The escalation in West Asia has resulted in a world-wide crisis, and India’s financial hub has also felt the impact of the conflict. Hundreds of labourers employed as loaders in south Mumbai have been witnessing a drop in their workloads. In this test drive, mid-day spoke to multiple stakeholders engaged in the import-export field to understand the impact of the West Asia conflict on the city’s traders. Industry players say that with the shipping routes hit in the Gulf region, customer demand is declining, thereby impacting the entire inner circle of the business chain. Freight costs surge, shipments stall The disruption of key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, and the partial shutdowns of the Gulf terminals have severely impacted global shipping. Shipments are now being rerouted through longer, multi-leg journeys, significantly increasing both time and cost. “I shipped goods to Saudi before the war but still had to pay war surcharges. What normally costs USD 800 is now costing nearly USD 5,000,” said Amir, an imitation jewellery exporter. “At a time of low demand and high risk, sustaining oneself is heroic,” he said. Air cargo has also taken a hit. Limited airline availability has worsened delays and inflated rates.“My customer in Dakar has been waiting over 10 days, but the freight is stuck,” another exporter, Surendra said. “Only select airlines like Lufthansa are accepting cargo to East Africa and rates have jumped from Rs 450 per kg to Rs 1,300 with no reliability and frequent cancellations.”For many, exporting no longer makes financial sense. “Costs are skyrocketing and customers are unwilling to pay more,” said a steel exporter. Manufacturing takes a hit The disruption in logistics has directly translated into a breakdown of supply chains. Industries that rely heavily on imports, especially from West Asia are facing acute shortages.“Earlier, materials came directly from China. Now they arrive through multiple routes with delays,” said Aksh, a steel manufacturer. “War surcharges are added at every stage, so costs keep rising.”The steel industry is among the worst affected, given its reliance on imports from the Gulf. Around 70–80 per cent of limestone is imported from the UAE and Oman, while nearly 59 per cent of Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) comes from the region. Industrial gases such as LPG, LNG, and propane, critical for welding and molding, are also in short supply. With input constrained, some factories have cut production by as much as 50 percent. Manufacturers now face a paradox: rising input costs combined with falling export viability are forcing production to halt. The domino effect: Demand, costs, and cash flow The crisis is not just about supply, it is equally about demand destruction and financial stress.Goods worth crores of rupees are stuck in transit, and payment cycles have become uncertain. Exporters are hesitant to ship due to high costs, buyers resist price hikes, and payments are delayed amid logistical risks. Currency fluctuations, particularly a rising dollar, add further strain. “We are facing shipping delays, pending payments and a rising dollar,” said Burad, a businessman with over three decades of experience.Small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are among the hardest hit, lacking the financial cushion to absorb prolonged disruptions.A single disrupted shipment can wipe out months of profit. Jewellery exporters report consignments worth lakhs being returned undelivered. “Cargo sent to the UAE was returned to JNPT,” one exporter said.Insurance has become another bottleneck, with companies increasingly reluctant to cover shipments to high-risk regions. Ground zero: Labourers face crisis again While businesses struggle, the most severe impact is felt at the bottom of the economic pyramid. Daily wage labourers who form the backbone of the supply chain are facing a crisis reminiscent of the Covid-19 lockdown.With factories scaling down and logistics slowing, work opportunities have dwindled sharply. “We used to earn Rs 700– Rs 800 a day, but now it’s barely Rs 100–200,” said Jagdish Kanojia, who leads a group of loaders. “It feels like the Covid period again.”Fuel shortages coupled with rising prices have worsened living conditions. “There is no LPG available, it’s being sold in black,” said a factory worker. “Kerosene has gone up from Rs 110 to Rs 150, and even my regular eatery is shut, hence I am returning to my village,” he added.Like the factory worker quoted above, many others are now returning to their villages as survival in the city is becoming increasingly difficult. “My roommate left because there is no gas for welding work,” another worker said.“I have three daughters and I am the only breadwinner,” said Ibrahim, a hawker. “Where should the poor go?”The ancillary sectors are also under strain. Packaging costs, especially plastics, have surged sharply.