Around 200 Illegal Hawkers, Pavement Encroachments Removed in Andheri West

BMC clears Ram Ganesh Gadkari Road to ease pedestrian movement and emergency access

In a major anti-encroachment drive, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on January 29, 2026, removed around 200 unauthorised hawkers and illegal extensions on footpaths along Ram Ganesh Gadkari Road (Irla Road) in Andheri West.

The action was carried out by the ‘K West’ Ward following instructions from Bhushan Gagrani, Municipal Commissioner and Administrator. The drive was conducted under the guidance of Bhagyashree Kapse, Deputy Commissioner (Zone 4), and led by Chakrapani Alle, Assistant Municipal Commissioner, K West Ward.

The Ram Ganesh Gadkari Road, which connects Swami Vivekanand Road and Gulmohar Road, also serves as a key access route to the Dr. R. N. Cooper Municipal Hospital. Civic officials said illegal stalls and unauthorised extensions on pavements had severely obstructed pedestrian movement and hampered the passage of ambulances, especially during medical emergencies.

“The encroachments had narrowed footpaths and carriageways, creating serious inconvenience to pedestrians and posing risks to emergency services,” officials said.

Responding to repeated complaints and field inspections, the K West Ward launched a large-scale eviction operation, clearing approximately 200 unauthorised hawkers and pavement encroachments from the stretch.

The drive was executed using four encroachment removal vehicles, three JCB machines, and additional heavy equipment. Nearly 100 civic staff and officers, supported by adequate police deployment, were present to ensure the operation was conducted smoothly and without law-and-order issues.

Local residents and elected representatives have welcomed the action, expressing relief over the improved walkability and smoother traffic flow in the area. Civic officials have reiterated that such eviction drives will continue on a regular basis to prevent the recurrence of unauthorised constructions and hawker encroachments.

“Maintaining clear footpaths and unobstructed access to hospitals and public roads is a civic priority. Strict action against illegal encroachments will remain ongoing,” the municipal administration stated.