Powai residents take footpath row to Canadian Consulate

Residents of Powai in Mumbai have sought the intervention of the Canadian Consulate in a dispute over barricaded footpaths along Central Avenue in Hiranandani Gardens. In a letter dated August 12 to Consul General Jeff David, Powai Action Forum member Ratan Sharda said pavements used for nearly 25 years had been obstructed, forcing pedestrians onto the road.

The redevelopment of Citipark is being carried out by Brookfield, a Canadian-origin company. Residents are not asking the Consulate to adjudicate on land ownership but have urged it to take up concerns with Brookfield's leadership and encourage responsible corporate citizenship. They have demanded disclosure of approved plans, safe pedestrian access during the dispute, and a public meeting with the company and civic authorities.

The letter notes that Central Avenue is a busy commercial stretch used daily by residents, children, workers, and visitors. It says the lack of pavements poses particular risks to senior citizens, children, and persons with disabilities. The Forum has asked the Consulate to acknowledge the representation and indicate whether the concerns can be conveyed to Brookfield's senior management.