February News Roundup, Mumbai | Eminem in India, new pod taxi route, Ferris Wheel project & more

February has been all about important updates— from BMC's largest-ever budget of ₹74,427 crore for 2025-26 to Maharashtra greenlighting 1 lakh bike taxis across MMR. Here’s a quick recap of all the key updates!

The BMC is considering a monthly fee for Solid Waste Management (SWM), ranging from ₹100 to ₹1,000 per household and ₹500 to ₹5,500 for commercial spaces. This shift from a free service aims to align with the Union Government's 2016 guidelines. While the BMC seeks legal amendments, concerns remain over fairness and its impact on low-income groups.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has approved the Mumbai Eye project in its 2025 budget. Modeled after the London Eye, this 135-meter ferris wheel will feature air-conditioned capsules with a 25-person capacity. The project will be built under a Public-Private Partnership, though the location is still undecided. This marks Mumbai’s third attempt at a giant ferris wheel.

Mumbai's suburban railway network is set for a major upgrade with high-tech trains and infrastructure improvements. The new fleet will tackle overcrowding, featuring advanced ventilation, smoother rides, and quicker acceleration. Train frequency will also increase, with gaps reduced to 120 seconds. Additionally, ₹16,400 crore is allocated for new tracks and projects, part of a larger ₹23,778 crore investment in Maharashtra's railways.

On February 4, 2025, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) unveiled its largest-ever budget of ₹74,427 crore for 2025-26, a 14.19% increase from the previous year. This budget highlights BMC’s focus on major development and infrastructure projects to boost Mumbai's growth and services.

BMC’s 2025-26 budget prioritises pedestrian-friendly infrastructure with the ₹5,100 crore ‘Universal Footpath Policy’ to improve walkways and accessibility. Plans include the ‘Mumbai Eye’ for tourism, a ‘Tiger Monument’ on the Goregaon-Mulund Link Road, and expanded green spaces like Anandvan Green Belt and Mumbai Public Park. Upgrades to Koliwadas and Byculla Zoo further enhance the city’s sustainability.

Vande Bharat sleeper trains are set to connect Nagpur with Pune and Mumbai, improving rail travel in the region. The proposal, under review by the Railway Board, aims to cut travel times significantly—10 hours for Nagpur-Mumbai and 3 hours for Nagpur-Pune. Currently, limited train options cause overcrowding and longer wait times, with many opting for road travel.

BEST will launch a new bus service along Mumbai's Coastal Road by May 2025, connecting Worli to Marine Drive. Buses will run every 20-30 minutes, with adjustments based on demand. This service complements the nearing completion of the Mumbai Coastal Road Project, which includes ten bus bays under construction for the route.

BMC is ramping up its eco-friendly initiatives, including the 'Green Building' project in Santacruz, which will follow a zero-waste and solar-powered design. Other measures include the world’s largest rooftop solar initiative, transitioning crematoriums to PNG, and the Swachh Bharat 2.0 project aiming for 100% sewage collection and expanded toilet facilities.

Mumbai’s new ₹69 crore Jogeshwari Rail Terminus is set to open in six months, easing congestion at busy stations like Dadar and Bandra. The project includes 12 train services shifting from Mumbai Central, and discussions to make it a terminus for high-speed trains like Vande Bharat. It will feature modern infrastructure and efficient train operations, though concerns about potential overcrowding persist.

Mumbai’s furry residents have a new reason to rejoice—a dedicated Pet Park has opened near Juhu Beach, opposite Novotel Hotel. Inaugurated by filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, the park was once a dumping ground but has been transformed into a safe space for pets and owners. It’s part of efforts to make Mumbai’s green spaces more accessible.

Mumbai's Dharavi Redevelopment Project (DRP) has crossed a major milestone with over 50,000 door-to-door surveys completed. Spearheaded by Adani Group's Navbharat Mega Developers, the project aims to rehabilitate 1.5 lakh tenements. This transformation will provide modern housing, infrastructure, and amenities while preserving residents' dignity, though protests and logistical challenges have arisen.

The Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP) has launched a new stretch from Haji Ali Juice Centre to Marine Drive, offering a faster route for southbound traffic. The final leg, connecting BWSL to Lotus Jetty-Worli Naka, is set to open by mid-March. The project includes multi-level interchanges at Haji Ali, Amarsons, and Worli, improving connectivity along Mumbai’s western coast.

Maharashtra is set to introduce 1 lakh bike taxis across MMR, offering a cheaper, app-based travel alternative. Fares will be 60% lower than autos and taxis, with 30% of fleets being electric, increasing yearly. Operators must run at least 50 bikes per 15-km radius. Despite opposition from unions, the plan awaits final cabinet approval.

The BMC has paused road concretisation work in Bandra's Pali Hill after strong opposition from residents. The Pali Hill Residents Association raised concerns about dust pollution, potential tree damage, and disruptions to a nearby school and senior citizens. Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani instructed officials to reassess the project, ensuring a balance between development and community needs.

BMC has issued notices to restaurants and dhabas using charcoal tandoors, asking them to switch to electric appliances by July 8, 2025, following a Bombay High Court order. Failure to comply could lead to license revocation, fines, and legal action. While some restaurant owners argue it’ll affect food taste, BMC confirms the court’s order applies to all establishments using coal.

