Mumbai is a combination of seven islands. So, it’s not surprising that seafood is an integral part of many cultures in Mumbai. The Koli fishing community in Mumbai is an integral part of the city. So, when the BMC announced the “Food On Wheels” Project, Worli’s fishing community in Mumbai addressed their concerns.
Worli’s Fishing Community Disagree With BMC’s Food Truck Plan
The fishing community in Worli has strongly opposed the BMC’s food-on-wheels initiative. This plan aims to boost tourism and create employment opportunities for locals. The plan involves establishing mobile seafood eateries in all Koliwadas. However, the fishermen argue that this project poses a significant threat to their livelihoods.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) recently approved the proposal to introduce food trucks in the city. They have decided to start implementing the policy in A ward. The first two food trucks or stalls were planned to be established at Macchimar Colony Koliwada, near Badhwar Park. This would be followed by setting up stalls in Worli and Mahim Koliwada.
The civic body decided to involve NGOs and local women’s self-help groups in operating the stalls. Officials clarified that if fisherwomen are not able to operate the trucks, the vehicles will be handed over to the fisherfolk society. But, this is not going down well with the fisherfolk of many regions in Mumbai.
BMC’s Plans To Help Koli Community Faces Backfires
The clash between the fishing community and government officials has resulted in a lot of hearsay. While sources say that the fishing community was not consulted about the location of the trucks, government officials deny this.
The fishing community claims that the location of the trucks is the same area that they use to dry their fish. The installation of these trucks would affect their everyday process. Indirectly affecting their livelihood. The Koli fishing community in Mumbai is a resilient group that has preserved its traditional occupation while embracing change. They play a vital role in Mumbai’s culture and fishing industry, making them invaluable to the city’s heritage.
The Kolis are a tight-knit community of fishermen in Mumbai who have lived along the city’s coastline for generations. They have a strong bond with the sea and depend on fishing as their main livelihood.