Thousands of commuters using the Prabhadevi–Parel railway station are facing increasing difficulties as ongoing infrastructure work, monsoon rains and restricted pedestrian access have created severe congestion in the area. With narrow walkways, muddy stretches and construction barricades limiting movement, many commuters fear the situation could lead to accidents if immediate corrective measures are not taken.
The western side of Prabhadevi station has emerged as one of the most affected locations, particularly during peak office hours. Excavation work linked to the Sewri-Worli Connector project, coupled with heavy rainfall, has left pedestrian pathways slippery and difficult to navigate.
Describing the conditions, daily commuter and professional photographer Nikhil Wakkar said, “The struggle has become severe since the monsoon began. When commuters exit or head towards the Prabhadevi side, the real ordeal begins. On the first day of rain, the entire stretch was a muddy bog. You literally could not walk. The ground was caving in as you stepped on it. Many people slipped and fell that day, including my friend.”
He added, “One side is completely barricaded, severely limiting pedestrian movement, while the other is filled with mud and ongoing excavation. How are commuters expected to walk? It is incredibly slippery and dangerous. If something serious happens, who will be held responsible? Parel is already a low-lying area where water accumulates for long periods. Navigating this during peak hours is exhausting and unsafe.”
The eastern approach to Parel station has also become challenging following flyover pillar construction, which has disrupted an existing pedestrian pathway connecting Parel TT to the station.
IT professional Nikita Munj highlighted additional safety concerns. “As the monsoon arrived, the situation worsened significantly. Now that pillar work is underway, commuters do not have a proper walkway. Continuous digging has left the entire stretch muddy and dangerous. Just today, I saw bikers skidding and falling because of the slick mud.”
She further said, “Who has allowed these vehicles here? There is barely any room for pedestrians, yet two-wheelers and SUVs are entering, making it even more dangerous. This is a major medical hub. During peak hours, people are rushing to KEM, Tata Memorial and Wadia hospitals. Parents are carrying their children, and elderly patients are struggling to walk through these lanes. If someone suffers a serious injury, who takes the blame?”
Residents have also raised concerns over debris and hawkers occupying already limited pedestrian space.
Kalyani Wakkar said, “In the narrow, barricaded lanes, illegal hawkers have taken up much of the available space. If they were removed, people would at least have a clear path to walk. Instead, mud is everywhere, heavy machinery is operating nearby, and one side of the road is piled with debris.”
She added, “Over time, movement has only become more difficult. Residents and commuters are forced through the same narrow gap. During the monsoon, we fear a stampede-like situation could develop.”
Responding to the concerns, Western Railway Chief Public Relations Officer Vineet Abhishek said, “Western Railway is committed to ensuring the safety and convenience of commuters during the ongoing infrastructure works in the Prabhadevi-Parel area.”
He further stated, “The present pedestrian movement constraints are temporary and are primarily due to major infrastructure projects being executed in coordination with various agencies. Despite the limited space available following the demolition of the Elphinstone Bridge, continuous efforts are being made to maintain safe pedestrian access.”
Abhishek added that Western Railway is coordinating with executing agencies and local authorities to address monsoon-related issues. “Regular inspections are being carried out to ensure pedestrian pathways remain functional, drainage is maintained to prevent waterlogging, and adequate barricading, lighting and directional signage are provided. Encroachments or obstructions affecting commuter movement are also being addressed promptly. Safety remains our highest priority.”
Source: Mumbai Mirror
