Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has admitted that one may see his reunion with cousin Raj Thackeray as unexpected. However, he said the cousins coming together is driven by a shared commitment to Marathi asmita and the larger interest of Maharashtra. Interestingly, when asked whether there is a possibility of realigning with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the future, he neither confirmed nor denied it. In a wide-ranging interview, Thackeray spoke candidly about Mumbai’s worsening civic crisis, air pollution and political realignments ahead of the high-stakes Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. Thackeray repeatedly returned to one central theme: that Mumbai itself is what is truly at stake. Excerpts from an interview: Mumbaikars face the same problems every year, potholes, broken roads, flooding and no safe space to walk. Can this really change, or should people accept that this is how Mumbai will always be?There is no denying that Mumbai has always had problems. What is worrying, however, is that these problems have sharply worsened in the last few years. Since February 2022, after the term of 227 BMC corporators ended, the city has been run by administrators. During this period, the situation has deteriorated further, with little accountability and no one to answer citizens’ questions. Instead of fixing basic civic issues, the current Maharashtra government, in the name of development, has allowed haphazard construction, whether it is roads, infrastructure projects, redevelopment or unchecked building activity. Mumbai citizens are already dealing with several problems, and in the past few years, another has been added to the list, poor air quality, which was not as bad a decade ago.The quality of work has fallen so badly that roads barely last a season, construction dust hangs in the air, and pollution levels have reached dangerous limits. Mumbaikars are no longer just battling potholes and broken roads; they are also struggling to breathe clean air. The situation has become so serious that, like the warning printed on tobacco products, one feels the city now needs caution boards everywhere stating, “Inhaling this air is injurious to health.” During Bal Thackeray’s time, there were differences and dissatisfaction within the party, but no one openly rebelled against the organisation. Your leadership style is seen as calmer and more accommodative. Do you believe this difference played a role in the rebellion and eventual split?Maybe my nature did play a role. But I will not change the way I am. I believe in trusting my cadre and leaders and treating everyone with equal respect, love, and affection. That is how I function, and I see no reason to correct myself for that. I choose to trust people and give them responsibility. It is then up to them to live up to that trust and deliver. Raj Thackeray quit the undivided Shiv Sena in 2005. Did you ever imagine that the two cousins and their parties would come together again?One may call it unexpected, but this reunion is deeply rooted in Marathi identity and the pride of Maharashtra. We were separated earlier, but when there were attempts to impose Hindi, we felt it was being done to divide us for someone else’s political motives. Both Raj and I felt there was no reason to give in to what others wanted. That realisation brought us together. We have come together with the resolve to stay united and stand for Marathi pride and Maharashtra’s interests. We intend to stay united forever. You have often said your differences are not with the entire BJP but with a few leaders at the Centre and in the state. If those leaders were no longer in the picture, would you consider joining hands with the BJP again?When the time comes, we will see. Why discuss it now? [Neither confirming nor denying the possibility] Several welfare schemes have been announced, including R1500 monthly assistance to domestic workers and meals at R10. Where will the funding come from? Will this strain the BMC’s finances?This is a valid question, and I am glad it is being asked. We plan to stop unnecessary and haphazard development works that are carried out only to benefit contractors and generate kickbacks for elections. By cutting wasteful spending and prioritising essential projects, funds can be redirected towards genuine welfare schemes. You launched the Mee Mumbaikar initiative in the early 2000s. At a time when the narrative is increasingly Marathi versus non-Marathi, do you still stand by that inclusive vision?Marathi people have never hated or clashed with any other community. Tensions arose only when Marathi identity, language or regional pride was provoked. Reactions came in response to such incidents, not out of hostility. For us, anyone who loves and respects Mumbai, its language and Maharashtra’s culture is a Mumbaikar. Cordial relations between Marathi and other communities have always existed and will continue to exist. I firmly believe in the Mee Mumbaikar campaign and its inclusive spirit. Do you believe having the Congress in the alliance could have prevented a split in anti-BJP votes and changed the BMC outcome?Congress initiated the move and announced it would contest the elections separately. They did not leave space for dialogue or further discussions. Finally, what is at stake for you personally in this BMC election?For me, it is Mumbai that is at stake.
