Mumbai municipal commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal has received generous words of praise from J. Luis Correa, a member of the US Congress, for his commendable management of Covid-19  in the city.

“On behalf of my constituent, I became aware of Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal’s great work to help fight the Covid-19 cases in India. It is always great to hear of the leaders stepping up to the plate to help others, especially during these unprecedented times,” writes Correa in a letter dated July 1.

“It is with great admiration and appreciation that I along with my constituents recognize your commendable initiatives in the management of the coronavirus pandemic under your jurisdiction in Mumbai.”

The letter notes various steps initiated by Chahal starting with ward level management which have come to be known as ‘Mumbai Model’ and calls them the hallmark of his superb managerial skills and astute organizational efficiency. He writes, “We commend the various steps you have taken to combat Covid-19 including; Ward level war rooms, integrated hospital bed management through electronic dashboards, individual screening by doctors at the  very beginning of virus infection to prioritize treatment and hospitalization for the needy and above all your dexterous oxygen supply management. All of the aforementioned accomplishments are hallmarks of your superb managerial skills and astute organizational efficiency rooted in your dynamism and foresight.

“Your exceptional strategy brought the Covid-19 positivity ratio from thirty percent in the beginning of April down to just four percent today which speaks volumes for your accomplishments. We extend our heartiest congratulations and best wishes to you for your continued success in serving your constituents during the pandemic in Mumbai. You are a true role model for your junior colleagues in the civil services,” the letter says.

Expressing his gratitude, Chahal said, “I really feel privileged and honoured to receive this letter of appreciation and admiration yesterday from Mr. Lou Correa, Democrat member, Congress of the USA, Washington representing Santa Ana, California for commendable and exceptional work in fight against coronavirus pandemic.”

Earlier this year Chahal was lauded by the Supreme Court of India well as the Bombay High Court for exemplary management of the pandemic in the city. He has received several awards for Covid management and extensively coverage in international press for same.

A 1989 batch officer of Maharashtra cadre, Chahal cracked the IAS exam when he was under 22 years of age. He has served in various capacities in the state as well as the centre where he was joint secretary in ministry of home affairs, ministry of women and child development and ministry of panchayati raj.