Do you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for April 9. Aries March 21 – April 20Soon you may be asked to deal with a safe project that isn’t risky. Someone may be hiding ill feelings towards you.Cosmic tip: Consciously and peacefully face facts if something isn’t working. TaurusApril 21 – May 20Ensure words carry clarity, so no point is misunderstood. Intuition and perception are strong today. Cosmic tip: Be prepared to deal with extra expenses. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Make sure all income-tax work is completed on time. A temporary dark cloud clears away by evening.Cosmic tip: Write thoughts and happenings of the day in a journal to understand emotions. Cancer June 22 – July 23This is a positive karmic cycle to introduce the person chosen to be a life partner to elders. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Dust and tidy up the bookcase; you may discover something important. Leo July 24 - Aug 23A holiday is planned. Atmosphere at home is happy due to changed circumstances. Unspoken thoughts and words can be troubling sometimes.Cosmic tip: Keep memory sharp by doing puzzles, reading. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23There are so many small jobs to complete at home which take longer than expected. Couples could strengthen their bond.Cosmic tip: Look forward to a completely new karmic cycle. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Living life in the moment with faith is the best way to go through normal ups and downs. Cosmic tip: Be careful who you confide in. A confidence trickster may create problems. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22A friend shares good news that includes you too. Fine-tune some marketing ideas before discussing them at a meeting. Do get enough sleep.Cosmic tip: Take time off too, to relax and just chill. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Stay away from flatterers who have an ulterior motive for being so sweet, drowning you in compliments. An ‘ex’ calls. Cosmic tip: Relax by meeting friends for dinner. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Receiving a job offer is fine, but consider it from all angles before making a decision. A sibling comes to spend some time with you and the extended family. Cosmic tip: Maintain a healthy diet. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Not carrying work pressures home helps keep vibes at home relaxed and peaceful. An increase in finances is revealed. Cosmic tip: Keep personal spaces clutter-free. Make time every week to do this. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Following through with a decision made against advice given is because you are so sure of what you are doing. Cosmic tip: Open yourself to the vast connection of universal love.
09 April,2026 02:39 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseA Level-I fire broke out in a residential high-rise at Royal Palms Estate in Goregaon (East) on Tuesday evening, prompting a swift response from emergency services. According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB), the incident was reported at 7:43 pm. The blaze occurred at Emerald No. 1, Unit No. 30, located on Aarey Road. Fire confined to upper floors, declared Level-I Officials said the fire was confined to flat no. 803 and partially affected flat no. 804 on the 8th floor of the stilt-plus-20-storey building. The blaze involved electric wiring and installations, wooden furniture, office records and files, PVC pipes, insulating materials, steel rods, and stock of scrap materials. Additionally, wooden doors, frames, and scrap materials in the adjacent flat were also impacted. The Mumbai Fire Brigade declared the incident as a Level-I fire at 8:09 pm, categorising it as a minor blaze. Firefighting teams, along with police personnel, ambulance services, and officials from the electricity department, were rushed to the spot. Fire brought under control; residents rescued As per the latest update recorded at 10:30 pm, the fire was successfully extinguished at 9:47 pm. During the operation, five persons were safely rescued by fire brigade personnel through the building’s staircase. Additionally, 22 residents — including 10 men, 8 women, 3 children, and a pet dog — were found safe in the refuge area on the 15th floor. No injuries reported No injuries were reported in the incident. Authorities are yet to ascertain the exact cause of the fire. Further investigation is underway, officials said. Fire breaks out at industrial estate in Andheri; no injuries In another incident, a fire broke out on March 27 at an industrial building located on Mahakali Caves Road in Andheri East, prompting a swift response from multiple emergency agencies. According to officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB), the incident was reported at approximately 4:41 pm at Nand Bhavan Industrial Estate. The Level-II fire was later upgraded to a Level-II emergency at 5:08 pm as thick smoke engulfed parts of the structure. Fire officials stated that the blaze was confined to the ground and first floors of the ground-plus-two (G+2) industrial building. Heavy smoke was observed billowing from the premises, raising concerns among nearby occupants and workers in the area.
