A last-minute announcement regarding a platform change at Ahilyanagar railway station sparked a stampede-like situation on the night of March 15, according to Andheri West resident Anand Shirali, who was awaiting the 11042 Sainagar Shirdi-Dadar Central Express with his wife Priti and daughter Risaa at the time of the incident. Shirali, a regular traveller to Ahilyanagar told mid-day, “The train arrives at 11.10 pm, as per schedule. At times, the platform is changed from 1 to 2 as several goods trains ply on the Platform 1 track.” Priti and Risaa Shirali during an earlier visit to Ahmednagar, now Ahilyanagar PICS/ANAND SHIRALI The history Ahilyanagar is a city in and the headquarters of Ahilyanagar district, Maharashtra, India. Both the city and district were formerly called Ahmednagar. On May 31 2023, Eknath Shinde announced that Ahmednagar would be renamed Ahilyanagar in honour of Ahilyabai Holkar, a queen of the Malwa kingdom. On March 13, 2024, the Maharashtra state cabinet announced that it had approved the new name when announcing the renaming of seven railway stations in Mumbai Meher baba Meherabad is a spiritual retreat in Arangaon village about nine kilometres south of Ahilyanagar. Home to Indian spiritual master Meher Baba’s Samadhi Mandir. Meherabad was originally established as an ashram by Meher Baba in 1923. The crowd surges at Ahilyanagar railway station as the platform change is announced Shirali’s recollections Looking back at the night he calls horrific, Shirali said, “The announcement of a change from Platform 1 to 2 was made exactly seven minutes before arrival. The train entered the station with passengers still struggling to get to Platform 2, juggling kids and luggage. I helped two co-passengers board. The train usually halts for three minutes, though this time I recall it was extended by three minutes. This train has many Shirdi pilgrims and followers of Meher Baba. There was total chaos and mismanagement as a result of the late platform change. Unfortunately, this has happened on several occasions earlier, too, but on Sunday, it was teetering on the verge of a stampede situation. I thought someone would have a heart attack,” concluded Shirali Railway Speak Dr Swapnil Nila chief public relations officer of Central Railway‘I have asked individuals concerned to identify the cause for this and avoid platform changes at short notice’ Voices Behram Boman Irani, 73, Mahim resident‘I approached the station master P Kumar’s office thrice, requesting him to start the escalator. The ascending escalator was started while the descent was not working. The bridge steps are uneven, and some of them have slippery glazed bathroom tiles. I somehow got into the bogey with great difficulty, helped by Anandbhai [Shirali]. I took at least 15 minutes to settle down. It was extremely disturbing’ Pramila Akhtar Farooqui, 75, Goregaon resident who has vowed not to take the train‘There was panic and chaos. We got on the escalator ascending, but had to take the stairs going down. I am a heart patient. I get palpitations. I thought somebody was going to collapse. Shouldn’t regular announcements be made with reference to platform change? That, too, at least half an hour or a little more ahead?’
19 March,2026 08:43 AM IST | Mumbai | Hemal AsharBanquet halls, event venues, and vendors selling plastic flowers are set to face stricter scrutiny as the Maharashtra government moves to enforce its ban on non-biodegradable plastics. Municipal corporations will issue notices to halls, directing them to avoid such decorative materials, while action is being considered against violators. Environmental concerns Raising the issue in the Legislative Council, BJP MLA Pravin Darekar flagged the environmental damage caused by plastic flowers and their impact on the floriculture sector. NCP (SP) MLC Shashikant Shinde questioned how banned products continue to be sold openly and demanded stricter action. Ban scope Responding to the members’ query, State Environment Minister Pankaja Munde said that concerned agencies carry out regular inspections and take action against violators. “Not only flowers, but beyond this the ban includes thermocol and all types of non-biodegradable plastic,” Munde added. Special drives CM Devendra Fadnavis announced that civic bodies will conduct special drives to curb violations. The govt will also amend existing notifications to strengthen enforcement. Season relief Considering the ongoing wedding season, SS (UBT) MLC Anil Parab sought a grace period. Fadnavis agreed, saying enforcement will begin after a reasonable window. Reason for the action The growing popularity of non-biodegradable plastic, including flowers, in cities such as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Mumbai, and Pune, is adversely impacting the traditional floriculture sector. Enforcement data 1,24,783Establishments inspected 3390Establishments fined 67.54Tonnes of plastic seized
