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Slack will soon make plans, schedule meetings for you

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**Slack Will Soon Make Plans and Schedule Meetings for You**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 13, 2025, 07:55 pm*

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**What’s the Story?**

Slack, the popular workplace communication platform, is testing a major upgrade to its Slackbot feature. This update will evolve Slackbot from a simple reminder and notification tool into an advanced AI assistant capable of creating personalized plans, scheduling meetings, and managing information across multiple Slack channels.

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**AI Evolution: Slackbot Rebuilt From the Ground Up**

Slack’s Chief Product Officer, Rob Seaman, shed light on the transformation in an interview with The Verge. “Slackbot today is fairly rudimentary,” he said. “But now, we are actually rebuilding it from the ground up as a personalized AI companion.”

In the new iteration, Slackbot will appear as an icon next to the search bar at the top of the workspace, serving as a smart assistant designed to improve user productivity.

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**User Interaction: Smarter, More Personalized**

Clicking the updated Slackbot icon will open a direct message-like panel on the right side of the screen. Users can type in natural language prompts such as, “What are my priorities for today?” or “Find the latest updates on a project.”

Powered by AI, Slackbot will analyze conversations, files, and workspace data to provide tailored assistance that meets individual and team needs.

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**Enhanced Features: From Planning to Campaigns**

Beyond simple queries, the upgraded Slackbot can handle complex tasks. For example, it can organize a product launch plan within a Canvas by gathering data from different Slack channels.

Additionally, it can assist in creating social media campaigns that align with a brand’s tone and style, streamlining marketing efforts right within Slack.

The bot also supports natural language searches across workspaces, making it easier to locate documents without remembering exact keywords.

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**Cross-Platform Coordination: Scheduling Made Easy**

The new Slackbot will integrate with Microsoft Outlook and Google Calendar, enabling it to coordinate and schedule meetings effortlessly with colleagues.

Slack’s AI capabilities already include summarizing threads, channels, and decoding company-specific jargon; these features will continue to be enhanced through the updated Slackbot.

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**AI Deployment and Availability**

Slack’s AI features operate securely on Amazon Web Services’ virtual private cloud, ensuring that no data leaves the company firewall or is used for model training.

While organizations can opt out of using the AI Slackbot, individual users within a workspace will not have this option.

Currently, the upgraded Slackbot is available to 70,000 employees at Salesforce and is undergoing testing with other customers. Slack plans to roll out this major update to all users by the end of this year.

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Stay tuned as Slack redefines workplace productivity with its intelligent AI assistant!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/slackbot-to-get-ai-upgrade-can-organize-product-launch-plans/story

Diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV launched in India at ₹3cr

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**Diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV Launched in India at ₹3 Crore**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 13, 2025*

Mercedes-Benz has reintroduced the diesel engine option for its iconic G-Class off-roader in India after a year-long hiatus. The new G 450d variant is priced at ₹2.9 crore (ex-showroom) and features the most powerful diesel engine in Mercedes’ global portfolio. With this launch, the G-Class lineup in India now includes petrol, diesel, and electric variants.

**Engine Specifications**

The G 450d is powered by a new 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine equipped with 48V mild hybrid technology. It delivers an impressive 367hp and a peak torque of up to 750Nm. The integrated starter generator provides an additional power boost of up to 20hp when needed, allowing the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just under six seconds. The top speed is approximately 210 km/h.

**Off-road Prowess**

Built to tackle challenging terrains, the G 450d offers a ground clearance of up to 241mm and a fording depth of up to 700mm. It boasts excellent approach, breakover, and departure angles of up to 31 degrees, along with the ability to maintain stability on side slopes of up to 35 degrees.

Design enhancements include chrome-finished horizontal slats on the grille, new AMG alloy wheels, and subtly redesigned bumpers that maintain the vehicle’s commanding presence.

**Luxurious Interior**

Inside, the G 450d upholds Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury. The cabin features premium Nappa leather upholstery and customizable ambient lighting, creating a refined atmosphere. The high-end Burmester sound system complements the interior experience.

Technology is at the forefront with dual 12.3-inch displays running the latest MBUX NTG7 software. Off-roading is made easier with augmented reality navigation and a unique ‘transparent bonnet’ function that enhances visibility on tough terrains.

**Advanced Safety Features**

Safety is uncompromised with a Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) suite that includes active brake assist, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system, providing confidence both on and off the road.

Mercedes-Benz has imported only 50 units of the diesel G-Class in this first batch for Indian customers, making it an exclusive offering for enthusiasts seeking performance, luxury, and ruggedness in one package.