08 April,2026 11:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a concerning incident reported near Nirmal Lifestyle in Mulund, a small Mugger crocodile measuring approximately 1.5 feet was found struggling in a sewage-filled nala under extremely poor conditions. Following a distress call from local residents, teams from the Wildlife Welfare Association, along with officials from the Forest Department, promptly reached the site and successfully rescued the reptile. Search operations underway amid fears of more sightings Residents in the area have expressed concerns that more crocodiles may be present nearby. In response, authorities have initiated search and monitoring operations in and around the locality to ensure the safety of both citizens and wildlife. Natural dispersal behaviour of Mugger crocodiles The Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) is known to be a territorial species. Wildlife experts note that younger crocodiles often disperse from their original habitats in search of new territories as population density increases. Such movement is considered a natural behavioural pattern. Urban water bodies remain key crocodile habitats Mumbai’s ecosystem continues to support a population of crocodiles, particularly in water bodies such as Tulsi, Vihar, and Powai lakes. Tulsi Lake falls within the protected limits of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, while Vihar and Powai lakes are closely integrated with the city’s urban landscape. Rising sightings over the past decade Over the last ten years, crocodile sightings in and around Mumbai have seen a noticeable increase. Experts attribute this trend to habitat expansion and connectivity through natural water channels, which sometimes extend into drainage systems. Notably, such movements are not restricted to the monsoon season and can also occur during dry periods, as crocodiles search for water, food, and suitable habitats. Authorities urge vigilance, caution citizens Crocodiles are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, making their conservation a top priority. Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and avoid approaching the animals if spotted. Residents are advised to immediately inform the Forest Department or local wildlife rescue teams in case of any sightings.
08 April,2026 11:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) on Wednesday announced that it will launch statewide agitations to highlight public grievances and press for their resolution by the ruling government in Maharashtra. The party signalled a more aggressive political stance as it seeks to strengthen its connect with citizens across the state, reported news agency PTI. Party to Take ‘Aggressive Stand’ on Public Issues State unit president Shashikant Shinde said the party would “hit the streets” to ensure that issues affecting the common people are addressed promptly. “We will take an aggressive stand to ensure that the concerns of Maharashtra’s citizens are resolved by the ruling side,” Shinde said while speaking to reporters after a party meeting in Mumbai, reported PTI. He emphasised that the party remains committed to raising pro-people issues and holding the government accountable. Organisational Strengthening Underway Across State Shinde highlighted that the party has recently undertaken a series of initiatives to strengthen its organisational structure. District-level meetings were conducted across Maharashtra over the past week as part of this effort, reported PTI. These meetings aimed at boosting grassroots engagement and preparing the party cadre for upcoming political challenges. He noted that several key organisational decisions had been pending due to a continuous cycle of elections and are now being addressed. Supriya Sule Leads Internal Meetings The party’s internal restructuring efforts are being overseen by Supriya Sule, who has been actively participating in meetings of various party cells. According to Shinde, these meetings are focused on identifying capable workers and assigning them organisational responsibilities to strengthen the party’s presence at multiple levels, reported PTI. He added that party workers continue to remain committed and united, providing a strong foundation for future political campaigns. Agitation Planned to Address Citizens’ Grievances The NCP (SP) leadership indicated that the planned protests will focus on key issues affecting citizens, though specific topics were not detailed. The agitation is expected to bring attention to governance-related concerns and demand timely intervention from the state government, reported PTI. Party leaders believe that taking to the streets will help amplify public voices and increase pressure on authorities to act. Leadership Downplays Defection to BJP Responding to the recent defection of leader Samarjeet Ghatge to the Bharatiya Janata Party, Shinde sought to minimise its impact. He stated that Ghatge had originally been associated with the BJP and had joined the NCP (SP) ahead of the 2024 assembly elections seeking a ticket. After contesting and losing from Kagal in Kolhapur district, he has now returned to his former party, reported PTI. Opposition Strategy Gains Momentum The announcement of statewide protests signals a renewed push by the NCP (SP) to consolidate its position as a key opposition force in Maharashtra. With organisational strengthening and public outreach initiatives underway, the party appears to be gearing up for an intensified political battle in the months ahead.