19 March,2026 08:28 AM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarLarger than life Artists add final touches to a 20-ft eco-friendly statue of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar that will be displayed at the Gudi Padwa celebrations in Girgaon today Ode to the goddesses A rough sketch of the diorama; (right) a section from the display. PICS COURTESY/SUNIL KOTHARE How many goddesses of Mumbai can you name?” Dr Anita Rane-Kothare (below), former head of the department of AIHCA, St Xavier’s College, quizzed us yesterday. Dr Anita and husband Sunil Kothare are putting together a unique diorama featuring nine goddesses of the city at the upcoming Gudi Padwa celebrations in Malad’s Mamletdarwadi. These include the more widely recognised Mumbadevi, and Kalbadevi, alongside Patladevi of Malad, and Harbadevi of Madh. “The definition of what Mumbai comprises has changed over the years, and so, we must know about the deities from neighbourhoods beyond South Mumbai and Bandra. We’re looking forward to displaying them in the presence of more than 500 revellers,” she told this diarist. The visual learners among us can head to the vibrant celebrations this morning. Clean sweep Nandakumar Pawar with the waste collected from Elephanta Island Elephanta Island knows how to walk the talk. After The Guide section in mid-day reported the Sagarshakti group’s plan to clear 3000 kg of waste from the island last weekend, senior officer Nandakumar Pawar dropped us a happy message last morning: “Mission accomplished!” The ‘elephantine’ collection was courtesy of volunteers, the Maharashtra Forest Department, and local fishermen. A clean sweep, quite literally. Chef’s notes TVM Chancellor Dr S Srikumar presents an award to (right) Hemant Oberoi Sweet and sour’ could describe legendary chef Hemant Oberoi’s mood nowadays. Oberoi is all smiles after recently receiving an honorary Doctor of Literature from the Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth (TVM), Pune. Concern lies in the UAE, he told this diarist, where his restaurants Martabaan and Indikaya are facing “negligible business due to the West Asia conflict.” Closer to home, in Mumbai, foodies reminiscing Oberoi’s magic can turn to his cloud venture OB’s Kitchen, which he calls “quite different from running a restaurant, yet satisfying.” See to believe Visually impaired members and sighted guides experience (right) the play Bolavita Dhani. PICS COURTESY/BLINDS WHO TREK; Saurabh Talpade Watching a play took on a different meaning at Shivaji Mandir in Dadar last Sunday. An audience of visually-impaired individuals were invited by director Hrishikesh Joshi to witness the Marathi play, Bolavita Dhani. With a sighted individual seated between two visually-impaired people and relaying the incidents, the experience was unique for both the actors and the audience. “They had a great time. We met the cast after the show, and some of our members recalled the lines perfectly, much to the surprise of the cast,” shared Siddesh Nayak, founder, Blinds Who Trek.
19 March,2026 07:50 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayA weak Alphonso season from the Konkan belt has upended Mumbai’s mango market, with a 60-70 per cent production hit forcing traders to plug gaps with lookalike “Alphonso” (Hapus) varieties from Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Unseasonal rain and pest attacks during flowering have delayed the harvest, slashing arrivals of Ratnagiri and Devgad Hapus and reshaping early-season supply across the city. How to spot the real Hapus (Sanjay Pansare’s quick guide) Smell first, not lookA genuine Konkan Hapus has a strong, natural aroma that you can notice even from a distance New batch of Hapus arrives at APMC amid supply crunch Colour checkRich saffron-yellow when ripe, never dull or patchy Skin testThin, delicate skin that feels soft and smooth Watch the fakesThicker skin, firmer feel, more fibrous bite and noticeably weaker fragrance signal southern varieties sold under the Alphonso umbrella On ground (South Mumbai) Retailers in Crawford Market and Colaba are stocking southern varieties to meet demand, while genuine Devgad Hapus remains scarce, premium, and increasingly difficult for buyers to identify. Former APMC Fruit Market director Sanjay Pansare performs pooja of Hapus at Vashi market, as traders navigate a weak Konkan season and rising dependence on southern “Alphonso” varieties Market snapshot (APMC, Monday)17,000 boxes total arrivals 6325 boxes: Genuine Konkan Hapus 10,675 boxes: Southern varieties 500-600 crates/day (20 kg each) from Kerala, TN, Karnataka 60-70percent production deficit in Konkan Price gap (per dozen) Rs 3000- Rs 9000Konkan Hapus Rs 1200- Rs 1500Southern “Alphonso” What changed >> Erratic weather during flowering>> Pest attacks hit the yield>> Harvest delayed, early market captured by southern states Supply shift Sanjay Pansare, former APMC Fruit Market director‘Southern varieties now make up 60 per cent plus of “Alphonso” stock in Mumbai “Arrivals of genuine Hapus are barely 10 per cent of last year’ Spot the real Hapus (Former APMC fruit market director Sanjay Pansare’s quick guide) Smell first, not lookA genuine Konkan Hapus has a strong, natural aroma you can notice even from a distance Colour checkRich saffron-yellow when ripe, never dull or patchy Skin testThin, delicate skin that feels soft and smooth Watch the fakesThicker skin, firmer feel, more fibrous bite and noticeably weaker fragrance signal southern varieties sold under the Alphonso umbrella