09 January,2026 08:35 AM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarWith education at the centre of its agenda, the MahaMumbai Shikshan Sanstha Sanghatana (MMSSS) has released its manifesto ahead of the municipal body elections. The 13-point agenda highlights key challenges such as rising education costs, inadequate infrastructure, non-academic workload on teachers, and policy inconsistencies, among others. With board examinations approaching, the group has demanded robust infrastructure at Std X and XII exam centres, including CCTV surveillance, security personnel, power backup through generators, and adequate technical facilities. “We are reaching out to political candidates and urging them to include these concerns in their agendas. Our demands are aimed at the overall welfare of teachers and students across the city,” said Sadanand Raorane, president, MahaMumbai Shikshan Sanstha Sanghatana. Tax waiver requested The organisation has also sought a complete waiver of property tax for schools operating in the metropolitan region, timely disbursal of RTE grants, exemption of teachers from non-academic duties, additional financial grants for BMC and government schools beyond salaries, and state-provided facilities at board exam centres. The manifesto further calls for effective implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), including the appointment of qualified teachers for arts, sports, music and computer education in all schools, along with trained counsellors. Post-election break Members of the Maharashtra Progressive Teachers Association have demanded a holiday on January 16, as teachers and non-teaching staff will be on election duty on January 14 and 15. The association said the break would serve as compensation for continuous duty and the loss of the Makar Sankranti holiday.
09 January,2026 08:21 AM IST | Mumbai | Aditi AlurkarThe making of matchwinners A group of focused young cricketers train at the Mumbai Police Gymkhana at Marine Drive. From E-waste to e-useful Robo Crafter (left); Waste material used to make Robo Crafter. Pics Courtesy/Nehru Science Centre Cannot think of how to discard e-waste? We’ve come across an innovative idea. Nehru Science Centre is hosting the Swachhta Pakhwada campaign, which highlights creative reuse and sustainability through innovative displays made from discarded electronic waste. The campaign is currently organised for staff members of Nehru Science Centre and focuses on encouraging mindful waste management practices. A key attraction is Robo Crafter, a robot sculpture created entirely from e-waste by artist HD Barapatre, exhibition officer at Nehru Science Centre. “It took me a total of three days to make this,” Barapatre says. “I used various e-waste materials such as wires, old torches, circuit boards, CCTV glass covers, speakers, old equipment, keyboards, a ball, and other items that would otherwise be considered unworthy.” The sculpture demonstrates how discarded materials can be repurposed creatively rather than sent to landfills. Another notable mention is the Wake Up Rooster, crafted by Avani A Rane, artist at Nehru Science Centre, which further reinforces the message of sustainability and responsible reuse through art. HD Barapatre Be a WISE voter With the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections scheduled for January 15, citizens are being encouraged to understand who they are voting for and why. Youth-led social change platform Blue Ribbon Movement, will host a pre-election gathering titled ‘We Vote WISE’ at Nariman Point on January 10. The event will bring together citizens across Mumbai to collectively warm up for the polls. The initiative has invited volunteers, including writers, poets, and storytellers, to help shape a creative manifesto rooted in Mumbaikars’ voices. The team and volunteers of Blue Ribbon Movement. Pics courtesy/Akash Upase “The proposed event, ‘We Vote WISE — (Well-being, Inclusion, Sustainability, Expression, and Entrepreneurial energy) — is a fun and engaging citizens’ meet held before the elections. The aim is to reflect on the impact of three years without local elections, seek accountability from the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM), and understand what voting wisely means, and, where possible, engage with political parties around citizens’ key concerns,” WISE lead, Blue Ribbon Movement, Akash Upase, told us. Akash Upase A slow Sunday morning ritual A designated reading space. PIC