Maharashtra Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Monday said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) will probe alleged irregularities in the implementation of the MHADA quota in Nashik, warning that those denying the poor their rightful homes will not be spared. Allegations over 20 per cent quota for EWS and LIG The decision comes in the wake of alleged irregularities in the implementation of the 20 per cent MHADA quota reserved for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Low-Income Groups (LIG) in Nashik. SIT formed under Nashik divisional commissioner According to PTI, on the directions of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the SIT has been constituted under the chairmanship of the Nashik divisional commissioner and will comprise senior state officials. “No one will be spared,” says Bawankule Bawankule, in an official statement, said, “People who choke the rights of the poor and deprive them of their entitlements, no matter how influential they are, will not be spared.” Report to be submitted within one month The SIT will submit its report within one month, the revenue minister added, PTI reported. According to the statement, the probe will focus on layouts exceeding 4,000 square metres, where developers allegedly failed to reserve 20 per cent of land or units for the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), as mandated under a notification dated November 8, 2013. Action against developers and officials The SIT will examine recovery of reserved land, recommend disciplinary action against erring officials and employees, and propose criminal proceedings against landowners or developers found responsible for the irregularities. It will also suggest measures to prevent such violations in the future. Several builders in Nashik allegedly defrauded the government of crores of rupees by using forged documents, fake seals, and signatures under the MHADA housing scheme. Rules for MHADA quota compliance According to norms, developers undertaking housing projects on plots exceeding 4,000 square metres are required to reserve 20 per cent of units for MHADA. Developers allegedly under-reported project areas to bypass the rule and misled authorities using fabricated documents and forged authorisations. 128 cases under review, 49 found fraudulent Verification by the Land Records Department covered 128 cases, of which 49 revealed instances of fraud. A case has been registered at Sarkarwada police station based on a complaint by the department, the statement said. (With PTI inputs)
13 April,2026 08:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe first non-air-conditioned (non-AC) automatic door-closing EMU local on Monday arrived at the Kurla car shed in Mumbai, marking a key step in the city’s suburban railway upgrade plan. The new train is part of efforts to improve safety and commuter experience on the city’s busy suburban network. The newly introduced EMU rake features a door-closing system aimed at reducing accidents caused by overcrowding and passengers travelling on open doorways. The system is designed to enhance safety during peak-hour travel, when Mumbai’s suburban trains are heavily crowded. Developed after the Mumbra incident The new rake, developed after the Mumbra incident, is aimed at improving passenger safety by preventing falls from open doors. The 12-car train is manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. Railway officials had earlier stated that the move is part of a broader policy shift to introduce closed-door systems across all future suburban trains, both AC and non-AC. Mid-day had earlier reported about the city soon to receive India’s first non-AC suburban local train with automatic door closure, marking a significant shift in the design of the city’s lifeline trains. Read more: Mumbai local gets automatic doors in first for non-AC suburban trains A first for Mumbai and Indian Railways This is the first time a non-AC local train with automatic doors has been developed for Mumbai’s suburban network and for Indian Railways. The rake has been designed following consultations between the Railway Board. Train design The train features a vestibule design, allowing movement across coaches within each unit and will have open windows with sliding panes. It creates a seamless layout, unlike traditional compartmentalised locals. The ladies coach is expected to be located at either end of the train. Trials before passenger service The train will undergo mandatory trials before it can be opened to passengers.These include the following- - Confirmatory oscillograph car run (COCR) at 110 kmph to assess safety and ride quality - Load trials using weighted material equivalent to passenger load - Passenger trials before final induction
13 April,2026 08:15 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarTraffic on the busy Ghodbunder Road in Thane district of Maharashtra was affected on Monday after a petrol tanker emitted heavy smoke, officials said, adding that the civic authorities rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control. No injuries were reported in the incident, the officials said. According to the Regional Disaster Management Cell (RDMC) of the Thane Municipal Corporation, a petrol tanker emitted heavy smoke near Dosti Imperia on Ghodbunder Road in Thane on Monday evening, prompting a swift response from emergency services. The incident occurred around 5:20 pm in the Manpada area after the tanker’s rear tyre developed a technical fault, it said. Brake liner jam caused smoke According to officials, the smoke was caused due to a jammed brake liner in the rear tyre of the tanker. The vehicle, carrying around 20,000 litres of petrol, was travelling from Turbhe to Daman. The situation raised safety concerns due to the flammable nature of the cargo. Fire brigade personnel, disaster management teams, and police officials from Manpada and Kasarvadavali stations quickly reached the site. A fire engine and utility vehicle were deployed to manage the situation and prevent any escalation. No injuries reported The civic officials confirmed that no injuries were reported in the incident. The situation was brought under control in time, avoiding any major mishap. Due to traffic congestion on the busy Ghodbunder Road, the tanker was safely moved to an open space under police supervision and fire brigade monitoring. Traffic was gradually restored after the vehicle was cleared from the main road, the officials said. 11 Killed in van-cement mixer accident in Kalyan Meanwhile, in an another incident, at least eleven people were killed and two others seriously injured after a van collided with a cement mixer in Thane district on Monday, police said. The accident took place at around 11:30 am on Raita bridge in Govili village of Murbad area in Thane. According to officials, the van crashed into a cement mixer coming from the opposite direction, leading to a severe impact. Casualties and injuries Police said that 11 occupants of the van died in the accident. Two others sustained critical injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. The officials said that the rescue teams, medical staff and local police reached the spot soon after the incident. Efforts were made to assist the injured and clear the wreckage from the bridge. The officials said that more details about the victims and the cause of the crash are awaited. An investigation has been initiated to determine the circumstances leading to the accident.
