Even after the successful launch of CIDCO’s and Central Railways, Nerul-Uran railway line, which has eased travel between Uran and Nerul, passengers are facing significant hardships due to public toilets at the Bamandongri and Kharkopar railway stations being shut. Thereby being inaccessible to the commuters. These stations have been operational now for over a year and a half, yet the toilet facilities remain sealed.

Vashi and Belapur railway stations, previously managed by CIDCO, and now are under the Central Railway’s jurisdiction. These stations are known for their cleanliness. In stark contrast, Bamandongri and Kharkopar stations lack proper toilet systems, causing severe inconvenience to a wide range of passengers, including those with disabilities, school students, and the elderly.

“The situation is dire,” said Radhika Vakil, a regular commuter.

She added, “With the toilets closed off to the public, it is incredibly challenging, especially for the elderly and those with special needs.”

The closure of these essential facilities has sparked frustration among the public, who feel neglected by the railway administration. Passengers have reported that despite numerous pleas and complaints, the issue has fallen on deaf ears, as it appears that the authorities are not paying attention to the issue, either due to neglect or apathy. Thus, there is now growing discontentment among the people.

Lokesh Kothare, a resident of Kharkopar said, “People, especially office-goers, are affected by this issue as they are unable to answer the call of nature. I have a younger sister who attends college in Nerul at SIES. She told me that she has to control her bladder, if she is at one of these stations. And she is able to relieve herself only once she reaches her college.”

Adding to the irony, CIDCO allocates funds for the operation of accessible toilets, and CIDCO receives these funds to manage them. However, the current state of the facilities at these stations raises questions about the utilization of these resources.

Citizens have unanimously expressed that urgent action is needed. CIDCO must ensure that the toilets at Bamandongri and Kharkopar stations are reopened immediately to alleviate the inconvenience faced by passengers.