“We used to buy plastic at Rs 1,100, now it’s above Rs 2,200,” said Mohammed Ali, who packages cargo for shipments. “Businessmen won’t pay more, but our costs have doubled and workers are leaving.”Iconic restaurant chains such as Bhagat Tarachand in Kalbadevi, small eateries, and several other establishments in the area are also struggling. Many have either shut down, shifted to coal and electrical appliances, or reduced operations due to LPG shortages, further impacting workers who depend on them for affordable meals. Pockets of opportunity amid crisis Interestingly, not all sectors are losing. Certain industries such as plastics, brass, and select metals may benefit from rising global prices and tightened supply.A few traders are holding inventory, anticipating better margins. However, most believe the situation depends on how long the conflict lasts.“A prolonged war could lead to bigger gas disruptions, higher input costs and inflation,” said Burad. “Domestic demand may hold, but exports will lag.”Still, some remain cautiously optimistic. “This is a short-term disruption, a mid-term opportunity and a long-term test of reliability,” said Pravin Wasan, who runs a shipping company. “Those who manage logistics well will emerge stronger.”For now, the focus across Mumbai’s trade ecosystem has shifted from growth to survival.The conflict serves as a stark reminder: in a globalised world, no economy is isolated, and the deepest impacts are often felt by those least equipped to bear them.
02 April,2026 05:32 PM IST | Mumbai | Mrinal DoshiThe Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) in Maharashtra’s Thane has awarded Rs 36.24 lakh to the parents of a 27-year-old road accident victim, six years after his death. A copy of the tribunal’s order, dated March 24, was made available on Wednesday. According to the claim petition, the victim, Jitendra Laxman Singh, was riding a motorcycle with a friend near Thane on May 30, 2020, when a tipper truck coming from the wrong side hit the two-wheeler, reported PTI. Singh lost his balance and fell onto the road, following which the truck ran over him, killing him on the spot. Tribunal member K P Shrikhande held that the vehicle was being driven negligently and awarded compensation of Rs 36.24 lakh to Singh’s parents. At the time of his death, Singh was earning a monthly salary of Rs 24,455 as a customer service associate. Thane tribunal awards Rs 7.76-lakh compensation to man disabled in accident a decade ago In a similar case, MACT awarded Rs 7.76-lakh compensation to a man who suffered permanent disability in a road accident in 2015. The order, passed on March 25 by Presiding Officer KP Shrikhande, brings relief to the petitioner after a long legal process. The incident took place on August 28, 2015, near a mosque on the Sion-Kurla Road in Mumbai. Wahid Aziz Khan, then aged 40, was working as a driver. According to the tribunal’s findings, a school bus, driven in a rash and negligent manner, crashed into a tempo. The impact caused the tempo to overturn and fall on Khan, who was offering namaz by the roadside, leaving him and others seriously injured. After the accident, Khan was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent surgery for fractures to his ribs and shoulder blade. The tribunal accepted that he suffered permanent partial disability and assessed his functional disability at 30 per cent, which affected his ability to work, news agency PTI reported. The tribunal noted that a criminal case had been registered against the bus driver under the relevant laws. The driver was later charge-sheeted and convicted, which supported the claim of negligence. It rejected the insurance company’s argument that the victim was partly responsible for the accident or that there was a violation of policy conditions. The tribunal observed that no evidence was presented to support these claims. The bus owner did not appear before the tribunal, and the case was decided ex parte against him. (With PTI inputs)
02 April,2026 05:20 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentResidents of Siddharth Nagar in Goregaon, known as Patra Chawl, are locked in a standoff with the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) after the Bombay High Court set an April 2 deadline to accept newly allotted flats or risk losing them altogether. Residents reuse possession Several families have refused to take possession, alleging incomplete and unsafe construction. Residents, including women, senior citizens and teenagers, have launched an indefinite chain hunger strike, raising concerns over structural safety. What High Court said A bench of Justices GS Kulkarni and Aarti Sathe criticised the society for refusing to execute PAAA. The court warned that failure to comply by April 2 would allow MHADA to reallocate the tenements for public purposes and permitted the authority to stop paying transit rent from April 1, 2026. Voices Naresh Sonawane, 50Our draft DA was submitted in December 2022, but MHADA began work only in October 2025. The government waived '887 crore for developers, yet we are being given substandard flats. Handing homes to PAP after 18 years will destroy faith in the system. Shaila Vyas, 62We are being removed from our own homes. Possession was to be given only after registration of the Development Agreement (DA) and Permanent Alternate Accommodation Agreement (PAAA). But citing court pressure over rent, MHADA is forcing possession. Our DA registration is delayed due to MHADA constructing 72 unauthorised shops. We want our homes, but we are worried about our future.’ Bala Sakarkar, 67We came here in 1948 and cared for this land for 65 years. Under the 2008 tripartite agreement, we became partners in redevelopment, enabling MHADA to earn crores from the sale component. Today, we are being pushed out of our own land. Dr Vishakha Kanse, 33Patra Chawl existed before 1948. We are partners in this redevelopment, yet delays and irregularities have led to 18 years of injustice. How can our homes now be given to PAP? We will move the high court and the Supreme Court for justice. Suresh Vichare, 45We are not slum dwellers. Our homes were given up for redevelopment, but '1,200 crore was siphoned off and MHADA aided it. Now we are being denied our rightful homes. We have been on a hunger strike for 26 days, but no one is listening.
02 April,2026 04:10 PM IST | Mumbai | Anushree GaikwadThe Thane and Navi Mumbai civic bodies in Maharashtra have reported a significant rise in tax collections for the 2025-26 financial year, driven by intensified recovery efforts, amnesty schemes, and increased adoption of digital payment methods, officials said, reported the PTI. According to the officials, the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) recorded tax collections of Rs 878.37 crore, up from Rs 810 crore in the previous year. Notably, 87.37 per cent of taxpayers opted for online or digital payment modes. The Majiwada-Manpada ward emerged as the top contributor, generating Rs 236.51 crore. TMC Commissioner Saurabh Rao attributed the growth to increasing public confidence in technology-driven services, according to the PTI. NMMC achieves record collections The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) reported its highest-ever tax collection since inception at Rs 876 crore, compared to Rs 812 crore last year. Officials credited the use of Artificial Intelligence-based calling systems and data analytics to identify and target defaulters. The ‘Abhay Yojana’ amnesty scheme, which offered a 50 per cent waiver on penalties, contributed Rs 192.81 crore in March alone. Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde highlighted administrative transparency and technological integration as key factors, as per the PTI. Nerul tops collection charts Among administrative wards, Nerul emerged as the top contributor with Rs 182.09 crore in collections. It was followed by Koparkhairane (Rs 163.40 crore) and Ghansoli (Rs 150.11 crore), indicating strong recovery across key nodes. BNCMC and MBMC also report increase The Bhiwandi Nizampur City Municipal Corporation (BNCMC) recorded tax recovery of Rs 103.31 crore, an increase from Rs 87.54 crore in the previous year. Commissioner Anmol Sagar said strict enforcement measures, including issuing 1,300 seizure notices and disconnecting 5,142 water connections, played a crucial role, the news agency reported. Similarly, the Mira Bhayander Municipal Corporation reported collections of Rs 254.09 crore, up from Rs 230 crore last year. KDMC records slight decline In contrast, the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) witnessed a marginal decline, collecting Rs 431.49 crore compared to Rs 453 crore in the previous financial year. Officials noted that the absence of the Abhay amnesty scheme in 2025-26 may have contributed to the dip. (with PTI inputs)
02 April,2026 03:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Bombay High Court on Thursday directed the Maharashtra government to respond to a petition challenging its decision to cancel the five per cent reservation for the Muslim community in education and government jobs, reported news agency PTI. A division bench comprising Justices R I Chagla and Advait Sethna has asked the state to file its reply through an affidavit within three weeks. The court has scheduled the next hearing in the matter for May 4, reported PTI. Petition Challenges February 17 Government Resolution The petition has been filed by advocate Syed Ejaz Abbas Naqvi, who has challenged the Government Resolution issued on February 17 by the state’s Social Justice and Special Aid Department. The plea argues that the decision violates constitutional provisions and is detrimental to the interests of the Muslim community, reported PTI. According to the petitioner, the move lacks any reasonable justification and undermines the rights guaranteed under the Constitution. Allegations of Discrimination Against Minority Community In the petition, Naqvi has termed the government’s decision as discriminatory, alleging that it targets a minority community without valid grounds. The plea states that withdrawing the quota amounts to unequal treatment and infringes upon fundamental rights, reported PTI. The petitioner has further argued that the absence of a clear rationale behind the decision