Do you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for April 8. Aries March 21 – April 20Family, as usual, turns to you for guidance and advice based on simple logic, intertwined with love. Phone a friend. Cosmic tip: Take care of and nurture your favourite hobby, a pet, etc. TaurusApril 21 – May 20This is a positive time for those in export/import/a job requiring extensive travel/if working for a foreign agency. Cosmic tip: Be low key, no matter how much you want to be in the forefront. GeminiMay 21 – June 21A situation may take a little time before it settles down, so be patient, doing all you can to normalise it. Cosmic tip: Defuse the situation as quickly as possible, requesting an elder to help out. Cancer June 22 – July 23Unexpected good news is on the way. This is the universe’s blessing for making positive karma. Cosmic tip: Don’t try to get even with someone, or try to teach them a lesson. Peacefully walk away. Leo July 24 - Aug 23An acquisition or a merger also brings in extra finance. Some may join a club or a group. Health is good. Cosmic tip: Let go of anger, allowing the spiritual side to be stronger. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Dedication and endurance have helped reach the goal on time. A person you can depend on gets in touch. Cosmic tip: Use information received on how to move a blocked project. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Business/career is moving ahead with several ventures in the pipeline. Overcome resistance in a relationship. Cosmic tip: Make the most of auspicious planetary positions. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22A friend is only trying to help, so don’t be off-hand about some advice talked about. Be careful about making sustainable lifestyle changes. Cosmic tip: Place needs of others first since you like helping people. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Balance diffidence with positive thoughts if wanting to declare your interest in someone. An added expense is a surprise. Cosmic tip: Prepare carefully for a presentation/a pitch/ an interview. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20A sincere and loyal relationship begins for some. Accept a truth about each person being an individual with varied personality traits. Cosmic tip: Be honest to yourself and others in daily life. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Not taking people for granted is a mindset that nurtures friendships. Life is slow, but maintain a grateful attitude. Cosmic tip: Use the left side of your brain to analyse a situation. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Being the recipient of unofficial news; it’s best to keep it to yourself. Always trust your intuition. Cosmic tip: Go along with the current flow, which reveals where circumstances are headed for now.
08 April,2026 02:58 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced that water supply from both compartments of the low-level reservoir in Ghatkopar (West) will resume from April 10, following the completion of repair works undertaken by its Water Engineering Department. The civic body said that with the restoration of both compartments, regular water supply operations will be reinstated across affected areas. Temporary changes in water supply timings, which were implemented during the repair period, will now be rolled back to the original schedule. Repairs Completed, Normal Supply Restored According to the BMC, the repair work on the Ghatkopar low-level reservoir was carried out to improve operational efficiency and ensure uninterrupted supply in the long term. With the completion of this work, water distribution from both compartments will function as usual from April 10. During the maintenance period, several localities experienced revised supply hours. The civic administration has now confirmed that these temporary adjustments will no longer be in effect. Advisory: Boil Water for Five Days As a precautionary measure, the BMC has advised residents in the affected areas to boil and filter drinking water for the next five days starting April 10. This is a standard safety protocol followed after restoration of water supply post-repair work to avoid any potential contamination. The administration has also urged citizens to use water judiciously and cooperate with authorities during the transition phase. Area-wise Water Supply Timings Narayan Nagar Area Localities including Chirag Nagar, Azad Nagar, Ganesh Maidan, Parsiwadi, New Maniklal Estate Road, NSS Road, Mahindra Park, D.S. Road, Khalai Village, Kirol Village, Vidyavihar (West), Hansoti Galli, Khot Galli, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Navroji Galli, H.R. Desai Road, Kama Galli, Shraddhanand Road, J.V. Road, Dhruvrajsinh Galli, Gopal Galli, Jeevdaya Galli, and Gigawadi will see water supply restored to its original timing of 3:15 pm to 7:15 pm. During repairs, water was supplied between 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm and 10:45 pm to 11:30 pm. Pant Nagar Outlet Area Areas such as Bhim Nagar, Pawar Chawl, Lower Bhim Nagar, Crime Branch area, Vaitagwadi, Nityanand Nagar, C.G.S. Colony, Gangawadi, Dhruvrajsinh Galli, MTNL lane, A.G.L.R. Road, and stretches along LBS Road from Ghatkopar (West) to Shreyas Signal will now receive water from 6:45 pm to 11:00 pm. Earlier, supply was provided between 6:15 pm and 10:30 pm during the repair phase. Sarvodaya Boosting Area In areas such as Sanatorium Galli, H.R. Desai Road, Kama Galli, Shraddhanand Road, J.V. Road, Gopal Galli, parts along LBS Road in Ghatkopar (West), and Gandhinagar, there will be no change in timing, with supply continuing from 7:15 pm to 9:15 pm. Civic Body Appeals for Cooperation The BMC has reiterated its appeal to residents to cooperate with the administration as normal supply resumes. Officials emphasised that while services are being restored, precautionary measures and responsible water usage remain essential to ensure a smooth transition and continued supply stability.
