MLA urges police to crack down on drugs, improve women’s safety and tackle traffic issues.

The Preventive Measure

Navi Mumbai MLA Manda Mhatre has urged the police to take stronger measures to make the city safer and free from drugs. She raised several public safety concerns during a meeting with Police Commissioner Milind Bharambe on September 7.

Mhatre stressed the need for greater surveillance around schools and colleges to protect youngsters from drug abuse. She also called for strict action against drug dealers and their supply networks and suggested setting up special flying squads to tackle drug trafficking.

The MLA also highlighted the pressure faced by police personnel. She requested counselling and regular health check-ups for officers and staff, particularly following recent cases of police suicides.

With several major festivals approaching, MLA Mhatre asked the police to ensure that rules on DJs and loudspeakers are followed. She said excessive noise can cause difficulties for senior citizens, patients and children. Women and senior citizens were another key concern. Mhatre sought increased police patrolling at railway and bus stations, educational institutions and other sensitive locations.

Traffic congestion and illegal parking were also discussed. She urged better coordination between the police and civic authorities to address encroachments and improve traffic movement across Navi Mumbai. The meeting focused on making the city safer, better managed and more comfortable for residents.

Police register FIR and launch search for accused after late-night incident.

The Case

A woman travelling home after attending a party in Chembur has alleged that her cab driver tried to molest her after stopping the vehicle at an isolated location in Navi Mumbai during the early hours of September 6.

According to her complaint, the incident took place around 1:30 am. The driver reportedly stopped the cab on the roadside, saying he wanted to drink water. After getting back into the vehicle, he allegedly moved to the back seat, held the woman’s hand and tried to remove her clothes despite her resistance.

The woman strongly protested, following which the driver allegedly fled from the spot. She then contacted her family and approached the police to report what had happened. Police identified the accused as Mohammed Afzal Sheikh and registered an FIR based on the woman’s complaint. Multiple police teams have reportedly been formed to trace and arrest him.

Investigators are using technical information and other leads to locate the accused. Police have said the complaint is being taken seriously and that appropriate legal action will follow. The incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of passengers travelling alone in cabs during late-night hours. Police are continuing their investigation into the case.

Thousands of devotees join colourful processions as towering idols arrive in Navi Mumbai.

The Grand Ganesh Celebration

With Ganesh Chaturthi just around the corner, the festive spirit has already taken over Navi Mumbai. Vashi and CBD Belapur witnessed enthusiastic celebrations as devotees gathered to welcome two towering Ganesh idols.

In Vashi Sector 17, the 12-foot idol of Navsala Pavnara Maharaja arrived on September 4 amid the beats of dhol-tasha and chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya.” Nearly 3,000 devotees took part in the welcome procession. The idol, depicting Lord Ganesha seated on an elephant, will be installed in a grand replica of a royal palace. The mandal is celebrating its 43rd year.

Meanwhile, CBD Belapur Sector 2 welcomed the CBD Cha Raja, a 12.5-foot idol prepared by renowned sculptor Bhendkar from Chembur. A large number of devotees gathered to seek Bappa’s blessings during the arrival ceremony.

The mandal, now entering its 44th year, is creating a replica of the famous Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura as this year’s main attraction.

Beyond the grandeur, the celebrations also reflect Navi Mumbai’s spirit of unity. People from different communities come together to participate in aarti, puja and havan at the mandal. As the city prepares for Ganesh Chaturthi, these celebrations have brought communities together and set the mood for a festival filled with devotion, tradition and togetherness.