MUMBAI (Maharashtra): Prolonged traffic congestion on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad National Highway (NH-48) has pushed frustrated residents from Naigaon, Vasai, and nearby areas to an extreme step — writing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking permission to die by suicide in protest against the government’s alleged negligence.
For five consecutive days, the highway witnessed massive traffic jams, leaving commuters stranded for hours. Residents have accused the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officials and the project director of administrative apathy and failing to address the deteriorating road conditions.
Residents allege neglect, demand action
According to an HT report, over 100 residents from Naigaon-Chinchoti-Vasai and nearby villages submitted a letter to the Prime Minister, expressing their despair and demanding disciplinary action against NHAI officials.
“Despite submitting multiple representations, no concrete action has been taken. We therefore strongly demand that disciplinary action be taken against these officials,” the letter stated.
Villagers from Sasunavghar, Maljipada, Sasupada, Bobat Pada, and Patharpada staged protests near the highway on Friday, accusing the authorities of turning a blind eye to their suffering.
‘Dying would be better than living like this’
Activist Sushant Patil, representing a local NGO leading the demonstrations, said, “Dying would be better than living like this.”
He added that what used to be a one-hour commute now takes five to six hours due to pothole-ridden roads and poor traffic management. The congestion, Patil said, has crippled daily life and caused emotional and economic distress to thousands.
The letter to the Prime Minister further accused officials of indifference despite repeated complaints:
“Our daily life has been affected due to the negligence of the NHAI project director and other officials. If the administration continues to remain inactive, we will have no option but to seek permission to die by suicide.”
Children missing exams, patients in distress
Patil also highlighted the impact on students and medical emergencies.
“Children in the villages have missed their exams, and many people have missed their flights,” he said. “Medical emergencies are a serious concern — the nearest hospital is in Mira Road, which used to be a 20-minute drive but now takes more than three hours.”
Residents say their lives depend entirely on the NH-48, which links Vasai-Virar with Mumbai. Many have urged the government to repair potholes, improve traffic management, and ensure smoother vehicular flow.
Protest to continue until action taken
Locals have vowed to continue their agitation until authorities take visible steps to address their demands. They insist that only decisive action by NHAI and the state administration can restore normalcy to their lives.
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad highway serves as a critical economic corridor connecting Maharashtra and Gujarat. However, frequent traffic snarls, unfinished repairs, and mismanagement have made it one of the most notorious stretches for commuters in recent months.