**Inauguration of Navi Mumbai International Airport Delayed Amid Monsoon Challenges**
The much-anticipated inauguration of the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), initially scheduled for September 30, has been postponed, Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik confirmed, putting an end to weeks of speculation about whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi would unveil the project this month.
### Delay Due to Heavy Rainfall and Infrastructure Concerns
Reports indicate that heavy rainfall in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and the Konkan area has caused significant challenges, including loose soil and muck on the roads leading to the airport in Ulwe. These conditions posed obstacles for visitor access, prompting the Prime Minister’s Office to notify the state government about the delay in the Prime Minister’s visit.
The inauguration was also expected to coincide with the launch of the final phase of the Mumbai Metro 3 line, which may now be rescheduled, according to sources.
### Naming Controversy Surrounding the Airport
Political discussions have emerged around the proposed naming of the airport after social activist D B Patil, a respected figure who championed farmers’ rights. The proposal has garnered support from local communities, especially the Agri-Koli community.
Local BJP leaders have expressed concerns regarding the delay in formalizing the airport’s name. Addressing the matter, Minister Ganesh Naik told reporters, “I can assure you that it will bear the name of late D B Patil once the Centre grants its approval.” He further added that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has already given his consent to the proposal.
### Preparations for Operational Launch Continue
Despite the inauguration delay, preparations for the operational launch of NMIA are moving forward steadily. Air India recently announced plans to begin commercial operations at the new airport, joining IndiGo and Akasa Air in committing flights to NMIA.
Air India Express is expected to operate 20 daily flights initially, connecting 15 Indian cities, with plans to increase to 55 daily departures—including up to five international routes—by mid-2026.
Air India Chief Executive Campbell Wilson expressed enthusiasm about NMIA’s potential, highlighting its promise as a major global transit hub for both passengers and cargo.
### Infrastructure Upgrades to Support the Airport
To improve connectivity, Central Railway is enhancing suburban rail services on the Nerul/Belapur-Uran corridor. Daily train services will increase by 50%, and two new railway stations are being developed to provide direct access to the airport.
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The delay in the inauguration has shifted the timeline, but as infrastructure upgrades and airline commitments progress, NMIA is poised to become a significant node in India’s aviation network in the near future.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/not-opening-on-september-30-navi-mumbai-international-airport-inauguration-delayed-confirms-maharashtra-minister-ganesh-naik-video
