Mumbai Hospital Housekeeping Tender Exposes BMC’s Bigger Governance Test

Home Analysis Mumbai Hospital Housekeeping Tender Exposes BMC’s Bigger Governance Test Analysis Mumbai Hospital Housekeeping Tender Exposes BMC’s Bigger Governance Test By Urban Acres October 19, 2026 0 Copy URL Facebook Linkedin X WhatsApp BJP MLA Mihir Kotecha’s demand that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation replace large single-agency housekeeping contracts with an output-based empanelment system has brought an operational question inside Mumbai’s civic hospitals into public view: how should the city measure, distribute and monitor work that directly affects cleanliness, infection control and continuity of care? Kotecha has written to BMC Commissioner Ashwini Bhide seeking a system under which multiple qualified agencies would be selected through a transparent process and work would be distributed among them. His proposal follows concerns over alleged irregularities in the civic b

IIT-B protests overrun by cops

A month after IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode died on September 18, police detained 22 students protesting on campus on Sunday, with demonstrators alleging physical assault during the crackdown. More than 100 Mumbai Police personnel, along with IIT security, MSF personnel, private security staff and people in plain clothes, allegedly forcefully removed the protesters and took them away in two buses. All were subsequently released. Students alleged that the second round of detentions involved kicking, choking and hair-pulling. Sahil’s parents, Ravindra and Sonali Wakode, who were also detained, had arrived on campus to seek accountability from the institute’s administration. His father submitted a letter to the Registrar. Police also dismantled the month-old protest site, named “Justice Corner”, near the institute’s main gate. According to a protesting student, the first round of detentio

Drive wrong, face FIR: 1,800 cases filed

Mumbai Traffic Police have registered around 1,800 criminal cases against wrong-side drivers and sought suspension of 350 driving licences as part of an intensified citywide crackdown that has recorded 35,777 actions till October 13. The latest figure marks a rise of more than 7,100 actions in barely a month. When Mumbai Mirror reported on the enforcement drive on September 9, traffic police had booked 28,600 motorists for wrong-side driving in 2026. Officials said traffic police are currently taking action against around 1,100 to 1,200 wrong-side violators every day. Despite repeated drives, fines and criminal action, the practice of taking shortcuts through one-way roads, narrow lanes and against the flow of traffic remains widespread.

IN PHOTOS | Shiv Sena Dussehra Melava 2026: Banners, barricades take over Mumbai's Shivaji Park

Shiv Sena has begun preparations for its annual Dussehra Melava at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park (Shivaji Park), Dadar, Mumbai. Large banners announcing the event on October 20 have been put up, while barricades, fencing and temporary structures are being installed on the ground ahead of the rally. PICS/ASHISH RAJE A couple is lost in conversation as the setting sun behind them paints the Powai Lake hues of orange. Pic/Satej Shinde

Actor safe, multiple probe teams formed, forensic team on ground: Mumbai Police on Tiger Shroff assassination bid

After an assassination bid targeting actor Tiger Shroff on Sunday evening, Mumbai Police said they had formed multiple teams to investigate the case. They added that the forensic team had conducted a preliminary analysis and that the actor did not sustain any injuries. Speaking to reporters, DCP Mohit Kumar Garg said, “Taking the seriousness of the incident into account, Mumbai Police has formed teams in sufficient numbers. All personnel and branches are working on the case. The forensic team has conducted a preliminary analysis. As soon as any further relevant information becomes available, it will be communicated to you. "Police informed that the incident took place at around 7 PM, when some unidentified persons arrived at the location and opened fire at actor Tiger Shroff as he was returning after attending a private event. It added that two people were injured in the incident, includ

Mumbai Rains: BMC Declares Schools Holiday In Mumbai On July 6 As IMD Issues Red Alert For Heavy Rainfall

Mumbais monsoon has turned into a full-blown crisis this week, with the India Meteorological Department putting the city under a Red Alert that has now been extended till July 7. The city received 588mm of unstoppable rainfall in just the last four days. Due to which, some of the major flood prone areas in Mumbai have submerged once again which has also caused disrupting flight operations at its international airport. Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister himself appealed to citizens to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. Alongside that, The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation or BMC has announced a school holiday in Mumbai today on July 6 after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an Orange Alert for the city, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall along with super speed winds.

