India, Nov. 12 -- Representatives of 1,811 Aarey milk stall operators under the Maharashtra government's Brihanmumbai Milk Scheme have approached BMC, seeking protection from action under the civic body's 'Pedestrian First' initiative. They have also sought permission to sell food products and other concessions to safeguard their livelihood.

The BMC's Pedestrian First initiative aims to make Mumbai's heavily encroached footpaths free of obstructions, accessible and safe, giving priority to pedestrians over other uses. Under the first phase, encroachments on 320 km of footpaths have been targeted.

In a representation to municipal commissioner Ashwini Bhide on November 9, the Brihanmumbai Milk Scheme Centre Operators Welfare Association (...