The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has proposed the creation of underground markets in Mumbai, inspired by Delhi’s Palika Bazaar, to address the persistent issue of hawker encroachments on roads and footpaths. One of the pilot projects, planned at Ganpatrao Ambre Udyan in Andheri West, aims to relocate around 500 hawkers from the bustling Andheri station area. An article in the Free Press Journal mentioned that the proposal includes a two-level underground hawking plaza with parking facilities, ensuring the garden above is restored post-construction.
The initiative, however, has hit a roadblock due to concerns over its viability. Local MLA Ameet Satam has raised objections, arguing that the proposed location might not generate sufficient footfall compared to the hawkers’ current locations near Andheri station. He has suggested an alternative site beneath the existing Andheri Market, located closer to the station and SV Road, as a more practical option that would better support hawkers’ businesses. This opposition has put the project on hold for further evaluation.
In addition to the Andheri project, the BMC has directed officials from its 24 administrative wards to identify other open spaces such as gardens or playgrounds for similar underground markets. These locations are intended to be close to high-footfall areas like railway stations, ensuring accessibility and maximizing utility for hawkers and citizens alike.
Meanwhile, the project faces criticism over delays in implementing a comprehensive hawking policy. The Bombay High Court has called out the BMC and the state government for failing to enforce the provisions of the Street Vendors Act, 2014. The court pointed out that illegal hawker encroachments continue to inconvenience the public, despite existing legal frameworks. Authorities have been instructed to work with the Town Vending Committee to draft a viable hawking policy by September 2024.
While the idea of underground markets offers a potential solution to hawker-related challenges in Mumbai, the initiative has been delayed due to logistical concerns, local opposition, and gaps in policy enforcement. The success of the project will depend on balancing the interests of hawkers with the need for public convenience, ensuring thoughtful planning and collaboration.
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