On Wednesday, Mumbai woke up to a warm morning, with the maximum temperature recorded at 38.7 degrees Celsius. According to the latest Mumbai weather updates from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Mumbai is expected to experience a clear sky on Wednesday, February 26. Temperatures will range from a cool 23 degrees Celsius in the morning to a warm 39 degrees Celsius during the day. The relative humidity is 51 per cent. The sun rose at 07:00 AM and will set at 06:43 PM. According to the Mumbai weather updates of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Santacruz observatory in suburban Mumbai recorded a maximum temperature of 38.7 degrees Celsius and a minimum temperature of 21 degrees Celsius. The weather department's data showed that the city observatory in Colaba recorded a maximum temperature of 34.6 degrees Celsius and a minimum temperature of 23.6 degrees Celsius. The IMD’s latest Mumbai weather update forecasts a "clear sky with heatwave conditions" for the city and its suburbs over the next 24 hours. Mumbai weather updates: City's AQI in 'moderate' category On February 26, the Central Pollution Control Board’s SAMEER app reported in its latest Mumbai weather updates that the city’s air quality remained in the 'moderate' category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 129 at 9:05 AM. As per the SAMEER app dashboard, many areas across Mumbai showed 'moderate' AQI. Bandra Kurla Complex recorded 'moderate' air quality with an AQI of 198. Chembur, Ghatkopar and Mulund recorded 'moderate' air quality with an AQI of 115, 114 and 105, respectively. Meanwhile, Colaba and Borivali recorded 'good' air quality, with an AQI of 72 and 92, respectively. According to data from the SAMEER app, Navi Mumbai recorded air quality in the 'moderate' category with an AQI of 141, while Thane registered a 'moderate' AQI of 112. The air quality index from 0 to 100 is considered 'good', 100 to 200 'moderate', 200 to 300 'poor', 300 to 400 'very poor' and from 400 to 500 or above 'severe'. Heatwave alert for Mumbai, neighbouring districts as mercury soars The IMD has issued a heatwave alert for Mumbai, Thane and other neighbouring districts in Maharashtra's Konkan region on Tuesday and Wednesday in view of the rising temperatures. India Meteorological Department (IMD) scientist Sushma Nair on Tuesday said the temperatures are likely to be in the range of 37 to 38 degrees Celsius for the next two days. The heatwave alert has been issued for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad and Ratnagiri on February 25 and 26, the IMD said.
26 February,2025 09:45 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA Forest department worker who has been working with Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) as a driver is becoming an inspiration to others, including van majoors (forest labourers) who are yet to clear their Secondary School Certificate (SSC) exams. Prasad Dyaneshwar Marathe, 36, is appearing for his SSC examinations after a gap of 20 years with an appeal to those who are yet to clear the exams that age is just a number when it comes to studying. Marathe had appeared for the SSC exams in 2005 from Walekhinde village in Jath taluka of Sangli district. Unfortunately, Marathe could not clear the examination and due to family responsibilities had to forfeit his education and start working as his entire family was dependent on him. He later came to Mumbai and started working and doing odd jobs but had made up his mind that once he gets married and settles down, he would reappear for the examination. “After failing in 2005, I had to start working as I was the sole breadwinner of my family. I shifted to Mumbai and started doing odd jobs. But, whenever I applied for a job, I was told that a minimum SSC qualification was required. Hence I made up my mind to clear the exam,” Marathe said. In 2023, Marathe joined SGNP as a driver on contract and subsequently, decided to reappear for his SSC exams as he learned that in the near future, the forest department might regularise contractual workers. When asked how clearing the SSC exams might help him, Marathe said, “I have always been of the opinion that if we want to go ahead in life then education is a must. Also, I got to know that in future, the forest department might consider making contractual employees permanent and so I thought completing SSC might be helpful. I am appearing for the exam at Mahasiddha Vidya mandir, near Managalwedha, in Solapur district.” Marathe told mid-day that he works from 10 am to 7 pm as a driver with the forest department and prepares for the exam after returning home. He said that his kids who are 12 and 13 years old are also happy that he is appearing for the exam. “I want to tell everyone that education is important and there is no age for studying. Those who have not been able to clear SSC examinations for whatever reason should think positively and appear for the exams because education is a must,” he added.