Fadnavis speaks to Tiger Shroff, asks Mumbai Police commissioner to nab actors assailants quickly

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday spoke to the Mumbai Police Commissioner and actor Tiger Shroff after the latter escaped unhurt from firing by gunmen in Juhu area. Fadnavis sought details of the incident from police commissioner Deven Bharti and asked him to nab the assailants quickly, expedite the investigation and take strict action against those responsible. He also spoke to Shroff over the phone and assured him of support, saying the accused would be traced soon and asking him not to worry, according to the Chief Minister's Office.

Airlines reject Navi Mumbai shift, challenge Mumbai airport’s summer slot reduction plan

Mumbai: Airlines have rejected Mumbai airport operator’s proposed relocation of a third of international flights from Mumbai Terminal 2 (T2) to Navi Mumbai airport in summer 2027, saying they have not consented to any transfer or reduction of slots and demanding evidence to justify the move. In a letter to Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) on Saturday, the Airline Operators Committee (AOC), which represents airlines operating from Mumbai airport, said it “categorically rejects any unilateral traffic reallocation, slot reduction or cancellation or relocation of international operations without due process”. The next meeting between airlines and airport operators is set for Oct 28.

Adopt output-based empanelment system for housekeeping services in BMC hospitals in Mumbai: BJP MLA

Mumbai: BJP MLA Mihir Kotecha has urged BMC to adopt an output-based empanelment system for housekeeping services at civic hospitals after flagging alleged irregularities in tenders worth Rs 45 crore earlier this year. In a letter to BMC chief Ashwini Bhide, Kotecha called for structural reforms in awarding housekeeping contracts. “Instead of awarding large contracts to a single agency, BMC should adopt the output-based empanelment system wherein multiple qualified agencies are empanelled through a transparent process and work is allocated among them. Such a system will promote transparency, healthy competition, better service quality, and cost efficiency while preventing monopolistic practices,” said the BJP MLA.Kotecha said no agency should receive more than two or three hospital contracts. This will ensure adequate distribution of work and reduce operational risks, he added.

Shots fired at Tiger Shroff in Mumbai's Juhu; Lawrence Bishnoi gang claims responsibility

MUMBAI: Three unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants fired seven rounds at a car carrying Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff and his driver in Juhu around 7 pm on Sunday, injuring the driver. A fan who was standing nearby to catch a glimpse of the actor also sustained a bullet injury. Juhu police said Shroff had attended a birthday celebration at Pushpa Park, also known as Jamnabai Nursery, and was preparing to leave when the firing occurred. Police said the three assailants, dressed in white shirts, fled towards SV Road and Vile Parle railway station. The seven rounds were fired at the actor's car, which was around 350 metres from Juhu police station and Pushpa Park. Driver Firdosh suffered a bullet injury to his left hand and was taken to Nanavati Hospital.

Navi Mumbai civic body opens applications for 46 welfare schemes

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has started accepting online applications for 46 welfare schemes for the 2026-27 financial year, covering economically weaker residents, women, children, backward communities, tribal families and eligible beneficiaries from the open category. Applications opened on October 12, 2026, through the civic body's official website, www.nmmc.gov.in. The deadline is December 15, 2026, for scholarship schemes and December 31, 2026, for other schemes. The initiatives include educational scholarships, vocational training, marriage assistance, support for self-employment, medical hardship assistance and financial aid for eligible families. The schemes are being implemented through the civic body's Social Development Department under the Women and Child Welfare Committee, Social Welfare and Slum Improvement Committee, and open-category provisions. Mayor Suj

Mumbai Police detain parents of IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode, dismantle month-long protest site

Mumbai Police detained Sahil Wakode’s parents and protesters demanding justice for his death, amid allegations of manhandling women, and dismantled the month-long protest site at IIT Bombay. A month after IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode died by suicide, Mumbai Police on Sunday detained his parents, students and activists who had gathered at the institute to demand justice for what they described as an “institutional murder”. People inside the campus were detained separately and held within the IIT Bombay premises. Others were detained outside the institute’s gate and taken to Azad Maidan police station.

