In a major boost to the state's transport system, Maharashtra's Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Saturday announced that 2,640 new buses would be added to the State Transport (ST) fleet this year. The new vehicles will feature the iconic red flag, which will soon be seen on roads across the state. Speaking at the inauguration of the National Road Safety Mission in Thane, Sarnaik highlighted the importance of modernising the transport services while prioritising safety and cleanliness. "We are working on a master plan to transform the overall transport system in Maharashtra. The focus will be on safe travel, cleanliness, and modernisation of the ST service, which will happen in phases," he said. The first phase of the modernisation includes a significant upgrade of facilities for ST employees, with Sarnaik stressing the importance of improving employee welfare. "The quality of every facility available to ST employees, from uniforms to restrooms, must be upgraded. Only when we ensure better facilities for our employees can we provide better services to passengers," he added. As part of the fleet expansion, the highly anticipated new Lalpuri buses have already begun arriving. The Maharashtra Minister dedicated 17 new buses on Saturday and confirmed that by the end of January, 150 Lalpuri buses would be delivered to depots in Thane city and rural areas. Additionally, 300 ST buses are expected to be delivered each month, with all depots across the state set to receive these buses. Sarnaik also announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art 100-bed clinic in Borivali for ST employees and their families. The clinic will offer a range of health services in collaboration with the state government's health department, ensuring better healthcare facilities for ST staff. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari gives in-principle nod to cable car project for MMR Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has given in-principle approval for the implementation of a cable car project using a ropeway system in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The approval was conveyed during a meeting with state officials in New Delhi, which also saw the presence of State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. Sarnaik discussed the implementation of the cable car project in MMR with Gadkari, who emphasised the importance of developing an integrated transport system. The Union Minister stressed the need to reduce travel time, particularly between the suburbs and Mumbai Airport. The proposed cable car project is designed to address the growing challenges of urbanisation and transport in MMR. It will be executed through a public-private partnership (PPP) model or through joint financial collaboration between the central and state governments. The project is being overseen by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). MMR is experiencing rapid urban growth, extending from Palghar to Uran-Pen in Raigad district. With daily pressure on existing public transport systems, including roadways, railways, and metro, Sarnaik highlighted the necessity of introducing air-based services like the cable car system to meet the region’s future transport needs. In line with the project’s progress, Gadkari has instructed V Umashankar, Secretary of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, to initiate a survey and prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to move the project forward.
11 January,2025 07:03 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentThe Indian Coast Guard Region (West) conducted a Special Coastal Cleanup Drive at Girgaon Chowpatty in Mumbai on Saturday, as part of its upcoming 49th Raising Day celebrations. The event highlighted the Coast Guard's ongoing commitment to marine environmental protection, with a strong focus on preserving the ecological balance of the nation's coastal areas. Apart from the Indian Coast Guard personnel, volunteers from local schools and colleges in Mumbai also participated in the cleanup effort. The initiative aimed to foster a collective sense of responsibility for the protection of coastal biodiversity. Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, PTM, TM, Commander, Coast Guard Region (West), expressed his appreciation for the enthusiastic participation of all those involved in the drive. He highlighted the symbolic nature of the event, noting that it went beyond routine cleanup efforts. "This drive is not just about cleaning the beaches; it is a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the biodiversity of our coastal areas," said IG Sharma. The cleanup drive saw active involvement from various groups, including the Ismaili Civic Group, National Social Services, and the National Scouting Guiding Development Committee. A key feature of the event was the Mallakhamb display by the team of Padma Shri awardee Uday Deshpande, renowned for bringing the traditional Indian sport to international recognition. Dr Nandini Jain, a Kalaripayattu master, and her team showcased the ancient martial art, adding an energetic cultural element to the event. The enthusiasm of the volunteers and participants demonstrated the broader message of the event: the importance of collective action in safeguarding the environment. As the cleanup progressed, the beach began to transform, reflecting the positive impact that can be achieved when individuals come together for a common cause. This special drive is part of the series of events leading up to the Indian Coast Guard’s 49th Raising Day celebrations, set for February 1, 2025. The Coast Guard Region (West) will continue to host similar events across the west coast of India, further promoting the vital role of the Coast Guard in marine conservation and environmental protection.
