Passengers have alleged harassment and obstruction by shared auto-rickshaw drivers outside Nerul railway station’s east-side entrance in Navi Mumbai, prompting demands for coordinated action by the Regional Transport Office, police and transport authorities.
The complaints concern the area serving the Nerul–Kharghar route, where shared rickshaws have reportedly operated since before the Nerul–Uran railway line began services. According to the report, drivers often wait near the station entrance, making it difficult for passengers to leave the premises.
Some women passengers have alleged that auto-rickshaw drivers try to pull them towards their vehicles even when they do not wish to use the service. The allegations have led to anger among commuters and calls for immediate intervention by the sub-regional transport authorities.
The rickshaws are also reportedly being parked at a bus stop used by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport service. This has created congestion and confusion around the station, according to the report. The area also has an NMMT control centre, but the drivers are alleged to ignore directions from transport officials.
Passengers have reportedly submitted complaints at police stations in connection with the issue. Despite these complaints, the reported obstruction and alleged aggressive solicitation by shared-rickshaw drivers continue outside the station.
A sign installed by the City and Industrial Development Corporation states that rickshaw drivers are prohibited from entering the area near the station. The report said the restriction was not preventing the alleged violations. It called for a permanent solution involving the sub-regional transport department, police and Navi Mumbai’s transport authorities.
RTO officer Dattatray Sagolkar has assured that strict action will be taken, according to the report. The next steps are expected to involve enforcement against unauthorised parking and action on complaints received from passengers.
