MUMBAI, June 24 -- The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday launched an anti-encroachment drive in Andheri West, taking action against 17 commercial establishments for illegally occupying footpaths and mandatory open spaces. The civic body also disconnected unauthorised sewage connections of eight establishments. According to civic officials, several restaurants and commercial establishments in Aram Nagar, J.P. Road and Versova had extended their operations onto public footpaths and mandatory open spaces by constructing unauthorised covered service areas. The BMC demolished these structures and cleared the encroachments. Officials seized equipment used in the encroached areas, including LPG hot plates, induction units, storage racks, oil fryers, microwave ovens, wooden tables, commercial LPG cylinders and chairs. Civic officials said the action is part of the BMC's ongoing drive to reclaim public spaces and improve pedestrian access....