NAVI MUMBAI: Motorists and activists have demanded a foot over-bridge opposite the Food Mall area of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.
In the absence of an FOB, long distance travellers often stop alongside the Mumbai bound carriageway to cross the Expressway median, which is very dangerous. This has resulted in the death of six persons since January 2022 to May 2023.
The Food Mall is located on the Pune bound carriageway side and falls under the Khopoli police station. Most of the people going towards Pune or further often stop here for snacks, food, toilets etc. There is no such facility available on the Mumbai bound carriageway. Also, travellers cannot stop on the Expressway in Lonavala, Khandala, etc.
At times, buses and other passenger vehicles stop on the side margin of the Mumbai bound carriageway mostly during night hours. However, vehicular stoppage and pedestrian movement on the Expressway is not allowed and illegal. The travellers, after long journey need access to toilets or need to stretch their legs, etc. Such facility with a parking space has not been developed by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) to help travellers on their onward journey.
Motorist and activist, Vicky Bhalerao said, “Drivers are forced to stop based on demands made by travellers. In the absence of such facilities on the Mumbai bound carriageway and an FOB, travellers risk their lives by crossing the E-way. Hence, there is a demand for construction of FOB or a proper parking with facilities on the Mumbai bound carriageway side.”
Highway Safety Patrol-Borghat unit assistant police inspector, Yogesh Bhosale said, “Three deaths have been reported in 2022 and three have been reported so far in this year. The MSRDC has put up a barricade.”
MSRDC executive engineer, R R Sonawane said, “An inspection will be done to look into the demands and needs of motorists.”
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