July 11, 2025: A storm is brewing between Mumbai’s indigenous Koli fishing community and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) over the proposed relocation of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Fish Market to the basement of the redeveloped Crawford Market complex.
The BMC has announced plans to permanently rehabilitate 348 licensed vendors in the newly constructed four-storey structure by August. However, it is the proposed shift of the fish market to the basement that has sparked outrage. The Koli community, led by Devendra Damodar Tandel, president of the All Maharashtra Fisherfolk Action Committee, has accused the civic body of betrayal, misinformation, and failing to honour its commitments.
“In 2020, the BMC promised a dedicated, world-class fish market building. At no point did it mention a basement facility. This is a complete breach of trust,” said Tandel. He further criticised the BMC for making unilateral decisions without engaging the community, adding that a basement location poses serious fire and safety risks.
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Fish Market, historically part of the original Crawford Market, was relocated to Palton Road in 1970 to ease congestion. With the ongoing redevelopment, the Koli community alleges it is once again being sidelined. Upon learning of the revised plan, fisherfolk submitted formal objections, categorically refusing to accept the basement space.
In response, the community is now preparing for a large-scale protest march to the BMC headquarters, aiming to “expose the truth” and demand fair treatment. Dubbed the ‘Koli Storm’, the agitation is expected to receive widespread support from fishing communities across Maharashtra, including those in Palghar, Dahanu, Vasai, Uttan, Versova, Worli, Thane, and Raigad.
For Mumbai’s original inhabitants, this protest represents not just a fight for space—but a defence of heritage, livelihood, and dignity.
Source: Hindustan Times
