Residents across Mumbai have raised concerns over several civic problems, ranging from non-functional traffic signals and unsafe pedestrian infrastructure to damaged public amenities. In Mulund East, commuters have urged authorities to activate traffic signals at a busy junction near Saidhan Hospital, where daily traffic congestion has become a major challenge.
Mulund East has witnessed rapid development in recent years, leading to increased movement of vehicles and pedestrians. However, during peak morning and evening hours, navigating the junction near Saidhan Hospital has become difficult. Residents said that crossing the road is a stressful experience due to heavy traffic flow and the absence of operational signals.
“Mulund East is one of the fastest growing suburbs of Mumbai and the traffic at the junction near Saidhan Hospital, particularly during the morning and evening peak hours is never-ending. Crossing this stretch is a real ordeal for both, pedestrians and for motorists. Non-functional traffic signals were installed at this intersection long ago, though it is unclear whether cameras are actually present or functional. Activating the traffic signals in this area would bring significant relief,” said resident Shailesh N Purohit.
Meanwhile, concerns have also been raised over incomplete infrastructure works. Residents pointed out that the extension of the Santacruz Skywalk towards the east has remained without a roof for years, leaving commuters exposed to harsh sunlight during summers and heavy rainfall during monsoons despite earlier assurances of improvements.
At Churchgate station, commuters have flagged safety concerns over the wide gap between the train and Platform No. 2 near the northern subway area. Residents warned that the gap could pose a serious risk to passengers while boarding or getting down from trains.
Civic maintenance issues have also drawn attention, with complaints about poorly repaired manhole covers. Although one damaged cover was fixed following a report, residents alleged that the repair work was of poor quality, while two other damaged covers continue to remain unattended.
Another concern was raised over a deteriorating signboard outside Cadbury House on Dr Gopalrao Deshmukh Marg in D Ward. Residents said the damaged structure could collapse and endanger pedestrians and motorists. They urged the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to replace it immediately.
Authorities have responded to some complaints raised by citizens. On the issue of public drinking and smoking on footpaths, the BMC said, “Public drinking is an offence, and anyone who spots this can call 100 police helpline or control room 022-22621855, 022- 22620111 (police exchange).”
Regarding a closed public toilet at Andheri station, Western Railway officials said, “It has been shut for maintenance. It is undergoing repair work and it shall be completed soon and thrown open for the public.”
The BMC has also assured action on complaints related to encroachments and overflowing garbage bins, while residents continue to seek faster resolution of civic issues affecting daily life in Mumbai.
Source: Mid-day