19 March,2026 07:41 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayDo 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 March 19. Aries March 21 – April 20Discard what you know is not right, consciously making wise choices. Delayed payments come in.Cosmic tip: Don’t allow yourself to be manipulated in a calculated manner. TaurusApril 21 – May 20Life is good. You hope it continues remaining just so. Collecting all relevant information is why your assignments are so perfect.Cosmic tip: Stay clear of giving advice which may be misunderstood, and you blamed later. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Saving a relationship may have been challenging, but it was worth working towards a new beginning based on love and mutual respect.Cosmic tip: Take each day as it evolves in your stride. Cancer June 22 – July 23Appreciate it when friends encourage having a broader perspective instead of focusing on one or two angles. Positive karma incurred spotlights finances.Cosmic tip: Keep the mind peaceful. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Making a decision is kept on hold, about which you are glad in retrospect as circumstances might have blown it out of proportion. Cosmic tip: Nurture a relationship with love and tenderness. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23A colleague reveals truths about a conversation for which you weren’t present, attending a training programme. Cosmic tip: Listen to intuition. Something wonderful is going to manifest. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Combining a holiday with work may not work out as expected, as focus is divided between both. An important assignment is still being negotiated for the final ‘go ahead’.Cosmic tip: Appreciate this unexpected gift. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Be ultra careful when making a big investment because of so many scams happening. Legal papers are signed. Cosmic tip: Focus on good qualities, being tolerant of small irritating ones. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Fast action is required today. Changing some pre-sleep routines help go to sleep quicker.Cosmic tip: Stay away from an unnecessary argument (both are right with their own perspective). Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20A last-minute change of programme is annoying, but thinking of it as something inevitable makes it easier to accept. Cosmic tip: Do take good care of yourself. Avoid taking good health for granted. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Life appears to be in a slow-moving karmic cycle, but at the unseen level there’s plenty of activity, about which you get to know later.Cosmic tip: Go for a walk every day if possible. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20People are more accepting of boundaries you’ve set, so meeting them is no longer annoying. Cosmic tip: Go with the flow, accepting thoughts emerging, which magically manifest regularly.
19 March,2026 03:42 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseThe Maharashtra government has written to the Centre seeking custody of Anmol Bishnoi, reiterating that Mumbai will not be allowed to slip back into gang wars at any cost. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said that the Mumbai Police require the custody of Anmol, brother of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, in connection with a few cases. The CM noted that the fugitive gangster was extradited from the United States last year and is currently under investigation by central agencies. “The Mumbai Police want custody of Anmol in connection with a few cases. Accordingly, the state has written to the Government of India for his custody, and we are confident of securing it,” Fadnavis added. In February this year, unidentified assailants opened fire, discharging a few rounds at filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s residence in Juhu. The issue of a threat to celebrities’ lives was raised in the legislative council by Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Milind Narvekar. Fadnavis praised the Mumbai Police for the manner in which they handled the case and arrested the accused in connection with the firing incident. The CM also noted that such incidents can be unsettling for celebrities but assured them that the Mumbai Police provides them with necessary security cover. Narvekar mentioned that he is satisfied with the reply and action taken by the CM in connection with the firing at Shetty’s house. Bishnoi’s key aide on the run While Pravin Lonkar, the brother of Shubham Lonkar, who is a key aide of Lawrence Bishnoi, has been arrested in connection with the firing outside Shetty’s residence, Shubham is currently absconding and is believed to be outside India. “We will trace Shubham and ensure his arrest,” Fadnavis said No return to gang war Mumbai was once known for gang-related violence, and the police had to carry out several encounters to curb this menace. On Wednesday, Fadnavis assured the members of the council that at any cost, Mumbai will not be allowed to slip back into gang wars. Who is Anmol Bishnoi? Anmol Bishnoi is the brother of dreaded gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. He was arrested by the National Investigation Agency on November 19, 2025, upon his deportation from the United States. He is accused of running terror operations from abroad, including coordinating the attack outside actor Salman Khan's home and being involved in the murder of Sidhu Moosewala.