**Conclusion**

The return of the diesel-powered G-Class in India underscores Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to providing versatile and powerful options in their iconic SUV lineup. Priced at ₹2.9 crore, the G 450d blends exhilarating performance, cutting-edge technology, and off-road capability, catering to discerning buyers in the luxury SUV segment.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/mercedes-benz-g-class-now-available-with-diesel-engine-in-india/story

Windows 10 support ends tomorrow: Here’s what comes next

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**Windows 10 Support Ends Tomorrow: Here’s What Comes Next**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 13, 2025 | 05:47 pm*

After nearly a decade of dominance, Microsoft is officially ending support for Windows 10. Starting tomorrow, the tech giant will no longer provide free security updates for the operating system, posing significant risks for the millions of PCs still running it.

### What This Means for Users

Microsoft has been warning users about this change for months, but many are still uncertain about their next steps as the deadline approaches. Without ongoing security updates, Windows 10 machines may become vulnerable to cyberattacks, making it crucial to act promptly.

### Upgrade Hurdles: Hardware Restrictions

According to Forbes, nearly 200 million computers cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware incompatibility. For these devices, options are limited. Users may need to enroll in Microsoft’s Extended Security Update (ESU) program to continue receiving critical updates—or run an unsupported version of Windows 10, which comes with increased security risks.

### Importance of Backing Up Your Data

Whether you choose to upgrade to Windows 11, enroll in ESU, or continue using an unsupported system, backing up your data is essential. Transitioning between operating systems or updates carries the risk of glitches and data loss. To protect your information, create a full PC backup or safeguard your most important files using cloud storage or external drives.

### Disposal Guidelines: Protecting Your Personal Data

If you plan to recycle or resell your old PC, Microsoft strongly recommends using Windows 10’s built-in erase feature to wipe personal data securely. This precaution helps prevent your information from falling into the wrong hands. The same advice applies to parting ways with smartphones or other devices.

### The Upgrade Push and Criticism

Consumer advocacy groups have voiced concerns that millions of users cannot afford new machines right now, making Microsoft’s push for upgrades feel out of touch with many people’s needs. Nonetheless, Microsoft continues encouraging users to move toward newer devices, especially those equipped with the company’s latest AI features like Copilot.

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With Windows 10 support ending, it’s important to evaluate your options carefully and take steps to protect your data and device. Whether upgrading or opting for extended security updates, preparation is key as the tech landscape moves forward.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/microsoft-ends-windows-10-support-tomorrow-what-to-do/story

Why world’s top diesel carmakers are facing a UK trial

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**Why the World’s Top Diesel Carmakers Are Facing a UK Trial**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | October 13, 2025, 01:32 PM*

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### What’s the Story?

In a landmark case unfolding at London’s High Court, some of the world’s leading automakers are being tried over allegations of using illegal “defeat devices” to cheat on diesel emissions tests. Representing 1.6 million claimants, lawyers accuse companies including Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Nissan, Renault, and Stellantis-owned brands Peugeot and Citroën of deliberately manipulating emissions systems.

This major lawsuit, considered one of the largest in English legal history, comes nearly a decade after the infamous Volkswagen “dieselgate” scandal that dramatically shook the automotive industry.

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### Accusations Against the Manufacturers

Claimants allege that these automakers equipped their diesel vehicles with unlawful “defeat devices.” These devices are said to detect when a vehicle is undergoing official emissions testing and adjust performance to meet legal limits. However, under normal driving conditions, emissions would purportedly exceed regulatory standards.

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### Defendants Reject the Allegations

The accused manufacturers have strongly denied the claims, describing them as fundamentally flawed. They also reject any comparison to the 2015 Volkswagen scandal, which led to billions in fines and compensation.

Mercedes-Benz, in particular, has defended its emission control systems, stating that their technology was both legally compliant and technically justified.

The trial will focus on examining a representative sample of diesel vehicles from the five manufacturers to determine whether prohibited defeat devices were indeed used.

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### Wider Implications of the Case

The outcome of this trial could have significant consequences for many similar claims pending against other automakers, including Stellantis-owned Vauxhall/Opel and BMW.

Martyn Day, a lawyer representing the claimants from the Leigh Day firm, commented that if the allegations are proven, it would reveal one of the most egregious breaches of corporate trust in modern times.

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### Previous Legal Precedents

This is not the first time London’s High Court has addressed the issue of defeat devices. In 2020, the court ruled against Volkswagen in a related case.

However, the current group of claims dwarfs the previous Volkswagen case in scale, with claimants’ lawyers estimating its total value at around £6 billion.

Additionally, these automakers are facing similar global lawsuits related to diesel vehicle emissions testing.