26 February,2025 08:47 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavFor many in Maharashtra, night schools offer the only chance to improve their future or fulfil long-lost educational dreams. However, these institutions are struggling to survive due to budget cuts and political apathy, relying heavily on non-profit organisations for support. Over a century ago, Maharashtra pioneered the concept of night schools, enabling working-class men and women to continue their education without sacrificing their livelihoods. Now, this legacy is under threat. Despite a slight increase in the number of night schools—210 across the state, with Mumbai hosting 150—funding shortages and staff cuts jeopardise their future. This year, 4000 students from 102 night schools in Mumbai alone will appear for SSC exams, proving their resilience against mounting challenges. Night schools cater to diverse students—those returning after a break, those juggling work and studies, and even parents studying alongside their children. These institutions serve as a refuge for individuals who had to pause their education due to financial struggles and family responsibilities. Their stories reflect perseverance, grit, and an unyielding commitment to education. A second chance Rani Suryavanshi, 46, from Thane, dreamt of completing her education, but early marriage and motherhood put academics on hold. Now, with her children grown—a doctor, an IT engineer, and an air hostess—she has enrolled in night school. Rani Rajaram Suryavanshi, a Std X student. Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi “This is for me. I want to do this for my self-confidence and to fulfil my dream of completing my education,” she says. Married in 1994 while in Std VIII, Rani was encouraged by her husband to study, but life’s responsibilities took over. Now appearing for her Std X exams, she hopes to score first class. To young students, she advises, “Don’t lose focus. I see kids today distracted by phones and social media. I returned to school after 31 years and understand the value of time. Education has no age limit, but it’s best not to waste time.” Twins on a mission Sagar and Sangam Kamble, 36-year-old twins, had to drop out when their father fell ill. They initially joined a night school in 2007 but failed their SSC exams. After years of working to support their families, they have re-enrolled at Shivaji Night School. Twins Sangam (left) and Sagar Shankar Kamble “We always wanted to study, and now that things are slightly better, we are determined to make it happen,” says Sagar. Despite juggling jobs and late-night studies, they are committed to passing their exams. Sangam adds, “We want to set an example for our children—to never give up on dreams.” Mother-daughter duo Swati Channa-Gajapkar, 36, and her daughter, Krutika, 15, are appearing for the SSC exams together. Swati had to drop out due to financial struggles but has now resumed her studies at Shivaji Night School. Mother-daughter duo Swati Channa-Gajapkar and Krutika Gajapkar preparing for the SSC exam together this year. Pics/Ashish Raje “I missed my SSC exams in 2005 due to family responsibilities. Then marriage and work took over. My husband reminded me of my dream, also I needed to a degree to upgrade professionally,” she shares. Now working at a hospital, she decided to return to school for career growth. Her daughter helps her study, and their journey has strengthened their bond. “It’s never too late to learn,” says Swati. Krutika, a student at Auxilium Convent High School, Wadala, calls her mother her biggest inspiration. While Krutika assists with digital learning, Swati shares life lessons and motivation. The fight for survival “Night school students are more than learners; they are fighters, dreamers, and symbols of relentless dedication,” said Sanjeev Kisan Birari, principal of Mazagaon Night School, Mulund. “They don’t just seek a certificate but the empowerment education brings.” Despite being a bridge between lost opportunities and new aspirations, night schools struggle with staff shortages and financial constraints. A 2017 government resolution barred day-school teachers from working at night, leading to the dismissal of over 1000 teachers. While surplus teachers were meant to fill vacancies, most positions remain empty. An expert panel under the MVA government linked this crisis to declining academic standards, urging the rehiring of regular teachers. Though a policy allowing double shifts was approved in 2022, the new government stalled its implementation, delaying much-needed reforms. “Authorities undermine night schools to cut costs,” said a teacher. “With fewer teachers, principals often pay from their pockets when state funds are delayed.” Most night schools are government-aided, with minimal fees, yet enrolment is falling. “We’re working to rebuild our student base,” said Radhika Mahankal, principal of Shivaji Night School, Dadar. “For decades, we’ve helped dropouts complete their education, but post-2017, confusion and declining numbers persist. Our goal is to revive interest and ensure quality learning.” Growing role of women Despite declining enrolments, night schools have seen a surge in female students. Nikita Ketkar, CEO of Masoom, an NGO supporting 76 night schools in Mumbai, noted the shift in male-to-female student ratios from 70:30 to 50:50 over the past decade. “This reflects growing aspirations among women who are now more aware of opportunities and eager to seize them,” she said. Many female students have secured well-paying jobs after completing their education. A call for support Maharashtra’s night schools continue to provide second chances, but their survival depends on adequate funding and staffing.
