His strong identification with the BMC comes through clearly in his choice of books. ``BMC Act, 1988 along with all amendments, Development Control Regulations, 1991, Maharashtra Regional Town Planning Act and Criminal Procedures Code are four books I can't do without,'' he says. The reason is simple. ``The first of the four books is our Bible at BMC,'' he explains. And the other three are central to his profession.

Reading might take a backseat when Gokhale becomes a busier man in the days to come. But only till June 10, he informs. Because that is to be his last working day before he retires voluntarily. ``One works to discharge one's commitments. And I think I have completed mine four years ago when my daughter got married. My retired life will be for things to be done for me and my wife,'' says the BMCcommissioner.