In a major drive against abandoned vehicles obstructing cleanliness in Navi Mumbai, the municipal corporation, under the guidance of Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde, conducted a special operation from March 10 to March 16, 2025. During this period, the encroachment department seized 107 vehicles, including 66 two-wheelers, 34 four-wheelers, and seven auto-rickshaws or tempos. The initiative has been met with significant appreciation from citizens.
Many vehicles had been left unattended along roadsides and footpaths for an extended period, making it difficult to maintain cleanliness in the city. Some were covered in layers of dust, indicating negligence by their owners. Officials noted that such negligence was affecting Navi Mumbai’s reputation as a well-planned and clean urban area.
During a review meeting, Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde directed officials to take strict action against such vehicles. Following his instructions, Additional Commissioner Dr. Rahul Gethe and Deputy Commissioner of the Encroachment Department Bhagwat Doiphode coordinated with assistant commissioners from all eight ward offices to initiate legal action. A survey was conducted across different areas, and vehicle owners were given an opportunity to remove their vehicles voluntarily. When the vehicles remained unattended despite notices being issued, officials proceeded with towing them to Kopar Khairane Sector 14.
In Belapur, 12 two-wheelers and one four-wheeler were seized, with ₹4,500 collected in fines. The Nerul division recorded the seizure of six four-wheelers and one auto/tempo, amounting to ₹6,000 in penalties. Vashi saw 17 two-wheelers and one auto/tempo being towed, with fines totaling ₹6,000. The largest action took place in the Turbhe division, where 17 vehicles, including two two-wheelers, 12 four-wheelers, and two autos/tempos, were seized, resulting in ₹63,000 in fines. Kopar Khairane witnessed the removal of 17 two-wheelers, six four-wheelers, and one auto/tempo, collecting ₹1,000 in fines. In Ghansoli, 12 vehicles, including eight two-wheelers and four four-wheelers, were seized, with ₹4,500 collected. Airoli saw 10 two-wheelers, five four-wheelers, and two autos/tempos being removed, with ₹3,000 in penalties. The Digha division also reported the seizure of eight two-wheelers, four four-wheelers, and one auto/tempo.
All 107 seized vehicles had been issued prior notices, but as their owners failed to respond, they were towed away. After being taken to Kopar Khairane, the owners who later came to claim their vehicles had to present valid documents and pay the fines before retrieving them. They were also instructed to ensure proper parking in the future.
The municipal corporation has confirmed that this special campaign against abandoned vehicles will continue with increased intensity in the coming days. Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde urged Navi Mumbai residents to park responsibly and cooperate in maintaining the city’s cleanliness and reputation. He emphasized that citizens must ensure their vehicles do not obstruct daily cleaning operations, helping to keep Navi Mumbai a clean and beautiful city.