11 January,2025 04:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA massive fire broke out at temporary godowns storing scrap and paper rolls in Bhiwandi town of Maharashtra’s Thane district, gutting the structures and the materials stored inside. Firefighting efforts continued overnight to contain the blaze, officials reported on Saturday. The fire erupted around 4 pm on Friday at Walpada in Bhiwandi, where the scrap materials were housed in tin sheds, according to a fire department official. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident. Three fire engines from the Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation were immediately dispatched to the site to tackle the flames. However, the fire rapidly spread, fuelled by the large quantity of scrap and paper rolls stored in the temporary godowns, making the firefighting operation particularly challenging. “Firefighting operations continued throughout the night as the blaze engulfed the stored scrap materials. The extent of the damage is significant, but no casualties have been reported,” the official stated. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and investigations are underway. Authorities are examining whether any lapses in safety measures might have contributed to the incident. The incident has raised concerns about the safety standards in such temporary storage facilities. Local authorities are urging businesses operating in similar setups to prioritise fire safety by installing fire-fighting equipment and conducting regular inspections to prevent such mishaps in the future. Residents in the vicinity of Walpada expressed concern over the thick plumes of smoke emanating from the site, which were visible from a distance. The fire department assured that the flames were under control by Saturday morning and that efforts were on to ensure the site was completely safe.
11 January,2025 02:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the Tribal Development Department to ensure the effective implementation of welfare schemes, reported news agency PTI Vivek Pandit, who chairs the state committee for reviewing tribal welfare efforts, noted on Saturday that many tribal groups are missing out on benefits due to the lack of a coordinating body. "The chief minister has directed the Tribal Development Department to ensure these schemes are implemented efficiently and reach the tribal population," said Pandit. To support this initiative, the state government has released a Government Resolution (GR) outlining a comprehensive 24-point action plan for the implementation of tribal welfare programs. "Tribals in Maharashtra, such as the Katkari and other groups, must receive the full benefits of these schemes," Pandit said. Sharad Pawar praised RSS for countering opposition's fake narrative in 2024 polls: Fadnavis Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) chief Sharad Pawar praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) after observing how the organisation successfully countered the opposition’s fake narrative during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The opposition had earlier alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) aimed to secure 400 seats to amend the Constitution and eliminate reservations, a claim that saffron party leaders acknowledged had negatively impacted their campaign. Commenting on Pawar’s recent remarks appreciating the RSS, Fadnavis said on Friday that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance managed to construct a misleading narrative during the general elections. However, he credited the RSS for its role in exposing the truth. “When the Assembly elections drew closer, individuals from various walks of life, inspired by the RSS, played a critical role in dismantling this fake narrative. Sharad Pawar Saheb is an astute leader; he must have studied the RSS’s efforts and realised that it is not merely a political entity but a nationalist force. In any competition, it is wise to recognise others’ strengths,” Fadnavis remarked during an interaction with senior editor Vivek Ghalsasi at the Late Vilasji Fadnis Jivhala programme in Nagpur. The Chief Minister further revealed that when Eknath Shinde was appointed Chief Minister in June 2022, he had requested to be assigned organisational work. However, senior party leaders insisted that he join the government. (With inputs from PTI)
11 January,2025 02:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a significant milestone for Mumbai's metro network, the Chief Commissioner of Rail Safety (CCRS), New Delhi, has granted safety certification for the regular operation of Mumbai Metro Line 7 (Red Line) and Metro Line 2A (Yellow Line). This certification marks the successful compliance with all conditions set during the provisional authorization, enabling unrestricted operations at a full capacity speed of 80 kmph—an increase from the previous temporary speed limits of 50 to 60 kmph at certain locations. Both lines, operated by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), play a crucial role in reducing congestion on Mumbai’s busiest routes. Metro Line 2A stretches 18.6 km from Dahisar to DN Nagar, with 17 stations, while Metro Line 7 spans 16.5 km from Andheri (East) to Dahisar (East), with 13 stations. Together, they cater to over 2.5 lakh daily passengers, with cumulative ridership exceeding 15 crore since the start of operations. MMRDA has implemented cutting-edge technology on these lines, including driverless-capable trainsets, CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control) signalling, platform screen doors, and advanced ticketing systems. These initiatives demonstrate MMRDA's commitment to creating a safe, eco-friendly, and efficient metro network, aligning with the Hon. Chief Minister’s vision of “Mumbai in Minutes.” Hon. Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis remarked, “The regular authorization for Metro Lines 7 and 2A is a step closer to transforming Mumbai into a world-class city with an efficient transport network. This achievement reflects our government’s commitment to providing sustainable, time-saving, and eco-friendly mobility options for Mumbaikars. With this development, we are delivering on our promise to make Mumbai’s public transport system the backbone of its progress.” Deputy Chief Minister and Chairman of MMRDA, Shri Eknath Shinde, added, “Mumbai’s metro expansion is a game-changer for the city, and the regular authorization of Metro Lines 7 and 2A is a testament to MMRDA’s dedication to its vision. This development will significantly reduce congestion on key routes and improve the quality of life for commuters. We remain committed to further developing Mumbai’s metro network to meet the demands of our ever-growing city.” Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee stated, “This milestone reflects MMRDA’s relentless efforts to adhere to the highest safety standards and operational excellence. The removal of speed restrictions and the safety certification by CCRS will enhance the metro experience and help achieve our goal of ‘Mumbai in Minutes.’” The regular authorisation of Metro Lines 7 and 2A underlines MMRDA's focus on transforming urban mobility, offering Mumbaikars a faster, safer, and more sustainable commute.