raises serious legal concerns. Background of 2014 Reservation Policy The issue traces back to July 2014, when the then Congress-NCP government introduced reservation measures for certain communities. The policy included a 16 per cent quota for the Maratha community and a five per cent reservation for Muslims in education and government jobs under a backward class category, reported PTI. However, the decision faced legal scrutiny. The High Court had struck down the provision granting reservation in jobs but allowed the continuation of the five per cent quota in educational institutions. Government Cancels Earlier Benefits and Certifications As per the February 17 GR, all previous decisions and the ordinance related to the five per cent reservation in government and semi-government jobs and educational institutions for the socially and educationally backward Muslim group, included under the Special Backward Category (A), have been cancelled, reported PTI. This has effectively removed the framework that enabled the community to avail reservation benefits in education and employment. Court to Examine Constitutional Validity of Decision By seeking a detailed response from the state government, the High Court has indicated that it will examine the legal and constitutional validity of the decision. The outcome of the case is expected to have significant implications for reservation policies and minority rights in Maharashtra. The matter will be closely watched as it raises broader questions about affirmative action and the rights of socially and educationally backward communities. (With inputs from PTI)
02 April,2026 03:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra has been placed under heightened security vigilance after intelligence agencies uncovered links between a Ghaziabad-based espionage module and sensitive locations within the state. The development has prompted the government to initiate sweeping changes to its surveillance and internal security framework, reported news agency IANS. Espionage Network Breached Sensitive Locations According to officials from the state Home Department, a recent high-level security review revealed that the espionage network had infiltrated at least five high-security sites across Maharashtra. While authorities were able to identify and secure these locations before any major damage occurred, the breach has raised serious concerns about vulnerabilities in existing systems, reported IANS. Investigators believe the network conducted reconnaissance activities at critical installations, particularly in Mumbai, including naval facilities and the city’s airport. The scale and sophistication of the operation have triggered urgent action at the highest levels of the state administration. Chief Minister Orders Statewide Surveillance Audit Following the revelations, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed a comprehensive audit of CCTV surveillance infrastructure across Maharashtra. The review will focus on identifying potential security loopholes and, reported IANS.ensuring that all monitoring systems meet stringent safety standards. The Maharashtra Chief Minister has also announced a complete prohibition on the procurement of CCTV equipment from Chinese companies, citing concerns over data security and the possibility of foreign surveillance, reported IANS. Chinese-Origin CCTV Equipment to Be Removed As part of immediate precautionary measures, authorities have been instructed to inspect all cameras installed at sensitive and strategic locations. Any equipment deemed insecure or linked to foreign manufacturers considered high-risk will be removed and replaced with trusted alternatives, reported IANS. Officials indicated that special attention will be given to critical infrastructure, including ports, transport hubs and government facilities, to prevent any potential misuse of surveillance systems, reported IANS. Advanced Surveillance Tools Used by Espionage Module The investigation has revealed that the espionage network employed sophisticated surveillance technology. Among the tools used were solar-powered, SIM card-operated standalone cameras capable of transmitting real-time video footage and GPS coordinates to handlers located in Pakistan. One of the accused individuals was reportedly living in Uran, near Nhava Sheva Port, posing as a daily wage worker. Authorities suspect that such operatives were strategically positioned to monitor key installations without raising suspicion. New CCTV Policy and Integration of Private Networks In response to the incident, the Home Department is drafting a new CCTV policy aimed at tightening surveillance regulations. Under the proposed framework, government agencies such as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority will be required to obtain police clearance before installing surveillance systems, reported IANS. The government is also considering integrating private CCTV networks into the state’s broader security grid. Housing societies may be required to share live camera feeds from external areas with law enforcement agencies to enhance real-time monitoring and rapid response capabilities. Focus on Strengthening Internal Security Officials believe that these measures will significantly strengthen Maharashtra’s internal security architecture. By ensuring tighter control over surveillance infrastructure and eliminating potential vulnerabilities, the state aims to prevent future incidents of foreign-linked espionage and safeguard critical assets. (With inputs from IANS)