courtesy/Kitaabghar reading room and bookshop Kitaabghar Reading Room and Bookshop in Andheri will launch a new weekly community initiative in 2026, centred on a calm and unhurried Sunday reading ritual. Held every Sunday, the gathering invites strangers to come together for silent reading — with no pressure to speak, interact, or finish a book. Readers are welcomed into a designated quiet space where they can read peacefully without disturbance, for a minimal fee of '100 every Sunday. The space offers a mix of old favourites and newly added books across genres, allowing participants to either bring their own book or choose one on site. Amal Solanki, founder of Kitaabghar, said, “Many people don’t like to talk about what they’re reading because it’s an intimate activity. This is a safe space for readers who want to bury their faces deep in their books.” Economic start Pic Courtesy/Wikimedia Commons If you were looking for ideas to figure your financial game plan for 2026, Worli was the place to be. Former chief economic advisor Arvind Subramanian (below) was joined by political scientist Devesh Kapur in a talk by the Asia Society India Centre at Club Jolie’s yesterday. “They plunged deep into almost 80 years of development data, and it’s wonderful to start the year off by examining how the data can surprise us and make us re-evaluate our nation’s history and economy,” shared Inakshi Sobti, CEO, Asia Society India Centre. Fringe benefits in March Soha Ali Khan during 3 Art House’s in-house fest, Neighbourhood Festival. Pics Courtesy/3 Art House; (right) Banat Kaur Bagga Mumbai is expecting an intriguingly unconventional showcase soon. From March 12 to 15, the Mumbai Fringe Festival will be hosted at 3 Art House in Khar. The Fringe, which has been a global phenomenon for decades, curates intimate, original performances. These, however, are not traditional acts. The concept is to craft performances that will come alive best in small rooms, creating an authentic connection between the performer and the audience. The festival consists of theatre, comedy, spoken word, storytelling, amongst other experimental formats. “[It] is really about live performance that feels close and honest; it’s not about big stages or creating a spectacle, but about storytelling and connections. We’re excited to see how artistes and audiences respond to this format in Mumbai,” revealed Banat Kaur Bagga, co-founder, 3 Art House. Those interested can follow @mumaaifringefest for more updates.
09 January,2026 08:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-daySantacruz residents have raised serious allegations against the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA), claiming that key provisions of the Development Control and Promotion Regulations (DCPR) 2034 have been violated, leading to potential long-term inconvenience for daily commuters. At the centre of the controversy is TPS 6 Road No. 1, a proposed 12.20-metre-wide road, planned to provide direct access to Santacruz railway station to the local residents. According to the locals, the entire stretch of the proposed road has been encroached upon by a private developer, upon which a mall has been constructed. “The construction of the mall has completely obstructed the planned road alignment, defeating the very purpose of the sanctioned development plan,” said Navneet Madan, a local resident. The mall that residents claim was illegally built and which has become an obstruction to construction of a road to Santacruz station. Pics/Nimesh Dave Due to the obstruction, commuters who were earlier expected to benefit from a direct road link are now forced to use the PM Road to reach the station. This road has been diverted and connected to Phirozshah Mehta Road, further complicating access. Residents point out that under DCPR 2034 (Development Control and Promotion Regulation 2034), diversion of roads is not permitted. The regulations only allow realignment of roads within the same designated boundaries, and even that requires due approvals. Locals allege that despite these clear provisions, the SRA went ahead and regularised the mall, which was originally constructed illegally. They further claim that the road diversion plan was earlier rejected by the Development Plan Department (DP department), yet the diversion was implemented regardless. Recently, a part Occupation Certificate (OC) was also granted to the mall, raising fears that the obstruction may now become permanent. “The proposed road