The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is preparing to open civic works to labour cooperatives, as indicated by Mayor Ritu Tawde. This decision follows consultations with municipal commissioner Ashwini Bhide and other stakeholders. During a training camp for labour cooperatives in Dadar, Tawde revealed that approximately 700 to 800 labour cooperatives could be integrated into the civic framework, focusing on smaller projects valued below ₹10 lakh (around $12,000 USD). The initiative is expected to enhance competition and improve the quality of civic works, as noted by Tawde and supported by corporator Prakash Darekar. The Maharashtra government has already issued a resolution allowing such cooperatives to take on projects under this financial threshold. Labour cooperatives, formed under the Maharashtra Co-Operative Societies Act of 1960, have demonstrated their ability to deliver quality work despite limited opportunities. By integrating these cooperatives into BMC projects, the city aims to generate substantial employment and ensure quicker responses to urgent civic needs, particularly in areas like sewage and sanitation. This move is seen as a way to strengthen livelihoods for many Marathi workers and improve civic infrastructure in Mumbai.