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Mumbai: Orange Gate-Marine Drive tunnel work advances as main drive begins

Mumbai’s ambitious underground mobility network has achieved a significant breakthrough, with the Orange Gate-Marine Drive road tunnel project entering its main tunnelling phase, according to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority. The development marks a crucial step forward in one of India’s most complex urban infrastructure projects aimed at transforming east-west connectivity in the city. Main drive signals key progress The project recently crossed an important milestone as the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) commenced its main drive operations after successfully completing the initial excavation phase, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority stated. Designed specifically to tackle Mumbai’s challenging coastal geology, the TBM - the largest slurry shield machine deployed for an urban road tunnel in India - has already demonstrated strong performance. The authority noted that following an earlier breakthrough, the machine has advanced rapidly, excavating nearly 70 metres within just a few days, reflecting both engineering precision and operational efficiency. Big milestone for Mumbai’s Underground Mobility Project: Orange Gate–Marine Drive Tunnel Begins Main DriveThe Orange Gate–Marine Drive Road Tunnel, one of India’s most complex urban road tunnelling projects, has reached another historic milestone with the main tunnelling drive… pic.twitter.com/AcwSKqI4lk — MMRDA (@MMRDAOfficial) March 27, 2026 High-level backing and strategic importance The TBM was officially launched on December 3, 2025, in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The project is being implemented by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority and is considered a critical component of the city’s long-term transport infrastructure strategy. Engineering marvel beneath the city According to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, the project involves the construction of twin tunnels stretching over 7 kilometres. The first tunnel, currently under development, spans 3.45 kilometres and reaches depths of up to 52 metres below ground level. The alignment passes beneath key transport corridors, including Central Railway, Western Railway, and Mumbai Metro Line 3, requiring high levels of safety and engineering precision. The authority stated that once completed, the tunnel will reduce travel time between Orange Gate and Marine Drive to just five minutes. It will also provide seamless integration with major infrastructure such as the Coastal Road and Atal Setu, significantly easing congestion and reducing fuel consumption and vehicular emissions. Milestones achieved so far The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority highlighted that since its launch, the project has recorded steady progress through multiple critical stages. These include the successful lowering and installation of the TBM’s backup system, integration with the TBM shield, and completion of essential hydraulic and electrical connections. The authority further noted that advanced monitoring instruments such as flowmeters, densitometers, and pressure sensors were calibrated to ensure safe and efficient operations. The initial tunnelling phase began on January 8, 2026, with the erection of temporary rings, followed by permanent ring installation starting January 26. The initial drive was completed by January 31, paving the way for the transition to the main drive, which was finalised on February 26. Full-scale tunnelling operations officially commenced on February 28, the authority said. Rapid progress continues As of March 26, 2026, the TBM has excavated 70 metres out of the planned 3,720 metres for the first tunnel, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority said, adding that the pace of work is expected to accelerate in the coming months. The Orange Gate–Marine Drive tunnel is poised to become a game-changer for Mumbai, offering faster, more efficient connectivity while supporting the city’s vision of sustainable and modern transport solutions, the authority added.

27 March,2026 07:42 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Major rail block to affect Andheri–Borivali route; 254 trains cancelled on Sunday. (File pic)

WR block to disrupt Mumbai local train services between Andheri and Borivali

Mumbai suburban commuters are likely to face disruptions on March 28 and 29. As per the railway officials, Western Railway will undertake a major 19-hour block between Andheri and Borivali to carry out key infrastructure works. The official release issued by the authorities stated that no trains will be handled on platform numbers 1 and 2 at Borivali during the block period. Whereas, several suburban services will be cancelled or short-terminated at Andheri and Goregaon, affecting operations across the corridor. Authorities further shared a detailed list of cancellations, short terminations, and originating services that will be made available at station master offices in the suburban section. 254 trains to be cancelled on Sunday As per an official statement from Western Railway, 45 trains will be cancelled on Saturday, whereas 254 services will also remain cancelled on Sunday due to the block. However, to ease commuter inconvenience, 25 extra trains will be operated during the disruption period. In a key operational change, all 15-car slow local trains will run as fast services between Andheri and Borivali in both UP and DOWN directions during the block window. In a temporary operational change, all 15-car slow local trains will run as fast services between Andheri (ADH) and Borivali (BVI) in both directions. The block will also be used to fast-track multiple pending infrastructure projects. Key works that will be carried out by the authorities include: Harbour Line Extension: Launching of PSC slabs and ballast retainers on Bridge No. 56A between Malad and Kandivali, a crucial step toward extending the Harbour Line up to Borivali. Kandivali Deck Construction: Launching of a girder for one of the deck spans (C16–C17) on Platform 1 at Kandivali station. Additionally, another major block will be undertaken for launching a girder deck span between piers C16 and C17 on platform 1 at Kandivali station. This activity is scheduled between 2:00 am and 7:30 am on the same day.

