Neglected NMMT Bus Shelters Spark Passenger Outcry in Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai, 14th December 2023: Passengers in Navi Mumbai are raising concerns over the deteriorating condition of Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) bus stops in the inner city, alleging negligence over several years. The complaints revolve around the lack of protection from the elements and the absence of seating facilities at most bus stops, adding to the discomfort of commuters.

Passengers assert that the shiny but defective structure of the bus stops fails to provide adequate shelter from the sun and rain. Furthermore, a significant number of stops lack seating facilities, leaving commuters standing while waiting for buses. The most dilapidated bus shelters are reported to be in circle two of the municipality, stretching from Kopar Khairane to Digha, according to a retired NMMT employee who claims that this area has been particularly neglected.

While NMMT’s City Transport Service initiative claims superiority over other city transport services, passengers argue that most bus stations in the city close as early as 3:30 PM. Circle two, in particular, is accused of neglect, leading passengers to wait for buses at alternative locations with passenger shelters funded by MLAs. Additionally, reports suggest that essential features, such as seat letters and reclining facilities, have disappeared from the existing bus stops.

Passengers claim that materials from the bus shelters, such as letters and reclining facilities, are gradually removed by scavengers, yet the NMMT administration allegedly fails to register crimes related to such incidents. An employee of NMMT reveals that despite the ongoing theft and damage, the administration has not taken action or reported these incidents to the police.

In response to the allegations, Yogesh Kaduskar, NMMT Manager, states that all bus stops in the city are currently under inspection. Kaduskar assures the public that necessary repairs or the installation of new stops will be carried out based on the requirements identified during the inspection.

The dilapidated condition of bus stops along the Thane-Belapur route is also raising security concerns. Passengers report incidents of criminal activities, including chain theft, molestation of women, and the presence of prostitutes and eunuchs, especially during the night. The lack of adequate lighting at certain stops exacerbates the situation, with Ghansoli Naka, Talvali, and Gothivali bus stops being particularly dark beneath flyovers, despite well-lit conditions on the flyovers themselves.

Prasad Kumar, a concerned passenger, expresses fear for individuals waiting alone at poorly lit bus stops, emphasizing the need for immediate attention to address safety concerns.

The NMMT administration assures the public that all bus stops are under scrutiny for repairs or replacements, but passengers remain sceptical, calling for swift and comprehensive action to remedy the longstanding issues plaguing the city’s bus shelters.