Three people were injured after a gas cylinder exploded in Rajaram Chawl, Shahid Bhagat Singh Nagar-2, in Mumbai's Goregaon West area early Wednesday morning. The explosion caused partial wall collapse in rooms 180 and 181 on the ground floor, civic officials said. The incident, reported at 7:42 am, was swiftly brought under control by local residents using buckets of water before the fire brigade arrived. Firefighters also cut off the electricity supply to prevent further hazards. According to civic officials, 28-year-old Maltidevi suffered 30-35 per cent burns and was initially treated at HBT Trauma Care Hospital before being transferred to LTMG Sion Hospital. Two men, Sarjan Ali Javed Shaikh (37) and Gul Mohammad Amin Shaikh (38), were admitted to Ganesh Hospital, Borivali. Sarjan’s injuries were to both legs, and he is stable, while Gul Mohammad Amin remains in critical condition with back injuries and is under ICU care. Authorities confirmed the fire was confined to plastic and household materials in the affected rooms, with no further spread. Due to an explosion of LPG leaked from a cylinder, a portion of wall of both the rooms collapsed thereby injuring three persons. Mumbai Fire Brigade to conduct special safety drive from Dec 22–28 ahead of New Year celebrations With large gatherings expected across Mumbai for New Year 2026 celebrations, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a week-long special fire safety campaign to ensure compliance and prevent fire-related incidents. The drive will be carried out by the Mumbai Fire Brigade between December 22 and 28 in hotels, restaurants, pubs, bars, banquet halls, malls, and establishments that are likely to see high footfall. The initiative comes in the wake of the recent tragic Goa nightclub fire incident, which claimed 25 lives. BMC said enhanced vigilance and stricter enforcement are essential to safeguard citizens during festive gatherings. The campaign will be conducted under the guidance of Municipal Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani and Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) Dr Ashwini Joshi. Dr Joshi said the Goa incident served as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and adherence to fire safety measures. She added that Mumbai’s Fire Brigade is equipped to handle emergencies with advanced systems, equipment and trained personnel, but public awareness and preventive measures remain crucial to avoiding disasters.
10 December,2025 01:54 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar on Wednesday during the Winter Assembly Session said that the collection of toll from electric vehicles on the Mumbai-Pune and Samruddhi motorways was "illegal". Narwekar further asked the government to implement the waiver system within eight days. Responding to questions on the toll waiver for electric vehicles on the Mumbai-Pune Motorway, Nagpur-Mumbai Samruddhi Motorway and Atal Setu in Mumbai, Minister Dada Bhuse admitted that toll had been deducted from some EV users despite the waiver, as reported by news agency PTI. Earlier on May 23, the Maharashtra government announced the EV toll waiver policy, which was further implemented from August 22, 2025. Bhuse, further replying on behalf of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde (on transport-related matters) during the question hour, stated, "For the toll waiver, FASTag details of EVs must be registered with Vahan (transport portal) and integrated with the toll system. The implementation began three months ago. There have been some instances where toll was deducted. We are trying to speed it (waiver) up and implement the process effectively," as cited by news agency PTI. Soon after Bhuse’s reply, speaker Narwekar intervened, pointing out that the policy was already in force. "If even a single EV is being charged a toll, then it is illegal," reported PTI. The Maharashtra Assembly speaker further directed to ensure that the full waiver system is operational within eight days. He stated, "The state is promoting EVs and giving a commitment to the people through its policy. Not a single EV should be charged a toll, and the waiver should be implemented in the next eight days. Also, a system should be put in place to return the money collected from EV owners," as cited by news agency PTI. Furthermore, Shiv Sena (UBT) legislator Varun Sardesai also countered Bhuse's claim that the toll waiver is currently in force. He emphasised, "I have receipts of toll charges deducted as late as on October 27. I can prove my claim," as per PTI. Narwekar further asserted that a mechanism should be devised to return the collected toll amount from the EV users. While highlighting the refund initiation of toll charges on EV vehicles, he emphasised, "If people provide substantiating proofs to their claims, then the toll operators or the state government should return the amount to the EV users," as reported by PTI. (With inputs from PTI)