27 March,2026 07:10 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. Aklekar
Pic/BMC

Mumbai: BMC assures support to BEST undertaking, promises to clear pending dues

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Friday reiterated its commitment to strengthening the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking, with a focus on financial stability and addressing long-pending employee demands. A joint meeting to review the concerns of BEST employees was held at the BMC headquarters, chaired by Mayor Ritu Tawde. The meeting brought together senior civic officials, BEST authorities, and representatives of workers’ unions. Focus on Clearing Legal Dues and Employee Welfare Addressing the gathering, Mayor Tawde said the civic administration is sensitive towards resolving issues related to gratuity and other legal dues of retired workers and employees. She assured that these matters would be handled on priority. The Mayor also interacted with representatives from the BEST Workers’ Union and the BEST Joint Workers’ Action Committee, hearing their concerns and assuring them of appropriate solutions. Boosting BEST’s Financial Strength and Bus Fleet Highlighting the importance of long-term sustainability, Tawde stressed that the BMC is committed to making BEST financially strong and self-reliant. She underscored the need to increase the number of buses owned by BEST, calling it a key priority for improving operational efficiency. “Planned and systematic efforts will be undertaken, and regular review meetings will be held to ensure progress,” she said, urging the BEST administration to devise effective strategies. Wide-Ranging Discussions on Key Issues The meeting covered a broad spectrum of issues, including pending demands of current and retired employees, wage agreements, promotions, compassionate appointments, availability of BEST-owned buses, and financial assistance. Senior officials present included Deputy Mayor Sanjay Ghadhi, Leader of the House Ganesh Khankar, Standing Committee Chairman Prabhakar Shinde, Shiv Sena Group Leader Amey Ghole, and BEST Committee Chairperson Trishna Vishwasrao. Also in attendance were Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) and Acting BEST General Manager Dr Ashwini Joshi, along with other senior BEST officials. Push for Financial Discipline and Operational Efficiency Mayor Tawde emphasised that BEST, being one of Mumbai’s key public transport and electricity providers, must adopt strict financial discipline while enhancing revenue generation and operational efficiency. She directed the administration to formulate and implement long-term strategies to ensure sustained growth and improved service delivery, adding that continuous monitoring will be undertaken through periodic review meetings.

27 March,2026 07:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Mumbai: No-parking zone on Vikhroli station road to ease traffic congestion

