Activist demands removal of illegal encroachments and action against alleged irregularities in NMMC’s anti-encroachment department.

Hunger Strike

Growing frustration over alleged encroachments in Vashi has led labour leader Pradeep Waghmare to begin an indefinite hunger strike outside the Vashi ward office.

Waghmare is demanding the removal of alleged illegal encroachments in the marginal spaces around Sectors 9, 10, 15 and 17. He claims that several shopkeepers have occupied open spaces in front of their establishments and are using them for commercial purposes. According to him, some of these spaces have even been given on rent.

Waghmare has also questioned the functioning of the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation’s (NMMC) anti-encroachment department. He alleges that officials often take strict action against small vendors and hawkers while larger commercial establishments with alleged encroachments escape similar scrutiny. He has called for equal enforcement of rules and action against officials allegedly involved in irregularities.

This is not the first time Waghmare has protested over the issue. He had undertaken a hunger strike on March 12, following which the administration reportedly gave him a written assurance that action would be taken within eight days. However, Waghmare claims that several months have passed without the promised action. He has now made it clear that the protest will continue until the alleged encroachments are removed and action is taken on his complaints regarding the civic department.

The protest has once again brought attention to the long-standing concerns over encroachments and enforcement in Vashi.

Locals demand better lighting, CCTV cameras and regular police patrolling after recent murder.

The Campaign

Safety concerns at Vashi’s popular Mini Seashore have grown following the recent murder of an 18-year-old boy. Worried residents and morning walkers have now come together to demand immediate security measures at the waterfront and nearby municipal gardens.

On August 31, residents launched a signature campaign urging the Vashi Police and Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) to make the area safer for families, women, children and senior citizens.

Residents have demanded regular police patrols, improved lighting, installation of CCTV cameras and trimming of overgrown bushes that create secluded spots. They have also called for warning boards in areas where people have reported inappropriate behaviour.

According to residents, groups of youngsters and couples often gather in isolated corners of the area. Some locals who have objected to such activities have allegedly faced arguments, abuse and threats. Activist Madhu Shankar has submitted complaints to the Vashi Police Station, NMMC Commissioner and Garden Department, seeking stronger security arrangements. Residents have also requested at least two beat constables, including women police personnel, during the morning and evening hours.

For many locals, Mini Seashore has long been a peaceful place to walk, exercise and spend time with family. However, the recent incident has left people worried about their safety.

Residents have given the authorities 15 days to act. If their concerns are not addressed, they plan to organise a human chain and silent protest.

Shravan demand and monsoon-related disruptions push up prices of several fruits ahead of the festive season.

The Prices

Fruit lovers in Navi Mumbai may have to spend a little more this festive season as several fruit prices have increased at the APMC market due to a drop in arrivals and steady demand during Shravan.

Traders said the monsoon has affected fruit production and transportation in several parts of the state. Heavy rainfall can damage crops, cause fruits to fall from trees and increase the risk of pests and diseases. Difficulties in harvesting and transporting produce have further reduced supplies reaching the market.

The impact is visible in the prices of several fruits. Orange arrivals reportedly fell sharply from 190 quintals on August 18 to just 22 quintals on August 27, while the average price increased from Rs 75 to Rs 90 per kg.

Guava saw an even bigger drop in arrivals, falling from 1,925 quintals to just four quintals. Its average price increased from Rs 55 to Rs 65 per kg. Mosambi prices also rose from Rs 45 to Rs 55 per kg. However, the trend has not been the same for every fruit. Pomegranate arrivals declined from 1,589 to 795 quintals, but its average price fell slightly from Rs 135 to Rs 130 per kg. Pineapple prices remained around Rs 55 per kg despite lower arrivals.

With Ganeshotsav and Navratri approaching, traders expect demand for fruits to increase further. If supplies remain affected by the monsoon, consumers could see higher prices in the coming weeks.