08 April,2026 10:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEscalating their long-pending grievances, interior design students, along with activists from the Maharashtra Navanirman Vidyarthi Sena (MNVS), have registered an FIR against Bandra’s B.D. Hiray College at the Kherwadi Police Station. The complaint has been filed under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 318(2) and 318(4), which pertain to cheating and fraud. Marksheets Issued, But Discrepancies Raise Concerns As previously reported by Mid-Day on March 22, students enrolled at the interior design study centre of B.D. Hiray College alleged that they had not received recognised degrees or marksheets even two years after completing their course. On March 24, students from the first batch confirmed receiving their marksheets. However, they claimed that crucial details such as subjects, examination dates, and marks did not match their original curriculum, raising serious concerns about the authenticity of the documents issued. Questions Over University Affiliations In their statement to the police, students alleged that they were charged Rs 80,000 in fees and were informed that the study centre was affiliated with “Sangai International University, Manipur.” The institution was later reportedly delisted by the University Grants Commission (UGC). Following this, the college allegedly shifted its affiliation to Sikkim International University, a move that has further deepened students’ doubts regarding the legitimacy of their qualifications. MNVS Demands Strict Action Speaking on the issue, Santosh Gangurde, State General Secretary of MNVS, alleged widespread malpractice in the education sector. “The trustees and principals of some colleges are cheating students by luring them with promises of higher education and issuing fake or invalid certificates. This is a serious issue that endangers students’ futures and raises questions about the entire education system,” he said. He further criticised the response of authorities, stating that the alleged inaction of the state government and concerned agencies is a matter of concern. “MNS Vidyarthi Sena strongly condemns such fraudulent practices and demands strict action against those responsible,” Gangurde added.
08 April,2026 09:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA heavy hydraulic crane overturned on the Kopri flyover along the Eastern Express Highway in Thane (West) on Wednesday evening, disrupting traffic movement towards Mumbai and causing significant congestion in the area. Crane mishap during elevated corridor work According to the Thane Municipal Corporation control room, the incident occurred around 4:00 pm near Gnyanasadhana College. The crane (MH 43 CG 7419), owned by M/s J. Kumar Company, was engaged in construction work for the Saket elevated corridor when it lost balance and toppled. Preliminary information suggests that the mishap was triggered by a sudden failure of one of the crane’s hydraulic landers, leading to loss of control and causing the machine to tilt to one side. No injuries, vehicle restored Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported in the incident. The overturned crane was later restored to its original position, and the affected stretch of the road has since been cleared for vehicular movement. Traffic disruption on Eastern Express Highway The incident led to massive traffic congestion on the busy Eastern Express Highway, particularly on the Thane-to-Mumbai stretch. Commuters faced considerable delays as vehicles piled up following the mishap. A brief period of chaos was reported immediately after the crane collapsed, prompting swift response from traffic police and local authorities. Authorities step in to ease congestion Personnel from the Thane City Traffic Police and other concerned agencies rushed to the spot and initiated measures to regulate traffic and restore normalcy. While traffic flow has gradually improved, the incident caused significant inconvenience to commuters during peak evening hours. Bank official killed as truck crashes into his scooter in Beed district Meanwhile, a senior banker on way to work died on the spot after a speeding truck rammed into his scooter in Beed district of central Maharashtra on Wednesday morning, police said. The deceased, Sudarshan Tak (45), was working with Deendayal Urban Co-operative Bank and posted at its branch in Ambajogai town, they said. According to police, the accident occurred on Ring Road in Ambajogai when Tak was commuting to work on his scooter. Upon receiving information, the Ambajogai police reached the site to conduct a spot assessment (panchnama). The body was subsequently shifted to the Swami Ramanand Teerth Rural Government Medical College and Hospital at Ambajogai for a post-mortem examination, a senior official stated.