10 December,2025 01:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA Mulund-based businessman and possibly other investors have alleged that they have been cheated of nearly Rs 13 crore after investing in a stock market scheme that allegedly promised fixed monthly returns. Based on the complaint, the Mulund police have registered an FIR under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Act, 2019. The scale and nature of the alleged financial irregularities prompted transfer of the case to the Economic Offences Wing (EOW). According to the FIR, the 43-year-old Mulund businessman said the accused assured him and others a 4.5 per cent monthly return through stock market trading. He told police that the accused executed Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs), issued post-dated cheques and shared WhatsApp messages showing purported trading profits, which allegedly convinced investors that the scheme was legitimate. He has further alleged that the invested funds were transferred into the accused’s personal bank account and two firms connected to him. The FIR also states that several others may have invested under similar promises. Investigation underway Police said preliminary checks indicate that the use of funds may not align with what was allegedly assured. A senior officer said, “All allegations are subject to verification. We are examining documents, bank records and digital evidence.” Officers added that a detailed financial audit will be required to determine the actual flow of money. The FIR invokes BNS Sections 318(4), 336(2) and 336(3) and Sections 21(1), 21(2), 21(3), 23 and 26 of the Deposit Schemes Act, 2019. EOW officials will now scrutinise money trails, contractual documents and electronic communications to determine whether any laws were violated. Police reiterated that the claims remain allegations until the investigation is complete.The businessman, who is currently abroad, declined to comment. 4.5%Monthly return promised through stock trading
10 December,2025 01:14 PM IST | Mumbai | Anish PatilMumbai is expected to see mainly clear skies on Thursday, both in the city and suburbs, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Temperatures are likely to range between a maximum of 33 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 15 degrees Celsius. The city recorded minimum temperatures of 20.7 degrees Celsius at Colaba and 16.7 degrees Celsius at Santacruz today, according to the IMD. There was no rainfall reported at either station, indicating a dry start to the day. As per the SAMEER App, Mumbai’s air quality index (AQI) stands at 101, falling under the moderate category. While generally safe, the AQI may cause breathing discomfort for people with lung disorders, asthma, and heart conditions. AQI levels across the city vary, with Bandra Kurla Complex recording 150, Ghatkopar 131, Deonar 123, Byculla 129, Chembur 106, Kurla 87, Borivali 67, and Chakala (Andheri East) 62. Residents are advised to take precautions if sensitive to air pollution. Meanwhile, Delhi’s air quality showed slight improvement on Wednesday morning, with the city recording an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 267 at 9 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board. The city's AQI on Tuesday morning stood at 291, and on Monday morning it stood at 318, the CPCB data showed, reported PTI. According to the CPCB, an AQI between 0 and 50 is classified as "good", 51 to 100 "satisfactory", 101 to 200 "moderate", 201 to 300 "poor", 301 to 400 "very poor" and 401 to 500 "severe". On the weather front, the minimum temperature settled at 10 degrees Celsius, 0.4 degrees above normal, while the morning relative humidity was 75 per cent. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast mainly clear skies for the day. The maximum temperature is expected to reach 24 degrees Celsius later in the day. Mumbai air pollution wreaking havoc on skin, vocal cords What was once dismissed as a seasonal cough or temporary breathlessness and dryness of skin, especially during the winter season, is now emerging as a much deeper health crisis for Mumbai. Medical experts warn that breathing difficulties are only the first visible symptom of a growing list of pollution-induced health problems affecting residents across age groups. With air quality frequently slipping into the ‘poor’ and ‘very poor’ categories, doctors are witnessing a surge in patients suffering from ailments that go far beyond respiratory distress. Medical experts say prolonged exposure to polluted air laden with fine particulate matter, construction dust and vehicular emissions is triggering inflammation across multiple systems of the body. Doctors have noticed a rise in cases related to the throat and skin.
