Gorai beach, a quiet stretch known for fishing activity and weekend visitors, has turned into a hotspot of local debate after the BMC R Central Ward installed barricades to stop vehicles from entering. The decision came after a minivan got stuck in the sand during high tide on September 8. Residents argue that the move, while intended for safety, could backfire by blocking emergency access and disrupting daily life.
Why Are There Barricades At Mumbai’s Gorai Beach?
According to Mid-Day, while authorities say the barricades are meant to prevent accidents, residents argue that they create a new set of problems, particularly for emergency access and local livelihoods.
Two entrances were blocked: a log and barricade at one point, and steel bollards at the other, allowing pedestrians but stopping vehicles. Within days, locals protested, prompting the BMC to remove the bollards on Friday.
Residents warn that permanent barriers could delay critical emergency responses. Switsy Henriques, president of the Gorai Villagers Welfare Association, iterated that if there’s an accident on the road, the road isn’t shut down entirely. Here, bollards would stop ambulances from reaching someone drowning,
The problem extends to fire safety and sanitation. Rossi D’Sousa, member of the Gorai Gaothan Panchayat, said that several resorts line this beach. If a fire breaks out, the brigade might not reach in time. Even routine garbage collection and beach-cleaning vehicles could be blocked, affecting hygiene.
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Impact On Fishermen And Local Livelihoods
Fishermen, who transport heavy loads of fish and ice using vehicles, are equally impacted. Henriques pointed out that they know the tides and safe entry times. Blanket vehicle bans are unfair to their work.
Locals are pushing for a more nuanced solution. D’Sousa suggested boom barriers operated by personnel, which could distinguish between leisure visitors and locals coming for work. This would keep the beach safe while ensuring emergency services and essential operations aren’t blocked, as stated by Mid-Day.
So far, the BMC hasn’t outlined any revised safety plans or alternative access measures. Residents continue urging the civic body to balance safety with the needs of people who live and work along the beach.
The September 8 minivan incident exposed real safety gaps, but locals insist that restricting all vehicles without thoughtful planning could create more complications than it prevents.
Cover Image Courtesy: adbh266/Wikimedia Commons
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