In a bid to address persistent traffic congestion and enhance pedestrian safety, the Mumbai Traffic Police has declared a strict no-parking zone along the busy Vikhroli Station Road stretch, from Narayan Bodhe Chowk to Vikhroli Railway Station (East). The decision comes following repeated complaints from local residents and commuters about severe traffic snarls caused by vehicles parked on both sides of the road. The stretch serves as a crucial access route for daily commuters, making it particularly vulnerable to congestion during peak hours. Frequent complaints prompt action According to officials from the Vikhroli Traffic Division, the continuous parking along the road has significantly reduced carriageway space, leading to bottlenecks and delays. Citizens have raised concerns over the inconvenience caused, especially to senior citizens and pedestrians who struggle to navigate the encroached pathways. Authorities also highlighted that illegal parking poses a serious risk during emergencies. Blocked roads can hinder the swift movement of essential services such as ambulances and fire brigade vehicles, potentially endangering lives in critical situations. Order issued under Motor Vehicles Act The no-parking directive has been issued by Dr. Priyanka Narnavre, Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Mumbai, under Section 115 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, along with relevant government notifications. As per the order, parking of all types of vehicles is strictly prohibited on both sides of the road between Narayan Bodhe Chowk and Vikhroli Railway Station (East). However, emergency vehicles, including ambulances, police vehicles, and fire brigade services, are exempted from the restriction. Implementation from March 27 The order will come into effect from March 27, 2026, and will be enforced by the traffic police to ensure smoother vehicular movement and safer commuting conditions. Officials have urged motorists to comply with the new regulation and avoid parking along the designated stretch to prevent penalties and contribute to easing congestion in the area. Dahisar road gets temporary odd-even parking rule to ease congestion Earlier, to reduce traffic snarls and prevent accidents on a narrow stretch in Dahisar, the Mumbai Traffic Police (West Region) has introduced temporary odd-even parking restrictions for the next three months. The order applies to the north-south road between Swagat Cooperative Housing Society and the main entrance gate of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) godown in Dahisar. The road is narrow with residential buildings on both sides and sees two-way traffic. Heavy vehicles regularly enter and exit the FCI office and godown for grain transport, putting extra pressure on the route. Parking of two-wheelers and four-wheelers on both sides often causes bottlenecks, raising the risk of mishaps.

27 March,2026 06:42 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Representational image. File pic

Malad senior citizen duped of Rs 8.59 lakh in cyber fraud by fake agents

A case of cyber fraud has been registered at Dindoshi Police Station after a 75-year-old retired man from Malad East was allegedly cheated of Rs 8.59 lakh by unidentified fraudsters posing as representatives of a gas company. According to police officials, the FIR has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Sections 66(a) and 66(d) of the Information Technology Act. The 75-year-old complainant, a resident of Mahendra Nagar, alleged in his complaint that the incident occurred on March 12, 2026, between 7:03 pm and 9:17 pm while he was at his residence. "He received a WhatsApp message from an unknown number, where the sender impersonated officials of MGL Gas. The fraudster, using multiple WhatsApp numbers, convinced the victim that his gas connection required urgent updating. He was then sent a malicious APK file labelled as an MGL application. Police said the victim was tricked into installing the file on his mobile phone. Once installed, the accused allegedly gained unauthorised access to his device and coerced both the complainant and his wife into entering sensitive banking details, including account and debit card information. Using these details, the accused transferred a total amount of Rs 8.59 from the couple’s bank accounts to multiple unknown accounts. "The accused, currently unidentified, used WhatsApp numbers linked to the fraud and remains absconding. We have launched an investigation into the case and are tracing the digital trail of the suspects, the officer added. The Dindoshi police have urged people, especially senior citizens, to remain cautious against such cyber frauds and avoid installing unknown applications or sharing banking details over messaging platforms.

27 March,2026 06:27 PM IST | Mumbai | Samiullah Khan
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Mumbai: Fire breaks out at industrial estate in Andheri; no injuries

A fire broke out on Friday evening at an industrial building located on Mahakali Caves Road in Andheri East, prompting a swift response from multiple emergency agencies. According to officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB), the incident was reported at approximately 4:41 pm at Nand Bhavan Industrial Estate. The Level-II fire was later upgraded to a Level-II emergency at 5:08 pm as thick smoke engulfed parts of the structure. Fire confined to lower floors Fire officials stated that the blaze was confined to the ground and first floors of the ground-plus-two (G+2) industrial building. Heavy smoke was observed billowing from the premises, raising concerns among nearby occupants and workers in the area. Massive firefighting operation deployed A significant firefighting operation was launched to contain the blaze. The deployment included eight fire engines, three aerial water tower tenders, four jumbo tankers, two water tankers, one breathing apparatus van, and three quick response vehicles. Senior fire officials, including a Divisional Fire Officer (DFO), two Assistant Divisional Fire Officers (ADFO), two Senior Station Officers, and four Station Officers, were present at the site to oversee operations. Multiple agencies join rescue efforts In addition to the fire brigade, personnel from the local police, the concerned electricity distribution company, emergency ambulance services, and BMC ward staff were mobilised to assist in firefighting and precautionary measures. No casualties reported so far Authorities confirmed that no injuries have been reported in the incident so far. Fire at scrap godown in Thane; no casualty In another incident, a fire broke out at a godown storing plastic and air-conditioner scrap materials in Maharashtra's Thane district, officials said on Wednesday. No one was injured in the incident which occurred on Tuesday night, they said. The blaze was reported at 9.01 pm at the warehouse located near a school in the Dahisar Mori area, the officials said. Firefighting teams from multiple stations, including Thane, Vashi, Airoli and Koparkhairane in Navi Mumbai, were deployed. "The fire was brought under control at around 1.30 am on Wednesday after sustained efforts. Cooling operations are currently underway. No injuries have been reported in the incident," Thane Municipal Corporation's disaster management officer Yasin Tadvi said. The plastic and AC scrap materials stored in the godown were gutted in the fire, officials said. The exact cause of the blaze is yet to be ascertained, they added.