Cockroaches scurrying, fungus growing: FDA shuts Mumbai’s Fortis Hospital kitchen

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business licence of Sodexo India Services Pvt Ltd, which operates the kitchen at Fortis Hospital in Mulund, after an inspection found cockroaches, food waste in drainage, fungus-infested food transport containers and rusted knives while meals were being prepared for patients. The action was part of a statewide crackdown announced by the FDA on October 16, in which licences of 25 food establishments, including hotels, restaurants, bakeries and canteens, were suspended for violations of food safety regulations. Responding to the action, Fortis said patient safety, quality of care and hygiene were paramount. The hospital said it had taken note of the FDA's communication concerning the on-premise kitchen operated by its third-party dietary service provider, Sodexo India Services Pvt Ltd, which holds the relevant food b

Punjab FC aim to extend winning start against Mumbai City in ISL 2026-27

ISL: Punjab FC hope to gain early momentum as they face Mumbai City

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Meet the original “Bambai ka babu”

Playing a petty pickpocket with irresistible aplomb in C.I.D. (1955), the iconic Johnny Walker took audiences through a city of striking contrasts singing “Ae dil hai mushkil jeena yahan… Yeh hai Bombay meri jaan.” On the one hand, Bombay boasted stately Art Deco buildings, palm-tree-lined sea fronts, broad avenues, rumbling trams, horse-drawn Victorias, Plymouths, textile mills, and a unique work culture. On the other, it could be a cold, unforgiving landscape. Having experienced its harsh underbelly while struggling for a living, the comedian sang the track with such infectious chutzpah that it became the defining anthem of the metropolis. Born as Badruddin Kazi on 11 November 1926 in Indore, the late actor would have celebrated his centenary this year. Delightfully, despite being a lifelong teetotaller who never touched a drop of alcohol, Kazi was rechristened after the famous Scotch

From Navi Mumbai to Oxford, scientist chases solar dream

Growing up in Nerul, Dr Anishkumar Soman’s interest in science was nurtured by conversations with his father, who worked at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), during their Mumbai local train journeys. Visits to the city’s planetarium and science centre further fuelled his curiosity, eventually taking him from Mumbai to research institutions in the US and now the University of Oxford. Dr Soman joined Oxford on September 1 after securing a fellowship under the European Union’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) programme. He will research tandem solar cells, which combine different light-absorbing materials to generate more electricity from the same panel area. The fellowship is part of the EU’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme. Dr Soman said his proposal scored about 98% in a selection process that received more than 17,000 applications worldwide. It was approved

No ticket, no justice? HC asks CR to pay Rs8L for train death

The Bombay High Court has directed Central Railway to pay Rs 8 lakh in compensation, along with interest, to the parents of a man who died after falling from a local train in 2015. The court set aside a Railway Claims Tribunal order that had rejected their claim because the ticket for one leg of their son’s journey was missing. The deceased, Sandeep Panda, fell from a train between Kurla and Chunabhatti stations on September 1, 2015. He was taken to Sion Hospital, where he died due to a head injury. Bhaskar Kandh Panda, 52, and Prafulla alias Pranita Panda, 48, approached the tribunal seeking compensation for their son’s death. According to the parents, Sandeep had travelled from Kurla to Belapur for personal work. After completing his work, he decided to travel to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to meet a friend. He boarded an overcrowded train and was standing near the door

Maharashtra weather update: Heatwave in Ratnagiri, rain and thunderstorms likely across Maharashtra till October 19

Mumbai Rain Trading Explained: How NCDEX RAINMUMBAI Weather Futures Work? Who Can Trade On Them?

The National Commodity Derivatives Exchange Limited (NCDEX) is all set to launch a first-of-its-kind weather derivatives contract. RAINMUMBAI, Indias first SEBI-approved, exchange-traded weather derivatives contract, will be launched on May 29 and is aimed at helping participants hedge financial exposure against fluctuations in rainfallWhat is RAINMUMBAI? RAINMUMBAI is an exchange-traded weather derivative contract, based on Monsoon Cumulative Deviation Rainfall (CDR). It is a daily measure of how much Mumbais actual monsoon rainfall deviates from its three decade historical average. These contracts do not cover physical damage, but they respond to measured conditions. These value changes with actual rainfall recorded in a location over a defined period.

