The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on Tuesday signed two major loan agreements with the Government of India. While signing the loan agreements, JICA committed a total of over Rs 9,200 crore to strengthen urban transport and healthcare infrastructure in Maharashtra. The first agreement includes an Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan of 92,400 million Japanese Yen (approximately Rs 5,500 crore) for the Mumbai Metro Line 11 Project (I), aimed at improving sustainable urban mobility in Mumbai and addressing rising traffic congestion. The agreement was signed in New Delhi between Dr Alok Tiwari, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Takeuchi Takuro, Chief Representative of JICA India Office. Mumbai Metro Line 11 to boost connectivity The Mumbai Metro Line 11 project will involve the construction of approximately 17.51 km of underground metro corridors with 14 stations, creating a vital east-west transit link. The corridor is expected to connect key areas, including the redeveloping Mumbai Port waterfront and historic districts, while also improving access to the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, enhancing connectivity to Navi Mumbai. The project will be implemented by Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRC) and is scheduled for completion by August 2032. Consulting services are expected to begin in June 2026, with initial civil work tenders slated for September 2026. Officials said the metro line will help reduce vehicular congestion, lower pollution levels, and promote climate-friendly urban transport, contributing to India’s sustainable development goals. Rs 3,708 Crore Loan for Healthcare and Medical Education In a separate agreement, JICA has extended an ODA loan of 62,294 million Japanese Yen (approximately Rs 3,708 crore) for strengthening tertiary healthcare delivery, medical education, and nursing education systems in Maharashtra. The project aims to enhance access to quality healthcare by constructing and expanding four medical colleges and their associated hospitals, along with establishing ten nursing schools across the state. Advanced medical equipment procurement and capacity-building initiatives for healthcare professionals will also form a key part of the project. The initiative will be implemented by the Medical Education and Drugs Department under the Government of Maharashtra, with a completion target set for September 2032. Consulting services are expected to begin shortly, while construction tenders are planned for 2028. Focus on sustainable growth and public welfare Both projects are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on sustainable cities, economic growth, infrastructure development, and improved healthcare access. JICA, Japan’s premier development cooperation agency, continues to play a crucial role in supporting India’s infrastructure and social sector projects through financial assistance, technical expertise, and capacity development.
24 March,2026 07:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has initiated a move to remove Neelam Gorhe from the post of Deputy Chairperson of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, intensifying political tensions in the state. The proposal, backed by members of the opposition alliance, is set to be formally submitted to the Council Chairman, marking a significant development in the ongoing political dynamics within the legislature. Shiv Sena (UBT) Leads Push for Removal The initiative has been spearheaded by Shiv Sena (UBT), with senior leader Anil Parab confirming that the party would move a formal resolution seeking Gorhe’s removal, reported PTI. Parab stated that the decision was taken after growing dissatisfaction with the manner in which the House proceedings were conducted under Gorhe’s tenure. He indicated that the proposal reflects broader concerns within the opposition regarding the functioning of the Council, reported PTI. Proposal to Be Submitted to Council Chairman According to Parab, the resolution will be submitted to the Chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, following due procedural requirements. The move is expected to trigger political debate within the House, as such proposals typically require substantial support to succeed, reported PTI. The development underscores increasing friction between the ruling side and opposition parties over legislative conduct and administrative decisions. Concerns Over Conduct of House Proceedings The opposition has alleged that the proceedings of the House were not conducted in a fair and impartial manner. While specific instances were not detailed, the criticism points to a broader perception among MVA members regarding the handling of legislative business. Timing Coincides with End of Gorhe’s Term Interestingly, the move comes at a time when Neelam Gorhe has completed six years as a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, marking the end of her current tenure. The timing of the proposal has added a political dimension to the development, with observers noting that it could influence future alignments and positions within the Council. Political Implications for Maharashtra Legislature The proposal is expected to have wider political implications, particularly for the balance of power and functioning of the Upper House in Maharashtra. If pursued aggressively, it could lead to further confrontations between the ruling alliance and opposition bloc. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on how the Council Chairman responds to the proposal and whether it garners enough support to proceed further. (With inputs from PTI)
