Mumbai/Thane, April 2026: The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has ordered that the entire Ghodbunder Highway and adjoining arterial roads be made hawker-free, aiming to ease traffic congestion and improve commuter safety.
Strict Action Against Illegal Hawkers
Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao has directed authorities to carry out daily enforcement drives against unauthorised vendors who are obstructing traffic flow.
The crackdown will focus on key congestion-prone stretches such as:
- Majiwada
- Manpada
- Vartak Nagar
Officials noted that illegal vending often continues late into the night, worsening traffic conditions.
Part of Larger Traffic Decongestion Plan
The move is part of a broader effort to ensure smooth vehicular movement on one of Thane’s busiest arterial roads, which connects multiple regions including Mumbai suburbs and Gujarat routes.
Authorities believe removing encroachments will:
- Reduce bottlenecks
- Improve emergency vehicle access
- Enhance road safety
Linked to Pre-Monsoon Preparedness
The hawker removal drive is also tied to pre-monsoon infrastructure preparations, with officials instructed to complete:
- Road repairs and pothole filling
- Drain desilting
- Tree trimming and streetlight maintenance
All works have been given a deadline of May 31 to avoid disruptions during the rainy season.
Coordination with Agencies Ordered
With multiple ongoing projects like Metro and roadworks on the highway, the Commissioner has directed departments to:
- Coordinate with agencies such as MMRDA and Metro authorities
- Clear construction debris if work remains incomplete
- Ensure roads remain motorable for commuters
Emergency Preparedness Measures
To tackle monsoon-related challenges, TMC will:
- Strengthen control rooms and ward-level response units
- Deploy adequate manpower and equipment
- Identify waterlogging-prone areas in advance
Officials have also been instructed to remain accessible at all times during emergencies.
Aim: Smoother, Safer Commute
The initiative is expected to bring relief to daily commuters by ensuring unobstructed roads, better traffic flow, and improved civic management, especially during the upcoming monsoon season.
