BMC Launches ‘Pedestrian First’ Drive to Clear Mumbai Footpaths of Encroachments
Mumbai, 8th August 2026: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a citywide ‘Pedestrian First’ campaign aimed at making Mumbai’s footpaths safer and more accessible for pedestrians. The civic body has directed officials to remove unauthorised hawkers, encroachments and other obstructions occupying footpaths.
As part of the campaign, BMC Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide conducted an on-site inspection on Thursday in the K West and P South administrative wards in Mumbai’s western suburbs. During the inspection, she reviewed the progress of the campaign and assessed the condition of footpaths at key locations.
The campaign focuses on ensuring that footpaths are kept clear for pedestrians and are not blocked by unauthorised structures, hawkers or other obstructions. The civic administration is expected to take action against encroachments found during inspections.
The initiative comes amid long-standing concerns over pedestrians being forced to walk on roads because footpaths are occupied or obstructed. The BMC’s focus on clearing these spaces is intended to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility across the city.
Officials have been instructed to monitor footpaths and ensure that cleared areas remain accessible to pedestrians. The campaign is being implemented across Mumbai as part of the civic body’s efforts to improve pedestrian infrastructure and road safety.