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**Stay tuned for updates as this pivotal case unfolds, potentially reshaping accountability within the diesel vehicle industry.**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/london-court-trial-begins-in-diesel-emissions-lawsuit/story

BOBCARD is offering big discounts on flights: Check offers

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**BOBCARD Offers Big Discounts on Domestic and International Flights This Festive Season**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | October 12, 2025, 05:21 PM*

Bank of Baroda’s credit card division, BOBCARD, is bringing exciting discounts on both domestic and international flight bookings through various popular travel platforms. These offers are valid from October 7 to December 31, 2025, just in time for the festive season and year-end vacations when air travel demand surges.

### Discount Details by Travel Platform

**MakeMyTrip & Goibibo**
MakeMyTrip cardholders can enjoy a 12% discount (up to ₹1,600) on domestic flights booked for over ₹7,000. For international flights exceeding ₹30,000, a 10% discount is available, capped at ₹7,000. These offers are valid only on Tuesdays and Fridays. Promo codes to avail these discounts are:
– Domestic flights: `MMTBOBEMI`
– International flights: `MMTBOBINTEMI`

Goibibo users get similar offers with the following codes:
– Domestic flights: `GOBOBEMI`
– International flights: `GOBOBINTEMI`

**Tata Neu Flights & Yatra**
Tata Neu Flights customers can avail a 10% discount (up to ₹1,000) on domestic bookings over ₹5,000. For international flights booked above ₹15,000, the discount also stands at 10%, with a maximum limit of ₹2,000. Use code `BOBDOM` for domestic and `BOBINT` for international flights.

Yatra offers a 12% discount (up to ₹1,600) on domestic flights booking over ₹7,000, and 10% off international flights (up to ₹7,000) for bookings above ₹30,000.

**EaseMyTrip & Paytm Flights**
EaseMyTrip presents two discount options:

– A 13% discount (up to ₹1,500) on domestic flights for bookings above ₹6,000, and 10% off (up to ₹5,000) on international flights over ₹20,000.
– A 12% discount (up to ₹1,600) on domestic flights for bookings above ₹7,000, and 10% off (up to ₹7,000) for international flights exceeding ₹30,000.

Paytm Flights customers can avail similar discounts with promo codes `FLYBOB` for domestic and `INTLFLYBOB` for international flights.

**Ixigo**
Ixigo cardholders can enjoy a 12% discount (up to ₹1,600) on domestic flights booked for over ₹7,000, and a 10% discount (up to ₹7,000) on international flights with a minimum booking value of ₹30,000. Use codes `IXIBOBEMI` for domestic and `IXIBOBEMIN` for international flights.

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With BOBCARD’s attractive flight discounts across multiple platforms, now is a great time to plan your festive and holiday travels. Don’t miss out on these limited period offers ending December 31, 2025!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/big-discounts-on-flights-using-bobcard-this-festive-season/story

How NVIDIA became a victim of US-China trade war

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**How NVIDIA Became a Victim of the US-China Trade War**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 12, 2025, 05:19 PM*

NVIDIA, a leading American chipmaker, has found itself caught in the crossfire of the ongoing trade war between the US and China. In April 2025, the company’s H20 chip was banned by the Donald Trump administration over national security concerns. Although the chip was designed to comply with previous Joe Biden-era restrictions, US officials fear that these chips could enable Chinese firms to develop military-grade AI technologies.

### Tech Dominance: The H20 Chip and US Strategy

The H20 chip, intentionally less powerful than NVIDIA’s top-tier H100, is part of a broader US strategy to curb China’s advancement in artificial intelligence technology. In July 2025, a partial lifting of the ban allowed NVIDIA to resume selling some chips to China. However, this came with a stipulation: NVIDIA agreed to pay 15% of its revenue from these sales to the US government.

### Retaliation: China Tightens Scrutiny on US Tech Imports

In response to the US’s tech restrictions, China has increased scrutiny on American technology imports, including NVIDIA’s chips. This development highlights the escalating tensions between the two global powers over technology and trade, and it illustrates how companies like NVIDIA are caught in the middle of this fierce competition for technological supremacy.

### Security Concerns: AI Technology at the Heart of US-China Tensions

Artificial intelligence technology remains a central issue in the ongoing US-China trade war. NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang has cautioned that restricting AI chip sales to China might backfire, potentially motivating Beijing to accelerate the development of its own AI technology. This situation underscores the delicate balance between addressing national security concerns and fostering healthy competition in the global AI landscape.