02 April,2026 01:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut accused the Centre of not being transparent to the public regarding the availability of LPG cylinders in amid the ongoing West Asia war, reported the PTI. Raut urged the government to be transparent and take citizens into confidence over the issue. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Sanjay Raut claimed that there is a shortage of LPG cylinders in India and warned that the situation could continue. He alleged that the Union government was not being truthful about the availability of cooking gas. “Do not trust the government. It is lying. There is a shortage of LPG and it will persist,” he said. Comparison with fuel crisis in other countries Sanjay Raut further stated that several countries, including Pakistan, are facing severe fuel shortages, leading to a situation comparable to a lockdown. He suggested that the ongoing crisis in the region could have wider implications for energy supplies, according to the PTI. Govt urged to be transparent While acknowledging the challenges posed by the conflict, Sanjay Raut said that even the government may have limited control over the situation due to external factors. However, he stressed that authorities should avoid making misleading claims and instead communicate honestly with the public. “Our only point is that the government should not lie and must take people into confidence,” he added, as per the PTI. Impact of West Asia war on energy supply The conflict in West Asia, triggered by joint US-Israel strikes on Iran on February 28, has disrupted global energy supply chains. As India relies heavily on imports of oil and gas from Gulf countries, any prolonged instability in the region could affect domestic fuel availability. Domestic LPG, petrol and diesel prices unchanged despite jump in global cost: Govt Meanwhile, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Wednesday clarified that domestic LPG, petrol and diesel prices remain unchanged, despite a sharp rise in global fuel costs driven by geopolitical tensions, reported IANS. The government stated that only commercial LPG cylinder prices have been revised upward, as they are market-linked and deregulated. These cylinders are primarily used by hotels, restaurants, and industries, and account for less than 10 per cent of total LPG consumption in the country. The recent hike follows a steep 44 per cent increase in global LPG benchmark prices, particularly the Saudi Contract Price, which rose from USD 542 per metric tonne in March to USD 780 for April. Domestic LPG prices protected To shield households from rising international prices, the government has kept the cost of domestic LPG unchanged. A 14.2 kg domestic cylinder continues to be priced at Rs 913, according to the IANS. Under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), subsidised LPG cylinders for economically weaker sections remain available at Rs 613, ensuring affordability for vulnerable households. The Ministry highlighted that public sector oil marketing companies are currently incurring an under-recovery of around Rs 380 per LPG cylinder at existing prices. It added that cumulative losses are expected to reach over Rs 40,000 crore in the coming months. In the previous year, total losses of approximately Rs 60,000 crore were shared equally between the government and oil companies to cushion consumers from global price shocks. Despite global volatility, India continues to maintain relatively low domestic LPG prices compared to neighbouring countries. The Ministry noted that LPG prices are significantly higher in countries such as Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, reported IANS. This pricing strategy is aimed at balancing consumer affordability with international market realities. Petrol and diesel prices stable Retail prices of regular petrol and diesel have also been kept unchanged. In Delhi, petrol continues to retail at Rs 94.77 per litre, while diesel is priced at Rs 87.67 per litre, reported IANS. The Ministry said that despite a sharp rise in global petroleum prices—up by as much as 100 per cent in the past month—oil companies are absorbing significant under-recoveries at the retail level. (with PTI and IANS inputs)
