The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) intensified its anti-encroachment drive on Wednesday, October 14, by carrying out demolition action at Manish Market and the nearby Sabu Siddique Market area in South Mumbai. The operation was conducted under the civic body's ‘Pedestrian First’ campaign, aimed at clearing footpaths and restoring space for pedestrians.

According to a report by The Free Press Journal, BMC bulldozers were deployed to remove large structures allegedly obstructing public spaces. Police personnel were also present at the site to maintain law and order as local residents and others gathered to witness the action.

The drive focuses on removing unauthorised structures from footpaths and roads, which often contribute to congestion and make it difficult for pedestrians to move safely through crowded commercial areas.

As part of its broader ‘Pedestrian First’ initiative, the BMC plans to clear encroachments from 200 footpaths in the campaign's first phase, with work already underway at 134 locations. Enforcement action has reportedly been carried out at 1,459 locations across Mumbai's 26 administrative wards.

The civic body is also planning to appoint contractors to deploy vehicles for anti-encroachment operations across the city and its suburbs. The estimated cost of the proposed contracts is nearly ₹10.25 crore.

The intensified action highlights the BMC's efforts to improve pedestrian access and address long-standing encroachment issues across Mumbai. However, the effectiveness of the campaign will depend on consistent enforcement and ensuring that cleared footpaths remain accessible to the public.

The latest demolition drive at Manish Market forms part of a wider effort to make Mumbai's roads and footpaths safer and more convenient for pedestrians.