24 March,2026 07:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCongress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar on Tuesday raised serious concerns over the safety of girls in Maharashtra, alleging a deterioration in law and order and highlighting a recent case involving missing minor girls in Chandrapur district. Six Minor Girls Missing in Chandrapur Sparks Alarm Raising the issue through an adjournment motion in the state assembly, Wadettiwar pointed to a troubling incident in Brahmapuri in Chandrapur, where six minor girls studying in Classes 10 and 12 reportedly went missing, reported news agency PTI. He informed the House that while two of the girls have been traced, four remain unaccounted for, intensifying concerns among families and the local community. The Congress leader demanded immediate action, including the formation of a special search team to locate the missing girls, reported PTI. Questions Raised Over CCTV and Police Preparedness Wadettiwar criticised the effectiveness of existing surveillance systems, questioning whether investments in CCTV infrastructure were translating into improved safety at the grassroots level. “The government spends crores on CCTV systems, but where are these mechanisms at the taluka level?” he asked, highlighting gaps in implementation, reported PTI. He also raised concerns about police response in such cases, stating that authorities must act swiftly when incidents involving minors are reported, especially when communication channels like mobile phones are switched off. Demand for Awareness Campaigns in Schools and Colleges In addition to immediate search efforts, Wadettiwar called for preventive measures, including awareness programmes in schools and colleges to educate students about personal safety. He stressed the importance of proactive initiatives to safeguard young girls and prevent such incidents in the future, reported PTI. Unseasonal Rains Add to Farmers’ Distress The Congress leader also brought attention to the impact of unseasonal rains and hailstorms across the Marathwada region. He stated that thousands of hectares of rabi crops have suffered severe damage in districts such as Nanded, Hingoli, Dharashiv, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, reported PTI. According to Wadettiwar, farmers are facing heavy financial losses, and in several areas, damage assessment surveys have yet to begin. He also reported two human fatalities and the death of 41 livestock due to adverse weather conditions, reported PTI. Call for Immediate Relief and Government Action Wadettiwar urged the government to conduct prompt surveys and provide immediate financial assistance to affected farmers. He criticised what he described as inadequate response measures and questioned the government’s priorities, reported PTI. Political Criticism Amid Law and Order Debate In a sharp remark, Wadettiwar said that while citizens are grappling with safety concerns and agricultural losses, the government appears distracted by other issues, including cases involving self-styled godmen such as Ashok Kharat, who was recently arrested in Nashik, reported PTI. The issue has added to the ongoing political debate in Maharashtra over governance, law enforcement, and the need for stronger mechanisms to ensure public safety and farmer welfare. (With inputs from PTI)
24 March,2026 07:04 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a move set to redefine urban environmental governance, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has officially tabled a "Comprehensive Air Pollution Eradication Programme." Presented by Sagar Naik, NMMC Leader of the House, during the General Body meeting, the ambitious 18-month intensive action plan aims to strip the city of its "dust-bowl" reputation and systematically crush PM10 and PM2.5 levels. The ‘Zero Exposed Soil’ Mandate The heart of the plan lies in a first-of-its-kind "Zero Exposed Soil Policy". NMMC has identified that a staggering amount of particulate pollution stems not just from industries but also from loose soil along road shoulders, vacant plots, and undeveloped land. Under the new mandate, every inch of municipal land must be stabilised via paving, turfing, or gravel. Private landowners who leave plots "naked" to the wind will face strict compliance orders to cover them. High-Tech Skies and Deep-clean oads The plan goes beyond mere sweeping. NMMC is deploying vertical atmospheric profiling using tethered helium balloons. Operating up to 500 meters, these "eye-in-the-sky" sensors will determine if pollution is locally brewed or drifting in from neighbouring regions. On the ground, a specialised fleet of 14 vacuum sweepers and 11 high-pressure water jet trucks will execute a five-phase "deep-clean" cycle across 1,000 km of the city's road network. Voices Samarth Solanki (65), a Vashi sector-17 resident, said, "We see the sweepers, but the dust just flies from the unpaved edges back onto the road. If the 'Edge Sealing' plan actually happens, we might finally be able to breathe." Deepak Nikhare (60), a resident of Nerul, said, "The surge in PM2.5 is alarming. We are seeing children with 'smoker’s cough' who have never left Navi Mumbai. Real-time monitoring at construction sites is the only way to hold builders accountable." 3 Sawal with Sagar Naik, NMMC Leader of the House Navi Mumbai has always been 'planned.'Why has the air quality reached such a critical 'poor' state now? Our growth has outpaced our traditional cleaning methods. Massive infrastructure projects, like the airport and 700-plus active construction sites, combined with "legacy dust" that has accumulated for years on road shoulders, have created a perfect storm. This 18-month plan isn't a suggestion; it’s a full-scale engineering intervention. Who is accountable for making sure these balloons fly and the roads are washed? Accountability is hard-coded into this document. NMMC Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde will personally oversee the implementation and performance evaluation. Every ward will have a dedicated supervisor reporting directly to a new environmental command and control centre. You mentioned "By-laws" are coming next month. What can offenders expect? We are moving from "requests" to "penalties." Next month, we will introduce strict by-laws for construction sites, including mandatory wheel-washing and real-time sensor integration. If a site is found violating dust-control SOPs, we will not hesitate to issue work-stoppage orders.
