Mumbai: Colaba Residents Flag Hawkers, Double Parking And Emergency Access Concerns At Meeting With MLA Rahul Narwekar

On October 12, 2026, Colaba residents in Mumbai met with Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar to address concerns over traffic congestion, hawkers, double parking, and emergency access on Colaba Causeway. Members of the Clean Heritage Colaba Residents’ Association (CHCRA) emphasized the need for immediate action to improve the safety and efficiency of the area, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Parvez Cooper, the CHCRA Vice President, proposed relocating hawkers from the Colaba Causeway stretch near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya to Museum Lane. The association argued that the current arrangement hinders emergency vehicle access, as it obstructs fire engines and other critical rescue equipment in case of emergencies.

Residents also highlighted the issue of double parking and taxi stands, which exacerbate traffic congestion, particularly on Sundays when traffic slows to a crawl over a short distance between Regal Cinema and the Radio Club.

CHCRA also called for the removal of a bus stand outside the Yacht Club and the suspension of a specific bus route that runs from Café Mondegar lane to the Gateway of India. In response to the meeting, MLA Narwekar pledged to address the issues at the highest priority and personally visit the area. The association had previously written to the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) over the bus stop and taxi stands on BEST Marg near Hotel Diplomat and Red Shield House.