Mumbai: Footpath Encroachment Endangers Students' Safety in Andheri
Residents of JB Nagar in Andheri East have raised serious concerns over an unauthorized encroachment on a public footpath outside Kalgidhar School, falling under the K East Ward limits. Large construction materials — including pipes and a generator — have been placed on the footpath by a private company’s contractors, without any visible permission from the civic authorities.
The obstruction has made the footpath unusable, forcing residents and students to walk directly on the busy road. With vehicular traffic constantly flowing, the risk of accidents has increased. “The obstruction has made the footpath unusable, forcing us to walk directly on the busy road. With vehicular traffic constantly flowing, the risk of accidents has increased,” said Sanjana Bajaj, whose son studies in class seven of the school.
Civic activists have pointed out that along with the encroachment of public property, loading and storing construction materials on the footpaths have also led to anti-social activities. “Every time we pass, we see someone either peeing or consuming alcohol at night hours. Even after complaining multiple times, the authorities do not pay any heed,” questioned activist Godfrey Pimenta, who has written a letter to the civic authorities on behalf of the residents raising this issue.
When contacted, the K-east ward officer did not respond to any communication made by Sunday mid-day. The lack of response from the authorities has further frustrated the residents, who feel their safety concerns are being ignored.
This issue is not just a matter of inconvenience but a serious safety hazard, especially for young students who have to navigate these dangerous conditions daily. The residents are calling for immediate action from the civic authorities to remove the construction materials and restore the footpath to its original condition.
The Kalgidhar School and the surrounding area are vital parts of the community, and ensuring the safety of its students should be a top priority. The residents hope that their continued efforts will lead to a resolution and a safer environment for everyone in the area.
