Straight Answers

<div class="section1"><div class="Normal"><span style="" font-weight:="" bold="">NARINDRA NAYAR, </span><span style="" font-style:="" italic="">Chairman, Bombay First, on his expectations from the new government.</span><br /><br /><span style="" font-weight:="" bold="">Bombay First had made a presentation on Mumbai to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. What is it all about?</span><br /><br />We submitted a memorandum to the PM when he visited Mumbai recently on what can be done for the city which has been steadily degenerating over the last couple of years.Bombay First intends to revive the city and it is nice to know that even the state government is taking initiative in this direction. But for the entire thing to take off we will require help from the central government.<br /><br /><span style="" font-weight:="" bold="">What are the main issues you want addressed?</span><br /><br /></div> </div><div class="section2"><div class="Normal"><br />Given that the infrastructure of Mumbai requires special attention, we have asked for Rs 2,000 crore. Besides, Mumbai is slowly losing its place as world''s financial centre. Major financial transactions are being carried out in places like Singapore, Dubai and Hong Kong even though banks here are well-equipped. We have given the RBI a roadmap in this connection but nothing has happened so far. Just like Delhi and Kolkata have a Metro project, we have asked for one in Mumbai. A new international airport, funds to rehabilitate residents of the 19,000 cess buildings, the Bandra-Worli sea link, etc.<br /><br /><span style="" font-weight:="" bold="">How do you want the new government to position Mumbai?</span><br /><br />It is the financial capital and a gateway to India and it should remain that way.<br /><br /><span style="" font-weight:="" bold="">What is your expectation from the new government?</span><br /><br />A lot of initiatives have been taken such as the institutionalisation of the Citizen Action Group, establishment of the Mumbai Development Fund. Whichever government comes to power should ensure that the work is carried on and none of these organisations should be disbanded.</div> </div>