The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has significantly ramped up its anti-encroachment operations, removing more than 2,500 unauthorised hawkers in April alone. The move is part of a broader initiative to reclaim pedestrian spaces and reduce congestion in key urban zones.
The crackdown follows strong observations by the Bombay High Court (HC), which highlighted delays in regulating hawkers and reaffirmed the public’s right to unobstructed footpaths. In response, civic authorities launched continuous, round-the-clock enforcement drives, particularly targeting high-traffic areas such as Vashi, Nerul, Airoli, and Belapur.
Officials noted that vendors often attempted to return during evening hours, prompting the deployment of multi-shift teams to ensure sustained action. Major roads like the Thane-Belapur Road and Sion-Panvel Highway have also been cleared, leading to noticeable improvements in traffic movement.
Commuters have reported immediate benefits, especially around railway stations where footpaths were previously unusable. Many described the cleared spaces as a major relief during peak hours.
| Area | Estimated Removals (Last 3 Months) |
|---|---|
| Turbhe | 7,000 |
| Belapur | 3,400 |
| Nerul | 3,300 |
| Airoli | 3,000 |
| Vashi | 2,800 |
| Ghansoli | 1,200 |
| Digha | 500 |
| Location | Hawkers Removed (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Airoli | 370 |
| Belapur & Nerul | 315 |
| Turbhe | 223 |
Despite the success of the drive, certain areas continue to face issues. The stretch outside the APMC market in Turbhe remains a major congestion point, with vendors frequently occupying roads and footpaths. The problem has been repeatedly flagged by trader groups, but a long-term solution is still pending.
While the crackdown has brought visible improvements across Navi Mumbai, officials emphasise that continuous monitoring will be essential to prevent the return of encroachments. Sustained enforcement, combined with structured hawker regulation, will be key to maintaining accessible public spaces in the long run.
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