18 March,2026 10:30 PM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarShiv Sena (UBT) leader Bhaskar Jadhav on Wednesday said Maharashtra's Konkan region has a huge potential to generate significant foreign exchange through fisheries, fruit cultivation and tourism, and called for a non-political approach for a long-term development of the coastal belt, news agency PTI reported. During a debate in the legislative assembly over development of Konkan, Jadhav, who represents the Guhagar Assembly Constituency in Ratnagiri district, referred to the coastal region as the "dollar land". Proposal for fishermen board, processing units to raise coastal incomes The state has a coastline of around 720 kilometres, which can be leveraged to boost fisheries exports, he said, and stressed the need for processing units for mangoes, cashews, coconut, and betel nuts to increase farmers' income. He also called for the establishment of a dedicated board for fishermen to provide financial support during the monsoon season (when fishing is banned) and to ensure land ownership rights for their homes. Jadhav emphasised the need to develop tourism infrastructure, including logistics hubs and tourist facilities, to attract foreign visitors. He also urged timely disbursement of government subsidies to cashew growers and appealed to all stakeholders to set aside political differences and work collectively for Konkan's growth. Highlighting tourism as the third key pillar, Jadhav said Konkan's natural beauty, beaches and historical legacy can attract international tourists if infrastructure and facilities are improved. He called for strengthening tourism development mechanisms and creating employment opportunities for the local youth. Jadhav seeks dedicated authority, infrastructure push for Konkan development The former minister also referred to past committees and development plans for Konkan, stating that several recommendations remained unimplemented. Jadhav demanded a comprehensive development push for the region, including a dedicated development authority, improved road connectivity such as coastal highways, expansion of airports like Chipi, and financial support for horticulture and fisheries sectors, reported PTI. He further stressed the need for a single nodal agency to ensure effective implementation of schemes and better coordination across departments. Calling for a non-political approach, Jadhav urged all stakeholders to work together for Konkan's long-term development, stating that the region has the capacity to become one of the most prosperous areas in Maharashtra if its resources are properly utilised, reported PTI. (Inputs from PTI)
18 March,2026 09:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn view of the large ‘Padwa Melava’ organised by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena at Shivaji Park, Dadar West, on Thursday, March 19, 2026, the Mumbai Traffic Police has issued a traffic advisory to prevent congestion on key routes across the city. The order, issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Dr Dipali Dhate, will remain in force from 1 pm to midnight. No parking zones The following roads will have a complete ban on parking: SVS Road (from Siddhivinayak Mandir Junction to Yes Bank Junction) Keluskar Road (North & South), Dadar MB Raut Marg Pandurang Naik Marg (Road No 5) Dadasaheb Rege Marg Lt Dilip Gupte Marg (Shivaji Park Gate No 4 to Shitaladevi Temple Junction) NC Kelkar Marg (Gadkari Chowk to Hanuman Temple Junction) Traffic diversions and alternate routes Vehicular traffic on the above stretches will be regulated and diverted: SVS Road traffic will be diverted via SK Bole Road – Agar Bazar – Portuguese Church – Gokhale Road – LJ Road Raja Badhe Chowk to Keluskar Road (North) via LJ Road – Gokhale Road – Steelman Junction Lt Dilip Gupte Marg (south-bound) via Raja Badhe Junction – LJ Road Gadkari Chowk to Keluskar Road via MB Raut Marg Parking instructions for participants Organisers and attendees have been directed to use designated drop-off and parking points: Western and northern suburbs (via Western Express Highway): Drop passengers on Senapati Bapat Road (Matunga Railway Station to Ruparel College stretch). Parking at Reti Bandar (Mahim), Indiabulls Finance Centre PPL Parking, Kamgar Maidan, Senapati Bapat Road and Kohinoor PPL Parking (Shivaji Park) for light vehicles Eastern suburbs (Thane/Navi Mumbai via Eastern Express Highway): Drop at Dadar TT Circle and park at Five Gardens (Matunga) and RAK 4 Road South Mumbai and city areas: Drop at Ravindranath Natya Mandir (Veer Savarkar Road) or Dadar TT Circle (BA Road) and proceed to Indiabulls PPL Parking, Aappasaheb Marathe Marg, Five Gardens or RAK 4 Road Designated parking spots Senapati Bapat Marg, Kamgar Maidan, Indiabulls Finance Centre (Elphinstone), Kohinoor PPL Parking (Shivaji Park), Aappasaheb Marathe Marg, Five Gardens (Matunga), Reti Bandar (Mahim) and RAK 4 Road. The police have advised commuters to plan their travel in advance, use public transport wherever possible, and follow instructions of traffic police personnel on duty. Police have appealed to MNS supporters and the public to cooperate for the smooth conduct of the event.
