07 September,2026 07:52 AM IST | Mumbai | Abhitash Singh
Navi Mumbai Mayor Sujata Suraj Patil during the meeting ith civic and police officials in Belapur. Pics/By Special Arrangement
Persistent issues of illegal parking, drug activity, alleged narcotics peddling and safety concerns around Nerul railway station have triggered strong resentment among commuters. The concerns prompted a high-level coordination meeting between civic and police authorities on September 3 at the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) headquarters in Belapur.
The meeting was convened to review the deteriorating law-and-order situation and civic management around Nerul and neighbouring transit hubs ahead of the festive rush.
Taking note of the complaints, Navi Mumbai Mayor Sujata Suraj Patil chaired the coordination meeting on Thursday with NMMC Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde, senior police inspectors and ward officials. The review followed representations from Sports Committee Chairman Girish Mhatre and complaints from nearby educational institutions about narcotics trade outside school premises.
During the meeting, Patil questioned CIDCO's decision to permit a wine and beer shop inside the crowded Nerul railway station building, which residents hold responsible for the daily nuisance in the concourse.
Patil instructed NMMC, CIDCO, Central Railway and the police to set up a joint task force, install police chowkis outside stations, secure vacant civic buildings and conduct sustained night patrols. Joint drives against encroachments and unauthorised parking will begin immediately.
Dheeraj Singh, commuter
"Exiting Nerul station in the late evening has become extremely unsafe. Miscreants gather around the premises, open drinking is common, and touts harass passengers. Women and students feel completely insecure. Authorities conduct token inspections, but we need permanent police deployment and regular clearing of these spots to solve the issue."
Suraj Kutty, resident
"Illegal vehicular parking has choked the entire circulating area. With substance abusers occupying corners near the subways, it is difficult for senior citizens and families to use these walkways."
Sunny Pandey, activist
"Both Nerul and Vashi stations have witnessed a complete breakdown in upkeep and security. Passing the buck between different agencies must stop immediately."
Dilip Vishwakarma, resident
"The station precinct sees frequent brawls, open drug consumption, and theft. Footpaths and nearby shops need regular inspections. Due to the lack of daily ground patrolling, anti-social elements operate without any fear."
