BMC Launches Citywide Anti-Encroachment Drive, Clears Illegal Structures Across South Mumbai & Suburbs

Mumbai: In one of the most assertive civic enforcement actions in recent months, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has intensified its crackdown on illegal encroachments across key commercial and residential pockets of the city.

The action follows a directive from newly elected Mayor Ritu Tawde, who on her first day in office announced a firm stance against unauthorised hawkers occupying footpaths and congesting major thoroughfares.

Focus on South Mumbai’s Commercial Corridors

Civic teams concentrated significant efforts in south Mumbai, particularly along the bustling Mohammad Ali Road and adjoining stretches such as Abdul Rehman Street and Ibrahim Merchant Road.

These areas serve as crucial connectors between Bhendi Bazaar, Masjid Bunder, and Byculla, and witness heavy pedestrian and vehicular traffic throughout the day.

Officials from the B and C wards jointly conducted demolition operations targeting unauthorised extensions and makeshift stalls that had reportedly obstructed pedestrian movement.

According to civic sources:

• Over 15 illegal extensions were dismantled
• Around 10 unauthorised stalls were removed
• Action covered stretches between L.T. Road and Yusuf Meherally Road

The drive was conducted with support from Pydhonie Police Station, involving nearly 40 civic workers and two JCB machines.

Suburban Areas See Parallel Action

The enforcement drive was not limited to the island city. In the western suburbs, BMC teams from the K North ward cleared encroachments across Jogeshwari East, covering Station Road, Jogeshwari Caves Road, Subhash Road, and parts of Swami Vivekanand Road near Poonam Nagar.

Officials reported that approximately 65 to 70 unauthorised hawkers and roadside structures were removed to restore pedestrian access and ease chronic congestion.

In Kandivali West, demolition teams also acted on illegal constructions along Boraspada Road near Kapol Vidyanidhi International School.

Mayor’s Directive Signals Policy Shift

Mayor Ritu Tawde’s early action has been interpreted as a signal that the civic body intends to prioritise footpath restoration and traffic decongestion across Mumbai.

Encroachment removal drives have historically been sporadic and often met with resistance. However, civic authorities indicated that this campaign would continue in phases across multiple wards to ensure sustained enforcement.

Balancing Enforcement and Livelihood Concerns

While the crackdown aims to reclaim public spaces, it also revives the long-standing debate over rehabilitation of hawkers and informal vendors who depend on street trade for livelihood.

Officials maintain that action is being taken against unauthorised and obstructive encroachments, particularly in high-traffic zones where pedestrian safety is compromised.

What Lies Ahead

Civic authorities have hinted at further inspections in high-density commercial corridors and suburban transit hubs in the coming weeks.

For now, several of Mumbai’s most congested stretches are witnessing clearer footpaths and improved mobility — though whether the relief will be sustained remains to be seen.