Mumbai: Elevator pit at Mulund is now a garbage dump

Elevator structure placed earlier; (right) elevator pit full of garbage

Residents of Mulund East are planning to approach the BMC as the railway station elevator pit that has been dug on the station road has turned into a garbage dump full of stagnant water and filth. Residents fear the spread of waterborne diseases as the monsoon approaches.

"The elevator structure was erected about six to seven months ago and there has been no development since. It has also narrowed down the road at the curve and there is nothing coming up. The structure has a pit which is now full of garbage and could be a potential risk in the monsoon. The authorities need to either fix it or remove it," local resident Dr Mahesh Gawade said.

"The elevator foundation structure has been lying unattended outside Mulund station (East) for almost a year. Will we get to see any development here in near future? I am quite curious," said another resident, Gandharva Purohit.

The BMC has already issued a warning about monsoon illnesses and cautioned citizens about various ailments. Such ignored spots in open spaces and along the road become a hazard for public health.

Other issues

The station has a daily footfall of around 1.6 lakh commuters and the railways have a long-term makeover plan for the station due to which the station premises too has been a mess. The old East-West footover bridge has recently been demolished and the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation has dug up all platforms for a new footover bridge. The West side entry has been narrowed down on one side due to ongoing work at the booking office and the other entry has been blocked due to the parking contractor taking over the entry-exit of the station.

"The signage of the station also needs improvement. The railways shifted the halt of all local trains to the extreme end of the platform, but signage at the spot remains unchanged, leading to confusion regarding the ladies coaches till today. The East entry has been encroached upon by a family of flower sellers despite it being an entry point to the RPF barracks. The reservation booking office in Mulund East is always full of shady characters loitering around," commuter Divya Mehta said.

Railway officials said they will fix the issues listed. "The revamp project includes the construction of additional footover bridges and an elevated deck spanning 150 metres in length and measuring 10.5 metres in width. Work is already underway and scheduled to be completed within 36 months. The redevelopment will not only improve the station's aesthetics but also remove infringements and ensure overall safety," an official said.

1.6l
Daily footfall at Mulund railway station