As the trade war continues, NVIDIA’s experience exemplifies the challenges faced by tech companies navigating the complex intersection of geopolitics, innovation, and market access.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/us-china-trade-war-nvidia-s-h20-chip-caught-in-crossfire/story

$19B: Cryptocurrency market suffers biggest single-day wipeout in history

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**$19B: Cryptocurrency Market Suffers Biggest Single-Day Wipeout in History**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 11, 2025, 05:28 PM*

The cryptocurrency market has experienced its largest single-day wipeout ever, with over $19 billion liquidated in a massive sell-off. This sharp downturn was triggered by US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 100% tariff on “any and all critical software” imports from China, an unexpected move that sent digital assets into a downward spiral.

### Market Impact: Over 1.6 Million Traders Affected

According to data from Coinglass, more than 1.6 million traders have been impacted over the last 24 hours. On Friday alone, over $7 billion worth of positions were liquidated in less than an hour. Coinglass also noted that the total liquidation figure might be higher, as exchanges do not always report these orders in real-time.

### Tariff Implications and Market Concerns

The tariff announcement follows China’s recent export restrictions on rare earth minerals—essential components in global manufacturing and technology. The US has described China’s move as “extraordinarily aggressive.”

Brian Strugats, head trader at Multicoin Capital, highlighted that the market focus is now shifting towards counterparty exposure and the risk of a wider contagion effect in the crypto market. Some analysts estimate that total liquidations could surpass $30 billion.

### Crypto Performance: Bitcoin and Ethereum Hit Hard

In the past 24 hours, Bitcoin and Ethereum have suffered significant losses. Bitcoin dropped 7.6% to $112,394.31, while Ethereum plunged over 13% to $3,793, according to CoinMarketCap data. Bitcoin faced heavy liquidations totaling around $9.5 billion after failing to hold the $120,000 support level. Other major cryptocurrencies also experienced considerable declines following the tariff announcement.

### Investment Advice: Opportunity for Long-Term Investors

Despite the volatility, Edul Patel, CEO of Mudrex, views the current market conditions as a good opportunity for investors to build long-term positions. He emphasized that while short-term selling pressure is intense, the overall market sentiment remains bullish.

“These declines could be used to gradually build long-term positions, especially in fundamentally strong assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum,” Patel advised.

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As the market reacts to geopolitical tensions and policy shifts, investors are encouraged to remain informed and consider strategic positions in top cryptocurrencies.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/why-cryptocurrency-market-is-seeing-a-wipeout/story

Should you be worried about WeWork India’s ₹3,000cr IPO?

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**Should You Be Worried About WeWork India’s ₹3,000 Crore IPO?**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | October 7, 2025 | 8:02 PM*

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WeWork India’s ₹3,000 crore initial public offering (IPO) has come under scrutiny, with proxy advisory firm InGovern raising significant concerns over its structure and pre-listing conditions. Shriram Subramanian, the founder of InGovern, highlighted issues that cast doubt on the promoters’ intent, the company’s financial sustainability, and governance oversight.

### IPO Structure: No Fresh Capital Infusion

The IPO is structured as a full offer for sale (OFS), meaning that no new capital will be infused into the company through this process. Instead, existing shareholders are offloading shares, which raises questions about the use of proceeds and the company’s future funding needs.

### Major Concerns Raised by InGovern

**Temporary Release of Pledged Promoter Shares**

A key concern flagged by InGovern is the temporary release of promoter shares that were pledged before the IPO. Over 53% of WeWork India’s pre-IPO shares, held by Embassy Buildcon, had been pledged against borrowings amounting to approximately ₹2,065 crore. These pledges were revoked mainly to facilitate the IPO. According to Subramanian, if the listing did not occur, the shares would have to be re-pledged within 45 days. This arrangement raises questions about the promoters’ commitment and the stability of their holdings.

**Ongoing Financial Challenges**

WeWork India continues to face operating cash losses, a challenge complicated by lease agreements treated as debt obligations. Nearly 43% of the company’s FY25 revenue went toward lease payouts. Subramanian expressed concern over the promoters’ use of a pure OFS to deleverage, noting that the company’s brief profit in FY25 was largely due to a deferred-tax gain rather than operational performance.

**Governance and Compliance Red Flags**

Repeated audit qualifications have been highlighted as a potential red flag. From FY22 to FY24, WeWork India reported material weaknesses in internal controls, including poor vendor documentation and issues with related-party transparency. Moreover, the promoters face several pending enforcement proceedings under the aegis of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Enforcement Directorate (ED), and the Prevention of Corruption Act, spotlighting serious governance concerns.

### Market Risks: Dependence on the WeWork Brand

InGovern also flagged WeWork India’s dependence on the WeWork Global brand as a critical risk factor. The company operates under a 99-year license, which is contingent on promoter control and regulatory compliance. Any conviction or significant change in promoters could jeopardize these brand rights, posing an existential threat to the business model.

