January 7, 2026: Rapid redevelopment in Versova’s Ward 59 has transformed the skyline and attracted new residents, but locals warn that civic infrastructure is struggling to keep pace. Rising population and construction activity have led to water shortages, traffic congestion, and sanitation challenges, raising concerns about whether growth has outstripped planning.
Ward 59, located in Andheri West, includes the city’s largest koliwada, home to generations of fishing families, the residential Char Bangla area, and surrounding neighbourhoods. While the ward’s social and physical layouts differ—Koliwada’s narrow lanes contrast with Char Bangla’s organised streets—residents across areas report similar civic issues.
Old water supply systems, sewage networks, and roads, many decades old, are straining under increased demand. Water scarcity is now common, traffic snarls are frequent, and footpaths and open spaces are increasingly encroached upon by hawkers and informal markets, limiting pedestrian movement.
Koliwada, in particular, bears the brunt of these pressures. Narrow lanes are unable to support modern sanitation, waste collection, or vehicle traffic. Swati Loomba, a resident, describes the area as “unsafe and unwalkable. Illegal parking and unauthorised hawkers block key roads, while the lack of proper footpaths forces pedestrians onto busy streets. Children and senior citizens are especially vulnerable, and water shortages and poor waste management have further worsened living conditions.”
Residents emphasise that they are not opposed to development but call for improved civic services alongside construction. Dr Gajendra Bhanji, a fisherman-activist, highlighted severe water and sanitation issues, noting that the aging sewage network is inadequate. Sharad Ratogi added that illegal parking and hawkers exacerbate traffic problems.
Political candidates have acknowledged the challenges. BJP’s Yogiraj Dhabodkar cited water shortages and inadequate sewage networks. UBT’s Shailesh Phase called for separate planning for Koliwada, including higher FSI, expanded water supply, and improved traffic management. Congress candidate Jayesh Sandhe prioritised water, sanitation, and seafront cleaning, highlighting housing concerns and specialised urban planning as critical needs for the ward.
Without investment in basic civic services, residents warn that redevelopment risks lowering the quality of life, even as the area grows and modernises.