24 March,2026 06:26 PM IST | Navi Mumbai | A SinghThe Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) on Tuesday urged the railway administration to reconsider its decision to cancel the Dadar–Ratnagiri passenger service and replace it with the Dadar–Gorakhpur Express, warning of intensified protests if the move is not reversed. MNS delegation meets railway officials A delegation of MNS leaders, led by Nitin Sardesai, met senior railway officials earlier in the day to strongly oppose the decision. The party termed the move detrimental to commuters from the Konkan region, who have long depended on the Dadar–Ratnagiri Passenger service. महाराष्ट्र नवनिर्माण सेनेचे नेते श्री. नितीन सरदेसाई यांच्या नेतृत्वाखाली मनसेच्या शिष्टमंडळाने रेल्वे प्रशासनातील वरिष्ठ अधिकाऱ्यांची भेट घेत दादर–रत्नागिरी रेल्वे पॅसेंजर सेवा रद्द करून तिच्या ऐवजी दादर–गोरखपूर रेल्वे सुरू करण्याच्या निर्णयाचा तीव्र निषेध नोंदवला.या निर्णयाची… pic.twitter.com/XATMOrgsHH — MNS Adhikrut - मनसे अधिकृत (@mnsadhikrut) March 24, 2026 The delegation demanded immediate intervention by the railway authorities, stating that the decision has caused widespread inconvenience to daily and low-income travellers. Warning of statewide agitation Issuing a stern warning, the MNS said it would be compelled to launch an intense agitation if the railway administration fails to roll back the decision. “The railway administration should immediately reconsider this decision. Otherwise, they will have to face the wrath of Konkan residents,” Sardesai said, reiterating the party’s stance during the protest. “दादर-रत्नागिरी रेल्वे पॅसेंजर रद्द करून त्याऐवजी दादर-गोरखपूर रेल्वे सुरू करणाऱ्या सरकारचा महाराष्ट्र नवनिर्माण सेनेतर्फे निषेध. या विषयामध्ये लवकरच आमचं शिष्टमंडळ रेल्वेच्या संबंधित अधिकाऱ्यांची भेट घेईल. रेल्वे प्रशासनाने या निर्णयाचा तात्काळ फेरविचार करावा. अन्यथा… pic.twitter.com/EI4nJFaQxF — MNS Adhikrut - मनसे अधिकृत (@mnsadhikrut) March 24, 2026 Controversy over Dadar–Gorakhpur train replacement The controversy stems from Central Railway’s decision to convert a “special” train operating between Dadar and Gorakhpur into a permanent express service. The new train has been allotted the same operational slot previously used by the Dadar-Ratnagiri Passenger train. The move has sparked a broader socio-political debate, with critics describing it as a Marathi-versus-north Indian issue, further intensifying regional sentiments. Lifeline for Konkan commuters disrupted Introduced in the late 1990s, the Dadar–Ratnagiri Passenger train has been a crucial link between Mumbai and the Konkan region. It has historically served as a lifeline for daily commuters, particularly those from economically weaker sections. Following the recent changes, the service now originates from Diva, located on the outskirts of Mumbai, instead of Dadar—causing inconvenience to passengers who must travel additional distances to board the train. Railways defend decision Central Railway officials have defended the move, stating that the adjustment is necessary to maintain punctuality and efficiency within Mumbai’s suburban railway network. However, the decision has triggered backlash from commuters and political groups alike, with increasing calls for its reconsideration in light of public inconvenience. Growing pressure on railway ministry With protests intensifying and political pressure mounting, the railway administration now faces demands to restore the Dadar–Ratnagiri Passenger service or provide an alternative arrangement that safeguards the interests of Konkan commuters.
