Mumbai's Illegal Hawkers: Women Fear For Safety, Dadar Shelter Construction Halts; Bombay HC Raps Police & BMC

Mumbai is grappling with the issue of around 1,00,000 illegal hawkers occupying sidewalks and roadsides, leading to traffic congestion and safety concerns. Despite daily efforts by the Mumbai Municipal Corporation's Ward Encroachment Removal Department to remove these unauthorised setups, enforcement remains inadequate.

Residents' Concerns In Paral Area

The issue of illegal hawkers occupying footpaths outside Mumbai's Paral station continues to trouble residents of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkarnagar Society. Despite repeated complaints to the municipality's encroachment removal department, these vendors remain a persistent problem.

Residents have pointed out stalls cropping up near Kamgar Krida Bhavan and India Bulls Center, obstructing pathways and causing inconvenience. Jitendra Kamble, Vice President of Mahim District, expressed concerns over the municipality's failure to keep these areas clear for pedestrians, warning of potential mishaps if the issue persists.

Women and girls in the area also face safety risks due to alleged criminal activities linked to some hawkers. Complaints since 2022 have highlighted these risks, prompting residents to call for more effective measures from local authorities.

Despite temporary clearances and 'No Hawker Zone' signs put up by the municipality, the problem quickly recurs. Locals feel frustrated by the lack of lasting solutions and have urged the authorities to take concrete steps to permanently resolve the issue.

Residents have escalated their concerns to local police and officials but feel that their grievances have not been adequately addressed. They emphasise the need for sustained action to reclaim public spaces and ensure safety in their community.

As frustrations mount, residents are increasingly demanding a lasting solution to the encroachment issue, emphasising the importance of public safety and effective urban management in Paral.

Bombay High Court Intervenes in Dadar Shelter Construction

Construction of a shelter for homeless individuals in Dadar has been abruptly halted due to interference from illegal hawkers, prompting intervention from the Bombay High Court (BMC). The project, spearheaded by Shiv Sneh Samajik Pratisthan, faced significant setbacks when representatives and labourers were assaulted at the construction site.

The non-governmental organisation (NGO) had undertaken the initiative following directives from the Supreme Court mandating municipal corporations to establish night shelters nationwide. After securing approval from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to construct a free-of-cost shelter under the Keshavsut flyover in Dadar West, work commenced on January 15, 2024.

Advocate Madhav V Thorat, representing the NGO, outlined the challenges encountered during construction. Illegal hawkers, adamant about maintaining their presence at the site, resorted to physical aggression against NGO personnel and workers. Despite appeals to the Shivaji Park police and civic officials for police protection, their requests were initially denied.

The matter escalated when the NGO approached the BHC after repeated refusals by local authorities to provide adequate security. The court presided over by justices MS Sonak and Kamal Khata, intervened swiftly, directing the Shivaji Park police to ensure the safety of construction personnel and enable the project's continuation.

In response, the police cited logistical challenges but assured the court of deploying necessary personnel upon payment of requisite fees for police protection.

As legal proceedings unfold, stakeholders await a resolution that ensures both public safety and the advancement of social welfare projects crucial for vulnerable communities in Mumbai.

Bombay HC Criticises BMC And Police For Inaction

The BHC rebuked BMC and local police for their failure to curb illegal hawking activities on June 24. The court highlighted that thoroughfares are often cleared only during visits by high-profile dignitaries, underscoring a selective approach to law enforcement.

Furthermore, the court expressed grave concern over reported assaults on BMC officials tasked with removing encroachments and citizens who lodge complaints against illegal hawkers. These incidents underscore the escalating tensions surrounding hawking practices in Mumbai, where regulatory lapses and public safety risks intersect.