11 January,2025 02:15 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarFive distinguished individuals from the Mumbai region are among the 10,000 special guests invited from across India to witness this year’s Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, on 26 January. A total of 23 individuals from Maharashtra have been selected to attend the grand celebration, representing diverse categories and achievements. The five invitees from the Mumbai region include Mr Atul Hanumant Jadhav from Antop Hill and Mr Vaibhav Nitin Patil from Vasai West, both chosen under the PM Yashasvi Scheme. The category celebrates individuals who have utilised government schemes effectively to achieve outstanding success. Shri Brahmdeo Pandit, a Padma Shri awardee and Shilpguru, along with Shri Abhay Brahmdeo Pandit, a National Award recipient, both from Kalakar Niwas in Bhayander East, have been selected under the Maharashtra Textile (Handicrafts) category. Their contributions to the field of handicrafts, particularly in textiles, have been widely recognised. Additionally, Smt Ujwala Sadashivrao Patil, Assistant Commissioner of Anganwadi from Badlapur West, has been invited under the Maharashtra Women and Child Development (WCD) Handicrafts category. Her significant work in empowering women and enhancing the Anganwadi sector has earned her a place among the esteemed guests. The Republic Day Parade is one of India’s most anticipated annual events, celebrating the nation’s cultural diversity, military strength, and achievements. Each year, the government invites a select group of special guests who have excelled in their respective fields or contributed significantly to society. These individuals represent the spirit of innovation, hard work, and dedication to nation-building. The 23 special guests from Maharashtra are among thousands invited to attend the parade from various walks of life. This year’s invitees include top performers in their fields and those who have made exemplary use of government initiatives to improve their lives and communities. The Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path is a fitting platform to honour these individuals, who serve as role models and inspire others to make a meaningful impact in society. Their presence at the event underscores the government’s commitment to recognising grassroots-level achievements and contributions to the nation’s progress.
11 January,2025 02:09 PM IST | MumbaiA man driving under the influence of alcohol allegedly crashed his car into several two-wheelers parked along the roadside in Kalyan, Maharashtra, late on Friday evening. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident, according to police reports. The accident occurred around 9 p.m. when the driver, identified as Anil Tiwari, lost control of his vehicle while speeding through the area. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the car collide with at least 10 two-wheelers, which were parked along the road. The impact caused significant damage to the vehicles, though no riders were present at the time of the crash. The police confirmed that Tiwari, who was visibly intoxicated, was promptly arrested following the incident. He was taken into custody and later transported to a civic hospital where a medical examination was conducted to confirm his blood alcohol content. As per PTI reports, the driver’s reckless behaviour led to the widespread damage of the two-wheelers, but fortunately, no individuals were injured. Angry bystanders quickly intervened, attempting to stop the car before alerting the authorities. According to eyewitnesses, Tiwari’s car was moving at a high speed, making it difficult for anyone to react in time. The police have since initiated an investigation to determine whether any riders, who may have been close to their vehicles at the time, suffered any injuries. Initial reports do not indicate any serious harm. (With inputs from PTI)
11 January,2025 01:31 PM IST | MumbaiTwo individuals wanted in connection with the murder of a man in Palghar district last year were apprehended by the police on Friday, authorities confirmed on Saturday. Rohan Vishwanath Singh (28) and Akhilesh Yadav (24) were arrested in Virar, a suburb of Mumbai, after being on the run for nearly a year. Deputy Commissioner of Police Jayant Bajbale stated that the two were part of a larger gang of 12 members accused of abducting and murdering Sudhir Kunjbihari Singh (27) on January 12, 2024. The victim was reportedly abducted by the group and transported in an autorickshaw to Goraipada, where he was then attacked with sharp weapons and subsequently killed. The police investigation revealed that the two accused, along with others in the gang, had planned and executed the brutal crime. Following their arrest, Singh and Yadav have been booked under Sections 302 (murder), 364 (kidnapping or abduction for murder), and other relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The police had already arrested seven members of the gang prior to this latest development, with the remaining five suspects still at large. The arrests of Singh and Yadav followed a tip-off that led law enforcement officers to the Bhatpada area of Virar. Following their apprehension, the authorities are now focusing their efforts on tracking down the other three individuals involved in the murder. (With inputs from PTI)