13 April,2026 08:11 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra cabinet, chaired by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, on Monday approved a major healthcare initiative backed by financial assistance of Rs 3,708 crore from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), reported news agency IANS. The project, titled “Strengthening Tertiary Health Care Delivery, Medical Education System and Nursing System in Maharashtra,” aims to significantly upgrade healthcare infrastructure, medical education, and nursing facilities across the state. Focus on Medical Colleges and Healthcare Infrastructure The initiative will prioritise the development of infrastructure and the provision of advanced medical equipment for government medical colleges, nursing colleges, and associated hospitals. Funding will be allocated to newly established government medical colleges in Wardha, Palghar, Ratnagiri, and Ahilyanagar. In addition, existing nursing colleges across key locations will be upgraded to enhance training capacity and quality, reported IANS. Nursing Education Expansion Across Key Districts As part of the project, nursing colleges at major institutions such as GT Hospital and St George’s Hospital in Mumbai, as well as those in Dhule, Solapur, Ambajogai, Akola, Nagpur, Ratnagiri, Palghar, and Dharashiv, will undergo upgrades, reported IANS. New nursing colleges will also be constructed in Baramati, Sangli (Miraj), and Kolhapur, strengthening the pipeline of trained healthcare professionals in the state. Advanced Equipment for Government Hospitals The state government will invest in advanced medical equipment for government medical colleges in several districts, including Ahilyanagar, Bhandara, Gadchiroli, Hingoli, Jalna, Mumbai, Nashik, Parbhani, Satara, Palghar, Ratnagiri, and Wardha, reported IANS. Officials said this move is expected to improve diagnostic and treatment capabilities, ensuring better healthcare delivery for citizens. Indo-Japan Academic Exchange to Build Capacity The project also includes provisions for human resource development through the Indo-Japan Academic Exchange Programme. This will focus on enhancing skills in hospital management, administration, and clinical practices, bringing global expertise into Maharashtra’s healthcare system, reported IANS. Authorities stated that the overarching goal is to provide affordable and quality medical care to people across the state. Major Reforms in Recruitment Process Approved Alongside the healthcare initiative, the cabinet approved a comprehensive reform plan aligned with the “Viksit Maharashtra 2047” vision, aimed at simplifying recruitment and expanding job opportunities, reported IANS. The number of cadres under the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) will increase to 102, with the combined examination scheme now covering 18 additional services and 93 new cadres. ‘No Interview Policy’ and Digital Verification Introduced In a significant reform, the cabinet approved a “No Interview Policy” for non-gazetted Group-B and Group-C posts to ensure a faster and more transparent recruitment process, reported IANS. The state will also adopt a system similar to the Union Public Service Commission’s Pratibha Setu, allowing data sharing of qualified candidates with employers to enhance job prospects. Additionally, DigiLocker will be used for instant, paperless verification of educational and caste certificates, streamlining the recruitment process. Push for Future-Ready Workforce The government has also identified obsolete roles as “dying cadres” and plans to create new positions requiring expertise in emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence. (With inputs from IANS)
13 April,2026 07:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra government on Monday signed a key Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Novarion Energy for the development of the ‘Ranavadi off-stream close-loop pumped storage project’ spanning Pune and Raigad districts, marking a significant push toward clean energy generation in the state. 🤝 CM Devendra Fadnavis presided over the MoU signing between Government of Maharashtra (Water Resources Dept) and Novarion Energy for the development of the 'Ranavadi off-stream close-loop Pumped Storage Project' in Pune and Raigad districts.