08 April,2026 09:06 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said Vietnam-based Vingroup has committed to investing USD 6.5 billion in Maharashtra over the next two years in various sectors, including electric mobility solutions, renewable energy, tourism and entertainment. An official release earlier mentioned the investment figure as USD 8.5 billion. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Vingroup, the state industries department and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) in the presence of CM Fadnavis at his official residence 'Varsha', the statement said. Speaking during the event, Fadnavis said the investment by the Vietnamese conglomerate would accelerate sustainable development, green energy adoption, modern infrastructure and dynamic mobility systems in the state. "It is a matter of pride that Vingroup has chosen Maharashtra at a time when the state is witnessing rapid growth. Mumbai and the Raigad region are poised to emerge among the most dynamic urban clusters globally," he said, expressing confidence that the project would create a robust and modern urban ecosystem. As part of the agreement, Vingroup plans to invest the proposed amount over the next two years across nearly 5,000 acres in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and other select locations, generating an estimated 24,700 direct jobs. The project includes development of smart residential townships, electric mobility solutions, public and social infrastructure, renewable energy and tourism facilities. A key component will be an integrated, eco-friendly township spread over about 2,700 acres, designed to accommodate a population of around two lakh. The company also proposes to launch large-scale electric taxi services and develop a mobility-as-a-service platform to boost electric mobility in the state. In the social infrastructure segment, Vingroup will establish international-standard schools, multi-speciality hospitals and a statewide EV charging network. A 500 MW solar power project is also planned as part of the clean energy push. Additionally, tourism infrastructure, such as a theme park, zoo and safari project, will be developed over around 865 acres, aimed at enhancing tourism and generating employment. Advanced interconnectivity, scalable bandwidth to aid govt services: Maharashtra CM Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said advanced interconnectivity and the ability to increase bandwidth instantly will be very useful for the government, especially in handling heavy online traffic during implementation of schemes. "During online implementation of various government schemes, lack of bandwidth was a major issue. Especially when online application processes for farmers were started, sudden increase in internet traffic could lead to system failure. In such a situation, advanced interconnectivity and the ability to immediately scale bandwidth in data centres will be very useful for the government," he said.
08 April,2026 08:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal on Wednesday accused the Central government of failing to fulfil its electoral promises, alleging that farmers across the country are facing severe distress as a result of rising costs and inadequate returns, reported PTI. Speaking at a ‘Nyay Satyagraha’ protest organised by the Mumbai Youth Congress, Sapkal claimed that the situation for farmers has worsened significantly under the rule of the Bharatiya Janata Party. Rising Costs, Low Returns Deepen Agrarian Crisis Sapkal alleged that while farmers were promised better income and support before the government came to power, those assurances remain unfulfilled. He claimed that the cost of cultivation has sharply increased, while farmers continue to struggle with low and non-remunerative prices for their produce, reported PTI. “Costs have doubled and even tripled, but farmers are still not receiving fair prices,” he said, highlighting the growing economic pressure on the agricultural community, reported PTI. Criticism of Government’s Anti-Corruption Claims The Congress leader also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his anti-corruption slogan, alleging that it has failed to translate into action. Referring to the slogan “na khaunga, na khane doonga,” Sapkal claimed that the country has instead witnessed systemic irregularities over the past several years. He alleged that governance has not delivered the transparency and accountability that was promised, reported PTI. Trade Agreement with US Comes Under Fire Sapkal further alleged that a recent trade agreement between India and the United States has adversely impacted Indian farmers. He claimed that the deal was finalised under pressure from US leadership, including President Donald Trump, reported PTI. According to him, the agreement has weakened the agricultural sector and contributed to the challenges faced by farmers, as well as workers and labourers. Questions Raised on National Security Issues During his address, Sapkal also referred to past terror incidents, including the Pulwama attack, alleging that key questions surrounding the incident remain unanswered, reported PTI. He further claimed that those responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack have yet to be brought to justice, raising concerns over accountability and security preparedness. Political Comparison with Past Leadership Drawing a comparison with former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Sapkal said that past leadership had demonstrated stronger resolve in dealing with national challenges. He contrasted this with the current government, alleging that it has compromised on national interests, reported PTI. Rahul Gandhi Highlighted as Voice of Opposition Sapkal also praised Rahul Gandhi, stating that he continues to fight for the protection of the Constitution, democracy, and the country’s cultural fabric. (With inputs from PTI)
