India, June 11 -- In the wake of last week's Delhi hotel fire that claimed 21 lives, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched a city-wide drive against hotels and restaurants that have illegally covered open spaces and emergency access areas.

On Tuesday, the K-west ward office carried out action against four prominent establishments in Andheri west: What's Your Bahana, Trove 9 Luxury Rooftop Lounge, Juliet Cafe and Bar, and Yazu Pan Asian Supper Club, demolishing unauthorised extensions and confiscating equipment from the premises.

The drive follows directions issued by additional municipal commissioner (city) Dr Ashwini Joshi to take strict action against hotels that have encroached upon open spaces reserved for servic...