BMC Demolishes 19 Illegal Stalls at Kandivali West to Ease Commuter Traffic
Mumbai: In a bid to tackle the long-standing commuter congestion outside Kandivali West railway station, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has successfully demolished 19 illegal stalls that had been causing severe obstruction. The action, taken by the BMC’s R South ward, comes as a welcome relief to passengers, who have long struggled to navigate through the overcrowded and narrow lanes when exiting the station.
The food street, which had become a hub for unauthorized vendors, had increasingly contributed to traffic and pedestrian bottlenecks, particularly during peak hours. Commuters were left with limited, cramped routes, often facing discomfort as they tried to access nearby bus and rickshaw stands. Additionally, the unhygienic conditions surrounding the stalls added to the challenges, making the area unpleasant for both passengers and pedestrians. The issue of unauthorized stalls outside Kandivali West station is not a new one. Despite the BMC issuing notices to the stall owners as early as 1999, the vendors continued to contest the action in court. Many sought legal recourse in both the district and High Court (HC), delaying the eviction process. However, with the HC dismissing their case, the BMC moved forward with the demolition of 19 stalls, clearing the path for passengers.
This operation, which involved officials from the R South ward and JCB machines, was carried out smoothly with the presence of senior police personnel from the Kandivali police station, ensuring minimal disruption to public order. There are still a few unresolved matters. Of the 27 stallholders in the area, 8 have approached the District Sessions Court and were granted a temporary stay on the demolition, with a hearing scheduled for next week. The decision on the remaining stalls will depend on the outcome of the court proceedings. This latest move by the BMC to remove illegal stalls marks a significant step towards addressing the congestion issues outside Kandivali West railway station. By freeing up space for commuters, the BMC aims to offer a smoother and more efficient experience, improving both accessibility and hygiene in one of Mumbai’s busiest areas.
