Residents say no to cars on Carter Road

This Sunday,the city’s famous Carter Road wore a different look. Known as a joggers’ paradise,the stretch— which has people from all walks of life hanging out with peers and loved ones — saw locals enjoying a pollution free environment. Thanks to the residents who refused entry to vehicles on Carter Road and declared the day a ‘no vehicles day’.

The residents had pledged to participate in the drive to reduce pollution by blocking the road from Otters Club to Khar Danda. Only emergency services vehicles were allowed. The road was lined with food stalls and saw cyclists and skateboard gangs enjoying themselves on vehicle-free roads. “Carter Road had everything sans the vehicles — right from food stalls to yoga sessions. People spent hours playing cricket in the middle of the road which is not possible otherwise,” said a resident of Carter Road.

“You could enjoy a pollution-free walk on Carter Road at least for a day which is otherwise impossible,” said another resident.

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“Over 2 lakh people were a part of the initiative on Carter Road,” said Neera Sehgal,trustee of Khar-Bandra-Santacruz Foundation. The year-old initiative was organised by the foundation with the support of the Mumbai traffic police.

Nandkumar Chaugule,Deputy Commissioner of Police,Traffic,said the police cannot legally stop vehicles from passing by.

“We are supporting the cause. We have put up barricades and have to request drivers to use alternative routes,” said Chaugule.