24 March,2026 05:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) on Tuesday launched its new ‘Rajmata Jijau’ bus service, aimed at offering modern, safe and comfortable travel to passengers across the state. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the service at a ceremony held at the Vidhan Bhavan premises. 📍 विधान भवन, #मुंबई |महाराष्ट्र राज्य परिवहन महामंडळाच्या पुढाकाराने सुरू करण्यात आलेल्या 'राजमाता जिजाऊ' या आधुनिक बससेवेचा लोकार्पण सोहळा आज मुंबईतील विधिमंडळाच्या आवारात संपन्न झाला. यावेळी मुख्यमंत्री देवेंद्र फडणवीस आणि उपमुख्यमंत्री सुनेत्रा पवार यांच्या उपस्थितीत या… pic.twitter.com/zo2RRpUCgg — Eknath Shinde - एकनाथ शिंदे (@mieknathshinde) March 24, 2026 The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, Environment Minister Pankaja Munde, School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, Minister of State Madhuri Misal, along with legislators from both Houses. Senior officials including Additional Chief Secretary (Transport) Sanjay Sethi, MSRTC Managing Director Madhav Kusekar, Ashok Leyland senior manager John Mathew, and Tata Motors Global Head Sushant Naik were also present. Tribute to Rajmata Jijabai’s Legacy The ‘Rajmata Jijau’ bus service has been conceptualised as a tribute to Rajmata Jijabai, whose guidance and values played a crucial role in shaping Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of Hindavi Swarajya. The naming of the service reflects Maharashtra’s rich cultural and historical heritage, officials said. A symbolic installation depicting Rajmata Jijau on horseback was displayed in front of the bus during the inauguration, adding a historical and inspirational dimension to the ceremony. 3,000 Buses to Be Added in Phases Under the initiative, MSRTC plans to induct around 3,000 ‘Rajmata Jijau’ buses into its fleet in a phased manner across Maharashtra. The move is expected to significantly enhance the quality of public transport by improving passenger comfort, safety, and accessibility. The corporation already operates several premium and semi-premium services, including ‘Shivneri’, ‘Shivshahi’, ‘Shivai’, ‘Hirkani’, and ‘Yashwanti’. The addition of the ‘Rajmata Jijau’ service is set to further strengthen MSRTC’s transport network and make it more passenger-centric. Formal Inauguration with Traditional Ceremony The launch was marked by a traditional puja and ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by Chief Minister Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Shinde and Pawar. Following the inauguration, the dignitaries took a symbolic ride in the newly launched bus, marking the formal commencement of the service. Officials said the initiative aligns with the state government’s focus on modernising public transport infrastructure while preserving Maharashtra’s cultural identity.
24 March,2026 05:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentChief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said that Maharashtra is witnessing steady progress in maternal and child healthcare through a series of innovative initiatives aimed at strengthening the public health system across the state. As part of these efforts, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Shri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Centre set up on CIDCO land in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. As per the official statement, the facility is expected to play a key role in providing advanced cardiac care to children, particularly those from economically weaker sections. 2D-Echo camps conducted across 36 districts Under the state’s health initiatives and the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), large-scale 2D-Echo screening camps were conducted across all 36 districts. A total of 2,507 children underwent 2D-echo examinations at district hospitals, carried out by expert cardiologists. Officials further stated that 3,226 children diagnosed with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) have received treatment at the Sanjeevani Centre after being referred by RBSK teams. The government is also focusing on underserved and tribal regions. The Sanjeevani Centre has adopted tribal-dominated talukas such as Junnar in the Pune district and Jawali in the Satara district to implement targeted healthcare interventions. Moreover, Urban health services in Pune’s slum areas are also being strengthened, while expansion plans are underway for Panvel taluka in Raigad. In the Vidarbha region, districts such as Chandrapur, Yavatmal, and Nagpur are currently hosting mega screening camps to identify children suffering from congenital heart conditions. These initiatives aim to ensure early detection and treatment, especially for children living in remote and rural areas. The state has also rolled out targeted health projects in Navi Mumbai for children of construction workers and brick kiln labourers. Additionally, a screening programme for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and cancer has also been launched for Anganwadi workers, marking a broader push toward preventive healthcare. To support these initiatives, the government has trained over 3,500 frontline health workers, including ASHA workers, Anganwadi staff, auxiliary nurses, and medical officers. Authorities believe this capacity-building effort will further strengthen service delivery and improve health outcomes across Maharashtra. The Chief Minister emphasised that these combined efforts are helping create a more inclusive, accessible, and robust healthcare system for the state’s most vulnerable populations.
