Mumbai’s civic body has removed more than 1,900 abandoned and scrap vehicles from public roads, targeting what officials say is one of the most persistent causes of traffic bottlenecks and civic neglect. Data from the municipal administration shows that by 12 August, 4,325 such vehicles had been identified across the city, including the island city and both suburban belts. Notices were issued to 3,153 owners under the provisions of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, directing them to clear the vehicles within 72 hours.
Of the total identified, 1,927 have already been towed to designated contractor yards for further processing. Officials say the campaign is part of a wider effort to reclaim public space, improve emergency access routes, and reduce environmental hazards posed by derelict vehicles. Three external agencies have been contracted to support the drive—one each for the island city, eastern suburbs, and western suburbs. The process involves identifying the vehicle, issuing a formal removal notice, and, in the absence of compliance, towing it away. Vehicles left unclaimed for more than 30 days are officially disposed of. “This initiative is about creating safer, cleaner and more accessible roads for everyone,” a senior civic official told reporters. “Abandoned vehicles not only consume valuable road space but also pose risks for emergency services and contribute to urban decay.”
The civic zone data reveals the western suburbs leading in abandoned vehicle numbers, with 2,052 identified, 1,521 notices served, and over 1,000 already removed. The eastern suburbs reported 1,440 such cases, while the island city recorded 833. Residents have been encouraged to actively report abandoned vehicles using WhatsApp numbers assigned to each zone, the city helpline, or the official municipal website. Civic authorities believe public participation is critical in sustaining the campaign’s momentum. Urban planners argue that beyond traffic relief, removing long-abandoned vehicles supports broader sustainability goals. Rusting scrap can leak hazardous fluids, attract pests, and degrade the surrounding environment. Clearing them aligns with Mumbai’s long-term push towards eco-friendly urban management, equitable use of public spaces, and achieving net-zero urban emissions.
While the operation is expected to continue until all identified vehicles are removed, officials maintain that consistent enforcement and public cooperation will be key to preventing roads from once again becoming informal scrapyards. For a city struggling with space, mobility, and air quality, every cleared stretch of road is a small but significant step toward a more liveable Mumbai.
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