16 Nov 2023

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

16 Nov 2023

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is cracking down on gold and silver smelting units emitting harmful gases during metal melting in South Mumbai. The move addresses public health threats and extends to foundries in Kurla, aiming to curb poor air quality in neighbourhoods like Chembur and Colaba. The BMC has dismantled chimneys in Kalbadevi and imposed strict regulations on industrial facilities for particulate matter emissions, with non-compliance risking legal action. Stop-work notices and warnings have been issued to ready-mix concrete plants. Civic officials are actively notifying construction sites, aligning with BMC's pollution control guidelines released on October 25.Read more

15 Nov 2023

Over the past three decades, Mumbai's Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) has undergone a remarkable transformation from an empty marshland into one of the city's most coveted commercial districts. BKC has evolved into a thriving hub for offices, retail, food, entertainment, and luxury living. Notable brands like Apple, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and others have established their presence in BKC, contributing to its status as a prime location. The area has become more than a business district, offering amenities like restaurants, bars, multiplexes, high-end residential projects, cultural centres, hospitals, schools, and five-star hotels. BKC stands as a symbol of Mumbai's dynamic urban progress.Read more

15 Nov 2023

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is collaborating with expert consultants to extend the Versova-Virar Sea Link to Palghar, aiming to alleviate Mumbai's traffic issues. With the assistance of consultants, a detailed project report and peer review are in the works, ensuring the project meets industry standards. Once completed, the extended route will link Nariman Point to Palghar, reducing congestion, fostering tourism, and bolstering the economy. By 2026, it's anticipated to handle 60,000 vehicles daily, marking a significant step towards a more accessible and prosperous Mumbai.Read more

15 Nov 2023

The BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) in South Mumbai has terminated its contract with Roadway Solutions India Infra Ltd (RSIIL) due to the contractor's 10-month delay in starting road work. RSIIL now faces a penalty of Rs 52 crores. The decision came after complaints from local officials and politicians about the lack of progress and mismanagement of the road project. This move signifies the BMC's commitment to holding contractors accountable for delays and ensuring the timely completion of infrastructure projects in the region.Read more

14 Nov 2023

Mira Road's enduring quest for a dedicated court complex, stretching over a decade, is finally approaching fruition. Despite numerous setbacks, including missed deadlines and budget constraints, the community's optimism remains unwavering. Recent inspections of the nearly completed three-story complex offer a ray of hope, with occupancy certificates on the horizon. However, bureaucratic challenges, including pending no-objection certificates and staffing issues, persist. The imminent court operation promises improved access to justice and streamlined legal processes for Mira Road's residents.Read more

14 Nov 2023

Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh has reportedly sold two residential apartments in Oberoi Realty’s Goregaon project, Oberoi Exquisite, for an alleged sum of Rs 15 crores. The properties, located on the 43rd floor, have a combined area of 2,600 square feet and were sold along with six parking slots. Singh is said to have purchased these apartments in 2014 with his mother. Bollywood actors, including Singh, often make headlines for their real estate purchases, reflecting the industry's trend of investing in real estate as a substantial part of their wealth management strategy.Read more

14 Nov 2023

Man Infraconstruction Limited (MICL), headquartered in Mumbai, declared its Q2FY24 and H1FY24 results, showcasing impressive growth. Notably, MICL launched the iconic 'Aaradhya Avaan' residential tower in Tardeo, Mumbai, adding 21 lakh sq. ft. to its real estate portfolio with a revenue potential of Rs. 5,200 crore. The company secured a significant Rs. 680 crore EPC order from BMCT for the Fourth Container Terminal of JNPT. Despite a dip in Q2 operating revenue, H1FY24 reported steady total income, 8% YoY EBITDA growth, and a substantial 65% YoY surge in net profit. MICL remains optimistic about Mumbai's real estate market and anticipates strong performance with upcoming project launches.Read more

11 Nov 2023

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has retracted its plan to build a restaurant-cum-hangout space at the Juhu parking lot in Mumbai. The decision came after strong opposition from residents and local authorities who emphasized that the area was designated for parking in the city's development plan. The proposed project by AAI was met with resistance, and local officials clarified that current regulations only allow for a security booth (chowky) to be constructed on land reserved for parking. The rollback is seen as a positive step, with hopes for the parking lot to be optimally utilized to address Juhu's parking issues.Read more

