Inspection focuses on land feasibility, operational access, infra needs; proposed depot to serve key NMMT routes connecting Ulwe to Nerul, Belapur, Ghansoli, and NMIA
CIDCO officials, with transport department representatives, inspect the proposed NMMT bus depot land. Pics/By Special Arrangement
On November 23, 2025, mid-day highlighted the lack of basic civic infrastructure at Ulwe’s Kharkopar railway station, where Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) bus conductors were left waiting in the open, even as the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) prepared for inauguration.
Since then, the absence of a proper bus depot or office has remained a pressing concern for daily commuters and transport staff. Fresh developments, however, offer hope. On Sunday, January 11, CIDCO officials, along with representatives from the transport department, conducted an inspection of the proposed NMMT bus depot land opposite Kharkopar station.
The inspection focused on site feasibility, operational access, and the potential to develop the area into a permanent bus depot. Once operational, the depot would serve as a central hub for several key NMMT routes connecting Ulwe with Nerul, Belapur, Ghansoli, and NMIA.
A senior CIDCO official said the team assessed land contours, connectivity, and infrastructure needs and has forwarded a detailed feasibility report for higher approvals. “We are hopeful that this inspection brings the project one step closer to fruition,” the official added, indicating that groundwork proposals could be tabled soon.
Daily commuters and transport workers have long voiced frustration over the current state of affairs at Kharkopar. With no official depot or resting facilities, bus conductors and drivers are often left waiting in the open, seeking shade under nearby private establishments during peak summer heat and monsoon rains.
Activist Sachin Raje welcomed the inspection, calling it a “long-overdue step.” He added, “With NMIA nearing operations, a proper bus depot is not optional, but essential.” Residents echoed his views, saying, “Conductors and drivers deserve a proper workplace and rest facility, not open-air benches.”
Commuters, meanwhile, are cautiously optimistic. “Inspections have been done in the past, but this one, coupled with public scrutiny following mid-day’s coverage, feels more concrete. If implemented quickly, it will solve shelter issues, improve coordination, and enhance the commuter experience around Kharkopar,” said a daily commuter. As CIDCO forwards the feasibility report for approvals, residents of Ulwe hope the long-pending NMMT depot could finally become a reality.
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