Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 1: In a move that has drawn widespread criticism, civic authorities in Mumbai have begun constructing a public toilet on a narrow sidewalk at Lion Gate, Colaba, triggering strong opposition from local residents and public representatives.

Already congested due to hawkers, the sidewalk near the Grade A heritage precinct—adjacent to the Naval Dockyard—is now seeing further encroachment, as the new toilet structure takes up what little pedestrian space remains.

Former corporator Makarand Narvekar, expressing grave concern, said, “This is a blatant violation of Mumbai’s own sidewalk policy. Pedestrians are now being pushed onto busy streets, putting their lives at risk. The site falls under a sensitive and culturally significant zone, and the decision defies logic and public interest.”

According to a report by Lokmat, Narvekar has written to Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani and the Heritage Committee, seeking immediate cancellation of the Rs 1.70 crore project, which involves major excavation. He warned that this could potentially affect the nearby naval establishment and degrade the heritage landscape.

The opposition is not just about aesthetics or heritage—it is about public safety, say locals. Residents argue that footpath obstruction violates the 2016 pedestrian-first policy, which mandates clear walkways to ensure safe and accessible urban mobility.

Citizens and activists have urged civic authorities to reconsider the location, suggesting that alternative, non-intrusive sites for the facility be evaluated instead.