was meant to make our lives easier. Instead, we are now spending nearly 25 minutes and at least R40 per trip just to reach the railway station,” said a local resident. According to residents, once the road is fully operational as per the DCPR norms, pedestrians would be able to reach the station within five minutes (by walking). With the mall now standing on the proposed road alignment, residents worry that restoring the planned access road may become increasingly difficult. Citizen groups have demanded immediate intervention, cancellation of the alleged illegal regularisation, and strict adherence to DCPR 2034, warning that failure to act would set a dangerous precedent for urban planning violations in Mumbai. Residents Speak “Not establishing the proposed Road No. 1 will lead to excessive inconvenience. The road can help us reach [Santacruz] railway station by walking in 5 minutes. However, if the proposed road is not established, we will be forced to take a longer route which is always jammed with traffic. Additionally, we will have to spend at least 20 minutes and spend R40 one-way,” said Ajit Ajgaonkar, one of the residents. “Despite several complaints and even raising the matter in Vidhan Sabha, the mall stands. Also, as per the MRTP Act, SRA does not have the power to divert any roads. They only have power to realign the roads, and that too within the boundaries of the area. Moreover, whether diversion or realignment, SRA must take suggestions and objections from the residents” said Ajay Desai, another local resident. “The main question here is how was a proposed road encroached? Post encroachment, how was the builder allowed to construct a ground+3 mall? Post construction, how was the illegal construction of the mall regularised? The mall also received part OC. We don’t understand who exactly should be blamed for this,” said Sanjay Patkar, another local resident. Questions raised with SRA . How did the SRA approve the diversion of PM Road and its connection with Phirozshah Mehta Road despite the DP Department rejecting the diversion?. Why did SRA violate the DCPR-2034 rules and regularise the construction of the mall by giving a notice to the developer and making him pay a fine?. Will the SRA demolish the obstructing mall to establish the proposed Road No. 1? SRA’s response . The 12.20-metre-wide DP Road was realigned in the year 2017, as per regulation 11(4) of DCR 1991 by the then CEO of SRA, subject to concurrence from BMC. The BMC had given concurrence for the realignment on August 3, 2019.. The work was carried out beyond the Commencement Certificate, but an approval was regularised by recovering the penalty (R2.49 crore) as per the prevailing policy.. Action is not warranted as the realignment of the DP Road has been done as per the regulation, and the BMC had given concurrence for the same. 12.2 metresWidth of the road
09 January,2026 08:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Ritika GondhalekarWhile Mumbai grapples with deteriorating air quality and shrinking green cover, 255 trees within the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) will face the axe, and another 201 will be transplanted, to set up the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) campus near Film City in Goregaon East. According to sources in the government, wildlife clearance for the project, whose estimated cost is Rs 588.82 crore, was granted during the 25th State Board of Wildlife (SBWL) meeting, which took place on January 7. The chief wildlife warden laid down 18 terms and conditions before clearing the project, but final clearance from the National Board for Wildlife is awaited. About the project It is said that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting wants to establish this centre to provide high-quality education in the field of animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics (AVGC) across India, by making advanced and specialised courses available in this field, and also as a National Centre of Excellence for AVGC. According to the proposal, a total of 10 acres of land will be required for the facility, necessitating the removal of 456 trees from the site. Of these, 201 trees will be transplanted while 255 will be felled. ExpertSpeak Environmentalist Stalin D from NGO Vanashakti alleged that all government institutions were engaged in the destruction of forests and wildlife areas. “Every possible argument is put forward to justify this destruction. In a situation where the