27 March,2026 06:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Ramdas Athawale. Pic/X

Ramdas Athawale says RPI(A) assured MLC seat in Maharashtra council polls

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assured the Republican Party of India (Athawale) an MLC seat in the upcoming legislative council polls, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale said on Friday, reported news agency PTI. Addressing a news conference, Athawale also said the party has also been assured one-two state corporations. "During the civic body polls, the CM assured us an MLC seat," Athawale said, reported PTI. Legislative council polls in the state are expected to be held next month. Athawale, who heads the RPI (A) faction, was upset at the ruling Mahayuti after his party did not get seats in the civic body polls. Despite being part of the Mahayuti, he had fielded candidates in the civic body polls but none tasted success, reported PTI. The Union minister said the deputy mayor in Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is an RPI (A) activist. Athawale stressed the need to make his party one that can have members and supporters from different castes and religions. On being queried about whether the BJP's top brass had suggested he move to state politics and that a ministerial berth was offered to him in Maharashtra, Athawale said he told the BJP leadership he was more comfortable being a Union minister. Ramdas Athawale welcomes govt's decision to reduce excise duty on fuel Meanwhile, Union Minister of State (MoS) for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Friday welcomed the government's decision to reduce the excise duty on petrol and diesel, saying that the decision will bring "relief" to the people. "The excise duty reduction will provide relief to the people...This decision is welcome. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government works for the development of all and is concerned about all sections of society...," Athawale told ANI. The Central government reduced excise duty on petrol to Rs 3 per litre and brought it down to zero for diesel, as per a Gazette notification issued under the provisions of the Central Excise Act, 1944. Additionally, a windfall tax of Rs 21.5 per litre has been imposed on diesel exports. The decision follows escalating tensions in West Asia, particularly the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has led to a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz--a crucial route that handles nearly one-fifth of the world's crude oil supply. Before the crisis, India sourced around 12-15% of its oil imports through this route. (With inputs from PTI and ANI)

27 March,2026 05:44 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. File Pic

Devendra Fadnavis thanks PM Modi, says excise duty cut will benefit consumers

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday said the petrol excise duty cut announced by the Central government will shield consumers from the impact of rising global crude prices amid the ongoing war in West Asia. Welcoming the government's announcement to slash excise duty on petrol to Rs 3 a litre and exempt diesel from the duty, Fadnavis thanked the Union government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving this "big benefit" to consumers. "The burden (due to the situation in West Asia) won't be passed on to consumers," he said. Fadnavis appealed people not to queue up at petrol pumps. "We have enough fuel," he said. There is also no need for hoarding of domestic gas, he added. The Centre has declared that there won't be any lockdown, Fadnavis said. Those spreading rumours of a nationwide lockdown will face criminal action, he added. Govt cuts excise duty on petrol, diesel The government has slashed excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre each, a move aimed at shielding domestic consumers from a surge in global oil prices triggered by the Middle East conflict, at an estimated revenue cost of Rs 1.75 lakh crore. Alongside, the government brought back duties on export of diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF). Special additional excise duty on petrol has been cut from Rs 13 a litre to Rs 3 and the same on diesel from Rs 10 per litre to nil, according to a notification issued late on Thursday. Alongside, the government imposed an export duty of Rs 21.5 per litre on diesel and Rs 29.5 per litre on aviation turbine fuel (ATF), reinstating a levy first introduced in July 2022 to curb windfall gains by refiners following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and later withdrawn in December 2024. However, unlike last time, there is no windfall tax that has been levied on domestic crude oil producers like ONGC. After the reduction in excise duty, the incidence of excise duty on petrol will be Rs 11.9 per litre (Rs 1.40 basic excise duty, Rs 3 special additional excise duty, Rs 2.50 agriculture infrastructure and development cess and Rs 5 road and infrastructure cess). On diesel the incidence will be Rs 7.80 per litre (Rs 1.80 basis excise duty, Rs 4 agriculture infrastructure and development cess and Rs 2 road and infrastructure cess). Considering 175 billion litre of auto fuel sales annually (115 billion litres of diesel and 60 billion litres of petrol), the impact of the duty cut would be Rs 1.75 lakh crore annually. The excise duty cut follows record losses that oil companies suffered from the surge in international oil prices. Prices of crude oil, the raw material for making petrol and diesel, have surged almost 50 per cent this month as the US and Israel attack on Iran and Tehran's sweeping retaliation disrupts global supply. (With inputs from Agencies)