✅ Capacity: 1200 MW✅ Total… pic.twitter.com/H9DRMxGuIH — CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) April 13, 2026 The agreement was signed by the Water Resources Department in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with senior ministers and officials. Major Boost to Clean Energy Capacity The Ranavadi project is expected to generate 1,200 megawatts (MW) of electricity, contributing substantially to Maharashtra’s renewable energy portfolio. The project will be developed with an estimated investment of Rs 5,760 crore. Officials highlighted that the initiative aligns with the state’s broader strategy to enhance sustainable power generation while reducing dependence on conventional energy sources. Employment Opportunities for 1,500 People In addition to strengthening energy infrastructure, the project is expected to generate around 1,500 direct and indirect employment opportunities. This is seen as a boost for local economies in Pune and Raigad districts, particularly in construction, operations, and allied sectors. Part of Larger Pumped Storage Expansion Plan The Ranavadi project is one of 56 pumped storage projects currently being pursued across Maharashtra. These projects collectively aim to generate a massive 79,415 MW of clean energy capacity. The state government estimates that the entire pipeline of pumped storage initiatives will attract investments worth approximately Rs 4.22 lakh crore and create employment opportunities for nearly 1.29 lakh people. Ministers and Officials Present at Signing The MoU signing ceremony was attended by key members of the state cabinet, including Girish Mahajan and Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, along with other senior dignitaries. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the project as a major step toward ensuring energy security and accelerating Maharashtra’s transition to clean and sustainable power sources. Strategic Role of Pumped Storage Projects Pumped storage projects are considered crucial for balancing power supply, especially with the increasing share of renewable energy such as solar and wind. These systems store excess electricity during low demand and release it during peak hours, ensuring grid stability.
13 April,2026 07:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMarking the end of a golden era in Indian music, legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle was cremated with full state honours at Mumbai’s iconic Shivaji Park on Monday. ‘Asha Tai’, as she was affectionately known, passed away on Sunday, April 12, at the age of 92 due to multi-organ failure following a cardiac arrest. She had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital a day earlier, suffering from extreme exhaustion and a chest infection. The Maharashtra government accorded the veteran singer a state funeral, a tribute reserved for those who have made monumental contributions to the nation. The ceremony mirrored the farewell given to her elder sister, the late Lata Mangeshkar, at the same historic venue. Her mortal remains were kept at her residence in Lower Parel from 11 am to 3 pm to allow fans and celebrities to pay their last respects. Thousands of emotional fans lined the streets of Mumbai as the funeral procession made its way to Dadar. At around 5 pm, amid a sombre atmosphere, she was cremated with a 21-gun salute and a guard of honour by the Maharashtra Police. Political leaders, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, and ministers Chhagan Bhujbal, Ashish Shelar, Bharat Gogawale, and Sanjay Shirsat, were present at the funeral to pay their final respects. MNS chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Anil Desai also attended. Several members of the film fraternity, including actor Aamir Khan, attended the cremation and expressed profound grief over the loss of one of music history’s most versatile voices. “Deeply saddened by the passing of Asha Bhosle Ji. Her extraordinary musical journey, spanning decades, enriched our cultural heritage and touched countless hearts across the world,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his condolence message, the IANS reported. From the film industry, stars including Shah Rukh Khan, A.R. Rahman, and Hema Malini shared heartfelt tributes, describing her as an “irreplaceable pillar” of Indian cinema. With a career spanning over eight decades, Asha Bhosle’s achievements are as remarkable as her talent. Recognised by the Guinness World Records as the most recorded artist in music history, with over 12,000 songs, she mastered everything from classical ghazals and soulful melodies like ‘Dil Cheez Kya Hai’ to high-energy hits like ‘Dum Maro Dum’. She was also a recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the Padma Vibhushan, and two National Film Awards. The void left by Asha Bhosle’s passing is immense, but as her fans often say, she will live on forever through the timeless magic of her voice. (With IANS inputs)
