At least four people were injured after a lift used for patients collapsed at a hospital in Thane district of Maharashtra, officials said on Wednesday. According to the Regional Disaster Management Cell (RDMC) of the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), the incident took place at Sanskar Tower on Dharmveer Road at Panchpakhadi area in Thane. The hydraulic lift malfunctioned and fell from the first floor to the ground floor at around 5:20 pm, it said. "The primary investigations have revealed that the lift was being used to transport patients at the Aadhar Hospital located on the first floor of the building. The lift’s chain snapped, causing it to drop to the ground," said an official. The officials said that the RDMC and officials from Naupada Police Station rushed to the spot following the incident and launched a relief and rescue operation. The injured were immediately taken to Adhar Hospital for treatment, they said. The victims have been identified as Tanmaya Balu Patil, 20, resident of Kalyan – injuries to legs and waist, Shubhangi Balu Patil, 41, resident of Kalyan – injuries to legs and waist, Jyotika Patil, 60, resident of Kalyan – serious leg injuries and Kenkaya Bejgam, hospital ward boy, resident of Kapurbawdi – injuries to legs and waist. The incident has been reported to the relevant authorities, and instructions for further action have been issued, said the official. Further details were awaited. Meanwhile, in an another incident, a fire broke out in an iron tank used for storing asphalt at a scrapyard in Thane city on Tuesday evening, but no one was injured in the blaze, officials said. The incident occurred within the premises of a company situated near Bhayander Pada at 5.55 pm, they said. Providing further details, Thane Disaster Management Cell chief Yasin Tadvi said, “The fire erupted in an iron tank containing asphalt material inside the scrapyard. Our team immediately mobilised fire brigade personnel with one fire engine, one rescue vehicle and a disaster management pickup unit.” The blaze was fully extinguished by 7.20 pm, he said, adding that no one was injured in the fire. The exact cause of the fire was being examined, Tadvi added.
10 December,2025 10:53 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentMumbai’s iconic Gateway of India was illuminated in patriotic colours as the Western Naval Command hosted the Beating Retreat and Tattoo Ceremony from December 8 to 10 (Monday to Wednesday), turning the city’s waterfront into a vibrant celebration of naval tradition, precision and public engagement. Wednesday’s ceremony was hosted by Vice-Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, AVSM, VSM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, and was attended by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat as the guest of honour. The annual event is part of the Indian Navy’s observance of Navy Day on December 4, marking the navy’s daring and decisive attack on Karachi Harbour during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. The operation left Karachi port aflame and crippled several Pakistani naval assets, and continues to be remembered as one of India’s most significant maritime victories. Across all three days, visitors witnessed an impressive line-up of performances showcasing the navy’s heritage and discipline. Cadets of the Sea Cadet Corps performed the traditional Sailor’s Hornpipe Dance, blending the naval legacy with youthful enthusiasm. The Indian Navy’s Central Band presented stirring musical renditions, while a flawless continuity drill highlighted the precision and professionalism of naval personnel. The evening also featured stunning aerial manoeuvres by naval helicopters, drawing loud applause from the audience. Adding to the spectacle, Indian Naval ships anchored in Mumbai Harbour were illuminated simultaneously, creating a dramatic backdrop against the historic monument. The ceremony drew a large turnout, including serving naval personnel, veterans, government officials, dignitaries and enthusiastic Mumbaikars. The gathering celebrated the Indian Navy’s valour and its steadfast commitment to securing the nation’s maritime interests.
