Ward officer’s duties are? I wish to ask, what are the duties of a ward officer? Because they only act if a complaint comes in. Isn’t the ward officer responsible for making the rounds of the ward and inspecting, e.g., the condition of the roads, etc.? - Naveen Singh Traffic lights not working Could you shed light on who — between you police and BMC — decides to erect a traffic signal in our city? Who is responsible for auditing and maintaining these traffic signals? Have you all noticed some traffic signals lack a proper view for motorists? Some do not work. - Suheil Merchant Stray dog problems Thank you so much for giving us a window. We stay near Dahisar West RTO. There are people who come and feed street dogs, because of which their population has increased, and it has become very risky for children, the elderly, the partially disabled, and motorists. I see these dogs chasing two-wheelers, and the riders have to speed away out of fear. - Mitchelle John Illegal parking blocking road at Chembur The Sion Trombay Road from Chembur Naka signal to Diamond Garden signal is totally blocked by illegal tempo stands, dealers of second hand cars parking their vehicles from footpath to roads, outstation buses stop to load luggage, and passengers because of which ambulance, fire vehicles, government vehicles, and public vehicles are stuck in traffic for hours. There have been several complaints made online and in writing to the traffic police but action is taken for a certain period of time and things are back to square one. We need a permanent solution. - Mohd Salim Qureshi Please help us stop destruction of mangroves This is regarding the commencement of mangrove clearing for the Versova-Dahisar Coastal Road Project. We are aware that citizens have written to the CM to prevent this from happening. We wish to bring to your attention the project’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) wherein two globally significant mangrove species in the Charkop-Kandivali-Gorai belt will face total extinction. The destruction of these specific plants is a violation of the Biological Diversity Act. We request urgent attention.- Bhoomi Suriya
16 February,2026 08:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayFollowing mid-day’s report, fresh questions have surfaced over a temporary mining permit issued in Manpada, Thane, inside the Eco-Sensitive Zone of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Forest officials said the Thane Municipal Corporation will seek an explanation from the Collector’s office on how the permission was granted in a prohibited zone. Environmentalists have demanded an inquiry and possible offence registration. What happened >> Temporary mining licence issued on Dec 20, 2025>> Allowed extraction of soil, stone and murum>> Area: 7.38 hectares in Manpada village>> Quantity permitted: 500 brassForest authorities say the site lies within the notified Eco-Sensitive Zone of SGNP. A JCB machine at the Manpada location Why is it controversial >> Mining is prohibited under the 2016 ESZ notification>> Forest land in Survey No. 59/A/1/1 falls inside the zone>> SGNP officials objected within three days of approval Dry vegetation being burnt at the Manpada site, where environmentalists allege preparatory work had begun despite objections over the mining permission What sources say A forest department source said the Collector’s office has stopped the work and cancelled the permission after receiving objections from SGNP.“The municipal corporation will now seek an explanation on how permission was issued in the Eco-Sensitive Zone,” the source said. Evidence of work Photographs with mid-day allegedly show excavation activity at the site before the halt order. A flattened patch of land at the Manpada site Legal position Under the Dec 5, 2016, Central notification:>> Activities are classified as prohibited, regulated or promoted>> Mining is listed as a prohibited activity in the ESZForest officials say this makes the approval questionable. Environmentalist demands action Rohit Joshi, Environmentalist“A thorough inquiry must establish how the licence was granted. If work took place, an offence should be registered.” Timeline of objections Dec 23, 2025: SGNP Deputy Director writes to the Collector objecting to mining, warning that the approving officer could be held personally responsible.Feb 6, 2026: Deputy Conservator of Forests, Thane, writes seeking immediate cancellation of the licence, citing violation of the 2016 ESZ notification.