13 April,2026 07:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndia Post’s Mumbai Region on Monday launched a special initiative to deliver Geographical Indication-tagged (GI-tagged) Ratnagiri Alphonso mangoes directly to households across the city. Direct market link for farmers The initiative seeks to create a direct market link between mango farmers in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri and urban consumers, helping eliminate middlemen and ensuring better returns for growers. It also aims to support small-scale sellers and agro-entrepreneurs by expanding their access to metropolitan markets. Seamless ordering and doorstep delivery Leveraging its extensive logistics network, India Post is facilitating seamless ordering through QR codes and WhatsApp, along with the convenience of cash-on-delivery (COD), enabling even small producers to participate without significant investment in infrastructure or marketing. Supporting rural livelihoods Postmaster General, India Post Mumbai Region, Kaiya Arora, said the initiative is designed to strengthen the connection between local farmers and city consumers while ensuring fair pricing and fresh produce. “This initiative leverages India Post’s vast network to connect Ratnagiri mango farmers with Mumbaikars. Doorstep delivery of GI-tagged mangoes supports rural economies while ensuring farmers receive a higher share of the final price,” she said. Next-day delivery now possible as India Post rolls out its ‘24 Speed Post’ in Mumbai, Delhi and 4 other cities Earlier in March, the Department of Posts launched a new premium express delivery service, ‘24 Speed Post’, offering guaranteed next-day delivery for urgent consignments across six major cities. According to news reports, the service was inaugurated by Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya M. Scindia and Minister of State Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani at Rang Bhawan Auditorium, Akashwani Bhawan in New Delhi. In the first phase, the service will be available in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, as per the reports. Alongside this, the department has also introduced a ‘48 Speed Post’ option, ensuring a D plus 2 (two-day) delivery timeline through dedicated processing and priority air transmission. According to the India Post, the upgraded services come with features such as OTP-based secure delivery, end-to-end tracking with SMS alerts, and a Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) facility for business users. Bulk customers will benefit from free pickup, API integration and centralised billing, making the service more efficient for e-commerce and corporate clients. The department has also announced a money-back guarantee in case of delivery delays, aiming to strengthen its premium express delivery services.
13 April,2026 06:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra government on Monday unveiled a comprehensive set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aimed at safeguarding outdoor informal workers in urban heat risk districts, as rising temperatures continue to pose serious health threats across the state, reported IANS. The guidelines, released under the direction of State Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan, focus on reducing heat exposure, improving workplace safety, and strengthening medical preparedness in high-risk urban areas. Work Timings Revised to Avoid Peak Heat Hours One of the key measures introduced in the SOPs is the rescheduling of outdoor work hours to cooler parts of the day. Workers are advised to operate between 6 am and 11 am and again from 4 pm to 8 pm during heat alerts, reported IANS. Additionally, mandatory rest breaks have been enforced between 12 pm and 4 pm during orange and red alerts. The government has also directed authorities to implement schedule shifts across sectors such as construction, industrial operations, and street vending, reported IANS. To ensure compliance, district administrations and urban local bodies will issue official circulars mandating these changes. Focus on Women’s Safety and Workplace Facilities The SOPs place special emphasis on ensuring safe working conditions for women. Authorities have been instructed to improve lighting, provide transport facilities, and ensure access to protective infrastructure at work sites, reported IANS. This move is seen as a step toward addressing gender-specific vulnerabilities faced by women working in outdoor and informal sectors, particularly during extreme weather conditions. High-Risk Districts Identified Across Regions The SOPs have been introduced in response to Maharashtra being ranked among the most heat-vulnerable regions in India. According to the State Heat Action Plan, 15 districts across Vidarbha, Marathwada, and Khandesh have been identified as highly susceptible to extreme heat, reported IANS. These include Latur, Amravati, Yavatmal, Washim, Akola, Buldhana, Nagpur, Wardha, Chandrapur, Gondia, Bhandara, Jalgaon, Nandurbar, Dhule, and Nanded. The guidelines apply to all municipal corporations, councils, and nagar panchayats in these high-risk zones, reported IANS. Water Access, Shade, and Cooling Infrastructure Boosted To combat heat stress, the SOPs mandate the installation of water booths at key informal work locations such as markets, traffic junctions, transit hubs, and vending areas. These booths will