Mumbai: BMC Intensifies Efforts in Andheri to Clear Hawkers and Upgrade Pedestrian Infrastructure
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a two-pronged strategy in Andheri, focusing on clearing unauthorized hawkers and upgrading pedestrian infrastructure. With civic elections due in early 2026, the BMC is enlisting NGOs and floating multiple tenders to improve walkability and street conditions.
MumbaiBmcAndheriPedestrian InfrastructureCivic ElectionsReal Estate MumbaiNov 21, 2025
In the past week, the BMC has issued at least four tenders focused on enhancing the pedestrian experience in Andheri. These include remodelling footpaths, installing street furniture, and appointing agencies to inspect road conditions and recommend upgrades. Officials said the push is part of a wider effort to make sidewalks safer, smoother, and more accessible for the growing number of daily commuters and residents.
The civic body’s decision to rope in NGOs marks a renewed effort to replicate earlier models where non-governmental groups and self-help collectives helped manage parking lots or assisted in waste collection in areas like Kurla, Chembur, Govandi, and Andheri. Over the past several days, the BMC, supported by Mumbai Police, conducted extensive eviction drives across Andheri, removing unlicensed hawkers who were occupying key footpaths.
BMC Invites NGOs To Take Eviction Action Against Hawkers
On Monday, a public notice invited NGOs to take eviction action against unauthorised hawkers for a three-month contract running from December 2025 to February 2026. Under the plan, 15 personnel from registered NGOs, worker cooperatives, unemployed services cooperatives, or industrial service collectives will be deployed throughout Andheri. Their mandate includes acting against hawkers operating without licences, those cooking food on the streets, setting up makeshift shops, or obstructing pedestrian movement.
The BMC is also pushing ahead with a major footpath revamp. Two tenders floated this week seek third-party technical agencies to inspect roads and prepare detailed suggestions for improving their condition across the K West ward. “This exercise is done before planning infrastructure or resurfacing works. It gives clarity on the current status of roads and helps shortlist areas where immediate upgrades are needed,” a senior civic official said, as quoted by Mid-day.
With rising traffic congestion and shrinking walking spaces, these combined efforts will not only improve everyday mobility for residents but also demonstrate visible governance ahead of the polls. The crackdown on hawkers and preparation for infrastructure upgrades are expected to continue in the coming weeks, as the civic body speeds up pre-election works across the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the BMC focusing on Andheri?
The BMC is focusing on Andheri to improve pedestrian infrastructure and clear unauthorized hawkers, in preparation for the civic elections due in early 2026.
What are the main strategies being implemented by the BMC?
The main strategies include enlisting NGOs to help with eviction drives against unauthorized hawkers and floating tenders to upgrade pedestrian infrastructure and road conditions.
How will these efforts benefit the residents of Andheri?
These efforts will make sidewalks safer and more accessible, improve walkability, and reduce traffic congestion, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
What role do NGOs play in this initiative?
NGOs are being invited to take eviction action against unauthorized hawkers, with 15 personnel from registered NGOs, worker cooperatives, or service collectives being deployed for this purpose.
Are there any specific tenders being floated for this initiative?
Yes, the BMC has issued tenders for remodelling footpaths, installing street furniture, and appointing agencies to inspect road conditions and recommend upgrades.
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