MIAL Sets November 3 Deadline as Mumbai Airport Prepares for Terminal 1 Redevelopment.

The Shift

Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) has asked airlines to submit plans by November 3, 2026, for shifting some international flights to Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) from the summer 2027 schedule. The proposed shift is linked to the redevelopment of Terminal 1 at Mumbai airport. The work is aimed at addressing ageing infrastructure and safety concerns while increasing the airport’s passenger-handling capacity.

MIAL plans to temporarily shift international flight operations accounting for around five million passengers annually to Navi Mumbai to accommodate the redevelopment. According to the airport operator, IndiGo, Air India and Akasa Air have already finalized plans covering approximately three million passengers annually. The remaining traffic, equivalent to two million passengers a year, is yet to be accommodated.

However, several airlines, particularly foreign carriers, have raised concerns about reducing their existing flight slots without adequate consultation. They have also suggested carrying out the redevelopment in phases to minimise disruption to operations. Mumbai airport currently handles around 55 million passengers annually. Following the redevelopment of Terminal 1 and expansion of Terminal 2, its capacity is expected to increase to 65 million passengers a year.

MIAL has assured airlines that international flight operations shifted to Navi Mumbai will return to Mumbai airport once the redevelopment and expansion work is completed. The proposed shift is expected to increase international operations at Navi Mumbai airport, although discussions with airlines over the relocation plan are continuing.

Police Reunite Missing Children With Parents and Urge Families to Create a Supportive Home Environment.

The Case

Two incidents involving schoolchildren leaving home due to family-related stress have raised concerns about the emotional well-being of children. Police traced both children and reunited them with their families. In one incident, a schoolboy from Kharghar left home fearing that his parents would scold him for scoring low marks in an examination. He eventually reached Titwala, where alert citizens found him at a temple in his school uniform.

In another incident, a 13-year-old boy from Ghatkopar was found frightened in Koparkhairane by police constable Raj Hande while he was returning home from duty. The boy reportedly left home because of frequent arguments between his parents and repeated scolding. Police contacted his family and safely handed him over to his parents. Following these incidents, Navi Mumbai Police appealed to parents to communicate openly with their children, avoid excessive scolding and maintain a peaceful home environment. They warned that children who feel distressed or unsupported at home may leave without understanding the dangers they could face.

According to figures reported by the police, 304 girls and 125 boys below the age of 18 had been reported missing in the region by the end of September 2026. Of these, 284 girls and 116 boys had been traced. Police stressed the importance of recognising children’s emotional needs and resolving family conflicts through dialogue. The child helpline 1098 is available for children who need assistance or protection.

Manufacturers seek a reduction to 24 hours, citing production losses and water wastage caused by pipeline leakages.

The Demand

Industrialists in the Taloja Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) area have opposed the proposed 36-hour water supply shutdown and announced a protest march on October 29 to demand a shorter disruption.

The Taloja Manufacturers’ Association (TMA) and Taloja Industries Association (TIA) have called for the protest outside the MIDC water supply office at 1 pm. They have urged the authorities to reduce the shutdown period from 36 hours to 24 hours. Industrialists said the extended water cut, along with the time required to restore normal supply, could disrupt factory operations for nearly 48 hours. The disruption could affect production, employment and industrial safety, particularly in chemical units that depend on a regular water supply.

MIDC has reportedly planned the shutdown due to concerns over water availability from Barvi Dam and the need to manage limited resources. However, industry representatives argue that the authorities should first address water wastage caused by leaking pipelines and unauthorised connections. According to the TMA, nearly 8 million litres of water are wasted daily in Taloja due to these issues.

The associations have demanded urgent pipeline repairs, action against unauthorised connections and alternatives such as supplying water at reduced pressure instead of imposing a complete shutdown. TMA president Shekhar Shringare warned that the protest could be intensified if the authorities fail to address the industry’s concerns. A meeting with MIDC officials was scheduled for October 27 to discuss the demands and explore possible solutions.