27 March,2026 03:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Transporters said the move would prevent an increase in fuel prices for consumers, despite rising international oil costs. Representational Pic/File

Fuel Excise Duty cut: Transporters welcome govt's move, call it commendable step

Transporters across India have welcomed the Centre’s decision to reduce excise duty on fuel, calling it a timely and commendable step. Industry leaders said that the move would help ease pressure on both transport operators and the wider economy. The government has significantly cut excise duties, reducing petrol tax from Rs 13 to Rs 3 per litre and bringing diesel duty down from Rs 10 to zero. The decision comes at a time when global crude oil prices have surged due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Relief for common people and industry Transporters said the move would prevent an increase in fuel prices for consumers, despite rising international oil costs. They noted that many countries have increased petrol and diesel prices, while India has taken steps to shield its citizens from the impact. Balancing revenue and public welfare According to Bal Malkit Singh of the All India Motor Transport Congress, excise duty is a major source of government revenue, and reducing it reflects a balanced approach between economic priorities and public welfare. Step to ease economic pressure Transporters added that any rise in fuel prices would have directly affected the cost of goods and services, impacting the common man. The reduction in duty is expected to help control inflationary pressures and support economic stability. While the duty cut may not immediately lower retail fuel prices, industry experts say it shows the government’s intent to protect citizens from global price volatility. Excise Duty on petrol and diesel slashed Centre on Friday announced that it has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre each, bringing the duty down to Rs 3 per litre for petrol and zero for diesel. The move is aimed at cushioning the impact of rising global oil prices amid ongoing geopolitical tensions due to the West Asia war. In a post on X, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman wrote, "In view of the West Asia crisis, the central excise duty on petrol and diesel for domestic consumption has been reduced by Rs 10 per litre each. This will provide protection to consumers from rise in prices. PM Modi has always ensured that citizens are protected from vagaries of supply and costs of essential goods." She further stated, "Duties have been imposed on exports of Diesel at Rs 21.5 per litre and on ATF at Rs 29.5 per litre. This will ensure adequate availability of these products for domestic consumption. The Parliament has been notified about the same." In view of the West Asia crisis, the central excise duty on petrol and diesel for domestic consumption has been reduced by ₹10 per litre each. This will provide protection to consumers from rise in prices. Hon. PM @narendramodi has always ensured that citizens are protected from… — Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) March 27, 2026 Exemptions on duties The government announced exemptions on duties for fuel exports and supplies to foreign-bound aircraft. In addition, it has withdrawn a 2022 notification and granted customs duty relief on imported aviation turbine fuel (ATF), providing further support to the aviation sector. The decision comes against the backdrop of a global energy crisis linked to tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, as well as concerns over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, wrote on X, "International crude prices have gone through the roof in the last 1 month from around 70 dollars/barrel to around 122 dollars/barrel. Consequently, petrol and diesel prices for consumers have gone up all over the world. Prices have increased by around 30 per cent-50 per cent in South East Asian countries, 30 per cent in North American countries, 20 per cent in Europe and 50 per cent in African countries. The Modi Government had two choices- either increase prices drastically for citizens of Bharat as all other nations have done or bear the brunt on its finances so that Indian citizen is insulated from international volatility." International crude prices have gone through the roof in the last 1 month from around 70 dollars/barrel to around 122 dollars/barrel. Consequently, petrol and diesel prices for consumers have gone up all over the world. Prices have increased by around 30 per cent-50 per cent in South East Asian… — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) March 27, 2026