Match Preview: Punjab FC vs Mumbai City FC

Mumbai City will take on Punjab FC in their second fixture of the MG Indian Super League 2026-27 season at the JLN Stadium in Delhi on 19 October, as the Islanders look to bounce back. With the opening-day result behind them, Mumbai City face a tough test against a side that has started the season well. Head Coach Manolo Márquez spoke about the mindset in the camp and the work done since the last game. “We lost the first game, and we are not happy, but this happens in football, and you need to continue. When you have some days to train, you train to improve for the next game, and this is what we did. It’s not how you start; it’s always how you finish the season,” he said.

Maharashtra Government Tenders Foot Over Bridge Construction for Mumbai Metro Line 6 Stations

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), under the Government of Maharashtra's Transport and Communication department, has issued a tender for the construction of foot over bridges at two key metro stations on Mumbai Metro Line 6. The project includes Part A, involving the Vikhroli Metro Station located in the Vikhroli Tagore Nagar area, and Part B for the Jogeshwari Metro Station. This infrastructure project focuses on enhancing pedestrian connectivity and safety at these urban mass transit points. The tender, referenced as MMRDA/TnC/FOB/ML 6/2026, was published on October 17, 2026, and remains open for bid submissions until November 12, 2026. A pre-bid meeting has been scheduled for October 23, 2026, ahead of the bid opening on November 13, 2026. The contract type is percentage-based, and the tender fee is INR 5,900. An earnest money deposit (EMD) of INR 9,203,339

Mumbai Metro updates: Aqua Line Passport and Stamp Trail to launch on Friday at Rs 250

INDvWI 5th T20I: Rain plays spoil sport, India-West Indies series ends 2-2

The fans patiently waited, but alas rain had the final say during the fifth T20I at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru as the game was called off. The series ended with India and West Indies at 2-2. Earlier, the crowd did witness a glimpse of a batting run fest in Bengaluru right from ball number one as the rain had halted for a brief period. The hosts were looking to smash everything that came their way right from the beginning. India scored 14 runs in the very first over itself off Keemo Paul’s bowling. Ishan Kishan took on the role of the aggressor and smashed a quick fire 30 in 10 balls, which included three fours and two sixes. Before one knew, the Men in Blue notched up 46/2 in their 2.4 overs of powerplay. Further, skipper Shreyas Iyer contributed 22(14). Towards the latter end, our very own Naman Dhir showed why he is one of the best finishers in the shortest format. He notc

Imran Khan calls Mumbai Police notice ‘illegal, perverse’, seeks Bombay High Court relief over October 28 exit deadline

Mumbai Police extern 13 repeat offenders from city for two years

Mumbai Police have externed 13 repeat offenders from city and its suburban districts for two years as part of preventive action to maintain law and order and curb criminal activities, officials said on Saturday. The orders were issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), North Zone-3, under Section 56(1)(a), (b) and (bb) of the Maharashtra Police Act, following a review of the individuals' criminal records and legal proceedings. According to the police, the individuals were allegedly involved in offences including assault, extortion, threats with deadly weapons, drug peddling and other repeated cognisable offences.

2023 Learjet crash: Pilots pressed on with unstable landing as Mumbai airport’s charter flights curfew

Mumbai: The pilots of a VSR Ventures Learjet 45XR that crashed at Mumbai airport in Sept 2023 continued an “unstabilised approach” to land in heavy rain apparently because they were anxious to touch down before a daily curfew on non-scheduled flights set in, according to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau’s (AAIB) final report released three years after the accident. All eight occupants — two pilots and six passengers — were injured even as the aircraft broke into two. Delhi-based VSR Ventures is the company whose Learjet 45 crashed at Baramati in Jan killing deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar and four other occupants.

Five trains from Mumbai to Delhi cancelled, two rescheduled

Mumbai Metro Line 4: A Game Changer for Commuters with Driverless Trains

Mumbai’s urban transport network is gearing up for another major expansion, with Metro Line 4 connecting Wadala and Thane expected to improve connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. According to the project update provided, the first train set for the 30-kilometre elevated corridor is targeted for December 2026. The line is expected to offer an important alternative to congested roads, improve access between key residential and commercial areas, and make daily travel more convenient for commuters. n18oc_breaking-newsn18oc_india News18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube

Mumbai local train chaos: Ruckus at Kandivali station after ticketless woman’s clothes get torn during checking