26 February,2025 08:26 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghThe concept of night schools in Pimpri-Chinchwad was born out of a need to educate child labourers and school dropouts. With the establishment of Hindustan Antibiotics Ltd. and the subsequent industrial boom, many young workers migrated to the area. For them, night schools became a lifeline—allowing them to earn a living while continuing their education. To provide education to financially disadvantaged students, Saraswati Mandir Sanstha established Chintamani Ratra Prashala in Pune in 1921, later expanding to Pimpri Chinchwad. Over the past four decades, this night school has transformed countless lives in the region’s industrial twin towns. Sanjay Pawar, a former principal who dedicated 29 years to the school, told mid-day, “The idea of night schools emerged to support those who couldn’t study due to financial struggles. Even today, despite widespread access to education, night schools remain relevant and necessary.” Initially, no girls attended night school, but proactive efforts—like distributing pamphlets in slums and at railway stations—encouraged enrolment. “Over time, girls started joining, and eventually, even parents saw the value in sending their daughters,” a school official shared. Santosh Ghante, harmonium player Today, the school educates around 200 students annually, offering opportunities to working professionals and those who had to discontinue their studies. Many former students have excelled in various fields, including music and sports, proving the significant impact of night schooling. Pawar recalled, “There’s no age limit for night school admission. In some cases, parents completed their SSC in night school while their children studied in day school—graduating together.” Discussing the challenges students face, he added, “Since many are older, they often feel shy about joining regular schools. Night schools provide them a second chance. Unlike traditional schooling, where students progress in a fixed sequence, night school students often have educational gaps and must work harder to pass.” For many, passing the SSC exam is crucial for securing government jobs in the municipal corporation and other sectors. “A lot of students regret not completing their education earlier due to financial struggles. Night school gives them a chance to overcome that regret and unlock better opportunities,” Pawar said. Dilip Ramchandra Lanke, the school’s principal, noted, “After COVID-19, night school admissions declined sharply, and nearby slum pockets were also rehabilitated. This year, we have 26 students—16 in SSC and 10 in HSC—bringing our total enrolment to 137 across all classes.” Despite these challenges, Saraswati Mandir Sanstha’s night school remains committed to inclusive education, illuminating the path for those determined to rewrite their destinies. Night school to leadership Raju Misal, a former deputy mayor and four-time corporator of Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), is proof that determination can change lives. His journey—from working in an industrial unit to becoming a political leader—began with night school. Misal, who hails from Konkan, moved to Pimpri Chinchwad in search of work. His uncle, an employee at SKF Company, helped him find a job in an ancillary unit. To continue his education, Misal enrolled in Chintamani Ratra Prashala in 1991. “Night school ran from 6.30 to 9.30 pm. It felt like a regular school, just with shorter hours. The same teachers from the morning school taught us, and we had tests and practice exams just like day scholars. But for us, passing the SSC board wasn’t just about education—it was about securing our livelihood,” he recalled. After passing SSC, Misal pursued ITI, but his interest in public service soon took over. “I began assisting a senior NCP corporator, learning how local issues were handled. Later, I started a pay-and-park business at Akurdi railway station, where I interacted with daily commuters and helped solve their problems. That’s when I realised the value of public service.” Misal’s entry into politics was unplanned. “I never intended to be a politician, but my friends and mentors encouraged me to contest elections. Even my senior corporator recommended my name to Deputy CM Ajit Pawar. In 2007, I contested my first election—and since then, I’ve won four consecutive terms.” Reflecting on his journey, he credited night school for shaping his future. “My classmates were hardworking individuals—some older than me—determined to pass SSC for a better life. Night school gave us the opportunity we never had before.” His message to students is simple: “Give 100 per cent in whatever you do. There’s no substitute for hard work. Never lose hope. Above all, be a good human being—that’s the true purpose of education.” The harmonium maestro At 42, Santosh Ghante is a celebrated harmonium player, known both in India and abroad. But his journey started in the slums of Vidyanagar, Chinchwad, where poverty forced him into labour at the age of five. He dropped out of school in seventh grade, but a friend introduced him to night school, giving him a second chance. Santosh enrolled in Chintamani Ratra Prashala and later pursued a degree in Arts. However, his true passion lay in music. A disciple of Pandit Appa Jalgaonkar, Santosh’s harmonium skills gained recognition worldwide. “To fund my education, I sold scrap to buy pens and