Panvel Railway Station, one of the busiest transport hubs in Navi Mumbai, has come under increasing criticism from commuters who are grappling with poor infrastructure and chaotic surroundings. Overcrowding, unregulated traffic, and neglected facilities are turning daily travel into a frustrating experience for thousands of passengers.

Commuters have expressed their dissatisfaction on social media, tagging the Ministry of Railways and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw demanding urgent intervention. The primary issues include overcrowded roads caused by auto-rickshaws, a lack of proper amenities, and the station’s general neglect.

Dr. Seshadri Chari, a local resident, described the situation, saying, “The approach road to Panvel Railway Station has become a chaotic mess, with auto-rickshaws occupying almost all the available space. This has created a major inconvenience for private vehicle users, forcing passengers to either walk long distances with heavy luggage or pay exorbitant fares of Rs. 200 to Rs. 500 for short trips from the car park to the station entrance”.

P.P. Unnikrishnan, another commuter, highlighted the worsening situation during peak hours: “Evening commuters face even worse scenarios as unregulated rickshaw queues create bottlenecks, leaving pedestrians struggling through dense crowds and unmanaged traffic”.

Photos shared by frustrated commuters paint a grim picture of the situation. One image shows the station access road blocked by parked rickshaws, with poor road conditions and no traffic control. Another photo reveals abandoned concrete blocks scattered around the station, adding to the overall sense of neglect. A third image highlights an unpaved, dusty approach road to the station, emphasizing the lack of proper infrastructure and safe pathways for travellers.

In addition to the chaotic surroundings, passengers have raised concerns about the lack of basic amenities inside the station. Many have complained about inadequate seating arrangements, unreliable train announcements, and unclear train status indicators. Senior citizens and differently-abled passengers face additional difficulties due to the lack of provisions for luggage assistance and mobility support.

Suresh Kumar, a resident said, “The station’s surroundings are unhygienic, with pothole-riddled roads and slum encroachments nearby, raising safety and environmental concerns. We have regularly pointed out these issues, but the authorities have failed to take action.”

Aruna Jayaraj, a resident of Vichumbe in Panvel, called for immediate improvements, “Panvel Station is a crucial junction for both long-distance and local train routes, connecting thousands of daily commuters. However, the station’s condition is deteriorating. It’s time for a comprehensive overhaul to ensure the safety, accessibility, and comfort of passengers”.