admitted position is that there is no space in Mumbai for compensatory afforestation, what can be the justification for permitting more trees to be cut? For every project, however nonsensical it may sound, the excuse is that it’s of national importance. The truth is that everything, except conservation and the preservation of nature, is of national importance.” Mincing no words, he added, “Never in the history of Independent India has the environment been battered as it has been in the past ten years. The situation is not going to improve. It can only get worse from here on. Environmental justice is as good as dead. All institutions have lost their spine and purpose, deviating consistently from constitutional duties and obligations.” Wildlife Conservationist Kedar Gore from The Corbett Foundation, meanwhile, said, “Cutting of trees in protected areas and ESZs must be an absolute no-no and should be made a non-bailable offence in India. Nobody with a sane mind and common sense will plan such a massacre of trees. The IICT must be established elsewhere, where no destruction of nature is necessary.” 10 ACRESArea required for IICT campus
09 January,2026 08:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavThe foot overbridge connecting Bhau Daji Road to Matunga West near King’s Circle, an age-old yet crucial connector, has fallen into a state of disrepair. Widely used by schoolchildren and senior citizens, the bridge has become a safety hazard. “The staircases are uneven and in poor condition, making the bridge feel too steep. Negotiating the steps and broken railings is a challenge. The bridge needs a replacement or at least an upgrade. We have been complaining, but no action has been taken,” said senior citizen Shalini Tripathi. Overgrowth of trees is making the bridge hazardous Commuter Yugantar Deo added, “The bridge is inconsistently wide, with damaged flooring and broken steps. It feels risky every time you cross it.” Residents also pointed out the problem of debris and overgrowth. “Both ends, especially the Matunga East side, are littered with dried leaves and wild plants. The walkway narrows, making it slippery during the monsoon,” said another local. Broken and steep staircases in Matunga East The bridge, which links Matunga East and West and served as a key connector during the construction of the Z bridge, is divided into two sections. The portion over the railway line is wider, while the road-crossing extension on the east side is narrow and in worse shape. The east staircase is broken, the railings are overrun by weeds, and the west landing and steps also need attention. Commuter Munesh Yadav urged authorities, “It’s high time the bridge was upgraded. If not, at least maintain it properly to make it walkable.” The path is littered with garbage and debris, narrowing the space for commuters. Pics/Rajendra B Aklekar Official response Railway officials said they would inspect the bridge, while BMC local ward authorities confirmed that a maintenance team would be sent to assess the structure. What’s wrong . Poor condition: Overall unsafe for frequent users, uneven staircases, steep, with broken railings. Surface issues: Broken steps and inconsistent width. Debris & garbage: Cluttered ends, especially on Matunga East side. Structural complications: The road portion is narrower and was added later, causing issues. Vegetation overgrowth: Weed and grass over railings worsen the hazard
09 January,2026 07:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarAs the city prepares for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Election on January 15, a new and increasingly vocal constituency is stepping into the civic spotlight: Gen Z. Young voters, many casting their ballots for the first time, are making it clear that they want tangible improvements in everyday urban life, and not political theatrics. For 21-year-old Arts graduate Shreyas Patil, civic priorities are straightforward but often overlooked. Shreyas Patil 21-year-old Arts graduate. (Pic/ Special Arrangement)“Instead of focusing on minor issues such as detaining college students who smoke, BMC officials should address real problems like repairing roads and maintaining public services,” he says. “It feels like the system is more interested in earning revenue from students rather than looking out for the welfare of Mumbaikars,” added Patil. Recalling his college days in Wadala, he points to a glaring example of misplaced priorities. “There was a huge pile of