notebooks. I worked in a hotel kitchen during the day and attended school at night. Without night school, I wouldn’t have studied beyond the seventh grade,” he said. His pursuit of music was equally challenging. Unable to afford lessons, he once travelled alone to Pune to meet his guru. “He was shocked that I had come so far on my own. Later, I cycled 40 km daily for harmonium classes while juggling jobs and night school.” Santosh’s perseverance paid off. He earned a government scholarship and performed with legendary artists like Ustad Liaquat Ali Khan and Pandit Rilinath Mishra. His talent caught the attention of Mauritius Prime Minister Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, who personally appreciated his work. Today, Santosh has performed in 42 countries and now resides in Barcelona, Spain, where he continues promoting Indian classical music. But he hasn’t forgotten his roots. He recently returned to Pimpri to launch a free harmonium training program for the transgender community. Through his organisation, Swarvadini Kala Manch, he provides a platform for budding musicians. He has also visited 73 zilla parishad schools, counselling students about careers in music. Inspired by Pandit Bhimsen Joshi, he believes music has the power to transform lives. Now, he is working on a book documenting the legacy of his guru, Pandit Appasahib Jalgaonkar. Additionally, he conducts online harmonium classes, ensuring his knowledge reaches students worldwide. Despite his global success, Santosh remains dedicated to uplifting others. Whether through free training programs or his efforts to elevate the harmonium as a solo instrument, his journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and perseverance. Voices Raju Misal, four-time corporator‘Night school ran from 6.30 to 9.30 pm. It felt like a regular school, just with shorter hours. The same teachers from the morning school taught us, and we had tests and practice exams just like day scholars’ Sanjay Pawar, a former principal‘The idea of night schools emerged to support those who couldn’t study due to financial struggles. Even today, despite widespread access to education, night schools remain relevant and necessary’
26 February,2025 08:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Archana DahiwalThe dispute over the candidature for the Mahim Assembly segment appears to be a never-ending affair, continuing to intensify even months after the elections. This time, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) leader Sada Sarvankar has moved the Bombay High Court, filing an election petition challenging the candidature of Mahesh Sawant of Shiv Sena (UBT). In the 2024 state Assembly elections, Mahesh Baliram Sawant won the Mahim seat by securing 50,213 votes, while Sarvankar finished second with 48,897 votes. Months later, Sarvankar has now alleged that Sawant failed to disclose at least four to five criminal cases against him in his election affidavit—an omission he argues is sufficient grounds for disqualification and the nullification of the 2024 Mahim Assembly election results. Speaking with mid-day, Sada Sarvankar's son, Samadhan confirmed the development, stating, “We have moved the court, and this is pertaining to the affidavit. He (Sawant) has hidden criminal cases against him and has not mentioned them in his election affidavit. As per Election Commission rules, candidates must disclose all criminal cases against them in their affidavits. He has hidden at least four to five such cases, violating Election Commission guidelines and misleading the public. This makes a huge difference, especially when the vote margins are small.” Advocate Sagar Gogre, representing Sarvankar, also confirmed the petition saying, “Yes, this concerns Sawant's affidavit. As per legal procedure, all candidates who contested the elections have been made a party to the case.” The matter is scheduled for a court hearing on February 28. Seat marred by dispute Sarvankar’s candidacy in Mahim had already sparked political drama on the final day of nomination withdrawals, particularly over Amit Thackeray's potential candidacy. BJP Mumbai President Ashish Shelar had initially proposed that the Mahayuti alliance support Amit’s electoral debut in the Marathi-majority Mahim constituency, arguing that it would “send a positive message to the people of Maharashtra”. However, he clarified that this was not meant to oppose Sarvankar’s campaign. Despite this, BJP leaders and some members of the Shinde-led Shiv Sena continued to push for Amit’s candidacy, citing Raj Thackeray’s recent support for the Mahayuti during the Lok Sabha elections. On the last day of withdrawals, just 30 minutes before the deadline, Sarvankar announced his intention to meet Raj Thackeray to discuss his decision. However, he later claimed that Raj declined to meet him, leaving him with no choice but to remain in the race. His decision to contest against Amit deepened divisions within the alliance, despite last-minute appeals from both BJP and Shiv Sena leaders. Ultimately, the Mahim Assembly seat became a high-stakes triangular contest—Shiv Sena vs Shiv Sena vs MNS. Amid the infighting among supposed allies, Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Mahesh Sawant gained the advantage and secured victory by a margin of 1,316 votes. When contacted, Mahesh Sawant, MLA, Mahim Assembly constituency, said, “Yes, I have received some notice… I will look into it.”
