Mumbai Police Intensify Crackdown on Unauthorized Hawking and Illegal Parking
In a significant move to restore order and ensure public safety, the Oshiwara Police and Borivli Police in Mumbai have launched coordinated drives targeting unauthorized hawking, illegal stalls, and vehicles obstructing streets. These operations resulted in multiple offences being registered and substantial penalties imposed on offenders.
Oshiwara Police Drive in Andheri West
On Thursday, the Oshiwara Police, in collaboration with BMC's K/West ward officials, executed a comprehensive drive across key areas in Andheri West, including Lion Sol Marg, Back Road, and Millat Nagar. The action was swift and decisive, with authorities taking measures against 13 hand carts and 28 illegal stalls that were operating without proper authorization.
Additionally, the drive addressed rampant illegal parking issues. Approximately 32 two-wheelers and 3 cars were towed away for obstructing traffic flow and violating parking regulations. In a joint effort with the Oshiwara Traffic Police, e-challans were issued to 32 motorists for various traffic violations, emphasizing the zero-tolerance policy towards such infractions.
Senior Inspector Sanjay Chavan, who led the police team, provided detailed insights into the legal ramifications of the drive. "We have registered three offences under the provisions of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita and issued penalties totaling over Rs 90,000," he stated. The BMC played a crucial supportive role in this operation by providing an excavator and eight lorries to facilitate the removal of illegal structures and vehicles.
Borivli Police Action Against Unauthorized Hawking
In a separate but equally rigorous operation, the Borivli Police conducted a drive on Tuesday targeting unauthorized hawking at LT Marg, SV Road, and the Skywalk near Borivli West railway station. This initiative aimed to curb the proliferation of illegal street vendors that often lead to congestion and safety hazards.
A senior police officer involved in the Borivli drive explained the measures taken. "We have registered offences against the hawkers and handed over their wares to the BMC for proper disposal," the officer said. Furthermore, the police are extending their checks to include paan stalls to verify whether gutkha, a banned substance, is being sold illegally, highlighting a broader effort to enforce public health regulations alongside urban order.
Implications and Ongoing Efforts
These drives underscore the Mumbai Police's commitment to maintaining law and order in the city's bustling areas. By targeting unauthorized hawking, illegal stalls, and parking violations, authorities aim to reduce traffic congestion, enhance pedestrian safety, and ensure compliance with municipal regulations.
The use of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita for registering offences marks a significant step in leveraging updated legal frameworks to address urban challenges. The collaboration between police forces and BMC officials demonstrates a multi-agency approach to tackling these issues effectively.
Residents and commuters in affected areas have welcomed these actions, hoping for sustained efforts to keep streets clear and safe. The police have indicated that such drives will continue periodically to deter future violations and promote a more organized urban environment.
This crackdown is part of a larger initiative by Mumbai authorities to improve urban governance and public safety, reflecting ongoing adjustments to city management strategies in response to evolving challenges.