A ticketchecking incident at Mumbais Kandivali Railway Station on Friday evening escalated after a Chief Ticket Inspector CTI allegedly fell on the platform while attempting to stop a woman travelling without a valid ticket according to Western RailwayThe incident occurred at around 730 pm in the western circulating area of Kandivali Railway Station where CTI Priya Ambavade attached to Kandivali was carrying out her regular ticketchecking dutyA dispute between a female ticket examiner and a woman passenger at Mumbairsquos Kandivali railway station has come to light after CCTV footage surfaced The altercation reportedly occurred during a ticket inspection when the examiner allegedly tried to stop a woman suspected of travelling without a valid ticket The woman allegedly attempted to flee and the examiner fell onto the platform while trying to stop her The circumstances surrounding the inc

Rail electrification upgrade across 596 track km to support Vande Bharat, 160 kmph trains on Delhi-Mumbai route

Rail electrification upgrade: The Ministry of Railways has upgraded electrification infrastructure across 596 track km (TKM) in the Kota Division of West Central Railway (WCR) to support future Vande Bharat services, train operations at speeds of up to 160 kmph and increased traffic on the Delhi-Mumbai route. As part of the upgrade, the division commissioned a modern 2×25 kV traction power supply system across a 128 TKM section between Salabad and Murhesi Rampur. The latest development takes the total length covered by the advanced traction system in the Kota Division to 596 TKM. According to Saurabh Jain, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Kota Division, the upgraded system is designed to meet the higher electricity requirements of faster passenger trains and freight services while improving power supply capacity, voltage stability and reliability.

FDA Chief Tukaram Mundhe Shuts Down Food Counters At Mumbai’s R City Mall INOX: Report

Tukaram Mundhe, the commissioner of Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with his team, has cracked down on several restaurants over alleged violations of food safety and hygiene norms. Now, it looks like the crackdown has reached the doors of one of Mumbai’s most prominent multiplexes. As per a report, the FDA shut down the food counters at INOX R City Mall for five days. According to information shared with Bollywood Hungama, a source said, “The team of FDA recently visited the INOX multiplex situated in R City Mall in Ghatkopar, Mumbai. Due to non-compliance with certain rules, the food and beverage area of the multiplex was sealed.” “As a result, in a rare instance, the multiplex continued functioning but without the option of selling snacks and beverages to patrons,” the source further added. The report claimed that, owing to this situation, the management team of

Ajay Devgn’s Mumbai bungalow faces BMC action over unauthorised construction

MUMBAI: The BMC has rejected the owners’ reply and deemed ongoing construction at actor Ajay Devgn’s Juhu bungalow unauthorised after they failed to submit documents establishing that the work had civic approval. The bungalow, located at Kapol Cooperative Housing Society in Juhu, is owned by Devgn and his mother, Veena Devgn. In a speaking order dated October 6, the BMC’s K/West ward office said the reply submitted on September 15 did not include documents establishing that the construction was authorised or a copy of permission granted by the competent authority.

A Third Of Mumbai's Water Never Reaches Taps. Here's How BMC Plans To Fix It

Gold Rate Today, October 17: Check 18, 22 and 24 carat gold prices in Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and other cities

Gold Rate Today: The gold price in India today stands at Rs 14,766 per gram for 24 carat gold, Rs 13,535 per gram for 22 carat gold and Rs 11,074 per gram for 18 carat gold, as per Good Returns. The price of 24K gold today, October 16, 2026, in India, stands at Rs 14,766 per gram, reflecting an increase of Rs 22 over that on October 16. World Live News Updates: IRGC says oil supertanker hit mine in Strait of Hormuz, catches fire Purity Grams Today (INR) 24 Carat 10g Rs 14,766 22 Carat 10g Rs 13,535 18 Carat 10g Rs 11,074 City Wise Rate City 24K 22K 18K Chennai Rs 14,766 Rs 13,535 Rs 11,125 Mumbai Rs 14,766 Rs 13,535 Rs 11,074 Delhi Rs 14,781 Rs 13,550 Rs 11,089 Kolkata Rs 14,766 Rs 13,535 Rs 11,074 Bangalore Rs 14,766 Rs 13,535 Rs 11,074 Hyderabad Rs 14,766 Rs 13,535 Rs 11,074 Pune Rs 15,766 Rs 13,535 Rs 11,074 Vadodara Rs 14,771 Rs 13,540 Rs 11,079 Ahmedabad Rs 14,771 Rs 13,540 Rs 11,07