ensure regular access to drinking water with proper signage and maintenance. Authorities will also distribute Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and electrolyte sachets through primary health centres, ward offices, and non-governmental organisations, reported IANS. Public parks and gardens are to remain open during afternoon hours, while temporary shaded structures will be erected at labour hubs, vending zones, and high-traffic areas. Long-term measures include promoting tree plantation, reflective surfaces, and misting systems in urban planning, reported IANS. Strengthening Medical Preparedness and Emergency Response The SOPs also outline enhanced medical readiness to tackle heat-related illnesses. Primary and urban health centres will be stocked with ORS, intravenous fluids, and essential treatment kits. Healthcare workers, including ASHAs and ward-level staff, will be trained to identify and respond to heat-related conditions. Emergency services will be strengthened by pre-positioning ambulances in high-risk areas and closely monitoring response times during peak heat days, reported IANS. Disaster Management Centre Planned in Nagpur In a parallel initiative, the state government has announced plans to establish a dedicated disaster management training and research centre in Nagpur at an estimated cost of Rs 184 crore. The centre will focus on training personnel and conducting research on extreme heat conditions and sustainable cooling solutions, reinforcing the state’s long-term strategy to address climate-related challenges. (With inputs from IANS)
13 April,2026 06:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday paid tributes to the mortal remains of legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle at her residence in Mumbai’s Lower Parel area. Several dignitaries and admirers gathered to offer their final respects to one of India’s most iconic voices. In his tribute, Shinde described her passing as “Swar Samadhi,” emphasising that her legacy transcends mortality and will continue to resonate across generations. Calling her a “pride of Maharashtra” and a symbol of Marathi identity, he said her contribution to Indian music remains unparalleled. A Legacy Beyond Measure Shinde noted that Asha Bhosle’s extraordinary journey in music has left an indelible mark not only on Indian cinema but also on global audiences. “It is not her death, but that she has attained Swar Samadhi,” he said, underlining the eternal nature of her art and influence. He further added that her songs have become timeless treasures, deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the country. Her voice, he said, carried emotions that connected with listeners across age groups and backgrounds. Voice That Transcended Languages and Generations Highlighting her versatility, Shinde said Asha Bhosle’s songs have served as an emotional companion for millions. “Even today, the thousands of songs she rendered feel as fresh as ever. As long as the sun and moon exist, her songs will remain immortal and continue to bring joy to music lovers,” he said. Over a career spanning more than seven decades, Asha Bhosle recorded songs in multiple languages and genres, earning admiration for her ability to adapt to changing musical styles while maintaining her unique identity. Honoured with Maharashtra Bhushan Reflecting on his personal association with the singer, Shinde said he felt privileged to confer upon her the prestigious Maharashtra Bhushan Award during his tenure as Chief Minister. He described the moment as one of the proudest in his public life, recognising her immense contribution to the state and the nation. Acknowledgement of Welfare Initiatives Recalling her public remarks, Shinde noted that Asha Bhosle had appreciated the state government’s Ladki Bahin Yojana. She had highlighted the importance of the Rs 1,500 financial assistance under the scheme, stating that such support would have been invaluable during her early years when her family faced financial hardships. Condolences and Final Tribute Expressing deep sorrow, Shinde extended his condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for their strength during this difficult time. He also offered tributes on behalf of the Shiv Sena, honouring the life and legacy of the legendary singer. The 92-year-old singer passed away on Sunday due to multi-organ failure at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, marking the end of an extraordinary era in Indian music. Affectionately known as “Ashatai,” Asha Bhosle was a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan and Maharashtra Bhushan awards. Renowned for her versatility, she gifted the world countless classics, including Abhi Na Jao Chhod Kar, In Ankhon Ki Masti, Dil Cheez Kya Hai, Piya Tu Ab To Aaja, Duniya Mein Logon Ko, and Zara Sa Jhoom Loon Main - songs that continue to define generations of music lovers.
