Environmental group flags construction debris, while residents complain of dust and inconvenience.

The Pond

Ongoing work on the walking track near Mini Seashore in Vashi’s Sector 9A has raised concerns over the condition of a nearby holding pond. Environmentalists and local residents have alleged that construction debris is being dumped near the pond, adding to the pressure on an already troubled water body.

The pond has reportedly been facing issues such as algae growth, polluted water and foul odour. Earlier incidents of fish deaths had also raised concerns about the health of the pond’s ecosystem. Environmental organisation NatConnect Foundation has urged the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) to take immediate action and ensure that construction waste is disposed of properly. The organisation also stressed the need to make workers aware of the environmental impact of dumping debris near water bodies.

NMMC officials have assured that the matter will be inspected. Vashi ward officer Sukhdev Yedve said an engineer would visit the site and appropriate instructions would be given to the contractor regarding the disposal of construction material. Meanwhile, regular walkers have complained that the ongoing work is making their daily routine difficult. Excavation and removal of paver blocks have reportedly created dust, making walking uncomfortable for residents.

Residents said development work is welcome, but it should not come at the cost of the pond or the surrounding environment. They urged the civic authorities to complete the project carefully while protecting the water body and keeping the walking area safe and clean.

NMMT moves stops by 50 metres as authorities prepare traffic arrangements for demolition work.

The Bus Stop

Commuters travelling through Nerul and Turbhe may soon see changes in traffic movement as authorities prepare to demolish the remaining sections of the Turbhe flyover. To minimise inconvenience to passengers, NMMT has shifted the bus stops at Nerul LP by around 50 metres in both directions.

The bus stop for passengers travelling towards Panvel has been moved about 50 metres ahead, while the stop on the Vashi-bound side has also been relocated by a similar distance. New poles have been installed at the revised locations. Drivers and conductors from NMMT’s Turbhe, Asudgaon and Ghansoli depots have been instructed to use the new stops for passenger pick-ups and drop-offs.

The changes come as officials prepare for the demolition of the remaining two sections of the Turbhe flyover. One of the three sections is already undergoing work, while the demolition of the other two could affect traffic between Thane and Vashi. Traffic officials and the Public Works Department are working on an alternative traffic plan, including possible diversions through the Nerul LP underpass. However, the final diversion route and demolition schedule have not yet been announced.

Officials said the remaining sections of the flyover need to be demolished due to structural deterioration. Permissions and other preparations are currently underway.

For regular commuters, the temporary bus-stop shift is expected to be an important change to note as authorities work on the larger traffic management plan.

Special play performance in Vashi raises support for a proposed facility bringing senior citizens, orphans and destitute women together.

The Anniversary

The fourth anniversary of Manav Vikas Trust Maharashtra was celebrated at Vishnudas Bhave Natyagruha in Vashi, with a focus on its ambitious Anand Ashram project. The trust organised a special performance of the play Bhumika, featuring well-known actor Sachin Khedekar, to raise financial support for the initiative.

The proposed Anand Ashram aims to bring an old-age home, an orphanage and a shelter for destitute women together under one roof. Instead of keeping these groups separate, the trust wants to create a family-like environment where they can live together with dignity, security and emotional support. Navi Mumbai Municipal Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde attended the event as the chief guest. Several civic officials, former and serving corporators, social workers and other dignitaries were also present.

As part of its social commitment, the trust donated Rs 1,111 to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for people affected by drought-like conditions. The amount was handed over to Commissioner Shinde through a cheque. The trust also launched a cloth-bag distribution drive to promote a plastic-free Maharashtra. Trust secretary Vikas Manik said the Anand Ashram is planned in Pali, Raigad, where the organisation has already purchased land. The project is expected to cost around Rs 3–4 crore and is targeted for completion within three years.

The facility is planned to provide healthcare support for senior citizens, education for orphaned children and financial and educational assistance for women. The trust hopes to create a peaceful, inclusive space where people can live as one extended family.