garbage near our college that attracted flies and insects. The entire area had a foul stench,” he says, adding, “The BMC and Mumbai Police would visit the area — not to clean it up or to make it safer for students, but to nab collegegoers who were smoking. They didn’t care about the garbage or the health risks it posed.” BMC Election 2026: Disconnect, apprehension among some youngsters Not all young voters, however, feel confident about the power of their vote. A 22-year-old student from KEM College in Mumbai candidly admits, “How does it even matter if we vote or not?” The remark reflects a growing sense of disconnect among sections of the youth, underlining the need for stronger civic awareness and engagement ahead of the polls. Asadullah Chaus, a 20-year-old PR agency executive, echoes similar scepticism. “Gen Z often feels acknowledged only during elections,” he tells mid-day.com.Asadullah Chaus, a 20-year-old PR agency executive. (Pic/ Special Arrangement) “When young people raise real issues or participate in protests, political systems are largely absent. But during elections, the same youth are mobilised through money, optics, and temporary engagement. Many so-called ground workers today are Gen Z, not always driven by belief, but by influence and incentives. This has led to deep scepticism toward performative politics rather than a lack of political awareness,” he adds. For others, leadership and inclusivity matter deeply. Candidates must move beyond political narratives, say Mumbai’s first-time voters Mihir Pawar, 22, believes the new BMC Mayor should serve as a role model for young people. Mihir Pawar, 22. (Pic/ Special Arrangement) “The mayor should promote civic sense and unity, not divide people based on religion or language,” he says. Despite doubts among some, many Gen Z voters see the elections as an opportunity to shape Mumbai’s future. 21-year-old graduate student Poorva Gaikwad hopes that candidates will move beyond political narratives. “I expect them to focus on real civic issues like roads, cleanliness, water supply, and public transport. As a young voter, I want people to choose representatives based on performance and accountability, leading to better governance and a more liveable Mumbai,” she says. 21-year-old graduate student Poorva Gaikwad. (Pic/ Special Arrangement) Vaishnavi Patkar, a 21-year-old media student, views the BMC polls as a chance for meaningful, ground-level change. “Gen Z wants transparent governance, better roads, effective waste management, flood control, and safe public transport,” explains the mass media graduate. Vaishnavi Patkar, a 21-year-old media student. (Pic/ Special Arrangement)“More than promises, we want accountability, digital-first solutions, and leaders who actually listen. Civic politics should focus on everyday urban issues and long-term sustainability, not political narratives,” added Patkar. BMC Election 2026: Young Mumbaikars demand transparency Adding another dimension, Samiksha Borade, a 22-year-old media student, stresses the importance of opportunity alongside infrastructure. “We want more employment options, skill development, and support for entrepreneurship. At the civic level, we expect cleaner roads, proper waste management, and transparent governance. A well-functioning city directly contributes to a stronger economy and a better quality of life,” said Borade.Samiksha Borade, a 22-year-old media student. (Pic/ Special Arrangement) Taken together, these voices signal a clear generational shift in civic priorities. While traditional election debates often revolve around party loyalties and rhetoric, Gen Z is focused on outcomes, how effectively leaders manage the city’s most pressing challenges. Flood-prone streets, overcrowded public transport, erratic water supply, and inefficient waste management are daily realities that young voters want addressed. Digital transparency and citizen participation are equally important. Many young Mumbaikars want civic issues handled openly, with accessible platforms that allow residents to engage directly with decision-makers. In short, they are looking for leaders who don’t just promise change, but deliver it. The BMC Election 2026 is more than a routine civic exercise; it’s a test of whether Mumbai’s youth feel seen and heard. For Gen Z, the question is simple: will the city’s leaders act on their priorities and improve everyday life? For many young voters, this election is a chance to finally make their vote count.
