Mumbai authorities are set to implement temporary traffic restrictions on Sunday, November 30, in response to the Malad Walkathon, a large-scale community event expected to attract 5,000–6,000 participants. The initiative, aimed at promoting health, active lifestyles, and public engagement, will affect key city arteries, including Rani Sati Marg, Malkad East Railway Station, and Daftary Road, with closures enforced from 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM.
According to a senior official from the Mumbai Traffic Police, the restrictions are necessary to ensure participant safety and prevent vehicular interference along the designated walkathon route. Emergency vehicles and police traffic will be exempted from the closures, and commuters are advised to plan alternative routes, particularly via Datta Mandir Road for those travelling to Malad East Railway Station.The walkathon, covering categories such as 3 km, 5 km, and 10 km walks, including a student and saree walk, begins at Sanjay Gandhi Maidan and follows a loop through Upper Govind Marg, Sai Dham Mandir, Kedarmai Road, Poddar Road, Nivetia Road, Haji Bapu Road, Chincholi Phatak, and returns to the starting point. Event cut-off is set at 7:15 AM for all categories.
Urban planning experts note that such community events provide an opportunity for the city to experiment with temporary pedestrianisation measures and to assess the impact of restricted vehicular movement on local mobility patterns. “Events like these are an effective way to encourage public engagement with city spaces while highlighting sustainable mobility,” said an urban mobility consultant.Local business representatives have expressed a mix of concern and optimism. While early-morning closures may affect deliveries and commuter schedules, the event can enhance community cohesion and visibility for local enterprises along the route. Residents are urged to anticipate minor delays and utilise public transport or alternate roads wherever possible.
From a civic perspective, the Malad Walkathon also reflects a broader trend in Indian metropolises: the integration of health, sustainability, and urban engagement. Authorities are increasingly using such events to foster greener and safer public spaces, promoting inclusivity and equitable access to urban amenities.The Mumbai Traffic Police has reiterated that adherence to the advisory is crucial to avoid accidents and ensure a smooth flow of both event participants and emergency services. The city’s approach to managing the walkathon may serve as a model for balancing urban mobility, citizen safety, and community-driven initiatives in other densely populated areas.
Mumbai Roads Will Remain Closed For Malad Walkathon Sunday Morning Event