07 April,2026 11:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra government on Tuesday ordered the transfer of 11 Indian Administrative Service officers in a fresh administrative reshuffle aimed at strengthening governance and improving departmental efficiency. The changes affect several key departments and institutions across the state, including Pune, Mumbai, Kalyan and Nashik. The reshuffle follows a similar move last week when the government transferred 25 IAS officers, including several district collectors, indicating an ongoing effort to streamline administrative functioning. Major postings in agriculture and rural development sectors Among the notable appointments, Rahul Ranjan Mahiwal has been posted as Member Secretary of the Maharashtra Council of Agricultural Education and Research in Pune. He was previously serving as Managing Director of the Maharashtra State Farming Corporation. In a related move, Ruchesh Jaivanshi has been appointed as the new Managing Director of the Maharashtra State Farming Corporation, also based in Pune. These changes are expected to impact the functioning of agriculture-related institutions in the state. Additionally, Minal Karanwal has been appointed Project Director of the Nanaji Deshmukh Krishi Sanjivanee Project, a key initiative focused on climate-resilient agriculture. Appointments in urban administration and infrastructure bodies The government has also made important changes in urban and infrastructure-related roles. Amit Ranjan has been appointed Additional Municipal Commissioner of the Nashik Municipal Corporation, while Karishma Nair will serve as Chief Executive Officer of Zilla Parishad in Jalgaon. Kanhuraj Bagate has been posted as Joint Managing Director of Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited in Kalyan, a key power distribution body in the state. Key roles in policy, planning and administration Several officers have been assigned roles in policy and administrative departments. Shweta Singhal has been appointed Special Resident Commissioner at Maharashtra Sadan in New Delhi, representing the state at the national level. Geetanjali Baviskar has been transferred as Joint Secretary in the Planning Department at Mantralaya, while Dilip Jagdale will take charge as Joint Secretary in the Water Supply and Sanitation Department. Changes in social sector and regulatory bodies In the social sector, Laxman Raut has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Maharashtra State Khadi and Village Industries Board in Mumbai. He was earlier serving as Secretary of the Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights. Meanwhile, Pankaj Deore has been appointed Secretary of the Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, replacing Raut. Officials said the reshuffle is part of routine administrative adjustments aimed at improving governance outcomes and ensuring effective implementation of government policies across departments. (With inputs from PTI)
07 April,2026 11:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe City and Industrial Development Corporation on Tuesday unveiled a Rs 16,250 crore budget for the financial year 2026-27, with a strong emphasis on infrastructure development, regional connectivity and affordable housing in Navi Mumbai. The budget projects total receipts of Rs 16,250 crore against an expenditure of Rs 16,150 crore, resulting in an expected surplus of Rs 100 crore. Officials stated that the financial plan reflects a continued push towards transforming Navi Mumbai into a major urban and economic centre. Airport expansion and economic zones key priorities A major highlight of the budget is the focus on the Navi Mumbai International Airport, which is expected to play a central role in the region’s growth. According to CIDCO, the airport is currently handling around 150 daily flight movements and nearly 19,000 passengers, with international operations scheduled to begin by the end of the month. CIDCO Vice Chairman and Managing Director Vijay Singhal said that with the development of key zones such as Aerocity, EduCity and MediCity, Navi Mumbai is positioned to emerge as a significant economic hub. Major metro and transport projects to boost connectivity The budget allocates substantial funds for expanding the region’s transport network. One of the flagship projects is Metro Line 8, a 34.89-kilometre corridor connecting Mumbai’s existing international airport with the Navi Mumbai International Airport. The corridor is expected to handle nearly 10 lakh passengers daily by 2031. Other proposed infrastructure includes the Thane–NMIA elevated corridor, which aims to reduce travel time between Thane and the airport from around 90 minutes to just 30 minutes. Additionally, new metro links such as Line 1A connecting Belapur to NMIA and Line 2 connecting Pendhar to NMIA are planned to strengthen integration with the existing Navi Mumbai Metro network. Specialised city development to attract global investment CIDCO is also advancing its “Iconic City Development” strategy, which includes the creation of specialised districts designed to attract global investment and talent. Aerocity, spread across 270 hectares, is envisioned as a modern aerotropolis ecosystem