### Despite Concerns, Strong Anchor Participation

Despite these multiple concerns, the IPO attracted strong anchor investor interest, raising ₹1,348 crore from 67 investors including well-known names like ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund and HDFC Mutual Fund.

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**Takeaway:** While WeWork India’s IPO garnered a solid market response, investors should carefully weigh the significant financial, governance, and structural risks highlighted by InGovern before making investment decisions.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/wework-india-s-3-000cr-ipo-under-ingovern-s-scanner-here-s-why/story

Paytm launches AI Soundbox for small businesses: How it works

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**Paytm Launches AI Soundbox for Small Businesses: How It Works**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025, 08:03 PM*

Paytm has introduced the AI Soundbox, a revolutionary device designed to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) streamline their daily operations and payments more efficiently. The new product was unveiled at the Global Fintech Festival 2025, marking a significant step forward in bringing advanced technology to India’s business landscape.

### What Is the AI Soundbox?
The AI Soundbox is an enhanced version of Paytm’s popular payment Soundbox series. What sets this device apart is its conversational AI capability, allowing merchants to interact in 11 Indian languages. This feature makes business transactions and management more accessible for a diverse range of users across the country.

### Enhanced Features for Business Intelligence
Beyond handling payments, the AI assistant embedded in the Soundbox can answer queries related to payments, sales trends, and overall business performance. Paytm describes the device as a “business intelligence assistant,” providing real-time insights that help merchants make informed decisions without needing complex software.

The Android-based device features dual screens—one displays payment updates, while the other facilitates easy interaction with the AI assistant. It supports dynamic QR codes alongside tap and insert card transactions, ensuring versatile payment options for customers.

### Transforming Small Businesses with AI
The AI Soundbox is aimed at empowering India’s extensive network of small businesses, from local kirana stores to cafes and retail chains. By integrating artificial intelligence into everyday business interactions, Paytm hopes to simplify operations and enhance business intelligence at the grassroots level.

Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Founder and CEO of Paytm, highlighted that this launch signals a new era of intelligent devices tailored for businesses across India.

### Reliable Connectivity for Smooth Operations
Equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity, the AI Soundbox assures stable performance for indoor settings such as restaurants and supermarkets. Additionally, 4G support is built-in to maintain seamless transaction processing in outdoor or high-traffic areas.

With this launch, Paytm continues to innovate in the fintech space by providing accessible and smart technology solutions that cater specifically to the needs of India’s small and medium enterprises.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/paytm-introduces-ai-soundbox-for-smes-here-s-what-it-offers/story

Could Navi Mumbai airport be linked to BKC via tunnel?

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By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025, 04:23 PM

**Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Proposes Tunnel Connecting Mumbai to Navi Mumbai International Airport**

Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to prepare a detailed feasibility report for a proposed tunnel that would connect Mumbai with the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. This initiative aims to enhance travel convenience and alleviate congestion once the airport becomes operational.

The new airport, scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is expected to handle up to two crore passengers annually, marking a significant boost to the region’s aviation capacity.

### Airport Launch and Inauguration Ceremony

The inauguration ceremony is set for tomorrow, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar in attendance. The first commercial flight from the airport is anticipated to take off in December.

Officials have warned of a substantial increase in traffic following the airport’s commencement, which may put additional pressure on the existing road infrastructure.

### Strengthening Connectivity: Integrated Transport Network

To address these challenges, the government is exploring innovative ways to improve connectivity between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. Deputy Chief Minister Shinde emphasized the need for an integrated transport network that links the new airport with suburban rail, metro corridors, and waterways.

“To ensure seamless movement, the deputy chief minister has instructed the MMRDA Commissioner to study the feasibility of constructing a tunnel connecting the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and Bandra Kurla Complex to Navi Mumbai Airport,” stated an official release.

### Transport Integration with High-Speed Rail

In addition, Shinde has asked officials to examine the possibility of integrating the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project with major regional transport hubs. Key stations under consideration include the Mhatardi bullet train station in Thane, Kopar railway station, and Taloja Metro station.

The Mhatardi station, currently under construction in Diva, is planned as a significant transport hub that will connect bullet trains, suburban trains, metro routes, and highways. This integration aims to provide seamless connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

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The proposed infrastructure developments are poised to transform regional travel by creating a comprehensive, interconnected transport system, ensuring easier access to the new Navi Mumbai International Airport and supporting the city’s growing transportation needs.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/shinde-asks-mmrda-to-study-feasibility-of-mumbai-navi-mumbai-tunnel/story