08 April,2026 08:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai Congress president Varsha Gaikwad on Wednesday alleged irregularities in the proposed allotment of a prime land parcel in Worli, claiming that the plot is being offered to a “favoured builder” at an undervalued price. She has demanded that the auction process be immediately halted, calling the deal a “scam worth crores,” reported news agency PTI. Allegations of Undervaluation in Prime Land Deal Gaikwad claimed that a strategically located 5,166 square metre plot in Worli is proposed to be allotted for approximately Rs 455 crore, which she described as significantly below its actual market value. According to her, such pricing could result in substantial financial losses to the civic body, reported PTI. She alleged that the land is intended for the development of a five-star hotel, raising concerns about whether public assets are being utilised in a transparent and equitable manner. Demand to Stop Auction Process Immediately In a strongly worded appeal, Gaikwad urged authorities to suspend the auction process without delay. She emphasised that prime civic properties should not be disposed of in a manner that compromises public interest, reported PTI. “Do not allot the prime Worli plot for a five-star hotel and stop the auction process immediately,” she stated, reiterating that the deal requires greater scrutiny and accountability, reported PTI. Questions Raised Over Terms of Agreement The Congress leader also raised concerns over the structure of the proposed agreement. She claimed that, in addition to the financial component, the municipal body would receive approximately 1,300 square metres of built-up space designated for a testing laboratory. However, she argued that the overall arrangement appears to disproportionately benefit private developers, who stand to gain significantly from a luxury hotel project in a high-value location like Worli, reported PTI. Allegations Against Ruling Party Intensify Gaikwad accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of enabling the alleged deal, claiming that prime municipal assets have increasingly been put up for disposal since the party assumed control of the civic administration, reported PTI. She further alleged that such actions amount to “selling Mumbai,” and warned that public resources must be protected from misuse. Call for Transparency and Safeguards Reiterating her stand, Gaikwad called for greater transparency in land allocation processes and urged authorities to implement safeguards to prevent potential losses to the municipal corporation, reported PTI. She stressed that decisions involving high-value public land must be taken with due diligence, ensuring that the interests of Mumbai’s residents are prioritised. (With inputs from PTI)
08 April,2026 07:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a massive demolition drive, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Mumbai Police cleared nearly 11 acres of government land along the Ghatkopar-Mankhurd Link Road (GMLR), officials said on Wednesday. More than 1,200 unauthorised slum structures were demolished in a single day, officials said. The drive took place in Mankhurd, where a large number of illegal huts had been built on government land. Officials said the action was part of a planned effort to reclaim public property from encroachment. Heavy police presence ensured law and order in place The operation was carried out under the supervision of District Collector Saurabh Katiyar, with strong police deployment led by Deputy Commissioner of Police Sameer Sheikh to maintain law and order and ensure the eviction remained peaceful. Multiple agencies worked together A joint team including officials from the BMC, revenue department, police, and the Public Works Department carried out the demolition. Senior officials involved in the operation included Additional District Collector Padmakar Rokde, Deputy District Collector Asha Tamkhede, Sub-Divisional Officer Kalpana Gode, Assistant Commissioner Ujwal Ingole, and Tehsildar Dilip Rayannavar, along with officers from the local police station. 200 workers, excavators, JCBs, dumpers, and drone cameras deployed An official BMC statement said that around 200 workers, along with heavy machinery such as excavators, JCBs, dumpers, and drone cameras, were deployed. Adequate police presence ensured the operation remained orderly. Officials said the encroachments had come up on nearly 22 acres of government land. The eviction was part of an ongoing effort to clear illegal settlements along the key road corridor. Land now encroachment-free Officials stated that over 1,200 structures have already been removed, and approximately 11 acres of land have now been declared free from encroachment. Work to clear any remaining structures is ongoing. The officials added that a satellite-based monitoring system, in place since 2011, is being used to track the land and prevent fresh encroachments in the future.