supporting aviation-linked businesses. EduCity in Karanjade is being developed as an education hub, with agreements signed with international institutions such as University of York and Illinois Institute of Technology. An International Corporate Park is also planned over 155 hectares in Kharghar, further strengthening Navi Mumbai’s business infrastructure. Engineering milestones and future outlook CIDCO also highlighted a recent engineering achievement, noting that it set a national record by excavating 812 metres of a water tunnel in a single month using a tunnel boring machine. This milestone reflects the scale and pace of infrastructure work underway in the region. With a strong pipeline of projects across transport, housing and economic development, the CIDCO budget underscores a long-term vision of positioning Navi Mumbai as a well-connected, sustainable and globally competitive urban centre. (With inputs from PTI)
07 April,2026 11:09 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentNationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Rohit Pawar on Tuesday said that the Zero FIR registered in connection with the plane crash that killed Ajit Pawar has been forwarded to the state Crime Investigation Department. He made the statement after meeting Maharashtra Director General of Police Sadanand Date in Mumbai. Rohit Pawar said he sought clarity on whether the FIR he had filed earlier had been formally accepted and acted upon by the Maharashtra Police. Zero FIR transferred to CID for further action According to Pawar, the DGP informed him that the Zero FIR has now been sent to the Crime Investigation Department, which will determine the next course of action after conducting a preliminary inquiry. However, he indicated that the FIR may not yet have been formally registered within the state system. The development comes amid earlier confusion regarding jurisdiction, as the FIR was initially filed in another state due to concerns over delays in Maharashtra. Demand for comprehensive and unbiased probe Rohit Pawar emphasised the need for a thorough and impartial investigation into the January 28 air crash in Baramati. He stated that the probe must go beyond routine procedures and examine all possible angles, including financial transactions and other issues raised in connection with the case. He reiterated that the objective is to ensure transparency and accountability, adding that a detailed inquiry is essential to establish the facts surrounding the incident. Financial links and allegations under scrutiny The NCP leader also referred to allegations about unusual financial transactions involving certain individuals during the period of the crash. He specifically mentioned concerns linked to Anjali Damania, who had raised questions about possible irregularities. Additionally, Pawar said investigators should examine the reported increase in financial activity related to self-styled godman Ashok Kharat, who was recently arrested in a separate criminal case. He stressed that all such aspects must be carefully investigated to rule out any wrongdoing. Background of Zero FIR and jurisdiction issue Earlier, Rohit Pawar had alleged that authorities in Maharashtra were reluctant to register a case related to alleged negligence in the crash. As a result, he registered a Zero FIR in a neighbouring state, a legal provision that allows a complaint to be filed regardless of jurisdiction and later transferred to the appropriate authority. He said this step was taken to ensure that the matter received due attention and was not delayed due to procedural issues. With the FIR now forwarded to the CID, attention will shift to how the investigation progresses in the coming days. The case continues to draw attention, with calls for a detailed probe reflecting broader concerns over accountability and transparency in high-profile incidents. (With inputs from PTI)
07 April,2026 10:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal on Tuesday described as unnecessary the controversy surrounding the Congress decision to field a candidate in the Baramati assembly by-election. Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Sapkal said there was no need to politicise the issue or create friction over electoral choices. He emphasised that every political party has the right to take independent decisions regarding participation in elections. Baramati bypoll becomes focal point of political debate The by-election, scheduled for April 23, has drawn significant political attention. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar is contesting the seat, which fell vacant after the death of her husband Ajit Pawar earlier this year. The ruling alliance had appealed for an uncontested election as a mark of respect. While parties such as the NCP (SP) and Shiv Sena (UBT), part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi, chose not to field candidates, the Congress announced Akash More as its nominee, triggering political reactions. Response to criticism from Parth Pawar The Congress decision faced criticism from Parth Pawar, who remarked that the party was facing a decline in Maharashtra and would suffer consequences for contesting against his mother. His statement sparked reactions from multiple political leaders across parties. Responding indirectly to such criticism, Sapkal reiterated that elections should be conducted with dignity and mutual respect. He stressed that democratic processes should not be overshadowed by unnecessary disputes or personal remarks. Call for maintaining democratic values and decorum Sapkal highlighted that differences of opinion among political leaders are a natural part of democracy. However, he said the focus should remain on ensuring a fair and smooth electoral process rather than engaging in avoidable controversies. He added that the Congress would soon clarify its official stance in detail regarding the by-election, indicating that further communication from the party leadership is expected. Encourages voter participation, praises civic responsibility Apart from addressing the bypoll issue, Sapkal also praised voters from Kerala residing in Mumbai who are travelling back to their home state to cast their votes. He described their efforts as a commendable example of democratic responsibility. According to him, such participation reflects the true spirit of elections as a celebration of democracy. He urged citizens to actively participate in the electoral process and contribute to higher voter turnout. The Baramati by-election continues to remain politically significant, with developments around party strategies and alliances shaping the broader discourse in Maharashtra politics. (With inputs from PTI)
07 April,2026 10:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a major push to strengthen Mumbai’s public transport infrastructure, two metro corridors were partially opened on Tuesday, alongside the launch of key mobility projects including a twin tunnel and a pod taxi system. Phase I of Mumbai Metro Line 9, connecting Dahisar to Kashigaon, was inaugurated, marking progress on the Dahisar East–Mira Bhayandar corridor. Simultaneously, Phase I of Mumbai Metro Line 2B, between Diamond Garden and Mandale, was also flagged off. The twin inaugurations were carried out by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, along with other dignitaries. Tunnel Project to Ease Thane–Borivali Commute The leaders also launched a tunnel boring machine (TBM) for the ambitious Thane–Borivali twin tunnel project. The infrastructure initiative is expected to significantly reduce travel time and ease congestion between Borivali and Thane. The project includes twin tunnels beneath the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, making it one of India’s deepest urban tunnel developments. BKC Pod Taxi Project Gets Green Signal The dignitaries also performed the bhoomipoojan for the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) pod taxi project, officially known as the Automated Rapid Transit System (ARTS). The system is designed as a modern, air-conditioned, point-to-point transit solution, with pods accommodating up to six passengers. Stations will be located approximately every 200 metres across the business district, offering a private and efficient commuting option. Mumbai Metro Network Expanding Rapidly Calling the occasion a “historic day,” Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said Mumbai now has over 100 km of operational metro lines, making it the second-largest network in India after Delhi. He added that most ongoing metro projects are expected to be completed within the next two years, with plans to build a network larger than Delhi’s within the next three to four years. Fadnavis also highlighted the success of the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), noting that nearly 80 per cent of commuters have shifted to cashless travel. Responding to concerns about a four-lane bridge narrowing into two lanes in the Mira-Bhayandar area, he said the structure was built in a congested zone and the project is still underway. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who also chairs MMRDA, said, “This is a historic day for reducing traffic congestion in Mumbai.” No Major Traffic Disruptions Reported Despite the high-profile event, no major traffic disruptions were reported. Traffic slowed briefly for 5–10 minutes during the arrival of the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister at Dahisar East metro station. Traffic police personnel were deployed in large numbers to ensure smooth vehicular movement. Police officials managing security arrangements at the VVIP gate dismissed reports of denying entry to the Mayor or her staff. “The Mayor and authorised staff entered through the VIP gate without any issue. Those not on the list were directed to use an alternate gate,” officials said. Project Highlights Mumbai Metro Line 2B (Diamond Garden–Mandale, Phase I) Length: 5.53 km (elevated)Stations: 5Key stations: Diamond Garden, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Chowk, Deonar, Mankhurd, MandaleTotal corridor length: 23.456 km (19 stations) Mumbai Metro Line 9 (Dahisar East–Mira Bhayandar) Total length: 10.5 km (elevated)Phase I (Dahisar–Kashigaon): 4.7 kmStations (Phase I): Dahisar (East), Pandurangwadi, Miragaon, KashigaonTotal stations: 8 Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel Project Total project length: 11.84 kmTunnel length: 10.25 km5.75 km from Borivali side6.09 km from Thane sideConnector roads: 1.59 km Automated Rapid Transit System (Pod Taxi – BKC) Total length: 8.85 kmTotal stations: 22Phase I: 3.36 kmKey stations: Kurla, LBS Marg, MMRDA Pay & Park, BKC, Kalanagar
