Old and damaged shelters to be replaced, while new bus stops and routes will be considered based on residents’ demands.

The Digital Bus Shelters

With Navi Mumbai witnessing rapid growth and an increasing number of commuters, the NMMC Transport Committee has begun reviewing public transport facilities across the city.

As part of the initiative, Transport Committee member Advocate Yashpal Ohal conducted an on-ground inspection of Airoli Ward No. 5, covering Sectors 5, 8, 9, 14, 15 and 19, along with Diva village. Transport department officials, local representatives and social workers accompanied him during the visit.

Ohal interacted with residents, local representatives and students waiting at bus stops to understand their everyday difficulties. Commuters raised concerns about bus timings, routes, inadequate shelters and the need for better connectivity in several areas. During the inspection, the committee also explored the possibility of introducing new NMMT bus services on routes where residents have been demanding improved connectivity.

Ohal said several old and damaged bus shelters in Airoli, some of which have existed since around 1990, will be replaced with modern digital shelters. Surveys will also be conducted at locations where residents require new bus stops.

He said the aim is to make public transport more convenient and passenger-friendly. The necessary administrative procedures will be completed soon, after which work on the new digital shelters is expected to begin. The initiative is expected to provide commuters, particularly students and daily passengers, with safer and more comfortable waiting spaces.

Over 9,000 runners including differently-abled athletes took to the slopes of Panvel in a historic display of grit and community.

The Marathon

Long before dawn broke over Navi Mumbai, the quiet paths of Central Park transformed into a surging sea of thousands of eager runners. At 4:30 AM, as the opening flag dropped, over 9,000 participants set off in the inaugural Kharghar Mayor Hill Marathon, making history in Panvel.

Billed as India’s first 42-kilometer hill marathon, the event earned prestigious international recognition from AIMS, drawing seasoned elite athletes alongside casual weekend joggers. Celebrated Marathi actor Ankush Chaudhari, alongside Mayor Nitin Patil and civic leaders, cheered on the massive crowd as they conquered the challenging terrain.

Beyond the competitive thrill, the day was defined by spirit and inclusion. More than 100 differently-abled runners took to the course, proving that endurance knows no physical bounds.

In the grueling 42-kilometer main event, Nilesh Dagdu Arsekar claimed victory in the men’s category with a time of 2 hours, 54 minutes, while Shivani Chaurasia dominated the women’s division, finishing in 3 hours, 28 minutes.

From hydration points to drone monitoring and dedicated medical response teams, civic volunteers ensured a safe, seamless experience. As the finish line celebrations swept through Kharghar, the marathon left behind more than just broken records it cemented Panvel’s place on the national endurance sports map.

Residents raise safety and noise concerns, urge government to reject licence.

The Rally

Residents of Sector 17, Sanpada, have come together to oppose the proposed opening of an orchestra bar at The Affairs CHS, saying the location is unsuitable for such an establishment.

The proposed bar has sparked concern among nearby residents, particularly because it is located close to Advance Eye Hospital, Jaipuriar School and a public jogging track. Residents fear that the establishment could lead to increased noise, traffic and safety concerns in an area regularly used by families, students and senior citizens.

More than 500 residents and several housing societies have reportedly submitted written objections against the proposal. Corporator Nishant Bhagat has also taken up the matter with the government. He met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and submitted a memorandum requesting that permission for the orchestra bar be rejected.

Nishant Bhagat reportedly referred to a July 27, 2026 government circular, which he said discourages the granting of new orchestra-bar licences and the renewal of existing ones. For residents, the issue is not simply about opposing a business. They say they want to preserve the peaceful character of their neighbourhood and ensure that public spaces remain comfortable and safe for families.

Residents are now awaiting the government’s decision on the proposed licence, while continuing to press for their objections to be considered.