Hawkers use colour code in Mira-Bhayandar: Activist

Mumbai: The attempt by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) activists to forcefully drive away illegally operating hawkers has turned the spotlight on the alleged activities of the ‘hawking mafia’ in Mira-Bhayandar, said an activist. Thousands of handcarts conducting business in the city are allegedly controlled by the hawking mafia, who rent out them to vendors, on a daily payment basis. The carts bearing a specific colour code allegedly escape civic action against them.

It is alleged that civic personnel do not take action against such carts. There are around 7,000 hawkers operating in the twin-city.

“Thanks to the blessings bestowed on them by local politicos, the ward officers have turned a blind eye towards the illegal activities which not only create traffic congestion but pose a serious threat to the life of pedestrians,” said Saji I.P, who has lodged multiple complaints with the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC). He has also sought the intervention of the CM on the issue.

“Despite an assurance by the civic and police chief via video conferencing to the CM, the action is still awaited, thus depriving citizens of their Right to Walk,” says Mr Saji.

Asked about Saji’s allegations, deputy civic chief Deepak Pujari said, “We will take action against collection agents who are found to be violating contract terms.”

As per a resolution passed by the general body, 66 no hawking zones and 26 hawking zones have been identified in the region.

The MBMC has awarded multi-crore contracts to private agents for the collection of daily fees from hawkers.

Meanwhile, the uncertainty over the formation of the Town Vending Committee has only added to the woes.