BMC Removes 67 Illegal Hawkers in Colaba Causeway Operation

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) conducted a significant anti-encroachment operation at Colaba Causeway in south Mumbai, resulting in the removal of approximately 67 illegal hawkers from the area. This action, taken on Wednesday, was part of the BMC’s ongoing efforts to maintain public safety and ensure smooth pedestrian movement in busy market zones.

Under the supervision of Dr Ashwini Joshi, the Additional Municipal Commissioner (City), the operation was executed by Deputy Commissioner Chanda Jadhav and Assistant Municipal Commissioner Jaydeep More. Officials stated that the drive aimed to clear footpaths and streets of unauthorized vendors, reinforcing compliance with civic regulations.

Continued Efforts Against Encroachments

The BMC emphasized that this action is part of a broader strategy to uphold order in public spaces. Similar drives targeting unauthorized hawkers will persist in the coming days to ensure that areas like Colaba Causeway remain accessible for pedestrians and traffic alike.

In a related development, on Tuesday, the BMC dismantled over 100 houses and hutments situated on collector’s land in the Devi Mandir area of Malwani. Officials noted that structures belonging to residents who could provide documentation proving residence prior to 2011 were spared, while others without such proof faced demolition. All affected buildings were reportedly constructed on land owned by the collector in the Malwani Gaon Devi Mandir area.

Political Reactions and Allegations

The demolition operation has drawn criticism from local political figures, including senior Maharashtra Congress leader and Malad MLA Aslam Shaikh. He alleged that the demolitions were conducted under directives from the “Guardian Minister.” In an official statement, Shaikh condemned the actions taken by the district collector in areas such as Jyuliuswadi, Ali Talav, and Malvani, claiming that the demolitions were executed without prior notice and violated Supreme Court orders.

Shaikh expressed his distress over the situation, highlighting the impact on vulnerable families whose homes were destroyed. He announced the cancellation of his birthday celebrations scheduled for November 5, stating that while he would continue with public welfare activities, no formal ceremony would take place due to the recent events.

In his statement, Shaikh criticized the “selfish leaders intoxicated by power” who he claimed manipulated the administration to enforce these demolitions, leading to chaos in affected communities.

The BMC’s ongoing anti-encroachment initiatives and the political fallout from recent demolitions illustrate the complexities surrounding urban management and the balance between civic regulations and community welfare in Mumbai.