Residents demand immediate action

Concerns over illegal parking and encroachments along Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marg has resurfaced following a fatal accident at Turbhe Naka, where 15-year-old Deepash Baiddha lost his life. The incident occurred on 19th February, when the student was on his bicycle, heading to get a xerox copy of his hall ticket for his Class 10 examination. While navigating around a stationary tempo, he was struck by a passing dumper, sustaining fatal injuries. He was taken to hospital but succumbed within hours.

Residents have repeatedly raised concerns about unauthorised parking and hawkers occupying footpaths along the Turbhe Naka to Pfizer Company stretch, which has led to congestion and frequent accidents.

The presence of scrap dealers and heavy vehicles parked along the roadside adds to the difficulties faced by commuters, particularly cyclists and pedestrians.

A gas cylinder shop near Ambedkar Nagar Gate has also been flagged as a recurring issue, with tempos blocking the road during cylinder refilling. On the day of the accident, a stationary tempo contributed to the collision, as Deepash’s bicycle brushed against it, just as a dumper was passing by.

Despite repeated complaints, illegal parking and encroachments continue to be a problem, with some residents alleging inconsistent enforcement by the authorities. While private vehicle owners face penalties, there are claims that heavy vehicles and roadside businesses operate with little intervention.

Following the accident, Suresh Gaikwad, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Navi Mumbai Party Office Secretary, had formally written to the Commissioner of Police, Navi Mumbai, urging action against illegal parking and encroachments. His letter highlights the safety risks posed to commuters and the need for stricter enforcement measures.

The incident has once again brought attention to road safety issues in Navi Mumbai, with residents calling on the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) and local police to take steps to ensure better traffic regulation and pedestrian safety.