27 March,2026 03:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC. Pic/PTI

Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC calls for Minister Narhari Zirwal’s resignation

Shaina NC on Friday said that Maharashtra minister Narhari Zirwal should step down on moral grounds following a controversy over a viral video allegedly involving him, reported PTI. The Shiv Sena leader clarified that her remark reflected her personal opinion, even as the issue has triggered a political storm in the state, reported PTI. Opposition Mounts Pressure on Minister The controversy has intensified with opposition parties, including the Congress, demanding Zirwal’s removal from the cabinet. They have alleged that the video shows the minister in a compromising situation at his official residence, raising questions over ethical conduct in public life. Senior Congress leaders have described the incident as deeply concerning and have called for immediate action, stating that such controversies undermine public trust in governance. Minister Denies Allegations, Calls Video ‘Doctored’ Narhari Zirwal, who is associated with the Nationalist Congress Party, has strongly denied the allegations. He claimed that the video circulating on social media is doctored and part of an attempt to blackmail him. The minister, who represents the Dindori assembly constituency in Nashik district and currently handles the Food and Drug Administration portfolio, has not indicated any intention to resign. Ruling Alliance Faces Internal Strain Allegations The controversy has also sparked political reactions suggesting internal tensions within the ruling coalition. The Shiv Sena and NCP are part of the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar alleged that the emergence of the video could be linked to infighting among ruling allies. He termed the situation a “gang war” within the government, warning that such developments reflect poorly on the state’s political environment, reported PTI. State Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal also criticised the incident, calling it a serious breach of public trust and ethical standards expected from elected representatives, reported PTI. Renewed Scrutiny After Previous Controversies Zirwal had already been in the spotlight last month following a corruption-related case involving officials in his department. The Anti-Corruption Bureau had arrested a clerk allegedly accepting a bribe inside Mantralaya, while another official linked to the minister was relieved of his post after a sting operation. (With inputs from PTI)

27 March,2026 03:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Reliance Industries Limited and its chairman, Mukesh Ambani. FILE PIC

Bombay High Court rejects plea for CBI probe against Mukesh Ambani

The Bombay High Court on Friday rejected a petition seeking a CBI investigation into Reliance Industries Limited and its chairman, Mukesh Ambani, over allegations of unlawful natural gas extraction from ONGC’s Krishna-Godavari basin fields. A bench comprising Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Suman Shyam refused relief to the petitioner, Jitendra Maru, who had sought the registration of an FIR for offences including theft, dishonesty, misappropriation, and criminal breach of trust. A copy of the order was not yet available. According to Maru, RIL allegedly engaged in a "massive organised fraud" from 2004 to 2013 by drilling sideways from its contracted deep-sea wells into the adjacent Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) wells, thereby illegally extracting natural gas. The petition claimed that ONGC discovered this alleged unauthorised extraction in 2013 and reported it to the Government of India. Maru, in his plea, relied on an independent investigation conducted by consultants DeGolyer and MacNaughton, as well as a report submitted by the retired Justice A P Shah Committee, which had concluded that RIL had tapped into ONGC's reserves. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday reportedly conducted searches in Mumbai in connection with the Anil Ambani-Reliance Telecom SBI fraud case. The CBI has registered a case against Reliance Telecom Ltd and its former directors, Satish Seth and Gautam B Doshi, in connection with an alleged bank fraud of Rs 114.98 crore involving the State Bank of India (SBI). The case also names unknown public servants and others, based on a complaint filed by the SBI. Officials said the agency has invoked charges of criminal conspiracy and cheating under the Indian Penal Code, along with provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, related to alleged misuse of official position. According to investigators, SBI was part of a consortium of 11 banks that had sanctioned a total term loan of Rs 735 crore to Reliance Telecom. The complaint alleges that the accused caused financial losses to the bank through fraudulent actions linked to this loan. 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

27 March,2026 02:46 PM IST | Mumbai | PTI
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