The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Tuesday carried out an anti-encroachment drive along Maulana Shaukat Ali Road in south Mumbai, removing old furniture vendors and other obstructions that had narrowed footpaths and disrupted pedestrian movement.
According to the BMC, the action was undertaken by its ‘E’ Ward under the supervision of Deputy Municipal Commissioner Chanda Jadhav and led by Assistant Commissioner Anand Kankal. Civic officials said the stretch between Murli Deora Eye Hospital and the JJ Hospital junction had witnessed persistent encroachments, forcing pedestrians to walk on the carriageway and increasing the risk of accidents.
The operation was conducted jointly by the ward’s maintenance and anti-encroachment teams, with support from the Mumbai Police.
Furniture, debris removed using heavy machinery
BMC officials said several furniture vendors had occupied large portions of the footpath, displaying and storing old furniture in a manner that obstructed public access. During the drive, civic teams used a JCB machine to dismantle and remove these encroachments. Items found on the footpath were cleared on the spot, and the debris was immediately transported away to prevent reoccupation.
In addition to furniture vendors, action was also taken against unauthorised hawkers operating along the stretch. The BMC stated that the clearance has improved both pedestrian accessibility and vehicular movement in the area.
A total of one JCB machine, four labourers, three civic officers and two engineers were deployed for the operation. The Nagpada Police Station provided nine personnel to maintain law and order during the drive, ensuring that the eviction process was carried out without disruption.
Civic body signals continued enforcement
The BMC said such drives would continue as part of its ongoing efforts to keep public spaces free of encroachments. Officials reiterated that strict action will be taken against illegal structures, unauthorised vendors and any activity that obstructs pedestrian movement or compromises public safety.
Civic authorities have been stepping up enforcement in several parts of the city ahead of the monsoon season, when clear footpaths and roads become critical for both mobility and emergency access.
Earlier, the BMC on April 17 had carried out a drive to remove illegal encroachments in the Dongri area of Mumbai. Officials said that nine unauthorised shops were demolished along Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Road and nearby areas in Dongri.