26 February,2025 08:19 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti Singh | Sameer SurveThe one-day strike called by the trade union on Tuesday, demanding ‘Equal work, Equal pay’ and other benefits for BEST undertaking’s wet lease workers, impacted bus operations, with around 578 buses staying off the road and nearly 70 per cent of buses running for the day. The protest, led by BEST Workers’ Union general secretary Shashank Sharad Rao, included a morcha to push for parity with full-time BEST employees. Fortunately, SSC exam students had a study leave, avoiding any inconvenience. “The operation of BEST bus services was affected, but the BEST tried to facilitate passengers by inducting more buses and maintaining the bus service with the help of regular BEST drivers and conductors,” a BEST spokesperson said. “Of the scheduled turnout of 1,969 buses, about 1,391 buses were able to be operated as 578 buses stayed off the roads due to the protests,” he added. Speaking on the fines levied to wet lease operators, the spokesperson added that as per terms and conditions of the contract work order, there is a provision for an infraction of Rs 5,000/- per bus per day for non-operation of the bus due to any reasons. “The amount of infraction is calculated at the end of the month and after due audit, the said amount is recovered from their monthly bill payment,” he added. Activists speak “During school children's exam time, such tactics are shameful. Take strict action against the strikers. Make alternate arrangements, taking the help of ST buses. That is called crisis management, not posting a message on social media and feeling you have done your duty,” activist Nikhil Desai said. “Loyalty to the undertaking comes through the staff who are on the payroll. Wet-lease staff on contract, toil during duty hours however their part salary is taken away by the wet-lease contractor. Employ drivers on your payroll only then BEST can survive. But you will not because you are out to shut down and offer it to private players so that prime depot land can be sold,” activist Bharat Soni said. Commuters speak Another commuter Sunil Advani said, “BEST, one of the country’s best bus services, has become the worst service. BEST infrastructure needs to be improved, please deal with this with an iron fist and appoint a new professional urban transport planner as its head. Students and citizens are suffering and no one is bothered.” “How long should the commuters suffer? High time action will be implemented against the contractors!” commuter Sarkar Aranya Parthasarathy said. “Commuters are unhappy, wet lease staff are unhappy, the frequency of buses is bad, the quality of buses has deteriorated, and only decision-makers are happy. Why is the reputation of Bestbus being damaged? another commuter Naitik G criticised. “The wet lease contractors do not follow rules and have been ignoring workers's rights. We have cried for the implementation of the 'equal pay for equal work' principle, to focus on the essential nature of their duties. To press their demands, workers staged a protest at Azad Maidan with a memorandum handed over to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the city civic chief,” Rao said. Wet lease bus accidents As per data available, the number of accidents of wet-leased buses has shot up from 13 in 2023-2024 to 79 in 2024-2025 as compared to that of BEST’s self-owned buses over the years, where the number of accidents has been 55 in 2023-2024 to 27 in 2024-2025.
26 February,2025 08:07 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarThe Maharashtra government on Tuesday approved the State Data Policy draft which aims to improve the efficiency of government schemes and projects. As per the statement released by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s office, this policy will involve gathering data from various government departments to ensure the efficient execution of diverse welfare schemes and projects. The State data authority will be set up under the Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (Mitra). “The data collected from departments, educational institutions, research centres, and industries will help improve administrative processes, making them more efficient and transparent,” the release added. Data will be collected digitally through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system and linked to Aadhaar, using information from various government programmes.