Mumbai BEST bus accident: Four passengers injured in tanker collision in Chembur

8 Killed, Many Injured As Bus Falls Into Ditch On Delhi-Mumbai Expressway In Rajasthan

From ₹9 Fares To ₹1,745 Crore Defaults: The Slow-Motion Unraveling Of Anil Ambani's Mumbai Metro Scam

Mumbai Metro One: A Line Built On Delay, Launched Amid Dispute And Remembered Because Of Anil Ambani Mumbai Metro One Private Limited did not begin its life as a smoothly-running enterprise, and that origin matters for understanding where it has ended up. The Versova–Andheri–Ghatkopar corridor — India's first metro project structured as a public-private partnership — was awarded through global competitive bidding in March 2007 to a consortium of Reliance Infrastructure (initially holding 69%, later 74%), the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (26%), and French operator Veolia Transport (5%). The concession envisaged design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance of a 12-km elevated line with 12 stations — the first metro contract awarded in India on a PPP basis.

Navi Mumbai traffic police intensify crackdown on noisy modified bike silencers

Silence is golden and action is being taken to bring some sheen into lives The Navi Mumbai traffic police launched a major Dussehra campaign targeting modified motorcycle silencers that produce excessive noiseAt least 93 seized silencers by the Seawoods Traffic Police Unit have been destroyed now authorities plan to crush approximately 450 more on October 20 at Kalamboli and PanvelA top police official stated that it will also be symbolic to destroy these on the day Ravan is burntThese pricey modified silencers extract the price of peace and calm with their earsplitting noise This newspaper has highlighted this earlier too modified silencers and the sporadic drives launched to nab those using them confiscate the altered devices and destroy themThere must be understanding and awareness about the toll these loud lsquosilencersrsquo have on mental health Seniors babies and the ailing are es

Why permanent transit camps have become big business for developers

Mumbai: The Slum Rehabilitation Authority’s (SRA) notice to the developer of a luxury tower built on the site of yesteryear actor Mala Sinha’s bungalow in Bandra West, over alleged deviations from approved plans for permanent transit camp (PTC) tenements, has brought attention to one of the latest businesses quietly unfolding in Mumbai’s real estate market. Once viewed primarily as a regulatory requirement in slum rehabilitation projects, PTCs are increasingly becoming an important tool for developers seeking to unlock development potential and make redevelopment projects commercially viable. PTCs are buildings constructed by private developers to accommodate project-affected persons (PAPs). Developers hand over these units free of cost to government agencies such as the SRA in exchange for additional development rights to construct a large luxury building or commercial project.

Mumbai Local Train Updates: Sunday Mega Block Details

The block on the fifth and sixth lines between Thane and Kalyan will remain in force from 9 am to 1 pm. During this period, several up and down Mail and Express trains will be diverted onto the fast lines between Thane and Kalyan and are expected to reach their destinations 10 to 15 minutes late, Central Railway said. Down services listed as affected are the CSMT-Kolhapur Koyna Express, LTT-Gorakhpur Godan Express, LTT-Jaynagar Express and LTT-Thiruvananthapuram Netravati Express. The block will also affect two MEMU services operating between Vasai Road and Diva. The 61003 Vasai Road-Diva MEMU, scheduled to leave Vasai Road at 9.50 am, will terminate at Kopar. The 61004 Diva-Vasai Road MEMU, which is scheduled to depart from Diva at 11.30 am, will instead originate from Kopar at 11.45 am. The MEMU service between Diva and Kopar will remain cancelled during the block.

Staff swamped, BMC wants PSU as consultant for waste mgmt

Mumbai: Amid recurrent criticism over reliance on consultancy firms for supervisory roles, the BMC administration has sought the approval of the civic standing committee to appoint govt-owned PSU RITES as a consultant for the modernisation of five dry waste segregation centres. Citing a shortage of dedicated manpower to oversee its solid waste management projects, BMC said its existing officers are unable to devote their full time to project planning, tendering, quality control and supervision due to their administrative responsibilities. Officials from the solid waste management (SWM) department said the consultant, which will be paid about Rs 93 lakh, has the required expertise and has already carried out some work on the project. The proposed project aims to upgrade the centres into material recovery facilities to improve recycling and reduce dependence on landfills.

