The BMC is actively reassessing two ambitious projects on Little Gibbs Road, Malabar Hill, situated above twin coastal road tunnels, following the Silkyara tunnel collapse. This safety review, triggered by a citizen-activist complaint, involves scrutinizing proposals for 3-4 storey basement construction by Aakar Architects and Barai Architects. Both firms, acting as liaising consultants, received no-objection certificates for high-rise buildings. Concerns arose about the potential risks to the twin tunnels and their structural integrity. Chief Engineer MM Swami emphasized adherence to the original plans for safety. Barai Architects acknowledged the BMC's letter, while Aakar Architects' response remains pending.Read more

The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is gearing up for significant developments as it prepares to embark on Phase 3 of the Namma Metro project. In an upcoming initiative, the corporation will commence preliminary activities related to land acquisition, marking a crucial step forward for the ambitious expansion. The initial phase involves the identification of 100 acres of land for the construction of a depot and viaducts along specific stretches of the corridor. Anticipating progress, officials are set to initiate a joint survey of the targeted properties earmarked for acquisition.Read more

Construction activities in Delhi-NCR have resumed after a 26-day gap as the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revoked the third stage of its Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-III) imposed on November 2 due to high air pollution levels. GRAP-III restrictions included a ban on construction and demolition activities. The AQI dropped from 395 to 312 on November 28, prompting the revocation. Real estate developers welcomed the move. Industry bodies urged future exemptions for real estate from GRAP restrictions, emphasizing the impact of the restrictions on project costs, delays, and job losses and highlighting pollution-mitigating measures already implemented.Read more

Central Railway's (CR) harbour line in Mumbai, plagued by encroachments and hygiene issues impacting train speeds, witnessed a significant initiative. CR authorities commenced the demolition of encroachments between Chunabhatti and GTB Nagar stations on November 27 to increase speeds to 105 km per hour. Railway security forces assisted in removing 140 shops and 25 hutments, aiming to clear soft encroachments and address the challenge of garbage and excreta on the tracks. The upgrade, crucial for track improvements, seeks to enhance punctuality for the substantial commuter base. Despite ongoing efforts, challenges, including political opposition, persist, reflecting the persistent dissatisfaction with services.Read more

In a concerning trend, a second fire occurred within a week in South Mumbai, this time at Nathani Heights, a 21-storey residential building in Agripada. Fortunately, all six families were safely evacuated, and no casualties were reported in this level 1 fire. The blaze originated in the electrical duct between the 5th and 15th floors, prompting a swift response from the Mumbai Fire Brigade. The building's upgraded inbuilt firefighting system played a crucial role in managing the situation. The incident underlines the importance of adhering to fire safety norms and regulations, emphasizing the need for residents to comply with guidelines and promote responsible electrical usage to prevent future incidents.Read more

Bengaluru is gearing up for a major upgrade in urban transport with the announcement of a 287 km circular rail network by the Ministry of Railways. Aimed at easing traffic congestion, the project will connect various peripheral areas of the city, enhancing connectivity. The government has allocated 7 crore rupees for initial studies, with plans for detailed surveys and project reports underway. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize Bengaluru's infrastructure, promising a more connected and accessible city in the coming years.Read more

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) plans to construct a Rs 700-crore, 2.5 km elevated road in Kalyan, aiming to alleviate traffic for commuters from Ulhasnagar, Ambernath, and Badlapur heading towards Thane and Mumbai. The project, set to float a tender soon, begins near Vithalwadi, crossing key railway lines and terminating at Kalyan-Ahmednagar National Highway. Traffic police anticipate relief on Waldhuni Bridge and Kalyan station road, while local residents are also happy with the impending solution to persistent traffic issues.Read more

Pune residents can soon enjoy a faster Metro route to the airport as Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha Metro) plans to operationalize the Ruby Hall Clinic to Ramwadi stretch next month. The extended line introduces four stations – Bund Garden, Yerawada, Kalyaninagar, and Ramwadi, offering city centre residents a convenient route to Nagar Road. While safety inspection details are pending confirmation, Maha Metro is well-prepared for a December completion, ensuring at least one entry-exit point at each station. Efforts to enhance last-mile connectivity, especially in Yerawada and Ramwadi, are underway, promising a seamless travel experience for Pune's metro commuters with improved feeder services and designated pick-up/drop-off points for cab aggregators.Read more

The reopening of the Delisle Bridge in Mumbai after a five-year closure is a significant relief for commuters heading to South Mumbai. The bridge, closed in 2018 due to structural concerns, underwent reconstruction as a collaborative effort between the BMC and Western Railway. Despite facing challenges, such as shortages of oxygen and gravel during the pandemic, and missing multiple deadlines, the bridge has finally reopened to traffic. The Delisle Bridge is a vital link for pedestrians and commuters accessing commercial and office complexes in Lower Parel, providing essential connectivity in the region.Read more

BMC is set to revamp Mumbai's Eastern Freeway with a Rs 33.66 crore project, calling for tenders to address crucial upgrades. The 16.8-kilometer elevated road, linking Mankhurd to P D'Mello Road, has been operational since 2014 under BMC's jurisdiction. Identified issues include potholes and joints affecting traffic flow, prompting comprehensive repairs. The project covers bridge bearing changes, pothole fixes, and utility management over 18 months. Once completed, it promises smoother and safer commuting, representing a key stride in BMC's commitment to Mumbai's transportation infrastructure.Read more