24 March,2026 05:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAmid the LPG supply concerns due to the ongoing West Asia war, the Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL) on Tuesday reaffirmed its commitment to providing uninterrupted Piped Natural Gas (PNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) distribution across its operational areas in Maharashtra and Karnataka. In an official statement, the MGL stated that it is taking necessary steps to ensure reliable and safe fuel supply for households and transport, in line with the Natural Gas Supply Regulation Order 2026, which gives top priority to domestic PNG and CNG. MGL’s services extend across several regions, including Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Mira-Bhayander, Raigad, Ratnagiri, as well as areas in Karnataka such as Chitradurga and Davanagere, the official statement said. Concerns have been growing after Iran announced closure of Strait of Hormuz, a major oil and gas supply route, in response to joint attacks on it by US and Israel. New benefits for domestic customers To encourage wider adoption of PNG, MGL has introduced several customer-friendly initiatives including - - Free gas worth Rs 500 for new registrations between 16 March and 30 April 2026 - Rs 1,000 bill adjustment for customers in buildings with over 60 per cent PNG usage - Rs 500 instant discount for online registrations - Waiver of minimum charges during non-usage periods - Plans to introduce zero upfront registration charges - Flexible payment options for customers - Incentives for Commercial Users For commercial customers, MGL has waived registration charges and will also invest in downstream infrastructure at its own cost, making it easier for businesses to switch to PNG. Advisory to prevent fraud MGL has also issued a safety advisory to customers and stated to avoid the following - - Avoid clicking on unknown links - Do not download suspicious files or apps - Never share OTPs or bank details - Use only MGL’s official verified communication channels Official statement Managing Director Ashu Shinghal said, "the company remains focused on expanding access to natural gas and supporting the transition to cleaner energy." MGL stated that it will continue to strengthen its infrastructure and customer engagement efforts to ensure dependable service and promote the use of cleaner fuel alternatives across its network, the official statement said.
24 March,2026 03:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Tuesday indicated its intent to ensure that the upcoming by-election in Baramati is held unopposed, with senior leader Sunil Tatkare confirming that discussions will be initiated with Opposition parties, including the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), reported news agency PTI. NCP Seeks Consensus for Unopposed Election Tatkare stated that the party is keen to avoid a contest in the Baramati assembly bypoll, citing the emotional and political context following the death of senior leader Ajit Pawar. He emphasised that the NCP would reach out to key stakeholders to build consensus on the matter, reported PTI. The bypoll in Baramati, located in Pune district, along with another by-election in Rahuri in Ahilyanagar, is scheduled to be held on April 23. Senior Leaders to Engage Congress, Sena UBT Tatkare revealed that he, along with senior NCP leader Praful Patel, will hold discussions with Congress leaders in Delhi and also meet Uddhav Thackeray to explore the possibility of a consensus candidate, reported PTI. “If required, we will engage with senior Congress leadership to ensure the bypoll is held unopposed,” Tatkare said, underlining the party’s commitment to maintaining unity in light of recent developments, reported PTI. Candidate to File Nomination on April 6 He further informed that the party’s candidate is expected to file nomination papers for the Baramati seat on April 6. The by-election has been necessitated following the demise of Ajit Pawar, a prominent NCP leader, whose passing earlier this year has significantly impacted the political landscape in the region, reported PTI. Support from Supriya Sule, Congress Yet to Decide Tatkare thanked Supriya Sule for announcing that her faction would not field a candidate in the bypoll, signalling support for an unopposed election. However, he noted that the Congress has indicated it may still contest the seat, reported PTI. Congress Maintains Stand on Electoral Contest The Congress has so far dismissed calls for an uncontested election. State unit chief Harshwardhan Sapkal reiterated that elections are a democratic process and should be contested, reported PTI. He also pointed out that there is no consensus within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) regarding the proposal to hold the bypoll unopposed. Political Significance of Baramati Seat The Baramati constituency holds significant political importance in Maharashtra, traditionally associated with the Pawar family. The upcoming bypoll is being closely watched as it could influence political equations within the state, particularly among alliance partners. As discussions unfold, it remains to be seen whether opposition parties will align with the NCP’s proposal or opt for a competitive electoral contest in one of Maharashtra’s most high-profile constituencies. (With inputs from PTI)
