BMC carries out anti-encroachment drive on Mohammed Ali Road and Ibrahim Merchant Road in Mumbai

BMC Launches Major Clean-Up Operation in South Mumbai

In a decisive move to reclaim public spaces, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's B Ward team swept through two of Mumbai's busiest commercial arteries on Monday. Mohammed Ali Road and Ibrahim Merchant Road, vital links connecting bustling neighborhoods like Bhendi Bazaar, Masjid Bunder, Byculla, Nagdevi, and Mandvi, had long suffered from illegal encroachments. Pedestrians were often forced into the middle of the road, dodging vehicles amid narrow pathways choked by unauthorized shops, hawkers, and makeshift stalls. The operation, carried out with precision and heavy machinery, marked a significant step toward restoring order in these high-traffic zones. Civic workers dismantled structures that had turned footpaths into private extensions, much to the relief of daily commuters who navigate these routes amid the city's relentless hustle. This drive underscores the ongoing battle against urban clutter in India's financial capital, where space is at a premium.

Details of the Anti-Encroachment Action

The BMC deployed an impressive array of resources for the drive, including four specialized encroachment removal vehicles and two powerful JCB machines. Under the supervision of senior officials, nearly 40 municipal staff members worked alongside police personnel to ensure smooth execution without major disruptions. Key actions included the demolition of seven unauthorized shops that had sprawled across footpaths. Additionally, 12 raised platforms, tin and iron sheds, and barricades were dismantled, while 10 bollards were seized. Two abandoned vehicles, further obstructing the flow, were also towed away. The operation targeted the root causes of congestion—illegal vending and structural extensions that not only inconvenienced walkers but also exacerbated traffic snarls during peak hours. Local shopkeepers and residents watched as years of unchecked growth gave way to cleared walkways, signaling a firm stance from the civic body. Directed by Additional Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Joshi and overseen by Deputy Municipal Commissioner Chanda Jadhav, with Assistant Commissioner Yogesh Desai leading on the ground, the effort highlighted coordinated civic machinery at work.

"We have received numerous complaints from residents and commuters about these encroachments forcing pedestrians onto the roads and worsening traffic. This drive is just the beginning; we will conduct regular operations to keep footpaths clear and ensure safer movement for everyone in the city," said a senior BMC official involved in the operation.

Resident Relief and Future Plans

The immediate aftermath brought visible changes to the landscape of these roads. Footpaths, now free of obstacles, allow for smoother pedestrian traffic, and motorists report better visibility and reduced bottlenecks. Local residents, who have endured years of squeezed walkways, expressed gratitude for the intervention. One shop owner nearby noted how the clutter had deterred customers, while families appreciated the safer paths for children heading to school. This isn't an isolated event; BMC officials have vowed to sustain momentum with periodic drives across the ward. The corporation aims to prevent re-encroachment through vigilant monitoring and swift enforcement. In a city where rapid urbanization often outpaces infrastructure, such initiatives are crucial for maintaining livability. Broader efforts, including anti-littering fines and waste management rules recently announced by BMC, complement this push toward cleaner, more organized streets. Commuters hope this sets a precedent for other congested areas, fostering a culture of compliance among vendors and property owners.

As Mumbai grapples with its perennial space crunch, the success of Monday's drive on Mohammed Ali Road and Ibrahim Merchant Road serves as a reminder of the civic body's commitment to public welfare. By removing illegal hawkers, demolishing unauthorized structures, and clearing debris, BMC has not only eased daily commutes but also enhanced safety. Residents welcome the improved flow, and officials promise ongoing vigilance to sustain these gains. This operation reinforces the need for collective responsibility in preserving the city's vital pathways.