The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has embarked on a comprehensive campaign to clear unauthorised hawkers, vendors, and illegal structures from Mumbai’s busy footpaths. The initiative is part of a larger vision to enhance urban mobility and create more sustainable public spaces.
The campaign, which began in several wards of the city, including Matunga, Sion, and Wadala, focuses on freeing up footpaths for pedestrians by removing encroachments that have long obstructed walkways. Civic officials have emphasised that the removal of not just hawkers, but also unauthorised structures and shanties, is essential to ensure smoother pedestrian movement and maintain safety in high-traffic areas.
As part of the broader urban development plan, the BMC has allocated a budget of Rs 100 crore towards creating pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Experts view this as a significant step towards achieving a greener and more equitable city. “This is not just about clearing footpaths but also ensuring the accessibility of public spaces for everyone, irrespective of gender or socio-economic status,” said a senior official overseeing the initiative.
The drive, which will unfold over multiple phases, first targets the removal of illegal structures and hawkers. The next phase will focus on the widening of footpaths to accommodate a seamless flow of pedestrians.
These steps align with the BMC’s long-term goal of fostering an eco-friendly, walkable Mumbai, with wider footpaths reducing dependency on vehicular transportation and promoting healthier lifestyles.The initiative also addresses the pressing issue of informal street vendors, who often face livelihood challenges due to strict regulations but have also been a longstanding feature of Mumbai’s streets.
By creating designated spaces for vendors, the BMC aims to balance the needs of both pedestrians and small businesses.With Mumbai’s population continuing to grow, the need for urban spaces that prioritise people over vehicles has never been more critical. While the drive to clear encroachments is likely to face resistance from vendors and residents, the BMC remains committed to its vision of a more inclusive and sustainable city.
