Several major infrastructure and transport projects in Mumbai, which were initially scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 1, have been postponed due to heightened security concerns. The affected projects include the partial opening of Mumbai Metro Line 3 from Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) to Acharya Atre Chowk, the completion of the Igatpuri-to-Thane stretch of the Samruddhi Mahamarg Expressway, and the opening of the Mumbai-bound lane of the new Thane Creek Bridge. Another significant project impacted is the handover of newly redeveloped homes at BDD Chawl in Worli. A report from FPJ stated that the decision to postpone the projects was made following a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22.

The delay will affect a wide range of people. Daily commuters in Mumbai, particularly those travelling through congested areas like Worli, Mahalaxmi, and BKC, will have to continue relying on overcrowded local trains and slow road traffic due to the metro line remaining shut. Office-goers and business employees in BKC will miss out on faster transport options.

The postponement of the Igatpuri-to-Thane expressway segment will lead to longer travel times for truck drivers, transport companies, and anyone travelling between Nagpur and Mumbai. Residents in Nashik, Igatpuri, and Thane will also not benefit from the expected improvements in connectivity and local development.

Similarly, the delay of the new Mumbai-bound lane of the Thane Creek Bridge will prevent relief for thousands of people commuting into Mumbai from Thane and Navi Mumbai, meaning traffic jams and travel delays will persist, particularly during peak hours.

Residents of BDD Chawl in Worli, who were eager to move into their newly constructed homes, will have to wait longer for the official handover.

Before the attack in Pahalgam, a large public event was being planned at BKC to mark the openings. However, now, smaller events or a joint ceremony led by the Maharashtra Chief Minister and his deputies are under consideration. Final decisions will be made based on security updates and the revised schedule of the Prime Minister.

News source: Times Now News