MLA Mihir Kotecha Demands BMC Action Against Over 100 Illegal Handcarts in Mulund
BJP MLA Mihir Kotecha has urged the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to take immediate action against more than 100 illegally parked four-wheeled handcarts in Mulund, alleging that civic authorities have failed to act despite complaints and existing court directions.
The demand comes during the BMC's recently launched 'Pedestrian First' campaign, which aims to remove encroachments and obstructions from footpaths to ensure safe, unobstructed movement for pedestrians. Kotecha stated that despite the civic body's stated "zero tolerance" policy towards four-wheeled handcarts and directives issued by the Bombay High Court, these carts continue to operate and occupy public spaces across Mulund.
"Supposedly, there is zero tolerance for four-wheeled carts in Mumbai. Even the Bombay High Court order says so. However, the GPS-tagged photos tell a different story," Kotecha said, alleging that the ongoing situation reflects a failure by the BMC's T Ward to enforce the court's directions.
According to Kotecha, he had personally submitted specific details and locations of more than 100 four-wheeled handcarts that were allegedly being illegally parked and rented out in Mulund. However, he claimed that no enforcement measures were taken by the local civic authorities following his submission.
Criticising the alleged inaction of the T Ward administration, the MLA appealed to BMC Commissioner Ashwini Bhide to intervene and ensure strict enforcement of the municipal rules. He also questioned the role of Additional Municipal Commissioner (Eastern Suburbs) Avinash Dhakne and sought accountability from the civic officials involved.
Kotecha further urged the Mumbai Police and the concerned Deputy Commissioner of Police to coordinate with the BMC to ensure that action is taken against the illegal handcarts in compliance with the Bombay High Court's directions. He noted that strict enforcement is necessary to prevent pedestrians from being forced onto roadways due to footpath encroachments.
