November 18, 2025: The Bhiwandi Municipal Corporation on Monday kicked off a major road-widening initiative on the Anjur Phata–Kalyan Naka stretch, prompting heightened tension across the city. The 2-km corridor, currently 24 metres wide, is being expanded to 36 metres to ease chronic traffic congestion and support ongoing Metro Line-5 construction. The launch took place under heavy police deployment, reflecting concerns over public unrest as demolition activities began.
Early in the morning, municipal teams accompanied by police personnel moved in with JCB machines to clear encroachments and roadside structures. By late evening, several shops had already been demolished. Anticipating sudden damage, many occupants voluntarily vacated and cleared their premises ahead of the drive, hoping to minimise losses.
The demolition push also triggered a dramatic flashpoint at Dhamankar Naka. As MP Suresh Mhatre—popularly known as Balya Mama—was travelling to attend an event, a youth abruptly ran toward his convoy, waving a black flag and shouting, “We Want Justice.” The protest forced the convoy to halt. In the chaos that followed, the youth was pulled aside, and supporters of the MP were allegedly seen assaulting him. As of now, the police have not confirmed whether any action or arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
Residents have responded with mixed emotions to the civic action. A key source of discontent is the compensation package offered by the authorities. Many affected individuals argue that the proposed TDR rate of Rs 300 per sq ft is far below the actual market value of their properties. They are demanding compensation comparable to redevelopment norms in Mumbai to ensure fair rehabilitation. Several residents also expressed frustration over what they described as the continued silence of their elected representatives, even as concerns mount over livelihoods and displacement resulting from the widening project.
Source: The Free Press Journal
