August 23, 2025: A day after the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) demolished portions of several shops at the iconic Fashion Street in South Mumbai, traders have accused the civic body of undermining the decades-old market’s spirit and heritage. On Thursday, civic officials dismantled parts of structures, citing unauthorised asbestos roof extensions. However, shopkeepers allege that the move is part of a broader attempt to push through a controversial restructuring plan.
Surender Singh, President of the Fashion Market Licensed Owner Welfare Association, claimed that officials were “mounting pressure” on traders to accept a proposal to re-arrange all 397 shops into a face-to-face layout, replacing the current road-facing design. He further alleged that the civic body has not provided any written plan, choosing instead to communicate only verbally.
“This market thrives on energy, bargaining and the buzz of street shopping. Turning it into a commercial plaza will rob it of its identity,” Singh said.
Several traders complained that the demolition was carried out without prior notice. Mohammad Sahil Shaikh, whose shop was affected, said: “It will cost me nearly Rs 70,000 to rebuild. Today I am on the road, because the BMC wants its plan implemented without giving us anything in writing.”
Situated between Azad Maidan and Cross Maidan, Fashion Street has for decades drawn students, office-goers and tourists with its lively crowds and bargain culture. While some shoppers believe a more organised layout could reduce congestion, many fear the changes will dilute its character.
When contacted, Deputy Municipal Commissioner Chanda Jadhav said she was unaware of any planned demolition or restructuring, adding that any action would only concern unauthorised extensions. The conflicting narratives highlight ongoing tensions between urban redevelopment efforts and the preservation of Mumbai’s street-shopping identity.
Source: Mumbai Mirror