02 April,2026 01:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a thunderstorm alert for large parts of Maharashtra over April 2 and 3, warning of potentially severe weather conditions across multiple regions. While several districts are expected to witness thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds, Mumbai has been excluded from the current alert. Orange Alert Issued for Key Districts on Thursday On Thursday, the IMD has placed multiple districts under an orange alert, indicating the likelihood of severe weather conditions that may disrupt normal life. These districts include Nandurbar, Dhule, Jalgaon, Nashik, Ahilyanagar, Beed, Jalna, Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Residents in these areas have been advised to remain cautious and take necessary precautions against thunderstorms and lightning strikes. Yellow Alert Covers Vidarbha, Western Maharashtra and Konkan In addition to the orange alert zones, the IMD has issued a yellow alert for a wider region, including the entire Vidarbha belt, parts of western Maharashtra and the Konkan region. However, Palghar, Mumbai, Sindhudurg and Kolhapur have not been included in this warning category. A yellow alert indicates that residents should stay alert and monitor weather updates, as conditions may change rapidly. Friday Forecast: Continued Risk in Marathwada and North Maharashtra The thunderstorm activity is expected to persist on Friday, with Parbhani and Hingoli placed under an orange alert. Several other districts, including Jalgaon, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Ahilyanagar, Beed and Jalna, will continue to remain under the same warning level, suggesting ongoing risks of adverse weather. Meanwhile, Dhule, Nashik, Pune and Solapur, along with multiple districts in Marathwada and Vidarbha, have been issued a yellow alert for Friday. The IMD has indicated that these areas may experience moderate weather disturbances, including thunderstorms and lightning. Understanding IMD’s Colour-Coded Alert System The IMD uses a colour-coded warning system to communicate the severity of weather conditions. A green alert signifies no immediate threat, while a yellow alert advises people to stay aware of potential developments. An orange alert calls for preparedness due to possible significant impact, and a red alert indicates the need for immediate action in the face of severe weather. Authorities Urge Precautionary Measures Authorities have urged residents in affected districts to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid open areas, and stay updated with official weather advisories. Farmers, commuters and those engaged in outdoor activities have been particularly advised to exercise caution during this period of unstable weather. With pre-monsoon activity intensifying across the state, the IMD continues to closely monitor the situation and may update alerts depending on evolving weather patterns.
02 April,2026 12:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA 10-year-old boy lost his life after drowning while he was swimming with his friends in a lake in Thane city of Maharashtra, police said on Thursday, reported the PTI. The incident took place on Tuesday at a lake in the Mogarpada locality, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Kasarwadavali Police Station. According to police, the boy had gone to the lake with his friends and entered the water for a swim, during which he drowned. Rescue efforts launched His friends raised an alarm after the incident, prompting police and fire brigade personnel to rush to the scene. After a search operation, the boy’s body was later recovered from the lake, as per the PTI. Authorities have registered a case of accidental death, and further formalities are being carried out. Two children drown in Bhandara In an another incident, two children drowned in a pond in Maharashtra's Bhandara district, police said on Wednesday, reported the PTI. The tragic incident took place at Rongha village in Tumsar taluka in Bhandara, police said. According to the officials, the children were identified as Chandrapal Rupchand Kumbhare (7) and Sarthak Sanjay Uike (6). Both went missing while playing on Tuesday afternoon. Their bodies were seen floating in the nearby pond on Wednesday morning which were later pulled out and shifted to a hospital. Gobarwahi Police was conducting further probe in the matter, the officials said. Two drown in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh canal Meanwhile, two men allegedly drowned in a canal in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh on Wednesday while immersing 'puja' materials, the police said, according to the PTI. The incident occurred in the Sadul Branch canal in the Hanumangarh Junction area when Mohit Swami (20) slipped while immersing 'puja' materials, and Aman Bajigar (19) and Mohit Thalod (19) jumped in to rescue him, Additional SP Arvind Vishnoi said, as per the PTI. A disaster management team rushed to the spot and later pulled them out and rushed them to the district hospital, police said. Swami and Bajigar lost their lives, while Thalod is reported to be in stable condition and was getting medical treatment, the SP said. (with PTI inputs)
