Mumbai: Hawkers Operate Next to BMC Van, Flout Rules

Jambli Gully, Borivli, near Moksh Plaza: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) seems to have disregarded the Bombay High Court’s directive banning hawkers within 150 meters of railway stations. In Borivli, hawkers openly flout the rules, selling wares outside Moksh Plaza on Jambli Gully—right beside a BMC anti-encroachment vehicle stationed to prevent such violations.

Jambli Gully, a crucial link to SV Road near Borivli railway station, has become heavily encroached by hawkers, causing significant traffic disruptions. A resident, requesting anonymity, criticized not only the authorities and hawkers but also buyers, urging people to stop supporting roadside vendors to curb the problem.

Resident Sudesh Naik expressed frustration, noting that hawkers show no fear of BMC vehicles and continue selling undeterred. Sandhya Nandedkar, assistant municipal commissioner, R Central ward, admitted that hawkers exploit moments when BMC staff are absent from the site.