In a major relief for Uran residents, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) has restored its bus services to the region, ending a nine-month suspension. This decision comes after persistent demands from the public, who faced significant commuting challenges due to the disruption.
The services were initially halted following a fatal accident in February on Route 34, which operated between Jui Nagar and Uran via Khopta. The incident sparked outrage among villagers, leading to the detention of the bus driver and an NMMT official. Demands for compensation and employment for the deceased’s family further escalated tensions, prompting NMMT to suspend operations citing safety concerns for its staff.
NMMT has now relaunched two critical routes:
Route 30: Connecting Roadpali to Uran via Kalamboli.
Route 31: Linking Koparkhairane to Uran.
NMMT General Manager Yogesh Kaduskar stated, “The overwhelming demand from Uran residents compelled us to restart the services, and initial feedback has been positive.” However, Route 34 remains out of operation due to unresolved concerns.
The resumption of these services addresses a vital need, as residents had been heavily reliant on infrequent local trains, which offered limited connectivity to other parts of Navi Mumbai. While the relaunch marks progress, operational challenges remain a significant concern. NMMT staff have highlighted the absence of basic infrastructure in Uran, including bus depots, proper stops, and rest facilities. Moreover, a lack of safety provisions for staff during emergencies adds to the operational hurdles. NMMT has officially appealed to the Uran Municipal Council to address these issues, urging the development of essential infrastructure to ensure smooth and secure operations. The reintroduction of Routes 30 and 31 is a step towards resolving Uran’s connectivity issues. However, sustainable solutions will require a collaborative effort between local authorities and transport officials.
