January 12, 2026: Civic shortcomings at Kharkopar railway station in Ulwe have returned to focus months ahead of the inauguration of the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). In November 2025, mid-day reported the lack of basic infrastructure at the station, where Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) conductors were forced to wait in the open due to the absence of a dedicated bus depot or office, even as airport-linked connectivity plans gathered pace.
The situation has remained largely unchanged since then, continuing to affect daily commuters and transport staff. However, a recent inspection has raised expectations of progress. On Sunday, January 11, officials from CIDCO, along with representatives of the transport department, inspected land earmarked for a proposed NMMT bus depot located opposite Kharkopar railway station.
According to officials, the visit assessed the feasibility of the site, ease of operational access, and the scope for developing permanent depot infrastructure. Once established, the depot is expected to function as a hub for major NMMT routes linking Ulwe with Nerul, Belapur, Ghansoli, and NMIA, strengthening last-mile connectivity to the airport.
A senior CIDCO official said the team evaluated land contours, connectivity, and infrastructure requirements and has submitted a detailed feasibility report for higher-level approvals. “We are hopeful that this inspection brings the project one step closer to fruition,” the official said, adding that groundwork proposals could be taken up in the near term.
Transport staff and commuters have repeatedly flagged the lack of basic amenities at Kharkopar. Without a formal depot, conductors and drivers often wait outdoors, seeking temporary shelter in nearby private spaces during extreme weather.
Activist Sachin Raje described the inspection as a “long-overdue step,” stating, “With NMIA nearing operations, a proper bus depot is not optional, but essential.” Local residents echoed the concern, saying, “Conductors and drivers deserve a proper workplace and rest facility, not open-air benches.”
Commuters remain guardedly hopeful. “Inspections have been done in the past, but this one, coupled with public scrutiny following mid-day’s coverage, feels more concrete,” said a daily commuter. As CIDCO moves the proposal through the approval process, Ulwe residents are watching closely for tangible action on the long-pending NMMT depot.