11 Nov 2023

The State Higher and Technical Education Department has approved Rs. 90 crore for the renovation of the Savitribai Phule girls' hostel at Charni Road following a tragic incident in June. The proposed redevelopment involves an eight-storey building to replace the deteriorating hostel. Two committees were formed to investigate the incident and evaluate security measures in 40 state-wide hostels. The government, responding to recommendations, mandated stringent security measures, including a secure boundary wall, CCTV surveillance, and trained personnel. The reforms reflect a commitment to female students' safety and mark a significant response to the tragic event.Read more

11 Nov 2023

Mumbai's iconic Dhobi Ghat witnessed a historic moment as the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) and Omkar Realtors allocated 1,000 homes in the world's tallest rehabilitation towers. This milestone project, developed under Maharashtra's slum rehabilitation scheme, has already provided shelter to 900 families. With a vision to house 16,000 slum residents, the project covers 12 acres in Mahalaxmi, offering luxury homes with scenic views. Omkar has delivered over 17,000 units in Mumbai. This achievement marks a significant step in improving living conditions for the city's slum dwellers.Read more

11 Nov 2023

Mumbai's suburban railway network has expanded with the inauguration of its sixth line, aimed at improving capacity, connectivity, and passenger comfort. The project, initiated on October 7, 2023, successfully rehabilitated approximately 607 Project Affected People (PAPS) and relocated nearly 1,000 trees. It also provided independent connectivity to both the 5th and 6th lines at Bandra Terminus Yard by modifying existing tracks and dismantling obstacles. The project involved land acquisition, upgrading 27 foot overbridges, constructing new railway structures, including flats, electronic Interlocking buildings, traction substations, and booking offices. All previously cancelled and rescheduled services were fully restored by November 6.Read more

11 Nov 2023

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has successfully installed the second girder of the Vidyavihar Railway Over-Bridge (ROB) in Mumbai, with each girder weighing 1,100 metric tonnes and measuring 100 meters in length and 9.5 meters in width. This marks a critical step in a project aimed at easing traffic congestion between Ghatkopar and Vidyavihar in the eastern suburbs while providing direct connectivity between Lal Bahadur Shastri (LBS) Marg and Ramkrishna Chemburkar Marg. The completion of both girders, among the longest in India without pillars for support, brings the project closer to its goal of full operation by December 2024, with an estimated cost of Rs 178 crore.Read more

11 Nov 2023

Mumbai's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has intensified inspections, leading to the closure of 18 restaurants, including Burn-Bar and Kitchen, for hygiene violations. The FDA's crackdown highlights the importance of adhering to food safety regulations for public health. Violations at Burn-Bar and Kitchen included expired goods, synthetic food colour use, and inadequate segregation of vegetarian and non-vegetarian items. The FDA's vigilance, despite manpower challenges, emphasizes the city's commitment to stringent food safety standards. In a separate operation, the FDA collaborated with the police to dismantle a milk adulteration racket, reinforcing the agency's dedication to food integrity.Read more

10 Nov 2023

Two brothers, Vasant Sham Gulhane and Sajan Sham Gulhane, were arrested for attempting to illegally claim and sell government-owned land in Chembur allotted to the Mumbai police. They erected a signboard warning trespassers and submitted forged property documents, including a 7/12 extract with their father's name as the owner. The police suspect they were manipulated by developers seeking financial gain. The brothers have not revealed the extent of their involvement with the developers. An FIR was registered against them for cheating, criminal trespass, and forgery. Further investigations are underway to identify additional suspects involved in this land-grabbing scheme.Read more

10 Nov 2023

Borivali East, a thriving Mumbai suburb, offers diverse housing options and robust infrastructure, making it a sought-after living destination. In October, the real estate market witnessed 57 transactions, with CCI Rivali Park leading with 20 deals. The carpet area varied from Ambrosia Tower's generous 1,518 sq ft to Chandak Nishchay's snug 368 sq ft. Oberoi Sky City set a record with a luxury apartment selling for Rs. 4.4 Crores, surpassing the average rate per sq ft. Borivali East's real estate narrative highlights demand for spacious homes and a growing attraction for high-value investments.Read more

10 Nov 2023

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) faces challenges in its ambitious road concreting project, with penalties exceeding Rs 82 crore imposed on contractors due to delays. Roadway Solutions India Infra bears the largest share of Rs 54.1 crore in penalties for roadwork in the island city. The project, covering 890 stretches on 110 roads, totalling 397 kilometres, lacks clear completion percentages, raising concerns. BMC plans to deduct fines from ongoing invoices, with contractors holding a 1% security deposit to offset penalties. Following a termination notice to Roadway Solutions, the BMC may consider an ex-parte termination order. The project's future is uncertain, sparking political debates and concerns.Read more