BMC’s ambitious plan: transforming octroi nakas into smart hubs

Area of Dahisar octroi naka is 18,869 square metres, while Mankhurd Octroi Naka spans 29,774 square metres. File Pic/Rane Ashish

Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) plans to stop long-distance buses at octroi nakas, converting Dahisar and Mankhurd Octroi Nakas into transport and commercial hubs. The estimated development cost for Dahisar is around Rs 992 crore and Mankhurd is approximately Rs 240 crore.

To facilitate this project, BMC plans to appoint a consultant for converting the octroi nakas into efficient transport and commercial centres. The aim is to stop long-distance buses from entering the city and instead allocate designated spaces at the nakas, equipped with essential amenities like charging and CNG stations, parking areas, eating houses, restaurants, bus bays, inquiry counters, and ticket booking counters. The transport hub will provide last-mile connectivity through various modes, including BEST buses, trains, metro, and other private and public transport options.

Before consulting the transport hub consultant, a survey will be conducted to assess the routes and numbers of state and private-run long-distance buses in the city, as stated in the BMC report. Additionally, a market study for mixed development projects will be carried out before making any final decisions. The BMC will also seek feedback from users of the place and consider providing affordable transit accommodation and hostel facilities for travellers and working individuals.

The plan is to create a self-sustainable development that generates revenue for BMC and offers a smart complex with modern amenities. "Passengers can terminate their long-distance journey and enter the city using public transport or small vehicles. Moreover, long-distance buses can be boarded from here, and provision will be made for parking all types of vehicles," said a BMC official.

The primary objectives behind this hub development are to alleviate traffic congestion in the city and foster employment opportunities. The BMC plans to receive feedback from these hubs to further improve their offerings. Additionally, there will be a special focus on a craft and culture hub showcasing Indian art forms, an art gallery, and an exhibition banquet centre. Buses coming from the northern part will stop at Dahisar, while those arriving via Pune and Goa routes will halt at Mankhurd. The BMC may also explore the possibility of converting other octroi nakas in a similar manner. The area of Dahisar octroi naka is 18,869 square metres, while Mankhurd Octroi Naka spans 29,774 square metres.