October 18, 2025: Residents of Worli and Breach Candy have raised concerns over two-wheelers riding on footpaths, endangering pedestrians, joining the chorus from Dadar, Matunga, and Bandra. The Worli Residents Association (WRA) has formally written to the Mumbai Traffic Police commissioner with six key demands, including dedicated enforcement drives, focus on congested areas during peak hours, higher penalties for offences such as riding on footpaths or wrong-side driving, deployment of ward-level marshals, and preventing footpaths from being used as traffic lanes.
In their letter, the WRA stated, “Many riders flout traffic rules, and it has become a nightmare for citizens. Some of the major issues we face daily are two-wheeler riders jumping traffic signals, entering ‘No Entry’ zones, riding on footpaths, and endangering pedestrians. This has created a dangerous situation, where two-wheeler riders behave as though traffic laws do not apply to them.” Residents have also demanded upgraded CCTVs, surprise inspections at crucial junctions, awareness campaigns, better footpath infrastructure, and a dedicated helpline for complaints.
Viren Shah, WRA member, said, “Residents have repeatedly raised concerns with the Mumbai Traffic Police and BMC, especially since the construction of the Mumbai Coastal Road. Specific areas in South Mumbai see heavy traffic due to the Coastal Road exits. We have been assured strict action, but little has changed.” Mukul Mehra of the Nepean Sea Road Citizens’ Forum added, “Two-wheeler riders zooming on footpaths is a blatant violation of traffic rules…When bikers use footpaths, pedestrians are forced to take to the carriageway, which is also used for illegal parking, leading to traffic congestion.”
Indrani Malkani, founder of VCAN, suggested a balanced approach, combining strict action with collaborations with housing societies to install CCTV cameras and train volunteers as traffic marshals.
Addressing the issue, Joint Commissioner of Police Anil Kumbhare said, “We have been taking strict action against errant two-wheeler riders and issues are being resolved on priority. There are plans in the pipeline to take proactive measures and address citizens’ complaints.” Senior traffic officials noted improvements in Dadar and Matunga, though the problem persists.
Source: Mid-day