Dharavi residents launch signature campaign over redevelopment plan

Mumbai: Residents of Sector 1 in Dharavi will be holding a signature campaign to bring their concerns about the Dharavi Redevelopment Project to the attention of CM Devendra Fadnavis. The campaign will be held in the Matunga Labour Camp on Oct 17 and 18. Residents are seeking a public disclosure of the master plan, public suggestions and objections, written clarification regarding the Key-to-Key promise, protection of rehabilitation and housing rights, permanent alternate accommodation agreement, transparency in survey and rehabilitation records, among other demands.

Panvel civic body approves Rs 288 crore bus service proposal

Navi Mumbai: The Panvel City Municipal Corporation’s (PCMC) special general body meeting held on Thursday approved a proposal to commence its own bus service. The PCMC will incur a capital expenditure of Rs 288 crore towards the same. The operational expenditure will be through PM e-Bus Seva, in which 100 buses will move 200 km per day. Three different models of buses are proposed for operation. A committee of corporators will be formed to look into various aspects of the approved proposal. As per the draft DPR, 100 e-buses will be deployed with 68 bus stops and 76 bus depot charging stations. PCMC commissioner Mangesh Chitale, explaining the details to elected representatives, said an integrated transportation system cannot be taken to save on capital expenditure. The proposal mooted also keeps the future expansion of the PCMC area such as NAINA, Karanjade, among others in mind.

Panvel City Municipal Corporation corporator seeks details about 6-hectare bus terminal plot

Navi Mumbai: A corporator from Kamothe has written to the mayor and municipal commissioner of Panvel City Municipal Corporation (PCMC) seeking the transaction details of a Cidco-reserved plot of around six hectares. The prime plot number 30 in Sector-25, Kamothe is reserved for the interstate (ISBT) + Intercity Bus Terminal for Navi Mumbai. Corporator Vikas Gharat’s first letter sent in June 2026 raises apprehensions about the sale of the land to a private builder. He sent a reminder in Aug 2026. In the first letter, he submitted a five-point demand before PCMC.The demands concern finding out the basis on which Cidco has given the plot to a developer (name not mentioned), Cidco’s department, obtaining the approval, resolution and order, among others, PCMC not sanctioning any permission on the said plot, and the reservation status remaining unchanged in the public interest.

Mumbai’s Sion, Vidyavihar bridges, Goregaon-connector may open this weekend

Mumbai: Motorists could get access to three long-awaited infrastructure links in the city over the weekend, with the Sion and Vidyavihar bridges and the Goregaon connector from Goregaon likely to be opened any time. While construction work on all three structures has been completed, the inauguration is awaiting the availability of the chief minister and deputy chief minister, civic officials said. The delay has drawn criticism from the Opposition, which has questioned why commuters must wait for a formal inauguration when the infrastructure is ready for use. Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray appealed to the state govt to open the Sion bridge without waiting for a VIP visit or an auspicious date.

Navi Mumbai’s Science Park deadline extends yet again, phase 1 set to open May 2027

Navi Mumbai: Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation’s Rs 236 crore Science Park at Nerul is expected to open partially in May 2027, after missing another deadline, city engineer Shirish Aradwad said. The project, which had earlier been scheduled for completion by March 2026, has faced unprecedented delays. NMMC said construction of the structure at Sector 19, Nerul, had been completed. The structural work, costing Rs 109 crore, was expected to be ready by Dec 2025 but was further delayed to Oct 2026. Interiors and exhibits are projected to cost another Rs 127 crore, taking the total project cost to Rs 236 crore. Experts said further delays could increase costs. Tenders for interiors were floated recently, and installation of the first phase of exhibits is expected to take another six to seven months.

Maha Mumbai Metro to run late-night services till 12.30am during Navratri

Mumbai: Revellers returning home after Navratri celebrations will have more late-night travel options, with Maha Mumbai Metro extending services on Metro Lines 2A, 2B, 7 and 9 till 12.30am from Oct 16 to 20. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has announced additional services to ensure safe and convenient connectivity for commuters during the festive period. The additional services will operate at a uniform frequency of 15 minutes across the four Metro lines during the five-day period.

Protest, but don't disrupt festive-season business: Mumbai traders' appeal to CJP

Amid festive-season shopping, traders in Mumbai have expressed displeasure over the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests, saying demonstrations in the city's major markets and commercial areas are affecting the movement of customers and resulting in business losses. They have appealed to protesters to choose designated locations to register their opposition so that ordinary people and shopkeepers do not face inconvenience. Viren Shah, president of the Federation of Indian Traders Welfare Association, said that while protesting is every citizen's right, disrupting the normal functioning of the city in the name of protests is not appropriate. He said large numbers of people visit markets to shop during the festive season. If protests take place near markets, customers may be discouraged from visiting, directly affecting business.

Drove Chandigarh-Mumbai: Pointers on route taken & road condition

Mumbai Becomes India’s Most Polluted City; QAir Ranks City 5th Globally

SHARES Mumbai has been ranked the fifth most polluted city in the world and the most polluted in India , according to global air quality monitoring platform iQAir. The city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 152 on Thursday, October 15, with ground-level ozone identified as the primary pollutant. The rise in pollution comes amid unusually hot and humid weather following a rain-deficient monsoon and the early withdrawal of seasonal rainfall. Mumbai has experienced three of its hottest days in at least a decade this month, with maximum temperatures rising 4–5°C above normal on several occasions.

Mumbai’s air is worst in India: What’s making it dangerous to breathe

Mumbai has ranked as the fifth most polluted city in the world and the most polluted in India, according to global air quality assessment platform iQAir, as the city continues to experience unusually hot and humid weather following a rain-deficient monsoon. The city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 152 on Thursday, categorised as unhealthy, with ground-level ozone (O3) identified as the primary pollutant, according to iQAir, a US-based air quality monitoring organisation. The reading comes amid a spell of above-normal temperatures following the early withdrawal of the monsoon. Mumbai has recorded its hottest days in at least a decade on three occasions this month, with maximum temperatures hovering 4-5 degrees Celsius above normal on several days. “This year, Mumbai is experiencing an El Nino pattern of climate, as a result of which the wind speed has slowed down tremendously while

Teenage collegian killed in road crash in Mumbai, biker friend injured

Mumbai: A teen college-goer seated pillion on her friend’s motorcycle lost her life after the motorcycle came into contact with a dumper on Western Express Highway at Borivali East on Wednesday. Kasturba Marg Police registered a case of rash driving and negligence against the driver of the dumper. He has been served with a notice. Police said the deceased, Srisha Shetty (18) was a first-year commerce student from a Kandivali-based college. The road crash occurred around 1.45 pm on the northbound arm of WEH. Shetty was travelling with a friend, Nitin Nagwekar, also 18, who was riding the motorcycle. Both were returning home from college together as they lived in the same suburb. Police said the dumper was moving in the centre of the road when the motorcycle came into contact with its left rear side.

City’s 3rd airport to be ready at Vadhavan by 2035

MUMBAI: The Maharashtra government has set a 2035 deadline to complete the proposed airport at Vadhavan in Palghar district, where one of India’s largest ports is also being developed. The airport, when ready, will be the third in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The government has begun work on a master plan for the greenfield offshore international airport by appointing a consultant to conduct a detailed techno-economic feasibility study and oversee the bidding process through the Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC). The government plans to develop the proposed airport in Kore in Vadhavan as the third airport serving MMR, alongside the Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports. It will serve a new city in Palghar, which will be developed around the aviation hub.

IIM Mumbai to study Pune’s traffic congestion, suggest long-term solutions

With traffic congestion worsening across Pune and its metropolitan region, the Indian Institute of Management Mumbai (IIM Mumbai) will conduct a comprehensive study of the area's transport system and suggest long-term solutions. Union Minister of State for Cooperation and Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, who represents Pune in the Lok Sabha, had approached the institute to study the city's traffic infrastructure and transport facilities as an integrated system rather than as separate projects. “Traffic congestion in Pune is a serious problem related to the daily lives of citizens. Considering the rapid expansion of the city and the increasing number of vehicles, long-term planning is necessary along with temporary measures. For this, an initiative was taken with the aim of utilising the expertise of a renowned institute like IIM Mumbai. The institute has responded positively and prelimina