07 April,2026 09:42 PM IST | Mumbai | Sarthak MehtaNationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) MP Supriya Sule on Tuesday asserted that the Congress has every constitutional right to contest elections and should be treated with respect. Her remarks come amid an ongoing political debate over the Baramati assembly by-election and recent comments made by NCP leader Parth Pawar. Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Sule emphasised that contesting elections is a fundamental democratic right guaranteed by the Constitution. Remarks follow criticism of Parth Pawar’s statement The statement comes a day after Parth Pawar criticised the Congress for fielding a candidate in the Baramati bypoll and suggested that the party would face consequences. His comments had drawn a rare public rebuke from NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, who questioned his political maturity. Sule, while addressing the issue, maintained that differences should be handled with restraint. She highlighted that within her family, guidance from senior members is respected and discussions are ideally held privately rather than in the public domain. Congress’ historical role and constitutional rights highlighted Sule underlined the historical contribution of the Congress, noting its role in the country’s independence movement and its continued participation in national development. She reiterated that the party operates within the constitutional framework established by B. R. Ambedkar and therefore deserves due respect in the political arena. She also pointed out her own political journey, stating that she has contested elections with the support of the Congress in the past and has been influenced by its ideology. Baramati bypoll context and political positioning The Baramati by-election, scheduled for April 23, was necessitated following the death of Ajit Pawar earlier this year. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar is contesting the seat. While several parties, including those in the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi, refrained from fielding candidates as a mark of respect, the Congress decided to contest by nominating Akash More, adding a new dimension to the political contest. Invitation to nomination event and campaign stance Sule also revealed that she and Sharad Pawar had been invited by NCP leaders, including Chhagan Bhujbal and Dilip Walse Patil, to attend Sunetra Pawar’s nomination filing in Baramati. However, Sharad Pawar was unable to attend due to official commitments in Delhi, while Sule did not elaborate on her own absence. She also refrained from giving a clear response on whether she would participate in the bypoll campaign. Her remarks underline the importance of maintaining political decorum and respecting democratic principles, even as electoral competition intensifies in Baramati. (With inputs from PTI)
07 April,2026 09:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTension gripped Charkop in Kandivali West on Tuesday after a tragic road accident claimed the life of a seven-year-old girl, sparking protests and a road blockade by angry residents demanding strict action against those responsible. Fatal accident while crossing road The deceased, identified as Ritika Chauhan, was a Class 2 student at a BMC school near Oscar Hospital. According to police, she was run over by a speeding dumper while attempting to cross the road. Officials from Charkop Police Station said Ritika lived with her parents in the Ganesh Nagar locality. The incident occurred in the afternoon when she was returning home accompanied by a neighbour. As she tried to cross the road, she came under the wheels of the dumper. The impact was severe, resulting in fatal head injuries. She was declared dead at the scene. Eyewitnesses described the accident as horrific, leaving residents and passersby in shock. Locals stage protest, block road Soon after the incident, enraged locals gathered at the spot and staged a road blockade, demanding immediate action against the driver and stricter traffic regulation in the area. The protest escalated briefly, with tensions running high. Police teams were deployed to the site to control the situation and restore order. Driver arrested, case registered The dumper driver, who was apprehended by locals immediately after the accident, was later handed over to the police. He has been arrested and booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), a police officer confirmed. Family in distress Ritika was the eldest of three siblings. Her family is already facing a difficult time, as her mother had delivered a baby just a few weeks ago and is reportedly unwell. Demand for compensation, probe underway Local political leaders and party workers also reached Charkop Police Station, demanding compensation for the bereaved family and strict punitive action against those responsible. Police said further investigation into the incident is ongoing.
