Nana Varachha, Surat

Surat MC's standing committee has approved the draft budget for 2026-27, adding projects worth Rs 703 crore, bringing the total to Rs 11,301 crore. Key decisions include free BRTS travel for senior citizens and a waiver of property tax for widows. New grant of Rs 25 crore is allocated for religious institutions.

The Manisha Garnala underpass near Utran Railway Station will be closed for vehicular movement from May 20 to July 1 for bridge expansion work as part of the Utran satellite station development project. This closure pertains to Bridge No. 454, which is a waterway drain being expanded by Western Railway.

The trial run for the Surat Metro has commenced on an 8.5 km viaduct between Dream City and Althan Tenament. This marks a significant step in strengthening the city's urban transport infrastructure. The trial phase will involve approximately 500 hours of train operation to ensure performance, reliability, and safety before passenger services begin.

The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) carried out an anti-encroachment drive, demolishing illegal structures and evicting over 250 people living under the Varachha flyover. This action was prompted by concerns over alleged illegal drug activities in the area, following a viral video and a letter from a local MLA.