The Ministry of Transport has rolled out new FASTag regulations effective from February 17 to improve toll payment efficiency and security. Key changes include stricter verification, penalties for blacklisted or low-balance FASTags, and additional charges for delayed transactions. Users now have a 70-minute grace period to recharge their FASTag, with chargeback options for incorrect deductions.

The Maharashtra Government is considering another location for Pod Taxis, also known as Personal Rapid Transit (PRT), in addition to Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC). The new pod taxi route proposes to connect Mira Bhayandar with Thane-Ghodbunder, improving links between railway and metro stations. Officials believe the Futran-based system will help reduce congestion and integrate well with the metro network.

Mumbai’s Irani bakeries are fighting to preserve their traditional wood-fired ovens as BMC mandates a switch to electric or LPG alternatives by July 7, 2025. The Irani Bakers Association (IBA) has appealed for an exemption, citing the cultural significance of these century-old bakeries. With conversion costs at ₹20 lakh per bakery, they seek government support for the transition.

Marine Drive is getting a lighting upgrade by the BMC, with 110 LED fixtures being installed along the promenade for better visibility and safety. The ₹17 lakh project aims to improve lighting for daily visitors and events. The new lights, placed under 55 trees, will enhance the waterfront's charm. Additionally, a new 7.5-km promenade from Breach Candy to Worli is under development.

Tesla is set to make its debut in India, with a showroom opening soon in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). The 5,000-square-foot store marks a significant step after overcoming regulatory hurdles. Tesla is also hiring for 13 roles, including customer managers. With EV-friendly policies now in place, Tesla plans to enter the premium EV market, with prices ranging from ₹21 lakh to ₹2 crore. A store in New Delhi’s Aerocity is also in the works.

Eminem is set to make his long-awaited debut in India, with reports confirming a performance in Mumbai on June 3, 2025, as part of his world tour. While details like the venue and tickets remain unconfirmed, fans can expect an electrifying show featuring hits from his extensive career. Past tours have included collaborations with artists like Dr. Dre and Rihanna, and this one may feature surprises too.

Mumbai Indians has unveiled their official jersey for IPL 2025, featuring their iconic blue and gold design symbolising trust, confidence, and excellence. Captain Hardik Pandya shared a heartfelt message with fans, the 'Paltan,' promising a strong season ahead. Jerseys are available in Player Edition for ₹4,999 and Replica for ₹2,499. The team kicks off their campaign on March 23.

Navi Mumbai is set to get its own Disneyland-style Wonder Park, spanning 200 hectares with 35 rides, live shows, and a water park. Part of MMR’s Growth Hub initiative, it will also feature a resort, animation studio, and an artificial lake. Also, mini replicas of the Seven Wonders of the World is the key highlight.

On February 23, Zara closed its flagship store in Mumbai's historic Ismail Building, near Flora Fountain, ending its presence at this 119-year-old site. The 51,300-square-foot store, once Zara's largest in India, had been a hub for fashion lovers. The closure marks a shift in Zara's strategy and South Mumbai's retail landscape.

Now, Purple Style Labs (PSL Retail), a luxury fashion house, has secured a five-year lease for the Ismail Building and will pay ₹3 crores in monthly rent during the first year. The firm will occupy five floors, starting from the ground level, with plans to establish its luxury fashion brand, Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop, within the space.

Maharashtra is set to roll out new school regulations to address concerns over fees and student safety in the upcoming academic year. A committee, led by Jitendra Patil, will submit a report within a month, focusing on fee structures, safety standards, and transparency. Schools must install panic buttons, fire sprinklers, and GPS, while bus operators will need CCTV surveillance for better monitoring.

BMC will introduce an entry fee for the Malabar Hill Walkway to fund maintenance and a crowd control system, ensuring a safe experience for up to 417 visitors at a time. Inspired by Singapore’s Forest Walk, this 427m eco-friendly trail features a glass-bottom deck and bird-watching zone. Nearby, the newly opened Shantivan Gardens offers a serene escape.

Mumbai is experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to record highs for February. On Wednesday, the Santacruz Observatory recorded 38.5°C—its second-highest February temperature in eight years—just a day after hitting 38.7°C, the highest since 2017.

The Colaba Observatory, which tracks coastal temperatures, also saw a significant rise, reaching 35.3°C, exceeding the seasonal norm. With the city already under a heatwave alert for February 25-26, experts attribute the soaring temperatures to delayed sea breezes and strong easterly winds.

However, Mumbai’s all-time highest February temperature remains 39.6°C, recorded on February 25, 1966.

NASA has significantly lowered the chances of asteroid 2024 YR4 colliding with Earth in 2032 to near-zero, reducing its impact probability from 3.1% on February 18 to just 0.004% by February 25. Initially spotted on January 27, 2024, the asteroid sparked global concern as early projections suggested a possible collision course with Earth in December 2032.

At its peak risk level, 2024 YR4 was classified as a 'city-killer' asteroid with a potential impact comparable to the 1908 Tunguska event. However, improved tracking and refined calculations drastically lowered the risk, with experts attributing the initial alarm to data uncertainty. While the asteroid now poses no threat to Earth, there remains a 1.7% chance of it impacting the Moon on December 22, 2032.