Navi Mumbai: Even as the state government intensifies measures to stop Maratha protestors from entering Mumbai, the agitation has spilled over into the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), causing severe disruptions. On Monday, the Mumbai-bound lanes of the Vashi Bridge witnessed a massive traffic jam stretching nearly 2 km and lasting over three hours, leaving commuters stranded until late evening.

A senior Mumbai traffic police officer, requesting anonymity, confirmed that the department had received a state notification prohibiting vehicles from entering Mumbai. However, given the ongoing Ganesh festival, some vehicles were being allowed entry.

Meanwhile, a special bench of the Bombay High Court directed the state government to clear protestors from Mumbai by Tuesday evening and ensure that no additional groups enter the city. In response, Mumbai traffic police issued advisories urging motorists to take alternate routes to minimize congestion at key entry points.

Daily commuters expressed frustration over the gridlock. Many complained that protestors’ vehicles occupied most parking spaces in the city, adding to their inconvenience. “We were stuck on the Vashi Bridge for three hours on Monday. There was no one to manage traffic. At the Mankhrud entry point, we finally learned that Mumbai-bound vehicles were being stopped. This should have been communicated earlier,” said Rohit Mane, who was traveling with his family to Kurla.

However, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Navi Mumbai, Tirupati Kakade, denied reports of a complete blockade. “We have not stopped vehicular traffic. On the Vashi Bridge, traffic is slow moving but not at a standstill. The overall traffic situation in Navi Mumbai is under control,” he clarified.

The situation remains tense as authorities balance managing the protests with ensuring a smooth traffic flow during the festive period.