08 April,2026 07:43 PM IST | Mumbai | Aishwarya IyerMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said advanced interconnectivity and the ability to increase bandwidth instantly will be very useful for the government, especially in handling heavy online traffic during implementation of schemes, reported news agency PTI. "During online implementation of various government schemes, lack of bandwidth was a major issue. Especially when online application processes for farmers were started, sudden increase in internet traffic could lead to system failure. In such a situation, advanced interconnectivity and the ability to immediately scale bandwidth in data centres will be very useful for the government," he said, reported PTI. He was speaking after inaugurating the MB3 data centre of Equinix at his official residence 'Varsha'. Equinix is one of the world's largest data centres and interconnection service providers, with a network of 280 data centres across 77 metros in 36 countries. The MB3 facility is the company's first fully owned and newly built data centre in India, an official release issued said, reported PTI. The project has been developed on about 3.7 acres with a total investment of around USD 750 million (about Rs 6,000 crore). Once fully operational, it will have a capacity of more than 4,200 cabinets, reported PTI. The MB3 data centre is equipped with advanced technology and is capable of supporting Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based services. It also provides hybrid multi-cloud interconnection, enabling connectivity with Equinix data centres worldwide and more than 11,000 customers. From a sustainability perspective, a 26.6 MW solar power project in Yavatmal (in Vidarbha region) is supplying a significant portion of the energy required for the data centre. At present, about 60 per cent of the energy used by Equinix's Mumbai data centres comes from this solar project, the official release stated. Vietnam's Vingroup to invest USD 8.5 billion in Maharashtra: Fadnavis Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Wednesday that Vietnam-based Vingroup has committed to investing USD 8.5 billion in the state over the next two years in projects, including electric mobility solutions, social and public infrastructure, tourism and entertainment, reported PTI. The projects have the potential to create nearly 24,700 jobs, he said. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Vingroup, the state industries department and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority in the presence of the CM, an official release said, reported PTI. Fadnavis said the investment will support sustainable development, modern infrastructure and a dynamic transport system in the state. "Vingroup is investing at the right time and in the right place. The Mumbai and Raigad region will emerge as one of the most dynamic urban areas globally," he said, adding that the project will create a strong and vibrant urban ecosystem, reported PTI. The chief minister assured full support from the state government and asked the company to directly reach out to the authorities concerned if they face any issues. He said the administration is capable of resolving problems. Under the MoU, Vingroup has proposed to invest about USD 8.5 billion over the next two years to develop projects across around 5,000 acres, generating an estimated 24,700 direct jobs, the release said. The projects will come up in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and other selected locations in the state, it said. The investment will span sectors such as smart residential townships, electric mobility solutions, social and public infrastructure, renewable energy, tourism and entertainment, reported PTI. A key focus will be on developing large smart townships over about 2,700 acres, designed as integrated and environmentally friendly urban spaces for a population of around 2,00,000, the release said, reported PTI. In the mobility sector, the company has proposed to roll out large-scale electric taxi services and develop a mobility-as-a-service platform to boost electric mobility in the state. (With inputs from PTI)
08 April,2026 06:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