24 March,2026 02:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUnion Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday launched the Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (RIIT), sponsored by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), marking its listing on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). The maiden public issue of the RIIT received a strong response from investors, marking its debut on the BSE. Officials described the listing as an important step in attracting investment into India’s highway infrastructure sector, reported ANI. Addressing the listing ceremony, Gadkari said the next target is to monetise 1,500 kilometres of highways over the next three years through Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (InvIT). He added that the initiative enables direct public participation in India’s infrastructure growth and contributes to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to create an Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Gadkari highlighted that the Raajmarg InvIT represents a transformative step, turning national highway users into stakeholders in the projects. He also noted that the public issue of the InvIT was oversubscribed nearly 14 times, marking a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure investment journey, reported ANI. Domestic markets open higher, recover from recent selling pressure Meanwhile, earlier in the day, the domestic share markets opened on a positive note, taking a breather from recent selling pressure, with both benchmark indices registering strong gains in early trade. However, market volatility remained high amid ongoing uncertainty linked to the Strait of Hormuz. The Nifty 50 opened at 22,878.45, gaining 365.80 points, or 1.62 per cent, while the BSE Sensex surged by 1,516.08 points, or 2.09 per cent, to open at 74,212.47. Market experts noted that despite the recovery, uncertainty continues to weigh on investor sentiment. Sectoral indices on the NSE showed broad-based buying, with all sectors opening in the green. Nifty Auto surged more than 2 per cent, Nifty PSU Bank gained 2.40 per cent, Nifty IT rose 1.46 per cent, Nifty FMCG increased 1.44 per cent, Nifty Metal jumped 2.31 per cent, Nifty Pharma advanced 1.15 per cent, and Nifty Private Bank gained 1.62 per cent. In other Asian markets, a positive trend was observed. Japan’s Nikkei 225 index rose 0.75 per cent to 51,920, Singapore’s Straits Times gained 0.13 per cent to 4,849, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index increased 1.75 per cent to 24,797, Taiwan’s Weighted index remained flat at 32,697, and South Korea’s KOSPI index surged more than 2 per cent to 5,522. US markets also ended higher on Monday. The Dow Jones rallied 1.38 per cent to close at 46,208, the S&P 500 gained 1.15 per cent to 6,581, and the Nasdaq rose 1.38 per cent to 21,946. (With ANI inputs)
24 March,2026 02:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe civic transport undertaking of Thane has presented a Rs 791.86 crore budget for the financial year 2026-27, with a strong focus on expanding its electric bus fleet and improving sustainability, while ensuring that passenger fares remain unchanged. The budget was tabled by Balchandra Behere, manager of Thane Municipal Transport (TMT), outlining a roadmap to transform the public transport system into a modern, eco-friendly, and technology-driven network. Major Push for Electric Bus Expansion A key highlight of the budget is the large-scale induction of electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme. Around 100 air-conditioned electric buses are expected to be added to the TMT fleet during 2026-27. Additionally, the tendering process is currently underway for procuring 160 more AC electric buses through funding from the 15th Finance Commission’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) grants. This move is aimed at reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality in the rapidly growing Thane region. Target of 370 New Buses by 2027 TMT has set an ambitious target of adding 370 new buses to its fleet by March 2027. This includes 270 air-conditioned electric buses and 100 non-AC buses powered by CNG. The shift reflects a strategic move away from conventional diesel-powered vehicles towards cleaner alternatives. The transition is expected to enhance passenger comfort, reduce operational costs over time, and align with broader environmental goals. No Fare Hike Despite Rising Costs Despite increasing fuel costs and operational expenses, the transport body has decided not to increase passenger fares. This decision is expected to benefit daily commuters, especially senior citizens and women, who already receive subsidised travel benefits. However, to manage the financial gap, TMT has sought a grant of Rs 538.29 crore from the Thane civic administration to offset losses arising from subsidies and rising expenses. Revenue Projections and Financial Planning The undertaking has projected total revenue of Rs 182.27 crore through bus operations and advertisement streams. The budget reflects a continued reliance on civic support to maintain affordability while upgrading infrastructure and services. Retrofitting and Cleaner Fuel Transition In addition to new procurements, the budget also includes plans to retrofit 240 existing diesel buses with CNG kits. This step will further accelerate the shift toward cleaner fuel options and help reduce emissions from the existing fleet. Digital Initiatives to Improve Efficiency TMT is also set to introduce digital passes for senior citizens, aimed at streamlining operations and improving ease of access. The initiative is part of a broader push towards adopting technology-driven solutions to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency. Vision for Sustainable and Modern Transport Overall, the Rs 791.86 crore budget underscores Thane’s commitment to building a sustainable, commuter-friendly, and future-ready public transport system. With a clear emphasis on electrification, affordability, and digital innovation, TMT aims to significantly upgrade urban mobility in the coming years. (With inputs from PTI)
24 March,2026 02:17 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
