With Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to inaugurate the much-awaited Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) on October 8, a massive beautification and security drive has been launched across Ulwe and adjoining areas. From road resurfacing and illegal encroachment demolitions to round-the-clock Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) security checks, every department seems to be in overdrive to ensure the Prime Minister’s visit goes smoothly.
On Saturday, dambar work (asphalt resurfacing) was being carried out near the NMIA entrance gate and adjoining service roads, where a team of labourers worked under the scorching afternoon sun to give the area a fresh, finished look. Ramesh Gupta, a road worker supervising the work near the NMIA entrance, said, “We were asked to complete the road patching and dambar work within two days. Usually, the maintenance work takes time, but since PM Modi is coming, everything has to look clean and perfect.”
Another worker, Santosh Yadav, added, “We started the work early morning and will continue till late on Sunday night. Officials have instructed us to make sure there are no potholes or dust near the VIP route.” In nearby Ulwe sectors, City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) officials, supported by the local police, carried out demolition drives against illegal encroachments, including makeshift shops, temporary stalls, and unauthorised parking areas. Residents claim such drives only happen during high-profile visits.
“Otherwise, these structures remain for months, blocking footpaths and roads. But now, because of Modi’s visit, everything is suddenly being cleared,” said a shop owner from Sector 19. A senior police officer who had been given the responsibility of the security preparations told mid-day that both security and civic preparations had been intensified ahead of the event.
“We are closely coordinating with the CISF and CIDCO to ensure complete security and cleanliness around the airport area. The CISF team has already started continuous checks and surveillance near NMIA, and these will continue till the prime minister’s visit is completed,” said a senior police officer. He added that police deployment would be increased in the coming days, especially on connecting routes between Ulwe, the airport site, and the upcoming event venue. Our priority is to maintain law and order, avoid traffic congestion, and ensure smooth movement for all dignitaries and visitors.
Citizen Speak
Meanwhile, locals noted the changes in the area’s overall cleanliness and road conditions. “It’s good to see the government taking efforts to clean and fix things. We just hope this kind of maintenance continues even after the PM’s visit,” said Meena Patil, a daily commuter.
