Shiv Murti-Nelson Mandela Tunnel Faces Environmental Concerns

06 Jan 2025 CW Team

Residents of South Delhi have raised concerns over the proposed tunnel between Shiv Murti interchange on NH-48 and Nelson Mandela Marg in Vasant Kunj, fearing it could harm the local forest, environment, and potentially damage houses in the area.

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) presented these concerns in a report to the Union Environment Ministry, following public hearings conducted in September. The ministry will decide whether to grant environmental clearance for the project, with construction slated to begin in July 2025.

The tunnel, planned by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), will span 4.9 km underground and require the felling of around 417 trees.

The DPCC report addressed local residents' objections, assuring that a tunnel boring machine (TBM) will be used, which is unlikely to impact the surface or nearby houses. Proper safety checks will be conducted during construction to prevent damage to structures, the report stated.

Environmental management plans (EMP) will be implemented during construction to mitigate environmental damage, particularly from air pollution caused by ready mix plants. The DPCC also emphasised that the tunnel would help alleviate congestion in Mahipalpur and surrounding areas, particularly on NH-48, a major route to and from Delhi airport and surrounding markets.

The project has already received approval from Delhi’s Ridge Management Board, the Central Empowered Committee, and the Supreme Court.

Infrastructure Transport

16 Sep 2025

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..