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.

Assurance Follows Woman’s Death on Thane-Belapur Road and Residents’ Protest Over Lack of Safe Crossing.

The Bridge

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has assured residents that a pedestrian bridge will be constructed at Turbhe Store on the Thane-Belapur Road within a month. The assurance came after a woman was killed while crossing the busy road, prompting local residents to stage a protest demanding immediate safety measures.

Chhaya Gaikwad died on Monday evening after being hit by a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) waste transportation vehicle while crossing the road. She died on the spot. The incident angered residents, who said the absence of a safe pedestrian crossing and delays in completing the flyover project had put commuters at risk. Led by social activist Abhiman Jagtap, protesters demanded a temporary pedestrian bridge until the flyover is completed.

Resident Santosh Jadhav said he had been demanding the flyover for several years and criticised the civic administration for failing to address pedestrian safety concerns earlier. Following the protest and a representation from residents, NMMC Executive Engineer Pandharinath Chavde provided a written assurance that the pedestrian bridge would be constructed within a month.

The civic body has also promised to deploy traffic police personnel and security guards in the area. Additional measures, including CCTV cameras and traffic signals, are planned to improve traffic management and pedestrian safety. Residents have urged the authorities to implement these measures without delay to prevent further accidents. The incident has renewed concerns over road safety at Turbhe Store, where pedestrians continue to face difficulties crossing the busy Thane-Belapur Road while the flyover project remains incomplete.