Despite a packed city schedule and heavy security arrangements, the Mumbai traffic police ensured a remarkably smooth traffic flow during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to the city on Wednesday, earning widespread appreciation for their precision planning and efficient execution.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Headquarters–Traffic) Rupali Rajendra Dhate explained that the department implemented a ‘Zero Parking Strategy’ along the PM’s entire route from Andheri to Colaba, under the supervision of Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Anil Kumbhare. The approach ensured that no roads were fully blocked for citizens during the VVIP movement.
Prime Minister Starmer landed at Mumbai airport in the morning and travelled to the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Colaba, before attending a high-level meeting in Andheri. He later returned to the Taj in the evening. All major junctions along the route — including the Western Express Highway, Mahim Junction, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, and the Coastal Road — were closely monitored through the city’s integrated CCTV network.
One of the biggest challenges for the traffic team was managing congestion near Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), where the Global Fintech Fest was underway, drawing more than 30,000 vehicles to the area. “Our primary focus was to maintain zero parking and ensure uninterrupted movement,” said a senior officer. Thanks to strategic coordination between field units, control room teams, and CCTV operators, Mumbai witnessed minimal disruption, even during one of its busiest weekdays.
Speaking to mid-day, DCP Rupali Rajendra Dhate said, “It was challenging, but we managed the traffic well. We monitored every stretch through CCTV cameras and enforced a strict zero parking policy across all routes, especially at BKC and Mahim, which are usually high-pressure zones during such VVIP movements.
“We halted traffic for a maximum of just five minutes on the entire route of the UK Prime Minister. As per the directions of Joint CP Anil Kumbhare, no roads were blocked. We managed everything through effective coordination and zero parking. Parking remains one of Mumbai’s biggest traffic concerns, and we are continuing to focus on it.”
