Mumbai Maratha protests: commuters face traffic congestion and hold-ups as agitators congregate around CSMT

This followed after thousands of people converged at Azad Maidan, heightening the existing agitation for the Maratha quota, led by Manoj Jarange Patil.

While many private offices offered their employees the option to work from home, others who had to go to their offices faced issues at the CSMT station, as it took around 15 to 20 minutes to make one’s way out of the station.

“The train delays were tolerable, but it took nearly double the time to get out of CSMT. I have my office at Nariman Point, and now reaching there is another task. I am definitely late by more than an hour,” said Vikas Paralikar, who works at Maker’s Chamber.

For daily commuters, the road diversions and station wise restrictions made the journey a prolonged task, especially on the week’s first day.

Road sealed, widespread security deployment

As a measure of caution, traffic police sealed numerous entry and exit points to CSMT, and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation head office. Officials confirmed that P D’Mello Road and surrounding stretches were sealed, triggering diversions and further congestion. Passengers were advised to use local trains and alternative road routes wherever possible.

Outside CSMT, widespread deployment of security personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Central Industrial Security Force could be seen at crucial locations. Senior officers said that extra forces were deployed to handle the crowd, and avoid adverse incidents.

Authorities erected several barricades at several locations, while drones were employed for aerial surveillance. To facilitate smooth movement within the station, distinct entry and exit gates were also created for protesters and commuters.

Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel were deployed within the station to avoid crowding on platforms. Nonetheless, some passengers reported disorientation and longer delays, mainly during rush hours.

The Mumbai traffic police also confirmed diversions at J J flyover, Madam Cama Road towards Marine Drive junction, and along routes near Fashion Street and Hutatma Chowk. Other control rooms were established to coordinate between the police and security agencies.

Authorities said the restrictions would remain in place as long as large gatherings persisted.