10 December,2025 12:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) ‘Adopt-a-Slum’ scheme will be audited following allegations of corruption, the Maharashtra government stated in the legislative assembly on Tuesday. Minister of State for Urban Development, Madhuri Misal, made the announcement in response to a demand by BJP MLA and the party’s Mumbai unit president Ameet Satam. Satam alleged that several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) appointed under the scheme do not follow prescribed norms, appoint fewer workers than mandated, and do not carry out regular waste collection in slum areas. “This results in a large amount of garbage accumulating in public spaces, and there appears to be a misuse of funds allocated under the scheme,” he said. Calling the alleged mismanagement a “scam”, Satam claimed that officials of the BMC’s solid waste management department were also involved. The scheme plays a crucial role in the collection of garbage from slums and its transportation to dumping grounds, but the criteria of 150 families or 750 population per unit is not being followed, Satam said. Instead of the required 15 workers per designated area, most NGOs deploy only five to 10 workers, while claiming funds for more staff, the MLA alleged. Satam also said that garbage should be collected twice a day in slum areas, as households cannot store waste, but this does not happen. “If necessary, the population criterion should be reduced from 750 to 500, and wages of workers should be increased while ensuring adequate deployment of manpower,” he added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
10 December,2025 09:16 AM IST | Nagpur | AgenciesDespite Matheran’s protected status, waste is being burnt in the open, raising concerns among environmentalists. A Mumbai-based naturalist and photographer, Mahesh Yadav, who recently documented the scene, said fires were adding to local air pollution and could spark a larger threat to the hill station’s forested slopes. On Saturday, Yadav, along with his friends Prabhu Swami and Kunal Chaudhari, had gone for a nature trail in Matheran, when they were shocked to see that the garbage was burning near a parking lot. “This told a deeply distressing story of environmental negligence and the tragic consequences of human actions within a protected ecosystem. It is a visual testament to how precious natural spaces are being destroyed in the middle of the forest,” said Yadav. He also pointed out that burning plastic and household waste, particularly at a busy entry point like the parking area, releases a hazardous cocktail of toxins, such as dioxins, furans, and heavy metals, into the air. This toxic smoke directly pollutes the air of Matheran. Swami, also a naturalist and photographer, said, “The massive pile of unburnt plastic and food waste poses a grave threat to local wildlife. Animals, confusing discarded bags and containers for food, can ingest the plastic. This leads to blockages, starvation, and a slow, painful death for creatures within the eco-sensitive zone.” Matheran, a picturesque hill station near Mumbai, is known for its charming toy train and scenic beauty. It also attracts wildlife enthusiasts with its rich variety of endemic birds and numerous snake species. However, increased tourism has led to overcrowding and littering, which threatens its unique biodiversity. Despite being a pollution-free destination due to the absence of vehicles, human activity has impacted the area. Matheran Fact File Population of hill station: Over 4000No. of tourists who visit daily on weekdays: 2000 to 2500No. of tourists who visit on weekends: 7000 to 8000Area of hill station: 7-7.2 sq kmArea of eco-sensitive zone: 214.73 sq kmNo. of reptile species: 46No. of bird species: 150+No. of mammal species: 20+
10 December,2025 09:13 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavOver a decade since the project was first mooted, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken the first step towards the construction of the Gargai dam, which will increase Mumbai’s annual water supply by 440 million litres (ML). On Tuesday, the civic body floated tenders for the construction of the Gargai dam at a cost of Rs 3000 crore. This cost covers the construction of the dam, along with the cost for environmental clearances required for the project. In 2018-19, the BMC’s general body gave in-principle approval for the construction of the dam, with a provision to spend up to R3105 crore for the project. This cost covered the aspect of rehabilitation of project-affected persons from the area where the dam will be constructed and the cost of acquisition of land for their rehabilitation. Displacement issues The project, spread across approximately 2100 acres of land, will result in the submergence of two villages — Ogda and Khodade — in Wada taluka of Palghar district. The BMC also plans to acquire land from four adjacent villages — Pachghar, Aamle, Phasgaon, and Tilmal — to make the entire catchment area free of human habitation, and make the area congruent with the existing Tansa wildlife sanctuary. The project is set to affect 619 families, with plans to resettle them in 400 hectares of land near Devli. To retain and continue supporting their tribal lifestyles, those residing in six villages of Wada taluka in Thane district, affected by the construction of the Gargai dam, will have their own homes with pigeon coops, cow sheds, and backyards in the tribal style. The BMC has decided to pay them to build their homes instead of constructing new residences as part of the rehabilitation plan. The money is about five times the value of their current homes, and the cost has been determined by the public works department. The demand for this type of rehabilitation was made by concerned villagers in their ‘Gram Sabha Tharav’. The villagers are entitled to up to 2.5 hectares of forest land for tilling, and one government job per family. This is set to cost the civic body Rs 600-800 crore, in addition to the construction cost of the project. Project fast-tracked The project that has been stuck at the planning stage for a decade has now found impetus ahead of the BMC election. The last such poll was held in 2017. In September 2025, Ashish Shelar, then-Mumbai BJP chief and Maharashtra cultural affairs minister, directed the civic body to fast-track the project and float tenders on priority within a month. Water supply gain Seven lakes supply water to Mumbai at present, with a total capacity of 14,33,262 ML of water. The BMC supplies the city with 3950 to 4100 ML of water per day. However, as per the civic body's projections, Mumbai is set to need 29.87 per cent more water by 2031, or 5326 MLD, and 56.69 per cent more water by 2041, or 6424 MLD. Three proposed big-ticket projects are set to augment Mumbai's water supply — the Gargai and Pinjal dams, and the desalination plan planned at Manori. Fact box Mumbai’s present water supply14,33,262 million litres Gargai dam will add440 MLD Projected water requirement for Mumbai Year 2031: 5325 MLD 29.87% moreYear 2041: 6424 MLD 56.68% more
