Moraj Circle gets a makeover with a cause

NMMC is beautifying a piece of land for the benefit of motorists

Veda Ramaswamy, Sanpada

May 18, 2011 - DNA Navi Mumbai

Photographer - Nandu Kurne, DNA

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has undertaken yet another initiative so as to ensure safety of vehicular traffic along Palm Beach Road. The piece of land that works as a divider between the two lanes of the arterial road at Moraj Circle in Sanpada is being reworked for the benefit of motorists.

Earlier, the 300-metre stretch of land in Sanpada was occupied by palm trees and other plants that would add to the beauty of the area. But it proved to be a major hindrance to the drivers as it deprived them from sighting the vehicular traffic on the adjacent lane, which proved to be risky especially while taking U-turns. NMMC has embarked on its amendment since last week. Presently, the area is being filled with mud and stones and is expected to be ready within 15 days.

“When the rains arrive, this area would be covered with a lush green carpet of grass. Not only would it maintain the beauty but also prove to be much secure for the motorists. Their vision would not be blocked anymore,” said Bhalchandra Gavali, an official from the NMMC’s garden department.

Similar task is being carried out by NMMC at the Nerul end of Palm Beach Road as well. The 20-25 meter strip of land is being filled with saplings, each 1 ½ feet in height. “This move will prove to be advantageous for Navi Mumbaikars. Both these spots are heavy traffic points and important junctions. It will help avoid the occurrence of any mishaps as well as reduce the rates of accidents in future,” said ACP (Traffic), Shrikant Dhivare. In 2010, there were a total of 107 accidents recorded on Palm Beach Road, including 16 deaths, 34 critical injuries, 10 minor injuries and 70 accidents without any injuries. “This move will definitely assist the drivers. The trees used to obstruct our vision earlier. But now, driving would be much easier and safer,” said Mahesh Shah, a regular motorist along the Palm Beach Road.