07 April,2026 08:26 PM IST | Mumbai | Samiullah KhanA fire broke out in an LHB sleeper coach at the Matunga Workshop of Central Railway on Tuesday afternoon, officials said. Fire Brought Under Control Within an Hour According to a Central Railway spokesperson, the incident occurred at around 3:10 pm, following which the fire brigade was immediately alerted. The blaze was successfully extinguished by 4:00 pm, preventing further spread. Upper Portion of Coach Severely Damaged Officials stated that nearly 70 per cent of the upper portion of the coach was damaged in the fire. However, the underslung equipment of the coach remained intact and unaffected. Welding Sparks Likely Triggered Fire Initial investigations indicate that welding work was underway in the toilet area at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) end of the coach. Sparks from the welding process are suspected to have ignited nearby materials, leading to the fire. Wind Conditions Accelerated Spread Authorities noted that strong winds, along with the non-air-conditioned structure of the coach, contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. No Damage to Other Coaches or Infrastructure Railway officials confirmed that no other coaches or workshop infrastructure were affected. The coach was immediately moved to an open area, which helped contain the fire and prevent further damage. Further investigations are underway, the spokesperson added.
07 April,2026 06:06 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarIn a major infrastructure push, the Maharashtra government launched the tunnel boring machine (TBM) ‘Nayak’ for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority’s (MMRDA) flagship Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel Project. The ceremony was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, along with senior government and Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) officials. MEIL Managing Director Krishna Reddy, Director Subbaiah, and MMRDA Commissioner Sanjay Mukherjee were also present during the commissioning of ‘Nayak for the commencement of large-scale tunnelling of the transformative infrastructure project. The Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel is a strategic initiative aimed at improving east–west connectivity across MMR. Stretching 11.84 km, the project includes 10.25 km of twin tunnels and 1.59 km of approach roads, linking Ghodbunder Road in Thane with the Western Express Highway in Borivali. Once operational, the travel time on this corridor is expected to drop from the current 60–90 minutes to around 15 minutes, providing a faster and more efficient commute for thousands of daily travellers. Advanced technology and safety The project features four state-of-the-art TBMs, including one of India’s largest single-shield hard rock machines, with a 13.34-metre cutter head diameter, 86 metres in length, and weighing approximately 2,500 tonnes. The TBMs will excavate tunnels at depths of up to 23 metres, including sections beneath the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, ensuring minimal surface disruption and environmental impact. Each tunnel will have two traffic lanes and one emergency lane, with cross-passages every 300 metres for safety. The project incorporates advanced safety systems, including mechanical ventilation, firefighting infrastructure, smoke detection, and retro-reflective LED signage, aligned with international NFPA 502 standards. The Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel is divided into two civil packages: the Borivali section covers 5.75 km of tunnelling and underpasses, while the Thane section spans 6.09 km, including tunnels, a viaduct, and a toll plaza. The Hill–TCE Joint Venture is responsible for project design and consultancy. As of 31 August 2025, the project has achieved over 8 per cent physical progress, with further acceleration expected following the TBM launch. Impact on Mumbai commuters and environment The corridor is expected to ease congestion on Ghodbunder Road, which currently handles 1–1.2 lakh passenger car units daily, while reducing vehicular emissions and noise pollution. By 2029, the tunnel is projected to serve around 80,000 vehicles daily, shortening travel distance by 11–15 km, and supporting sustainable urban development. With TBM ‘Nayak’ now ready to begin excavation, MEIL has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure through innovation, sustainability, and engineering excellence, continuing its role in shaping the future of urban mobility in India. Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel – Key project features Total project length: 11.84 kmTwin tunnel length: 10.25 kmApproach roads: 1.59 kmTunnel configuration: 2 traffic lanes + 1 emergency lane per tunnelCross-passages: Every 300 metresTBM specifications: 13.34 m diameter, ~2,500 tonnesMaximum tunnelling depth: ~23 metresEnvironmentally sensitive sections: Beneath Sanjay Gandhi National ParkSafety systems: Mechanical ventilation, firefighting, smoke detectionSignage: LED and retro-reflective, compliant with international standardsTravel time reduction: 60–90 minutes to ~15 minutesTraffic decongestion: Ghodbunder Road, reduced emissionsProjected traffic by 2029: ~80,000 vehicles per day
07 April,2026 05:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
