Mumbai: Motorists raise safety concerns over women beggars on Mankhurd traffic stretch

Two women beggars on the busy Mankhurd road. Pic/By Special Arrangement

Motorists commuting along the busy Mankhurd stretch have raised serious concerns over a group of women beggars who allegedly step directly into moving traffic instead of remaining on pavements. The women, often seen carrying newborn babies and accompanied by an elderly woman, reportedly approach vehicles halted at signals and even slow-moving traffic, putting themselves and motorists at risk.

Regular commuters say the situation has become frequent, particularly during peak hours when traffic congestion is high. With the Mankhurd stretch witnessing heavy vehicular movement throughout the day, commuters are urging coordinated action by the traffic police and local authorities to prevent a potential mishap and ensure motorists and pedestrians are safe.

Routine patrolling

Officials from the local traffic police station said that routine patrolling is conducted on the stretch and action is taken whenever traffic obstructions are noticed. However, they acknowledged that sustained enforcement requires specific inputs or complaints from the public.

Citizens call for an inquiry

Govind Pal, journalist
‘It is alarming to see small babies being carried into the middle of busy roads filled with trucks and tankers. There should be an inquiry into whether this is part of an organised begging activity'

Ratnesh K Mishra, advocate
‘Even if a driver is not at fault, an accident involving a pedestrian can result in serious legal trouble and emotional trauma. Authorities must treat this as a road safety issue'

Anil Kumbhare, joint commissioner of police (traffic)
‘The department has not received any formal complaint regarding the matter so far. We are not aware of this issue. If we get complaints from the motorists, we will act on it'

Sunny Pandey, sales professional and daily commuter
‘They suddenly come in front of the vehicle and knock on the windows. You are forced to apply brakes immediately. If the vehicle behind you fails to react in time, it can easily lead to a collision'