10 December,2025 08:44 PM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentDespite the Mumbai Metro network expanding and operating smoothly, serious internal grievances have surfaced within the Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL) — the operating body responsible for Metro and Monorail services under Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). Highlighting this along with other key issues, the employees are urging higher authorities as well as the MMRDA leadership to step in and restore fairness, transparency, and trust within MMMOCL. Employees have raised concerns over what they call a “flawed and non-transparent” allotment process for newly inaugurated staff quarters located at the Charkop Metro Depot. The quarters were officially opened earlier this year by Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. Controversial allotment sparks employee outcry On December 1, employees received an official notification via the e-office system regarding the distribution of residential quarters. The method used for allotment—prioritising “first login” on the website—has drawn widespread criticism from ground-level operational staff. Workers argue that such a system is impractical for those engaged in essential maintenance, likening it to “booking a Tatkal ticket” at the cost of interrupting critical metro operations. Although seniority and date of joining (DOJ) were later listed as additional criteria, employees allege that these norms were not followed when final allocations were issued. Deviation from standard government norms As per practices widely followed in government bodies and metro corporations across India, quarter allotment is typically based on seniority and date of joining. Employees claim that MMMOCL’s Human Resources (HR) Department and management did not provide a clear explanation for deviating from these norms, leading to frustration among staff. Due to the abrupt changes and lack of transparency, several employees assert that they, despite being eligible for the quarters, have been left without housing. Many say their families now face uncertainty as they attempt to secure accommodation in Mumbai’s already challenging housing environment. Demands Immediate suspension of the current allotment process A fresh, transparent allotment list strictly based on government norms Assurance that no punitive action will be taken against employees raising concerns Improvements in communication and administrative transparency for future processes Broader concerns: Beyond housing issues, employees have highlighted multiple systemic problems within MMMOCL. Stagnant promotions: Many workers claim they have not been promoted even after more than five years of service. Unequal promotion practices: Staff allege that some administrative employees received promotions without official notifications. Difficulty in obtaining NOCs: Employees describe the NOC (no-objection certificate) process as unnecessarily restrictive, limiting career mobility. Lack of clear administrative rules: Workers say absence of defined policies creates confusion and inconsistent decision-making. Deployment without orders: Some claim they are sent to other metro lines or stations for testing and operations without formal deployment letters. No fresh recruitment: Instead of hiring new permanent staff, contractual employees, allegedly with insufficient experience, are being appointed. Vacant senior posts: Even with several senior roles unfilled, long-serving employees say they are not being considered for advancement. Experienced staff resigning: According to employees, mismanagement and lack of growth have pushed many skilled workers to leave the organisation. Employees said that unresolved administrative issues may impact long-term organisational performance even though Mumbai Metro's operations currently remain unaffected. While the city's metro system continues to run efficiently above ground, employees argue that the organisation that keeps it moving is “derailed” by internal mismanagement. MMRDA officials said they will be unable to comment on any of the issues immediately since the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly session was on.
10 December,2025 05:30 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarIn a move aimed at boosting Mulund’s overall development, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has granted permission to the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) to conduct a feasibility study for a proposed golf course at the dumping ground. The decision, issued by the BMC’s Solid Waste Management Department on Wednesday, has been welcomed by local Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator Mihir Kotecha, who had first proposed the project. According to a press release from Kotecha’s office, the study will examine the viability of developing a full-fledged golf course on the 64-acre plot where the dumping ground once stood. The site was permanently shut in 2018 after years of complaints from residents about stench and pollution. Calling the development “extremely important and delightful news” for the people of Mulund, Kotecha expressed gratitude to Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis and Mumbai civic commissioner Bhushan Gagrani. “I sincerely thank Honourable CM Devendra Fadnavis ji and BMC Chief Bhushan Gagrani ji for this decision. For many years, citizens of Mulund East had to endure the foul smell from the garbage dumping ground. In 2018, this dumping ground was shut down. Last year, I had demanded that, after the complete removal of the waste, the available 64-acre land should be used by the BMC to develop a golf course,” he said. Kotecha added that he reiterated this demand during a meeting chaired by the CM in May, which focused on various issues in Mulund. “At that time, too, I raised the demand for constructing a golf course. The Chief Minister took a positive stand on this and instructed that a feasibility study be prepared,” he said. Emphasising the project’s potential to revitalise the neighbourhood, Kotecha said that the proposed golf course could significantly boost the economic landscape of Mulund. “Old buildings and colonies stuck in redevelopment will also benefit directly. A golf course will contribute to the economic development of the surrounding area. Residents of Mulund will enjoy a clean, pollution-free environment. Also, local youth will gain employment opportunities through the golf course,” he noted.