11 January,2025 01:26 PM IST | MumbaiA 26-year-old man was arrested by the police on Friday night for allegedly possessing mephedrone worth Rs 1.08 lakh in Maharashtra's Thane district, police officials said on Saturday. The arrest was made during a routine patrolling operation in Dombivili town, located in the district. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Atul Zende, of Zone III, Kalyan, the police team intercepted the suspect, identified as Vinay Iyer, on the MIDC road in Dombivili late on Friday evening. Upon searching him, the officers recovered 34 grams of mephedrone, a banned narcotic substance, from his possession. The contraband seized from the accused was valued at an estimated Rs 1.08 lakh, said the police official. In line with the investigation, a case has been registered against the arrested individual under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, which governs the control and regulation of narcotic substances in India. The authorities have confirmed that Iyer was taken into police custody after the arrest and further investigation into his activities is underway. As per PTI, this arrest comes shortly after a series of drug seizures conducted by the police earlier in the week. On separate occasions, police officials successfully confiscated 1,123 grams of ganja, valued at Rs 25,500, along with 40 bottles of cough syrup worth Rs 9,000. These seizures were part of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb the rise of drug trafficking and illegal narcotic-related activities in the region. DCP Atul Zende stated that the police department’s anti-drug initiative would continue and that special teams have been established to monitor and control drug-related activities in and around the region. He further urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities in order to ensure that these illegal trades are curbed effectively. (With inputs from PTI)
11 January,2025 01:22 PM IST | MumbaiShiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut announced on Saturday that his party plans to contest the upcoming elections for local bodies independently, reported news agency PTI. Speaking to reporters, the Rajya Sabha MP emphasised that the INDIA bloc and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliances are primarily focused on Lok Sabha and assembly elections. "In an alliance, workers of individual parties don't get opportunities, and it hampers organisational growth. We will contest polls to the Mumbai, Thane, Nagpur and other municipal corporations, zilla parishads and panchayats on our strength," he said. He mentioned that party chief Uddhav Thackeray has indicated for the party to go solo in these elections. The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also criticised Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar for engaging in a blame game regarding the MVA's defeat in the state assembly elections. He asserted that those who don't believe in consensus and compromise have no right to be in an alliance. Raut further highlighted the lack of activity within the INDIA bloc post the Lok Sabha elections, noting that no meetings have taken place since then. He remarked, "We were not able to appoint even a convenor for INDIA bloc. It isn't good. As the largest party of the alliance, it was the Congress's responsibility to convene a meeting." When addressing Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's claims about not mentioning farm loan waivers in his speeches, Raut insisted that these issues must be addressed. "Even if he hasn't spoken about it. Farm loan waiver and Rs 2,100 for Laadki Bahin beneficiaries are mentioned in the BJP's poll manifesto. These two promises have to be implemented. He is the finance minister in the BJP government, and he will have to do it," he said. Finally, in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comments during his first podcast about being human, Raut said, "He (Modi) is god. I don't consider him a human. God is god. If someone declares him an incarnation of god, how can he be a human? He is the 13th avatar of Vishnu. If someone who has been considered god says he is human, something is wrong. There is chemical 'locha'." (With inputs from PTI)
11 January,2025 01:20 PM IST | Nagpur | mid-day online correspondentMumbai woke up to a foggy morning on January 11, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting partly cloudy skies accompanied by haze. While the temperatures remain mild, the cooler mornings and reduced humidity have brought a pleasant, wintry feel to the city. Today's weather The temperature in Mumbai today stands at 28°C, with a forecasted high of 31°C and a low of 21°C. Winds are blowing at a speed of 10 km/h, and the relative humidity is currently at 46%. Sunrise was observed at 7:13 AM, and sunset is expected at 6:17 PM. The IMD has provided further weather predictions for the week ahead: Saturday, January 12: Temperatures are expected to range between 19°C and 32°C, with humidity rising to 50%.Monday, January 13: The mercury will fluctuate between 22°C and 32°C under mostly clear skies.Tuesday, January 14: A low of 22°C and a high of 33°C are forecast, with clear skies anticipated.Wednesday, January 15: Temperatures will remain steady at 22°C for the low and 33°C for the high, with predominantly clear skies.These forecasts suggest that while mornings may feel cooler, Mumbai’s afternoons will remain warm and pleasant. Air quality concerns The city’s air quality index (AQI) today stands at 164, placing it in the "moderate" category. This is a significant dip compared to the improved conditions seen in recent days. Health authorities have advised caution, especially for children and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma, as the air quality nears unhealthy levels. Residents are encouraged to limit outdoor activities, particularly during peak traffic hours. The use of masks and air purifiers is recommended to mitigate the impact of poor air quality. Understanding the AQI can help Mumbaikars plan their day responsibly and take necessary precautions to safeguard their health. As the week progresses, the city is likely to enjoy clearer skies and steady temperatures, making it an ideal time to step out—provided the air quality improves.
11 January,2025 01:18 PM IST | MumbaiADVERTISEMENT