26 February,2025 08:03 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentThe Mumbai Metro Aqua Line 3 on Tuesday said it had commenced train movement ahead of Kotak BKC Metro station on the Dharavi to Acharya Atre Chowk stretch, covering 9.77 km and six stations. “Train movement was completed till Acharya Atre Chowk station for trials. The stretch is expected to open for commercial operations by March 2025, subject to inspection and safety certifications by the commissioner of metro rail safety,” a spokesperson said. Terming the development as Phase 2A, a social media video posted depicted visuals of trials and stations. The final phase of the line is expected to open in Colaba by 2025 end. Once the line opens till Acharya Atre Chowk, it will take 39 minutes from JVLR to Acharya Atre Chowk. Challenges faced Officials said working under the Mithi River for such a project was a big challenge. It has never been attempted here under such soil conditions and hence there was no precedent of any kind. The Mithi River is crossed by a twin-tunnel section running under the river between Bandra Kurla Complex and Dharavi stations. Work was taken up with tunnel boring machines (TBMs) named Godavari 3 and Godavari 4 and the New Australian Tunneling Method, which involves sequential excavation. From the entire 3 km twin tunnel section running between BKC and Dharavi, approximately 2 km passes under an expanded water body, including a 500-metre segment of the active Mithi River channel. To tackle this challenge, custom-designed earth balance machines were developed specifically for tunnelling beneath the water. These advanced machines are engineered to sustain natural pressure at the tunnel face, preventing land settlement, while also excelling in managing the removal of excavated material and controlling water seepage. What is below the Mithi The railway line is 9.57m below the Mithi river bed. Below the Mithi water flow, there is one layer of slush, followed by Grade 3/4 brecciated basalt rock, followed by Grade 1/2 brecciated basalt rock, where the machines were used. Watertight gaskets The system should be able to withstand more likelihood of water coming in. That's why we have designed a gasket, especially for this area. Precast concrete segment rings under special mushroom-type gaskets. To ensure that they are watertight, there is one more layer of hydrophilic gaskets that swell when they come in contact with water, making the joints further watertight. Depth Dharavi station which is next to the Kotak BKC station is located 18 to 18.5 metres below the ground. Six stations The six stations between Kotak BKC and Acharya Atre Chowk include Dharavi, Sitaladevi, Dadar, Siddhivinayak, Worli and Acharya Atre Chowk.
26 February,2025 07:59 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has fined 1.57 lakh people in the last 11 months, with 44 per cent of them penalised for spitting in public places across Mumbai. The highest fine—Rs 1.40 crore—was collected from a single private premise for failing to maintain cleanliness. In April 2024, the BMC appointed clean-up marshals to monitor and penalise those contributing to the city’s uncleanliness. According to BMC data, marshals have recovered Rs 4.54 crore in fines since then. Of the total fines collected, Rs 1.25 crore came from 62,892 people penalised for spitting in public, primarily on roads. Additionally, 32,012 people were fined for littering, resulting in Rs 65.71 lakh in penalties. Under the “Swachh Angan Scheme,” marshals also fined 14,014 industries, bungalows, and row houses, collecting Rs 1.40 crore in fines. Each civic ward has around 30 clean-up marshals. The BMC first introduced the clean-up marshal system in 2008 but discontinued it in 2011 following numerous complaints. The system was reintroduced in 2016 but again faced backlash due to allegations of unnecessary fine collection. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the BMC allowed marshals to fine people for not wearing masks. As per BMC policy, marshals can impose fines ranging from Rs 200 to Rs 1,000, depending on the violation. The collected fine is split equally between the BMC and the marshal.
26 February,2025 07:50 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentResidents of Bandra and Khar West were hit by a double whammy after a gas pipeline burst on Tuesday and a water pipe burst on Monday. While a Mahanagar Gas pipeline broke during road digging work in Bandra West, hitting hundreds of households, a water pipeline burst near Lucky Restaurant in the same suburb. Mahanagar Gas officials said the gas supply would be restored on Wednesday morning. Asif Zakaria, former Bandra West corporator told mid-day that the gas pipeline broke around 3 pm on Tuesday while the old asphalt road was being dug for concreting work. Minor flames erupted from the spot, and the fire brigade was immediately called. A team from the BMC and Mahanagar Gas started working on fixing the problem immediately. Gas supply in some areas was restored by Tuesday evening, Zakaria added. A message forwarded to customers by the MGL authority said that due to damage to the MGL pipeline by another agency gas areas in Bandra West would not get gas supply. Customers were told gas supply would be restored by 6 am on Wednesday. Madhu Poplai, a resident of the Pali Hill told mid-day, “We came to know that the gas supply would be restored by Wednesday morning only. We have to just wait as we don’t have an option.” On Monday, a 750 mm diameter pipeline supplying potable water burst near Lucky Hotel in Bandra West leading to water shortages for residents in the area of Khar Danda, Dandpada, Gazdarbandh, Chuim Village, Dr Ambedkar Road, Pali Village, and parts of Khar. According to a BMC official, a leakage in the pipeline was detected on Monday, but, it could not be fixed owing to traffic. At 4 am on Tuesday, excavation work was halted as no clear leakage was detected in the dug-up area. The BMC water supply department decided to resume further excavation after identifying the exact leakage spot using the sound method. Meanwhile, BMC officials claim water supply has been restored.