13 April,2026 05:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Bombay High Court has referred an important legal question to a larger bench to decide whether the state can deny furlough to prisoners convicted under special laws such as the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO), reported PTI. The court also observed that such blanket restrictions may violate fundamental rights and go against the reformative purpose of prison laws. The order was passed on April 10 by the Nagpur bench of Justices Anil Pansare and Nivedita Mehta on a petition filed by Rohit Tangappa Joseph, an aide of gangster Chhota Rajan, who is convicted in the killing of journalist J Dey. Joseph approached the court after prison authorities in Amravati rejected his furlough request. Authorities had relied on a December 2024 amendment to prison rules that imposed a blanket ban on furlough for prisoners convicted under certain special laws or serious offences. State rule under scrutiny The Maharashtra government had amended the Maharashtra Prisons (Furlough and Parole) Rules to restrict furlough for inmates convicted under laws like MCOCA, POCSO and other serious offences. Joseph, who is serving life imprisonment, had sought 28 days of furlough to meet his family due to an emergency. Is the blanket ban fair? The bench noted that denying furlough only on the basis of the offence may defeat the purpose of the system. It observed that furlough is meant to help prisoners maintain family ties and adjust better to life. The court said, "The objective of furlough is to enable prisoners to remain in touch with their families and deal with family matters, to provide relief from the detrimental impact of continuous captivity in prison and to enable prisoners to remain hopeful about their future and have an active interest in life," as per PTI. It further added that assuming prisoners convicted under special laws do not need such relief may not be justified. The judges also pointed out that restricting furlough purely based on the law under which a person is convicted could violate fundamental rights and contradict the reformative approach of the justice system. Equality and reformative justice The court observed that in organised crime cases, individuals may play different roles, and treating all convicts equally for furlough eligibility may be unfair. It said this creates “a class within a class,” which may not be justified. It also remarked, "We do not find any rational as to why should prisoners, irrespective of the fact that they are convicted under a particular Act, be not permitted to remain in touch with their families, and/or remain hopeful about their life and future," a per the news agency. The division bench noted conflicting earlier judgments on the issue and referred the matter to the Chief Justice for constitution of a larger bench to settle the legal question. What is the case all about? Joseph was convicted of murder and criminal conspiracy under the Indian Penal Code and provisions of MCOCA. He is among eight others, including Chhota Rajan, convicted in the case related to the killing of journalist J Dey in Mumbai’s Powai area on June 11, 2011. According to prosecution, Rajan ordered the killing after being unhappy with Dey’s writings. (With PTI Inputs)
13 April,2026 05:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAt least eleven people were killed and two others seriously injured after a van collided with a cement mixer in Maharashtra’s Thane district on Monday, police said, reported the PTI. The accident took place at around 11:30 am on Raita bridge in Govili village of Murbad area in Thane. According to officials, the van crashed into a cement mixer coming from the opposite direction, leading to a severe impact. Casualties and injuries Police said that 11 occupants of the van died in the accident. Two others sustained critical injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment, the news agency reported. Their condition is reported to be serious. The officials said that the rescue teams, medical staff and local police reached the spot soon after the incident. Efforts were made to assist the injured and clear the wreckage from the bridge, according to the PTI. The officials said that more details about the victims and the cause of the crash are awaited. An investigation has been initiated to determine the circumstances leading to the accident. Eight men, three women among those dead At least 11 occupants of the van have died, and two injured have been shifted to the central hospital at Ulhasnagar, Murbad tehsildar Abhijit Deshmukh said. Six of the victims have been identified, and the process of identifying the others is underway, a senior police official said. The deceased included eight men and three women, he said. Following the accident, traffic was affected on the road from Kalyan to Ahilyanagar for a few hours. The stretch has now been cleared, he said. Shinde expresses grief Maharashtra deputy CM Eknath Shinde expressed grief. In a post on X, he wrote, "at least 11 people were killed in a tragic road accident on the Kalyan-Ahilyanagar National Highway." He conveyed condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for peace to the departed souls. Shinde wrote that an investigation into the accident has been initiated and the incident will be properly probed. Speeding truck kills seven pilgrims on Lakhtar-Viramgam highway in Gujarat Meanwhile, in an another incident, seven members of a pilgrim group from the Bharwad community were killed while several others suffered injuries after a speeding truck ran over them on the Lakhtar-Viramgam Highway in Gujarat's Surendranagar district in the early hours of Monday. The accident took place between Chharad and Bhaskarpara villages near Lakhtar around 1.20 am when a group of foot pilgrims, travelling from Gadhka village in Rajkot towards Viramgam for temple darshan and a flag-hoisting ritual, was hit from behind by a dumper truck. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed grief over the loss of lives in the accident. "The mishap in Surendranagar district, Gujarat, is deeply distressing. Heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. Prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured," the PM's office posted on X. The victims belonged to the Mundhva family and were part of a larger group of around 700 devotees undertaking the pilgrimage. Seven people, including five women and two men, died on the spot. The deceased were identified as Masabhai Mundhva, Jaluben Mundhva, Raniben Lambariya and Vajiben Mundhva, among others. (with PTI inputs)
13 April,2026 04:31 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
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