18 March,2026 09:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a major step towards bridging the gap between academia and industry, the University of Mumbai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Confederation of Indian Industry to establish a state-of-the-art ‘Education-to-Employment (E2E) Career Lounge’ at its Vidyanagari campus. As per the statement from Mumbai University, “The initiative aims to enhance student employability by equipping them with industry-relevant skills, hands-on experience, and direct access to career opportunities.” They also added, “The lounge will function as a comprehensive platform offering career counselling, skill development, job assistance, and placement support under one roof.” The project is aligned with the Government of India’s National Career Service (NCS) initiative under the Ministry of Labour and Employment, focusing on creating a seamless transition from education to employment for students. The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Vice-Chancellor Ravindra Kulkarni, Registrar Dr Prasad Karande, CII Executive Director Sougata Roy Choudhury, along with other senior officials and academic leaders. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Kulkarni highlighted the urgent need to integrate education with industry demands in line with the National Education Policy. He noted that the initiative would ensure students move beyond theoretical knowledge and gain practical exposure, industry insights, and clear career direction. Saugata Roy Choudhury, Executive Director of the CII, emphasised, “This initiative would focus on providing students with up-to-date information regarding emerging technologies, various industrial sectors, and career opportunities.” He further added that, through the involvement of industry experts, students would receive guidance grounded in real-world, practical experience. E2E career lounge to serve as an effective career hub for students The ‘E2E Career Lounge', being established within the University of Mumbai campus, is poised to serve as an effective career hub for students. Through direct interaction with the industry, skills training, and placement guidance, students will be able to achieve a seamless transition from their academic journey into the professional realm. This initiative will foster a strong nexus between education and industry, thereby facilitating the creation of bright career opportunities for students. The initiative will be coordinated by the Career Training and Placement Cell of the University of Mumbai. With this initiative, the University of Mumbai aims to significantly boost students’ confidence, employability, and adaptability in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven job landscape.
18 March,2026 08:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentGudi Padwa is the vibrant traditional New Year festival celebrated by Marathi and Konkani Hindus on the first day of the Chaitra month (March–April), marking the arrival of spring and the new harvest. It symbolises victory, prosperity and new beginnings, and is marked by hoisting a “Gudi” flag, creating rangolis, and enjoying festive sweets like puran poli. The Gudi itself represents victory, often associated with Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya or the triumph of King Shalivahana. Marathi families wake up early, take an oil bath, and hoist the gudi outside their homes, windows or doors. Many also consume a mixture of neem leaves and jaggery, symbolising acceptance of both bitter and sweet experiences in life. Streets fill with processions and traditional dances such as lezim, while homes are decorated with lights and colourful rangolis. According to DrikPanchang, Gudi Padwa will be celebrated on Thursday, March 19. In Mumbai, the city comes alive with vibrant energy. Streets are adorned with colourful rangolis, homes are decorated with mango-leaf torans, and gudis are proudly hoisted outside houses and windows. Families prepare festive delicacies like puran poli and shrikhand. Across the city, communities organise grand Shobha Yatras, traditional lezim performances, bike rallies (often led by women), and cultural programmes. On this day, the spirit of Maharashtra shines at its brightest in Mumbai, drawing huge crowds to public celebrations. Here are Mumbai’s hotspots to witness the festive spirit of Gudi Padwa 2026 1. Girgaon and Chowpatty Considered the heart of Gudi Padwa festivities in South Mumbai, the famous Girgaon Shobha Yatra begins early in the morning around 7 am from the historic Phadke Wadi Ganpati Mandir. One of the biggest highlights is the iconic bike rally, where hundreds of women ride through the streets dressed in traditional nauvari sarees, phetas, and sunglasses. A striking feature each year is women riding Royal Enfield motorcycles in formation. The procession proceeds toward Girgaon Chowpatty, accompanied by the thunderous beats of the Girgaon Dhwaj Pathak. For photographers and culture enthusiasts, this is one of the best locations to experience the festival. 2. Shivaji Park, Dadar Dadar transforms into a vibrant celebration hub, especially around the iconic Shivaji Park. The area hosts one of the city’s grandest processions, featuring elaborate floats, cultural performances, rangoli-lined streets, festive lights, and showers of flowers. Groups carrying copper kalash topped with flags add to the traditional charm, while powerful dhol-tasha beats echo through the area. You will see people in traditional attire, lively folk dances, and community gatherings throughout. Spacious and family-friendly, it offers a comfortable viewing experience, and many locals consider Dadar the cultural heart of Mumbai during Gudi Padwa. 