26 February,2025 07:43 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentA women’s kabaddi tournament was held at Cheetah Camp, Mankhurd, in March 2024 to mark Women’s Day. This year, Coro India, working for 35 years in Maharashtra and Rajasthan for sanitation (Right to Pee campaign), women empowerment, tackling violence against women, child rights, gender rights and more, held Season 2 of the kabaddi tourney for underserved community women—many of them toilet operators, women from slums and transgender women—at a public ground in Cheetah Camp on Tuesday. This event was a trailblazer as women toilet operators who run the slum toilets mainly in the area and around, along with women in the slum organised that tourney. There were 30 teams and a robust number of spectators cheering the 270 players. The tournament at Cheetah Camp, Mankhurd, on Tuesday. Pic/Kirti Surve Parade While the spirit was competitive at the outset, it was evident that kabaddi was not just a game. It was a medium for women to experience freedom, safety and the right to public space. It was all about smashing stereotypes, be it that women should not be out on the playing field or that trans-women are simply to be ridiculed. Transgender women (often shortened to trans women) are women who were assigned male at birth though they have a female gender identity. The medium “We are as much women as other women,” said a trans-woman Vrushali D who also worked with Coro. “This is more than kabaddi. This gives us trans-women, a forum to interact with other women. Doing so makes fears go away, as we communicate with other women and address misconceptions.” As she spoke, a group of trans-women players Sufi H, Sonia, and Jasmin (while pointing to the ground) added, “We feel good to come in here to practice.” “It makes us feel part of society, not simply people to be laughed at or dismissed. There are a couple of stray, insulting remarks when we practise but we ignore them. In fact, it spurs us on to play with more josh (enthusiasm),” they said. The change As women players trickled in from nearby areas and bastis, Team Coro's Rohini Kadam, Kiran Khanderao and Anjum Shaikh, said, “This is about giving women confidence. So many of these women actually wore a t-shirt and track pants to practice for the first time, breaking away from traditional attire. That is symbolic as it means that they are also breaking the shackles, and changing norms. Most of the women have set foot on a playground after more than two or three decades. This Cheetah Camp ground sees children and men playing different sports. Even the fact that women are entering here, practising and playing means there are heralding significant change,” they said. “Most women from this strata will have to answer numerous questions from family members who ask: Why are you leaving the house? Why are you playing a sport? What does it give you?” The confidence The excitement was high as volunteers were watering the maidan, marking the lines for the kabaddi match. Women players from some local sports clubs said, “While it is challenging for some women to be here to play, there is family support. Family members will be in the spectator stands to cheer. Like in this sport, so in life, when we fall down, dust ourselves off, get up and go.” That sport and life connection found resonance everywhere as these women said they had a newfound confidence thanks to the game, and improved self-esteem which translated into other areas of life. The ground also held a Coro Counselling Centre “where women are made aware that we offer counselling services too,” said counsellor Swati Bansode. “Many of these women face domestic abuse, and economic problems. In these slums and other areas like this, houses are very close together, sometimes creating problems with neighbours. In the end, people have to live together as a community. We help find solutions for that. Here, at the game, we are the first point of outreach and those affected can come to our centres for help,” stated Bansode as the matches started. Though the prizes were on the table, glinting in the afternoon sun, ready to be awarded to the winning team, it was evident that this was not about medals and trophies. The space, the game, the cause, organisers, volunteers and players were all agents of change and winners in their own right.
26 February,2025 07:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Hemal AsharADVERTISEMENT