10 December,2025 09:08 AM IST | Mumbai | Eeshanpriya MSBusinessman and philanthropist Anant Ambani, founder of the wildlife conservation centre Vantara, has become the youngest ever and the first Asian to receive the Global Humanitarian Award for Animal Welfare. The Global Humane Society selected Anant for his visionary leadership in establishing Vantara, a conservation centre that has redefined what is possible in large-scale rescue, rehabilitation, and species preservation through evidence-based welfare programmes and science-led conservation initiatives. Dr Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of Global Humane Society, said, “Vantara receiving the Global Humane Certified distinction reflects not only excellence in care, but a profound dedication to giving every animal dignity, healing and hope. And there is no greater champion of that vision than Anant Ambani, whose leadership has set a new global standard for compassion in action. Vantara represents one of the most extraordinary commitments to animal welfare anywhere in the world.” “For me, this reaffirms a timeless principle — ‘sarva bhuta hita’… the wellbeing of all beings. Animals teach us balance, humility and trust. Through Vantara, our purpose is to give every life dignity, care and hope, guided by the spirit of ‘seva’. Conservation is not for tomorrow; it is a shared dharma we must uphold today,” Anant said. Global Humane Society, the international brand of American Humane Society — the oldest national humane organisation in the US and the largest certifier of animal welfare — has bestowed the award upon only a select few over the years. Founded in 1877, the Society has been at the forefront of virtually every major advance in the humane movement. The Global Humane Certified programmes are some of the most rigorous, meaningful certifications in animal welfare anywhere in the world.
10 December,2025 09:03 AM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentThe Maharashtra government will recover money from those state employees as well as male beneficiaries who have illegally availed of the financial benefits under the Mukhyamantri Mazi Ladki Bahin Yojana, a scheme reserved for women, the Legislative Council was told on Tuesday. This information was shared by Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare in a written reply after MLCs Pragya Satav, Satej Patil, Bhai Jagtap and others raised the issue of illegal beneficiaries of the scheme during question hour. Accordingly, the department concerned has been directed to take necessary action under the Maharashtra Civil Services Rules against the officers/staff and initiate recovery from them, the minister stated. The state cabinet also decided not to enforce strict recovery of money from those women beneficiaries who have been removed from the scheme for some reasons and who have voluntarily withdrawn themselves. Under the “Mukhyamantri — Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana” scheme, eligible women in the 21 to 65-year age group received a monthly financial assistance of Rs 1500 through direct benefit transfer (DBT). This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
10 December,2025 09:01 AM IST | Nagpur | AgenciesThe Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) on Tuesday released separate videos alleging corruption within the Maharashtra government, triggering sharp political exchanges during the winter session of the state legislature in Nagpur. In a video shared by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve, Alibaug MLA Mahendra Dalvi from the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction is allegedly seen handling a large bundle of cash. Dalvi has denied the allegation. Speaking to the media in Nagpur, Dalvi said the video had been manipulated and held no truth. He also hinted, without naming him directly, that Ajit Pawar, led NCP leader and MP Sunil Tatkare, was involved. “Someone from Raigad is behind all this,” Dalvi said. Although both Tatkare and Dalvi belong to the Mahayuti alliance, the two are known for frequently taking jabs at each other. “Attempts are being made to tarnish my image. I am willing to resign as MLA if this video is proven genuine,” Dalvi added. The video circulated by Danve sparked uproar on the second day of the winter session. While Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders demanded action, Shinde Sena ministers defended their MLA. Responding to Dalvi’s allegations, Danve said the MLA should first prove the video is fake rather than questioning its source. “I stand by what I have said,” Danve asserted. Tatkare also hit back, criticising Dalvi for dragging him into the controversy. “I haven’t spoken to Danve, not even over the phone. Why would I involve myself in something like this? I deal with issues directly, not in such a manner [with opposition's help],” the MP from Raigad said. Meanwhile, in Mumbai, MNS leader Sandeep Deshpande held a press conference alleging large-scale corruption in the public works department. He also showed a video in which an alleged PWD employee is seen handling cash. “This money is taken for clearing tenders and for processing pending contractor bills,” Deshpande claimed.
10 December,2025 08:53 AM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarAye, aye, captains! Good fielding Great throw! Making a run for it Waiting for my turn Yeh laga siiiiix!
10 December,2025 08:49 AM IST | Mumbai | Nimesh DaveADVERTISEMENT
