Mumbai: BMC Cracks Down On Illegal Food Stalls In Churchgate's 'Khau Galli', Vendors Reopen Despite Action

Mumbai: After the FPJ reported that illegal food stalls on J Tata Road – now informally known as ‘khau galli’ – in Churchgate are causing inconvenience to thousands of office-goers, the BMC has sprung into action.

On Wednesday and Thursday, officials confiscated belongings of the unauthorised food stalls and hawkers, said Jaydeep More, executive engineer in charge of A Ward informed FPJ, adding that the situation is being reviewed.

However, when FPJ visited the spot on Thursday evening, several stalls had reappeared. A coconut vendor near the Astoria Hotel, said, “For two days the BMC staff has been taking action against us. Many food stalls are shut now as their belongings including the gas stove and temporary sheds are confiscated. Even my stall’s shed is taken away but I am running the business for my living.”

It was also observed that 50% of the stalls were shut, however, the tables and other remaining belongings continued occupying the footpath. The labourers at the stalls said that several food stalls on J Tata Road are unlicensed, however, they are now working towards taking back their belongings from BMC’s custody.