Despite enforcement efforts and issuing fines, construction activities in Gurugram persist in violation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) norms. Haryana Shahri Vikas Parishad (HSVP) and Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) have struggled to curb these activities, leading to dust pollution. Construction work and uncovered building materials are observed in sectors 27, 28, 42, 43, 51, 52, 56, 57, and 46. Despite the authority's power to penalize, strict implementation is lacking. The sectors' maintenance falls under MCG, while HSVP handles property approvals. MCG has issued 195 challans totalling Rs 23 lakh, predominantly targeting construction sites for non-compliance.Read more

Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) has finalized the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for extending underground Metro Line 3 up to Navy Nagar, covering a five-kilometre stretch. The DPR awaits state government approval following the 2022-23 budget announcement. The expansion aims to benefit densely populated areas, including central government residential quarters. Construction is slated for a 2025 start, post the existing Metro Line 3's commercial operations. MMRC acquired nine train sets for Phase 1, delayed to early next year, while Phase 2 operations begin in 2024. Recent trials and ongoing track installations mark progress for the extensive metro network.Read more

The Odisha cabinet, led by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, has given the green light to the Bhubaneswar Metro Rail Project (BMRC) Phase I. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will spearhead the Rs 5,929.38 crore turn-key project, spanning 26 km with 20 stations from Biju Patnaik International Airport to Trisulia Square near Cuttack. The infrastructure, part of the Greater Capital Region metropolitan city plan, aims to serve around 50 lakh people. The first phase, focusing on Bhubaneswar, Khurda, Cuttack, and Puri regions, is slated for completion in four years, featuring elevated viaducts, modern coaches, and advanced systems.Read more

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is taking a proactive approach to the construction of Chembumukku and Padamugal stations along the Phase II line. If there are delays in land acquisition for these stations, KMRL plans to proceed with the construction of the other eight stations. The government has provided administrative sanction for land acquisition, but opposition from residents may delay decisions for Chembumukku and Padamugal. KMRL is exploring vacant government land as an alternative. The consideration to start construction on other stations while awaiting decisions reflects KMRL's commitment, with a focus on innovative solutions to mitigate potential challenges and streamline the process.Read more

The BMC, in response to a structural audit, will undertake both minor and major repairs on 51 bridges from Malad to Andheri, costing Rs 41 crore. M/s CE Infra (India) secured the contract at 23.40% below the estimated cost of Rs 35 crore. M/s SGS Consultancy Services conducted a survey, making recommendations that the initiative follow. This survey covered P/South (Goregaon), P/North (Malad), and K/West (Andheri West) wards. The proactive approach arises from the 2019 Himalaya Bridge collapse, signalling a commitment to safety. The repairs aim for completion within 12 months, navigating the challenges posed by the monsoon.Read more

Ghatkopar station in Mumbai is undergoing a Rs 130 crore makeover, featuring a new middle foot over bridge (FOB) and an elevated deck on the east side. The 12-meter-wide middle FOB will incorporate modern technology and escalators on key platforms, ensuring efficient vertical movement for passengers. The elevated deck, spanning 15 meters in width and 47 meters in length, will connect with the existing Metro FOB and house a booking office with five counters. The project is headed by the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) and is expected to be completed in two phases. The upgrade aims to enhance connectivity, streamline passenger movement, and alleviate congestion at the station.Read more

Dumping of construction materials on Nagpur's footpaths and roads has more than doubled in the last six years, signalling increased encroachment on public spaces. In 2018, Nagpur Municipal Corporation fined 4,747 people (individuals and builders) Rs 77.46 lakh for such violations. By October 2023, this surged to 8,428 people penalized, with fines totalling Rs 1.92 crore. Concerns were raised by the Commissioner of Police, noting risks to motorists. Ashi Nagar zone experienced the highest violations. Despite regulations mandating permission from the municipal department, these practices persist.Read more

The enforcement wing of the Town and Country Planning Department (DTCP) in Gurugram has taken a proactive approach to penalize developers violating Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) norms. Residents can now use helpline numbers to report any violations, leading to site inspections and appropriate actions. The department has issued challans and warnings to developers, emphasizing adherence to GRAP norms. Penalties are set to be collected before the issuance of occupation certificates, and strict actions are promised against non-compliance. Monitoring teams and field staff have been deployed for continuous site inspections, underscoring the commitment to upholding environmental standards and ensuring sustainable urban development in Gurugram.Read more

The recent USD 400 million policy-based loan deal between the Central Government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Manila is a significant step toward enhancing India's urban infrastructure, service delivery, and governance systems. This loan, part of the Sustainable Urban Development and Service Delivery Programme, focuses on supporting investment planning and reform actions at the state and urban local body levels. It aligns with the government's urban sector strategy, emphasizing reforms to create liveable cities that foster economic growth through inclusive, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure. The program aims to support reforms for the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0, addressing universal access to water supply and sanitation, urban planning, legal and regulatory reforms, and more.Read more

The Charkop lake in Mumbai, once a 4.5-acre wetland, is now reduced to 1,000 sq ft due to alleged collusion between the land mafia and government officials. Encroachers have built garages, go downs, restaurants, and stalls, leading to civic demolitions with limited impact. Activists claim the land mafia, with officials' support, filled the lake with debris. In 2013, the Bombay High Court ordered protection for identified wetland areas, but enforcement remains lax. Residents emphasize the ecological role of the wetland, urging officials to act. Despite ongoing environmental studies and complaints, effective conservation measures are yet to be implemented.Read more