02 April,2026 12:45 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentRail India Technical and Economic Service Limited (RITES) — the project management company of Sanjay Gandhi National Park’s (SGNP) mini-train ‘Van Rani’ — has reportedly sent one of their directors on the ground to ensure the robustness of the mini-train as its operations came to a halt just 10 days after its formal inauguration, and three months after the service was launched. The train is being tested under the observation of experts this week, with park officials expecting that they might be able to reopen it for public as soon as Friday. A RITES official shared on Tuesday that they are overseeing all the repairs, part replacements, and upgrades that the electric mini-train needs. “We will conduct and observe trial runs for around a week, making sure that the train is robust. We can then clear it for reopening for the public,” added the official. Did you know? The mini-train service has been operating for three months, not just since 10 days when the service was formally inaugurated on March 14, 2026. SGNP officials, in a press statement last week, said the operations had commenced earlier on January 6, 2026. SGNP forest officer says... ‘The toy train had started in January, following all the final safety trials in December 2025. The train remained operational from January 6 to March 23 with regular ticket sales. Only the formal inauguration ceremony took place on March 14. We believe this is the first battery-powered electric mini-train across all national parks, so the technical issues faced are fresh and require a bit more time to resolve’ Moneymaker Operational since January 6, 2026Total ridership Over 15,500Total ticket revenue Over Rs 13 lakhDaily ticket revenue Around Rs 20,000Expected ridership 200-300 visitors per day‘We expect the footfall to increase in the coming months with the rainy season approaching’ A forest officer. Official Speak Anita Patil IFS (Indian Forest Service), field director, SGNPI had a meeting on Monday with a director and technical team from RITES regarding the ongoing issues with Van Rani. They are working towards solving the issue, and I will get an update from them on the situation on Friday. We are trying to get at least one train on track by this weekend.” Issues with Van Rani Slightly sunken tracks at a few points and limit-exceeding loads led to breakage of the train’s shaft. The coupling system was also impacted. Technical updates >> Earlier coupling system upgraded to redesigned newer, robust system aligned with soft-end motor>> Shaft, the intermediate part between the motor and the coupling, replaced>> Engine motor upgraded to one with higher power and load-bearing capacity>> Track work ongoing under regular maintenance Mar 23Day toy train service broke down
02 April,2026 12:24 PM IST | Mumbai | Sarthak MehtaAround 68 lakh beneficiary accounts under the Maharashtra government’s flagship Ladki Bahin Yojana have been closed after failing to complete the mandatory e-KYC process within the stipulated deadline, officials confirmed on Wednesday, reported the PTI. Officials stated that out of a total of 2.43 crore accounts, nearly 68 lakh were deactivated due to non-compliance, bringing the number of active beneficiaries down to approximately 1.75 crore. However, the deadline for completing e-KYC, which expired on March 31, has now been extended until April 30, and authorities indicated that the number of closed accounts may change following this extension, the news agency reported. The verification exercise was initiated after complaints surfaced that ineligible individuals—including male members and government employees—had been receiving benefits under the scheme, officials said. The initiative provides a monthly financial assistance of Rs 1,500 to eligible women from economically weaker sections. Financial implications for state budget The Maharashtra government currently disburses around Rs 3,700 crore each month under the scheme, the officials stated. With a reduction in the number of active beneficiaries, the overall expenditure is expected to be revised. The budget allocation for the scheme in 2026-27 stands at Rs 26,000 crore, compared to Rs 36,000 crore in the previous financial year. Errors in verification process identified According to the PTI, during the verification process, more than 24 lakh beneficiaries were initially flagged as government employees due to a Marathi-language question that led to incorrect responses. Following scrutiny, around 20 lakh of these accounts were found to be eligible, while verification of the remaining cases is still underway. The e-KYC process has been extended multiple times since November 2025, as per the PTI. No recovery from ineligible beneficiaries The Maharashtra government had previously clarified that it will not recover funds from individuals later found to be ineligible. Both Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde have assured that the scheme will not be discontinued. The Ladki Bahin Yojana was launched by the Mahayuti government ahead of the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections as a key welfare initiative aimed at supporting women across state financially. (with PTI inputs)
02 April,2026 12:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
