and specialised external agencies will be part of the audit. He also directed the civic body to conduct a detailed post-incident audit of the fallen trees to verify exactly when they were last trimmed. "There should be 'Zero death tolerance'. Compensation can be given, but we cannot tolerate even one death due to negligence or lack of preparedness," the Deputy CM added. PTI COR NSK