3. Thane Thane also hosts massive Swagat Yatras and processions. Streets are decorated with rangolis and banners, while dhol-tasha performances and traditional dances energize the atmosphere. The Talao Pali area sees lively marches and cultural programs. For those in the suburbs seeking a festive experience without the intense South Mumbai crowds, Thane offers grand celebrations with a strong local flavour. 4. Dombivli While Girgaon is the heart of South Mumbai celebrations, Dombivli is widely regarded as the birthplace of the grand Shobha Yatra tradition. On Gudi Padwa morning, the entire town seems to pause as people pour onto the streets to celebrate together. The procession here goes far beyond a simple parade it becomes a powerful cultural expression, uniting generations in a vibrant display of heritage and pride. Beginning near the Ganesh Mandir close to the railway station, the procession draws thousands of participants and features massive floats depicting scenes from Marathi history. Renowned dhol-tasha pathaks among the finest in the region create an electrifying atmosphere that resonates through the streets. If you want to witness the scale of community participation, Dombivli is a must-visit. Easily accessible via the Central Railway line, the celebrations here are intense, spirited, and unforgettable. Sacred places such as Mumbadevi Temple and Walkeshwar Temple hold special pujas and offer blessings on Gudi Padwa. These are ideal for those seeking a peaceful, spiritual start to the day before joining the lively street festivities. Planning to head out? Crowds begin gathering early in the morning, as processions usually start between 8 am and 10 am. Wear comfortable footwear, stay hydrated by carrying water, and choose modest, festive attire. Public transport or app-based cabs are recommended, as traffic congestion is common during the celebrations. Many venues feature food stalls serving festive favourites like puran poli and modaks. It is also wise to check local updates closer to the date, since timings and routes may change slightly. Traffic Alert for 2026 Road closures: Key routes in Girgaon especially JSS Road and in Dadar, including NC Kelkar Marg, are typically closed to vehicular traffic between 7 am and 12 pm due to processions. Travel tip: Avoid private vehicles if possible. The Mumbai Local is the fastest and most reliable way to travel get down at Charni Road Railway Station for Girgaon or Dadar railway station for the Shivaji Park area to bypass roadblocks and reach the celebrations smoothly.
18 March,2026 07:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentShiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday alleged irregularities in mangrove replanting efforts linked to the Versova–Bhayandar Coastal Road project and demanded an immediate halt to the felling of mangroves in north Mumbai, reported news agency PTI. Raising the issue in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Thackeray called for greater transparency and scrutiny of the compensatory afforestation being carried out for the project. Demand for joint inspection by House panel Thackeray urged the formation of a joint committee of legislators to conduct on-ground inspections of sites where mangroves are proposed to be cut, as well as areas where authorities claim to have undertaken replantation, reported PTI. He said such a visit would help verify whether the compensatory measures cited by the government are genuine and adequate. Allegations of misleading information The former environment minister alleged that officials from the Forest Department were providing misleading information regarding mangrove plantations, reported PTI. He claimed that inaccurate data may have been presented before the Bombay High Court, as well as to the state government and civil society groups, regarding the status of afforestation efforts. Call for inquiry into afforestation claims Thackeray demanded the appointment of an independent inquiry commission to investigate the alleged discrepancies. He said claims of replanting and compensatory afforestation were being used to justify the proposed cutting of around 45,000 mangroves for the coastal road project, reported PTI. He also cited concerns raised by environmental groups, which have questioned the credibility of the afforestation data presented by authorities. Suggests alternative project alignments Highlighting the ecological sensitivity of mangrove ecosystems, Thackeray suggested exploring alternatives such as tunnels or changes in project alignment to minimise environmental damage. He stressed that development projects should not come at the cost of critical coastal ecosystems. Importance of mangrove conservation Thackeray emphasised the vital role mangroves play in protecting coastlines from erosion, supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance, reported PTI. He urged the government to prioritise conservation and ensure that any infrastructure development complies with environmental safeguards. The issue is expected to see further debate, with calls for a detailed review of the project’s environmental impact and mitigation measures. (With inputs from PTI)
18 March,2026 06:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
