The Nariman Point Churchgate Citizens' Association (NPCCA) has raised their voice against hawkers operating inside the subway that connects Churchgate Railway Station. Residents have also complained to the police about customers of a wine shop in subway consuming liquor on the premises.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) allows hawkers to operate on the premises. Residents claim that hawkers occupy more than half of the subway, and are a nuisance. They also allege that the police has failed to crack its whip against consumers of alcohol inside the subway. "Customers visiting wine shop consume liquor outside the store and pass lewd comments," a Churchgate resident said.
"Instead of hawking within the allocated area, hawkers set up their wares in the pathway. The BMC should cancel the licences of the hawkers violating the norms," he said.
Atul Kumar, Vice President, NPCCA, said, "It is unlawful to consume liquor inside the subway. Residents are facing issues on a daily basis. We have written to the authorities to resolve the issue."
Swarn Kohli, President, NPCCA, said, "We will be holding a meeting with the BMC and police authorities to curb this menace. We are strongly against the hawkers inside the subway and will ask the authorities to take action against these hawkers."
Kiran Dighavkar, Assistant Municipal Commissioner (A-Ward), BMC, said, "We will hold a joint meeting to derive a solution."
Vilas Gangawane, Senior Inspector, Marine Drive police station, said, "Action will be taken against persons found consuming alcohol and the shop owner if we find a violation of norms."
...& ANALYSIS
- Commuters taking the Churchgate subway are often impeded by illegal hawkers or customers drinking right outside the wine shop. The police, BMC and railway authorities should take heed of complaints and take measures to ensure a safe and unobstructed path for people rushing for their trains.
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