10 December,2025 04:05 PM IST | Mumbai | A CorrespondentThe Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has recorded remarkable success with its ‘Package Tour’ initiative, earning Rs 19.24 crore in just six months, an official statement said on Wednesday. The scheme has received an overwhelming response from the public, officials said. From April 2025 to November 2025, MSRTC completed 4,039 package tours across the state. During this period, MSRTC buses covered nearly 26.97 lakh kilometres, attracting thousands of passengers and significantly boosting the corporation’s revenue, the statement said. It said that among all divisions, Sangli topped the list with 581 tours, followed closely by Kolhapur (561), Satara (391), Ahilyanagar (362) and Pune (288). In terms of revenue, Kolhapur led with Rs 3.25 crore, while Ahilyanagar (Rs 2.45 crore), Sangli (Rs 2.35 crore), Satara (Rs 2.11 crore) and Pune (Rs 1.36 crore) also saw strong earnings, officials said. The initiative has received enthusiastic participation from divisions in Marathwada -- including Nanded, Latur, Parbhani, Dharashiv and Jalna -- and from Vidarbha divisions such as Nagpur, Bhandara, Gadchiroli, Wardha, Amravati, Buldhana, Chandrapur, Akola and Yavatmal. Officials said that the package tour service has given a major boost to tourism in Maharashtra and strengthened MSRTC’s financial position. The corporation also plans to introduce more innovative and attractive tour packages in the coming months. Passengers are encouraged to take advantage of the service, which now offers both travel convenience and enjoyable tourism experiences, the officials said. MSRTC’s iconic red buses are not only connecting destinations but also helping people explore the state, marking the beginning of a golden phase for ‘Package Tours’ across Maharashtra. Meanwhile, in an another incident, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced on Wednesday that the MSRTC will add 8,000 new buses by 2026, with the tender process for 3,000 buses already completed. Work orders for these vehicles have been awarded to Tata Motors and Ashok Leyland, he told the state legislative council. The minister also said that MSRTC will receive Rs 2,893 crore through supplementary demands, which will include funds earmarked for staff salaries and clearing pending dues. He was replying to questions raised by members Bhai Jagtap, Satej Patil, Anil Parab, Sunil Shinde and others regarding financial allocations for employee payments. Sarnaik confirmed that the tender process for the remaining 5,000 buses is currently underway, and all 8,000 new buses are expected to be in service by 2026.
10 December,2025 04:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTrain services on the Bandra Terminus–Gorakhpur route will be partially affected in December owing to an operational block on the North Eastern Railway for the ongoing doubling work. According to a press release issued by Western Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer Vineet Abhishek the block has been planned until December 18 to facilitate the commissioning of patch-doubling work between Mau–Pipri Dih–Dullahapur and Mau–Khurahat stations in (Uttar Pradesh). As a result, the Bandra Terminus–Gorakhpur Express (19091/19092) will face partial cancellations on select days. Train No 19091 Bandra Terminus–Gorakhpur Express, departing on December 15, will short-terminate at Varanasi instead of completing its journey to Gorakhpur. The service will therefore remain cancelled between Varanasi and Gorakhpur. Similarly, Train No 19092 Gorakhpur–Bandra Terminus Express, scheduled to depart on December 16, will originate from Varanasi instead of Gorakhpur. Consequently, the section between Gorakhpur and Varanasi will be cancelled for this service. Western Railway has advised passengers to check train updates before travel and plan their journeys accordingly. WR collects Rs 140-crore fine from ticketless travellers; Rs 2.4 crore recovered from Mumbai’s AC locals WR has intensified its efforts to curb ticketless and irregular travel, with its ticket-checking staff recovering nearly Rs 140 crore from defaulters across its network during the current financial year. According to a press release by WR’s Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Vineet Abhishek, rigorous checks were conducted on Mumbai suburban locals, long-distance Mail/Express trains, passenger services, and holiday special trains under the supervision of senior commercial officers. Between April and November, more than 21.70 lakh cases of ticketless travel and irregularities, including unbooked luggage, were detected, resulting in the recovery of fines worth around Rs 140 crore, which is a 50 per cent increase over the same period last year. In November alone, over 2.80 lakh cases were recorded, in which Rs 18.25-crore fines were collected, marking a 40 per cent rise from 2024. WR has also focused on air-conditioned (AC) suburban local trains, where surprise checks were conducted to prevent unauthorised travel. Around 75,000 penalty cases were booked in AC locals between April and November, lead to a fine collection of more than Rs 2.40 crore, which is an 85 per cent increase over the previous year. Highlighting the contribution of individual staff, the CPRO lauded Ashutosh Kumar Singh, deputy chief ticket inspector in the flying squad at Mumbai’s Churchgate Station. Over the past 11 months, he detected more than 9,200 cases, collecting nearly Rs 1.08 crore – averaging Rs 40,000 per day. On 18 October, he recorded a single-day collection of Rs 2.24 lakh by detecting over 150 cases. “Ticket checking is a continuous responsibility that demands tact, skill, and courteousness. Western Railway is proud of its dedicated ticket checking staff, whose efforts not only protect revenue but also enhance travel discipline,” the CPRO said.
10 December,2025 03:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThree 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 | AgenciesADVERTISEMENT