09 January,2026 07:44 AM IST | Mumbai | Anushree GaikwadDo 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 January 9. Aries March 21 – April 20Having faith in the cosmic vibes/energies guides life into serene waters. Several surprises are in store at this time. Cosmic tip: Enjoy this karmic cycle of big changes moving closer and closer towards you. TaurusApril 21 – May 20Enjoying this social time makes a good change since most Taureans are homebodies, loving their own company.Cosmic tip: Be aware of a person’s actions, not what is said. Actions give all the answers. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Do all that’s possible to keep a matter out of court. A trip for work necessitates being careful about the diet.Cosmic tip: Clear up a misunderstanding immediately before it spirals out of control. Cancer June 22 – July 23Very casually, try and find out who is disrupting chances of a promotion. Then consider how to deal with it. Don’t make impulsive decisions.Cosmic tip: Be patient. Good things come to those who wait. Leo July 24 - Aug 23At best, it’s advisable to have a conversation with someone even if the answer given is slightly painful, but the truth. Career is challenging but enjoyable. Cosmic tip: Deal tactfully with someone younger. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Making time to listen to a friend’s woes does them a lot of good. Learning has always been a passion, so pursue it. Drink enough water.Cosmic tip: Take control of thoughts and emotions. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Trying to control situations, keeping them on the straight and narrow may not work out today. Cosmic tip: Go along with the flow, stepping around obstacles, but keeping thoughts positive. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Be patient even if you want to rocket an idea immediately. Competing with a colleague is a waste of energy. Cosmic tip: Keep conflicts at bay with family due to some ideas discussed with you. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22This karmic cycle favours new beginnings in relationships and setting down roots. Keep insecurity away.Cosmic tip: Never talk about your fears as they lend energy to negative thoughts. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Some choose to work away from the present city, but this is good experience in totality. Points of view at a meeting may differ, but the goal remains the same.Cosmic tip: Respond with logic. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Resetting roots in another area is possible for some Aquarians. The Tarot advises building your skills; competence destroys competition. Cosmic tip: Enjoy this karmic cycle of perfect rapport and closeness. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Completing two projects keep you working till late at night since a last-minute change has to be incorporated. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Stand firm in your values.
09 January,2026 07:36 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseA One-Armed runner, Govind Kumar Kharol, will be the pacer for the 21-km (half-marathon) distance at the Tata Mumbai Marathon on Sunday, January 18. Gritty Govind will be leading or pacing the 2 hours 10 minutes bus (2:10) for the distance. In marathon lingo, a 'bus' refers to a group of runners following a 'pacer' or pacemaker leading a group to finish within a specified target time. He is also a motivator for the group. There can be nothing more motivating than seeing a differently-abled person turning a disability into a strength. Kharol, who is from Udaipur (Rajasthan) has done just that. He said, “I was born with one arm. I do not have a right arm. I have a left arm. My left hand has only two fingers.” Kharol, who has four siblings, said that as he was born without an arm, he got used to doing things with one upper limb from an early age. “I knew I was 'different'. Yet, I chose not to let disability define me or dictate the course of my life,” said the 35-year-old. The medals on that one arm tell his story Goal soul Kharol is familiar with Mumbai and the course, having run the 42-km (full marathon distance) in the city thrice. “I took up the offer to be a pacer for the 2026 half-marathon as I want people to achieve their goals. There is joy in that. I hope the fact that a 'para athlete' is pacing is all the encouragement they need to crack that timing goal.” Kharol said he has been a fitness enthusiast and athlete for years. “I call myself a fitness promoter; that is my life's work. I have an organisation called 'Bindaas Foundation'.” Kharol encapsulated about Bindaas Foundation, “Bindaas works as a growing fitness and nature exploration community with a vision to make Udaipur a fit city and a cycling city. Through cycling, trekking, camping and running events, Bindaas encourages an active lifestyle that promotes physical well-being, mental strength, and a deeper connection with nature. The initiative believes that fitness is not just about sport, but about building a healthy, happy, and socially connected community. To many, I am also known as Bindaas Govind,” he laughed. Pedalling outdoors where the mountains sing the song of his soul. Pics/By Special Arrangement Running roots Kharol explained, “I am an avid cyclist too. I have cycled from Udaipur to Bangalore in 2017 and from Manali to Khardungla Pass in 2018.” When asked how he moved the cycle handle with one arm, he said, “The brakes on my bicycle are customised, but I can move the bicycle handle bar just as deftly as people with both arms. I am used to it, have been doing so for so many years.” This cyclist began his running journey during the COVID lockdown. “There were closures everywhere, so I decided to start running on the terrace of my home. I then moved on to running, circling around the Fatehsagar Lake, a distance of 8 km. I started relishing the fitness benefits of running. I gradually started upping the distance. I understood that one can become fitter faster running a short distance, but the same fitness benefits take a longer time when cycling.” Outdoors man “I also trek, go camping, and enjoy the outdoors as much as I can. I did the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in 2025.” The Annapurna Base Camp sits at an elevation of approximately 13,550 feet. Kharol added, “I do not want sympathy from anybody. Earlier, I used to get stares from people or pitying looks. I did not like that. Today, people look at me in admiration, and some look up to me. On treks/camping, I carry my own heavy gear. My sign off to people is: put your full heart and soul (or in running context, sole) into what you do,” he concluded.
