Navi Mumbai: A 15-year-old student lost his life in a tragic accident at Turbhe Naka on February 19, once again highlighting the dangers posed by illegal parking and encroachments along Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marg.
The victim, Deepash Baiddha, was riding his bicycle to get a Xerox copy of his hall ticket for his Class 10 examination when he tried to navigate around a stationary tempo. In the process, he brushed against the vehicle and lost balance, falling into the path of a passing dumper. He suffered critical injuries and was rushed to the hospital but succumbed within hours.
Residents say this accident was waiting to happen. The Turbhe Naka–Pfizer Company stretch has long been plagued by illegal parking, hawkers occupying footpaths, and heavy vehicles parked haphazardly along the roadside. These obstructions force cyclists and pedestrians onto the main road, putting them at constant risk.
From shops to tempos, blocking the road has become a common practice in the area. On the day of the accident, a stationary tempo near the shop played a direct role in the collision.
Despite repeated complaints, residents allege that enforcement remains inconsistent. While private vehicle owners are penalized, they claim heavy vehicles and roadside businesses continue to operate unchecked.