The Mahim South foot overbridge in Mumbai, which had been closed to replace cracked and damaged deck slab on April 17, was opened to pedestrians on Friday after repairs. The Mahim South Shahu Nagar MCGM Foot Over Bridge (FOB), which was closed on April 17, 2025, for the replacement of its cracked and damaged deck slab, has now been reopened for public use as of May 2, 2025. The repair work included replacing a 40-meter-long and 4-meter-wide deck… pic.twitter.com/zZFIV4qZKx — Mid Day (@mid_day) May 2, 2025 The total length of the repaired deck slab is 40 metres while the width of the bridge is 4 metres. The old slab has been replaced with a new I section and chequered plate. A total of 28.5 metric tonnes of steel was used during the 16-day period to repair the structure. The Western Railway initiated urgent repair work on the bridge following the discovery of cracked precast RCC slabs and severely corroded, perforated supporting beams. To ensure commuter convenience, two alternate foot overbridges located at the north end of Mahim station remained accessible during the closure of the bridge, allowing passengers to move between the station and both the eastern and western sides.
02 May,2025 10:30 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarWhile Mumbai’s streets might be the most conspicuous subject for those who love capturing its infectious spirit, it takes someone with a keen eye to watch over its ever-evolving skylines and document its myriad changes. With a similar thought in mind, mid-day photo editor Rane Ashish’s exhibition, ‘Mumbai From Above’, opened on Friday at the Mumbai Press Club. Mid-Day Photo Editor Rane Ashish, Editor-in-Chief Sachin Kalbag, BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani & President Samar Khadas at the opening of Ashish’s photo exhibition ‘MUMBAI FROM ABOVE’ at Mumbai Press Club, Fort PC: @satejss #midday #photoexhibition #BMC pic.twitter.com/DhPHhXb47R — Mid Day (@mid_day) May 2, 2025 The exhibition was attended by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Bhushan Gagrani and Mumbai Press Club President Samar Khadas. Visitors will be able to view 30 carefully curated aerial photographs, shot over a period of more than 10 years in 80 different locations, including Saat Rasta and Haji Ali. From the sea link to the coastal road, the exhibition reflects the vast shifts that have shaped the city’s infrastructure. Speaking about the exhibition, Rane said, “This project began in 2014, when I started capturing aerial photographs of the city. Over time, I could see how landscapes transformed and localities changed. I have tried to stitch it all together in this exhibition, which is my tribute to Mumbai.
02 May,2025 10:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Western Railway on Friday announced that Chhota Bheem, animated comedy adventure series, has teamed up with it for railway safety and public awareness. The collaboration was singed at the ongoing WAVES 2025 being held in Mumbai. An official statement said that in a unique initiative to promote public awareness and railway safety, the Western Railway has entered into a collaboration with Chhota Bheem. Western Railway will utilise characters from the Chhota Bheem universe for educational and outreach activities, it said. The statement further said that the Western Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Vineet Abhishek and Rajiv Chilakalapudi, CEO & Managing Director of Green Gold Animation Pvt. Ltd. the creators of Chhota Bheem, signed the Letter of Collaboration at the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 being held at the Jio World Centre in Bandra-Kurla Complex on May 2, 2025. According to a press release issued by Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, "The Western Railway will go the non-conventional way to get to the hearts of the masses. Characters such as Chhota Bheem and his family will be used across various media formats including print, digital, television, radio, and physical installations like posters and school programs for a period of 1 year." It said that this strategic collaboration aims to harness the wide appeal of the Chhota Bheem franchise to effectively communicate essential messages on railway safety and responsible behaviour in railway premises, particularly targeting younger audiences and families. Notably, the nationwide and global popularity of Chhota Bheem has a good impact on children and has the potential to influence them positively. The official statement said that the Western Railway’s initiative aligns with this sentiment by integrating these familiar characters into public interest campaigns to enhance reach and engagement. Vineet Abhishek said, "This partnership is a step forward in making railway safety education more engaging and accessible. With the help of Chhota Bheem and family, Western Railway hopes to create a lasting impact and educate the children and the general public. The collaboration aligns with both organisations’ shared goal of promoting public welfare through creative outreach."
02 May,2025 07:57 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday said that key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with two prominent institutions--University of Western Australia and University of York (UK) at the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 Summit in Mumbai. He said that this will help open new opportunities in education and skill development. Speaking with the press, the CM Fadnavis said that he was proud that Mumbai hosted such a global-scale platform. He thanked PM Modi for trusting in Maharashtra to organise such a large scale platform. “People from around the world have said that this (WAVES 2025) is the first time such a high-quality summit has been organised,” he said. The Maharashtra chief minister also said that a series of major investments and international partnerships aimed at boosting education, skill development, and the creative industries in the state. The CM said that the development of an Edu-City in Maharashtra has planned, where 10 to 12 foreign universities will collaborate to offer world-class education within India. Thank you to Hon PM Narendra Modi Ji and Government of India for giving the opportunity to Maharashtra to host WAVES 2025. Today, we have signed MoUs worth ₹8,000 crores. This will create new employment opportunities in the state and will give new direction to the media,… pic.twitter.com/KBH7DgYyFC — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) May 2, 2025 In another major development, Godrej will invest approximately Rs 2,000 crore to build a modern film city in Panvel, expected to generate thousands of jobs. Overall, a total investment of Rs 8,000 crore was made at the summit. CM Fadnavis urged people not to look at the investment figures alone, but to consider the multiplier effect that such partnerships and projects would have on Maharashtra’s economy ahead. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 in Mumbai on Thursday and said that it will lay the foundation for a global ecosystem housing international talent and creativity. He said that India is emerging as global hub for Orange Economy--rooted in content, creativity, and culture--will be a strong pillar of India’s GDP. In his address during the inauguration ceremony of WAVES 2025, PM Modi said that it was the right time for 'create in India, create for world' since the world is currently looking for new ways of story-telling and India has so much to offer. PM Modi, while batting for creative responsibility, said that technology is playing in extremely important role in people's lives today. He said that WAVES 2025 has the potential to provide global talent a platform at a time when India is emerging as an international hub for film production, digital content, gaming, fashion, music and live concerts.
02 May,2025 07:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has fast-tracked the implementation of the Phase-1 works of the transformative Uttan-Virar Sea Link (UVSL) project. With a sharp focus on unlocking regional economic potential, improving mobility, and enhancing quality of life, the project is poised to bring wide-ranging benefits to the northern Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The project is being carried out under the leadership of Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde and is spearheaded by Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Sanjay Mukherjee. Following a comprehensive review during the 159th Authority Meeting chaired by Shinde, the revised Phase-1 proposal was approved at a cost of Rs 87,427.17 crore, based on a thorough evaluation of technical and financial aspects. "This project is a monumental leap forward in the development of Maharashtra’s infrastructure. It reflects our commitment to creating better connectivity for all, while stimulating economic growth and ensuring environmental sustainability in Mumbai. The Uttan-Virar Sea Link will pave the way for a brighter, more connected future for our region," stated Fadnavis. Shinde said that the project is a “shining example of the government’s commitment to balanced regional development”. “With this transformative link, we are connecting key districts—Mumbai, Mumbai Suburban, Thane, and Palghar—like never before. This project will not only ease travel but also boost economic opportunities, enhance emergency access, and bring the entire region closer, truly fulfilling the vision of ‘One MMR, One Growth Story’," the Deputy CM said. Originally conceptualised as the Versova-Virar Sea Link (VVSL) under Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), the project was transferred to MMRDA in October 2022 during the 153rd Authority Meeting. Phase-1 (Uttan to Virar) has been approved for immediate implementation while Phase-2 (Virar to Palghar) is currently undergoing feasibility studies. The Versova to Uttan stretch has been excluded from the current scope owing to overlaps with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) North Coastal Road Project. Benefits Seamless high-speed connectivity: The UVSL will establish a high-speed, eight-lane north-south corridor within MMR, connecting to the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. This corridor is expected to become a key access controlled road, facilitating swift intercity transit. Decongestion and pollution reduction: By relieving pressure on existing arterial roads such as the Western Express Highway, SV Road, and Link Road, UVSL will significantly ease traffic congestion. This will result in enhanced road safety, lower travel times, and lead to a noticeable decrease in noise and air pollution—ultimately uplifting the quality of life for residents. Economic integration and access: The sea link will streamline transportation and improve access to residential, commercial, and industrial zones. It will also foster stronger economic integration between Maharashtra and neighbouring states by connecting logistical hubs and enabling smoother movement of goods and people. Attracting investment: With enhanced infrastructure, the UVSL is expected to attract substantial investments, paving the way for the development of industrial clusters and commercial centres. This will contribute to sustainable and balanced regional economic growth. Job creation and economic empowerment: The construction and operational phases of the project will generate extensive employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly. This surge in job creation will uplift income levels among local populations, promoting economic freedom and long-term stability. Faster emergency response: The improved road infrastructure will drastically cut down emergency response times for ambulances, fire brigades, and disaster management services—thus strengthening public safety frameworks. Real estate appreciation: Improved connectivity and upgraded infrastructure will likely lead to an increase in property values, triggering new real estate developments and boosting local municipal revenues. Environmental sustainability: Designed with sustainability in mind, the project aims to minimise its ecological footprint by reducing vehicle emissions and incorporating eco-conscious construction practices. Tourism and cultural exchange: The UVSL will enhance accessibility to scenic coastal regions, thereby boosting tourism and encouraging greater cultural and economic exchange. Technical details of UVSL Phase-1 The total length of Phase-1, inclusive of the sea link and connecting roads, spans 55.12 km, comprising: Uttan to Virar Sea Link: 24.35 km Uttan Connecting Road: 9.32 km Vasai Connecting Road: 2.5 km Virar Connecting Road: 18.95 km Infrastructure upgrades and design enhancements To maximise its benefits, the revised UVSL Phase-1 features several major enhancements: Corridor realignment and new ramps: Strategically realigned to reduce land acquisition challenges, improve integration with existing infrastructure, and add vital access ramps connecting key residential and industrial hubs. Span technology upgrade: Adoption of in-situ Orthotropic Steel Deck (OSD) spans for enhanced durability and seismic resistance—similar to Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link (MTHL) and Atal Setu. Geotechnical improvements: Inclusion of deeper foundations (30–35 metres) to support long-term structural stability. The upgraded project involves following revised structural changes: Structural design and construction Tunnel works and Uttan road upgrades Uttan and Virar connector realignment ITS & safety systems Funding model The financial framework comprises 72 per cent external aid from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and 28 per cent funding from the Government of Maharashtra/MMRDA, making it a model of international cooperation and state partnership. "With the Uttan–Virar Sea Link (UVSL), we are not just bridging distances—we are transforming lives. This vital corridor will connect Virar to Mumbai in mere minutes, enabling smoother daily commutes, faster access to workplaces, and timely travel even in medical emergencies. It’s a leap toward a more inclusive, connected, and resilient Mumbai Metropolitan Region," said Dr Mukherjee.
02 May,2025 06:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPrime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 in Mumbai and said that it will lay the foundation for a global ecosystem housing international talent and creativity. He said that India is emerging as global hub for Orange Economy--rooted in content, creativity, and culture--will be a strong pillar of India’s GDP. In his address during the inauguration ceremony of WAVES 2025, PM Modi said that it was the right time for 'create in India, create for world' since the world is currently looking for new ways of story-telling and India has so much to offer. #LIVE | पंतप्रधान नरेंद्र मोदी यांचे 'WAVES 2025' च्या उदघाटन कार्यक्रम येथे संबोधन@narendramodi @Dev_Fadnavis @WavesSummitIndia#Maharashtra #DevendraFadnavis #WAVES2025 https://t.co/5dx42K49D0 — CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) May 1, 2025 PM Modi, while batting for creative responsibility, said that technology is playing in extremely important role in people's lives today. Here are 10 key takeaways from PM's speech in Mumbai on May 1. - WAVES 2025 has the potential to provide global talent a platform at a time when India is emerging as an international hub for film production, digital content, gaming, fashion, music and live concerts. - Foundation for global ecosystem of talent and creativity being laid through WAVES 2025. - WAVES is not merely acronym, it's a wave of culture, creativity, film music, gaming and story telling. - The WAVES summit is roaring with purpose and it is drawing global attention. - India has a lot to offer, besides being a country of billion plus population it is also a land of billion plus stories. - Just like the Indian 'khana' (Indian food), I am sure Indian 'gaana' (Indian songs) will also become globally popular, PM Modi said. - Every street, every river, every mountain in India carries a story to tell. - Across more than six lakh villages, each one holds a new story, a fresh perspective. - Extra effort needed to maintain human sensitivity and humans should not be turned into robots. We need to make them more sensitive. - Protecting the young generation from anti-humanity ideas. His comments came in at the time where there is an increasing debate over controversial online content in the country. WAVES 2025, a four-day summit kicked off on Thursday at the Jio World Convention Centre in Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC). PM Modi called it a historic moment for India's cultural and creative sectors. WAVES, themed "Connecting Creators, Connecting Countries," aims to position India as a global hub for media, entertainment, and digital innovation.
02 May,2025 06:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWestern Railway, while sharing Mumbai local train updates, on Friday said that it will operate a jumbo block of four hours at night this weekend between Mumbai Central and Mahim stations. An official statement, the Western Railway said that to carry out maintenance work of tracks, signaling and overhead equipment, a jumbo block of four hours will be taken on up and down fast lines from 00.15 hrs to 04.15 hrs between Mumbai Central and Mahim stations in the intervening night of Saturday/Sunday, May 3 and 4. According to a press release issued by Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, Vineet Abhishek, during the block period, all Fast line trains will be run on slow lines between Santacruz and Churchgate station. "There will be no block in the day over Western Railway's suburban section on Sunday," the statement said. Western Railway to permanently augment AC 3-Tier coach in Mumbai Central- Hazrat Nizamuddin August Kranti Tejas Express Meanwhile, in an another statement, the Western Railway on Friday said that to enhance passenger convenience and meet growing travel demand, Western Railway has decided to permanently augment one additional AC 3-Tier coach in Train No. 12953/12954 Mumbai Central-Hazrat Nizamuddin August Kranti Tejas Rajdhani Express. According to an official statement, the addition of the AC 3-Tier coach will significantly boost the train’s carrying capacity and help accommodate more waitlisted passengers. Vineet Abhishek, the CPRO of Western Railway said that this premier Rajdhani Express is known for its speed, punctuality, and high-quality onboard services, offering passengers a fast, safe, and comfortable travel option between Mumbai and Delhi. The addition of the AC 3-Tier coach will significantly boost the train’s carrying capacity and help accommodate more waitlisted passengers, thereby improving travel opportunities for long-distance travelers. The extra coach will also carry approx. 72 additional passengers per trip. The details of the augmented train is as under: - Train No. 12953/12954 Mumbai Central – Hazrat Nizamuddin August Kranti Tejas Rajdhani Express train will be augmented with one additional AC 3-Tier coach Ex Mumbai Central from May 7, 2025 and Ex Hazrat Nizamuddin from May 8, 2025.
02 May,2025 06:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCentral Railway on Friday announced changes in the coach composition of several trains, replacing older coaches with modern Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches for improved safety and comfort, the officials said. The Linke Hofmann Busch coaches are modern, high-speed passenger coaches being used by the Indian Railways, they said. An official statement said that the Central Railway has decided to run the following trains with LHB coaches and revised composition- Revised composition of Train no 17614/17613 Hazur Sahib Nanded-Panvel-Hazur Sahib Nanded Express and Train no 17630/17629 Hazur Sahib Nanded-Pune-Hazur Sahib Nanded Express are given below- - One AC-2Tier, Five AC-3Tier, 05 Sleeper Class, 4 General Second Class, 1 General Second Class cum Guard’s Brake Van and 1 Generator Van. Train no 17641/17613 Hazur Sahib Nanded-Panvel-Hazur Sahib Nanded Express will run with revised composition Ex. Hazur Sahib Nanded Hazur Sahib Nanded from 1st May 2025 and from Ex. Panvel from May 2, 2025. Train no 17630/17629 Hazur Sahib Nanded-Pune-Hazur Sahib Nanded Express will run with revised composition Ex. Hazur Sahib Nanded from May 3, 2025 and Ex. Pune from May 4, 2025. "For detailed timings and halts of these trains, the passengers must visit the official Indian Railways website or the NTES app," the Central Railway said. Central Railway introduces QR Code system for train timetables at major stations Earlier, the Central Railway’s Mumbai Division had on Wednesday launched a QR code-based information system at four major Mumbai stations including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Dadar, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), and Panvel, an official statement said. The new system will allow the railway passengers to access important travel information by simply scanning a QR code displayed at the four stations in Maharashtra. The initiative aims to enhance the travel experience by enabling seamless access to real-time information through a simple scan, the Central Railway said. It also aims to offer travellers quick, contactless, and real-time access to essential details using their smartphones. Upon scanning the QR code, passengers can view: - PRS Rules (Passenger Reservation System) - Route Map - Official Central Railway Website - RailMadad Portal for grievance redressal and assistance "The information will be available in three languages including English, Hindi, Marathi for convenience of the passengers," the Central Railway said.
02 May,2025 05:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) in Maharashtra has launched a crack down against businesses leading to noise pollution in the district and has sealed as many as seven spice mills in Mahatma Phule Market alone, the officials said on Friday. According to an official statement issued by the TMC, it sealed seven spice mills located in the Mahatma Phule Market, following complaints from local residents and market members about excessive noise pollution. It said that the locals reported that large machinery used in these mills was generating noise levels of up to 100 decibels, causing serious disturbance in the surrounding area. "Taking note of the complaints, TMC Commissioner Saurabh Rao directed officials to inspect the mills and take action," the officials said. They said that acting on the orders, a team led by Zonal Deputy Commissioner Shankar Patole, Chief Environmental Officer Manisha Pradhan, Assistant Commissioner of Estate Department Rajesh Sonawane, and Assistant Commissioner of Naupada Ward Sopan Bhaik conducted a site inspection. The statement said that the officials found that the heavy-duty equipment in use was not suitable for a market area and should instead be located in an industrial zone. A noise pollution notice had already been issued to these mills in March 2025, but operations continued despite the warning. Due to the failure to comply with noise regulations, all seven mills were sealed to protect public health, the officials said. Last month, in a crack down against illegal banners and posters in Thane district, the TMC had launched special drive to remove unauthorised posters, banners, and hoardings across the city, the officials had earlier said. They said that a total of hundreds of illegal flex boards and hoardings were removed during the special drive. The campaign was carried out under the guidance of Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao, an official had said. "The anti-encroachment department, along with all ward offices, were working together to clean up the public spaces," a senior TMC official had earlier said. The special drive is mainly focused on illegal banners fixed on electric poles, trees, road dividers, and pavements, all of which contribute to visual pollution in the city, he had said. The officials had stated that such hoardings not only spoil the city’s appearance but can also cause accidents during storms or strong winds.
02 May,2025 04:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA driver miraculous escapes unhurt after multiple vehicles crashed into his car at Andheri flyover in western suburbs of Mumbai, the officials said. The major accident took place on Friday afternoon when the car was first crashed by a speeding vehicle from behind, they said. The incident occurred when the driver of a sedan was travelling from Andheri to Bandra along the Western Express Highway. According to witnesses, the car was suddenly hit from behind by another vehicle. The force of the impact caused the driver to lose control, and the car swerved into the opposite lane of the flyover. Before the driver could recover, the vehicle was struck again--this time by a red sedan car coming from the other direction. All the three vehicles involved in the incident sustained major damages due to the impact of the collisions. A car driver had a miraculous escape in an accident on the Andheri flyover on Friday afternoon.The incident occurred while the driver was travelling from Andheri to Bandra via the Western Express Highway when his vehicle was rear-ended by another car. The impact caused the… pic.twitter.com/XUSovA7qmv — Mid Day (@mid_day) May 2, 2025 The officials said that despite multiple car crashes on the flyover where the vehicles usually are at a good speed, the driver escaped with only minor injuries. The accident disrupted traffic for a short while but has since been cleared. The Mumbai traffic police officials later arrived at the spot and managed to clear the route to avoid further congestion. Further details are awaited.
02 May,2025 04:11 PM IST | Mumbai | Shirish VaktaniaShiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Friday sharply criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of displaying indifference to the country’s mood following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. According to ANI, Raut questioned the Prime Minister’s decision to spend extended hours with Bollywood personalities while the nation mourned the deaths of 26 tourists. Speaking to media representatives, Raut said there is widespread public anger following the April 22 terror strike, and added that India’s security today is solely owed to the bravery and vigilance of the Indian Army. “There is anger in the country, and our Prime Minister comes to Mumbai, spending nine hours with film stars, looking comfortable, with not a trace of worry,” he said, as per ANI. He further added, “The credit for his freedom of movement goes to the Indian Army, which stands guard at the borders. Whatever good has happened and may happen is due to their sacrifices. But the leadership in India is hollow. We will support the government on national matters, but we will never condone the mistakes they have made over the past ten years.” Raut’s remarks came in the wake of the April 22 massacre in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, where terrorists killed 26 people, including 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen. The attack, one of the deadliest in recent times, has led to sharp condemnation from all quarters. As per ANI reports, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) convened on April 23 and was briefed in detail about the terror incident and its suspected cross-border connections. The CCS condemned the killings in the strongest terms and extended condolences to the victims’ families. It also noted that the attack was likely timed to disrupt the ongoing development and electoral progress in the Union Territory. The Indian government has broken every diplomatic ties with Pakistan and has taken specific steps regarding the same. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) met on April 23 and was briefed in detail on the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Raut, while extending support for national security measures, reiterated the opposition’s right to question the ruling party’s failures. “We will not remain silent over a decade of misgovernance,” he stated. (With inputs from ANI)
02 May,2025 01:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