09 January,2026 07:27 AM IST | Mumbai | Hemal AsharFitness certificate issuance and renewal for commercial vehicles has come to a complete standstill across several districts of Maharashtra. The situation triggered a major operational and financial crisis for the transport sector. This disruption follows a directive issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) on December 26, 2025, which led to the withdrawal of Parivahan system access for manual fitness testing in districts where Automated Testing Stations (ATS) are operational. As a result of the directive, transporters attempting to obtain or renew fitness certificates at Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) in adjoining districts are facing system-generated restrictions on the VAHAN portal. This has effectively blocked the fitness certification process, forcing thousands of commercial vehicles off the road and severely impacting transport operations in multiple regions. Advisor and former president of All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), Bal Malkit Singh said, “The decision has overlooked ground realities. He pointed out that while the MoRTH letter directs the Transport Commissioner’s office to submit an action plan for establishing ATS infrastructure statewide, only one ATS facility is currently operational in Nashik.” Singh further added, “Expecting commercial vehicles from adjoining districts to travel long distances solely for fitness testing is impractical, illogical and economically unviable.” He further highlighted that commercial vehicles operate under strict delivery schedules and contractual obligations. Singh further added that commercial vehicles operate under tight delivery schedules and contractual commitments, and the current situation is causing: Heavy financial losses due to vehicle idling. Severe disruption of essential supply chains, including food grains, FMCG, fuel, industrial raw materials, and other critical goods. Increased operational costs, fuel wastage, and manpower losses. Risk of penal action against vehicle owners due to expired fitness certificates, despite no fault of theirs. Acute hardship to small and medium transport operators, who are already under financial stress. Emphasising the urgency of the issue, Singh said prolonged disruption in fitness certification could have far-reaching consequences for trade, industry and public supply systems. “The transport sector is the backbone of the economy. Immediate interim arrangements are essential until adequate ATS infrastructure is established across all districts,” he added. The transport community has urged the Transport Commissioner of Maharashtra to urgently intervene by providing an interim solution, issuing temporary relaxations or necessary clarifications on the VAHAN system, and expediting the phased rollout of ATS facilities to ensure a smooth transition without paralysing transport operations across the state.
08 January,2026 09:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCentral Railway suburban train services were disrupted during the evening peak hour on Thursday after a massive fire broke out in a garbage train at Kurla, officials said. The incident led to the shutdown of power supply between Kurla and Vidyavihar stations, they said. According to railway officials, the fire occurred around 8.30 pm in a muck special rake stationed in the EMU siding at Kurla. Slow line services suspended Following the fire, slow local train services towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) were suspended. To ensure safety and allow firefighting operations, the overhead electric (OHE) supply between Sion and Vidyavihar was switched off. Firefighting operations underway A Central Railway spokesperson said efforts were underway to douse the fire. “At Kurla, in the EMU siding, a muck special rake caught fire at around 8.30 pm. Firefighting operations are in progress. Traffic on the UP slow local line has been temporarily suspended, and the OHE between Sion and Vidyavihar has been switched off,” the spokesperson said. Passengers face delays The disruption caused significant delays for suburban commuters during peak hours. Railway authorities advised passengers to remain patient as teams worked to restore normal services at the earliest. Fire Doused, restoration underway Railway officials said the fire was fully doused between 8.38 pm and 8.55 pm. After the fire was brought under control, steps were immediately taken to restore power supply and resume train services. "Firefighting operations have been completed and suburban services are now being gradually restored," officials said.
08 January,2026 09:17 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarADVERTISEMENT
