The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has intensified its ‘Pedestrian First’ campaign in Borivali West, removing 20 unauthorised structures and 15 stalls to improve pedestrian movement and create safer, obstruction-free footpaths.
The action was carried out on Tuesday across parts of the R-Central ward, including Lokmanya Tilak Road, Market Lane and Borivali Subway Road. According to the civic body, the drive is aimed at ensuring continuous and accessible pedestrian routes, particularly around Borivali West railway station and adjoining areas.
The first phase of the campaign in Borivali covers six footpaths spanning approximately 8 kilometres. Encroachments along these stretches are being progressively cleared as part of the wider effort to improve walkability and reduce obstacles for pedestrians.
The drive follows instructions from BMC Commissioner Ashwini Bhide to senior officials to implement the ‘Pedestrian First’ initiative strictly across the city. The campaign focuses on removing unauthorised constructions, stalls, hawkers and other obstructions from footpaths, along with improving their condition through repairs, maintenance and beautification.
For Tuesday’s operation, the BMC deployed two JCB machines, five dumpers, more than 10 officers and staff, and 20 workers. More than 15 police personnel were also present to provide security during the demolition and clearance work.
The operation was conducted under the supervision of Deputy Municipal Commissioner (Zone 7) Manish Valanju and led by Assistant Commissioner of R-Central ward Dr Praful Tambe, along with civic staff and workers.
The Borivali action forms part of the BMC’s larger citywide pedestrian initiative. In its first phase, the civic body has identified around 320 kilometres of footpaths across Mumbai for encroachment removal. Officials have also been instructed to undertake repairs, maintenance and beautification works while clearing unauthorised hawkers and structures.
The civic body said the measures are intended to make Mumbai’s footpaths safer, more accessible and easier for pedestrians to use.
Source: Mid-day