16 February,2026 08:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavNorth Cyber police have arrested two men from Kurla for allegedly cheating a 66-year-old yoga teacher from Kandivali West in a “digital arrest” fraud. The victim was threatened with fake money laundering charges and forced to transfer Rs 10.35 lakh for verification. Police say the mastermind is still absconding. The victim >> Age: 66>> Profession: Yoga teacher>> Location: Kandivali West>> Loss: Rs 10.35 lakh via RTGS How the scam worked >> Call claiming SIM used in crime>> Fake arrest warrant and freeze notices sent>> Victim kept on WhatsApp video calls>> Threats made under “national secrecy” laws>> Money demanded for verification>> Police describe this tactic as a “digital arrest” scam. Investigation >> Mastermind absconding>> Wider network under probe>> More victims suspected Arrested Faraz Zakir Sharif, 28 and Aaman Gulam Khan, 38 Arrested on February 9 from Kurla Money trail >> About Rs 5 lakh routed to a registered import-export firm>> Accounts linked to shell companies The larger racket Police say the accused:>> Rented offices in Malad, Bhiwandi, Taloja and Andheri>> Created fake firms>> Recruited unemployed youths for documents>> Opened bank accounts in company names>> Abandoned offices after use and shifted locationsThe accounts were allegedly supplied to cyber fraud gangs to route stolen funds.
16 February,2026 07:57 AM IST | Mumbai | Samiullah KhanThird wheeling A trio of parakeets spotted on the branch of a tree at Shivaji Park in Dadar It’s all about the symbols TM Krishna (right) in conversation with Manu S Pillai during the event. pic courtesy/@tmkrishnaofficial Celebrated vocalist and author, TM Krishna was the guest at a special session the previous week at the contemporary art space, G5A warehouse in Mahalaxmi. The author launched and discussed his new book, We the People of India: Decoding a Nation’s Symbols with historian Manu S Pillai. An aspect of the book highlighted during the session was the many symbols that have played an influential role in shaping Indian history. This includes the evolution of the colour blue in the national flag, the symbolism of the lion, and the story behind the Ashoka Chakra, as well as the complex history of the National Anthem and the National Song, Vande Mataram, amongst other factors. India has an intriguing past, to say the least, with artistes continuing to shape its socio-political realities. Calangute foodie codefor chef Kunal Kunal Kapur at the new outlet (right) the Portuguese bungalow. Pics courtesy/@chefkunal There is something new cooking up across the sands of north Goa. After the success of Pincode UAE last year, chef Kunal Kapur is on the move. He has now repurposed a quaint old bungalow in Calangute. Titled The Pincode Bungalow, the restaurant continues Kapur’s objective of ‘mapping India’ through flavours. While the chef was too busy shooting to give us time, we are sure the menu will carry the signature flavours from the Pincode kitchen. But it is the vintage aesthetics of the Portuguese space that caught our eye. Needless to say, the new food haunt is on our Goa itinerary this summer. Bold works for a bold artist Ted - Ode to Keith Haring, by MR.APE_X. Pics courtesy/The designera; Wikipedia Today (February 16) marks the 36th death anniversary of American artist, Keith Haring (below). We are pleased to see contemporary artists taking inspiration from him, with their own creativity. Worli-based art gallery, The Designera is paying a tribute to Haring’s iconic creations through a series of artworks. “His work transformed pop art as we know it — breaking it out of galleries and onto the streets, using bold lines and vivid colour to turn art into a universal language of activism and joy. These pieces honour his legendary dancing figures, reimagined with the same fearless expression that defined his legacy,” gallery founder, Amrita Deora, shared with us. Let’s talk history Dr Pradeep Waghmare addresses the audience at the conference. Pic courtesy/ICHR History took centre stage at the two-day conference hosted by the Department of History at Ramnarain Ruia Autonomous College, Matunga, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) on February 13 and 14. Themed ‘Trade, Religion, and Pathways of Cultural Exchange’, it featured nearly 120 research papers and 20 invited speakers. Convener of the conference, Dr Pradeep Waghmare told this diarist, “The conference was designed to meaningfully integrate undergraduate research with larger historical debates.”
16 February,2026 07:53 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayThe Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has ordered a comprehensive safety inspection of the Metro Line 4 corridor (Wadala-Kasarvadavli) following the incident that occurred on February 14. In an order issued from the Bandra-Kurla Complex headquarters and approved by Additional Metropolitan Commissioner Ashwin Mudgal (IAS), the authority constituted a Special Intensive Safety Inspection Team. It will carry out “preventive and corrective measures” aimed at ensuring construction quality, structural stability, and public safety. Officials clarified that the inspection will not interfere with the ongoing inquiry into the incident but is intended for immediate risk mitigation. Teen sawaal In a chat with mid-day, MMRDA Additional Metropolitan Commissioner Ashwin Mudgal spoke about the mishap and steps being taken against those culpable. What exactly happened?According to the preliminary investigation, the incident occurred due to a lack of concrete stitching or a technical problem with the fastening. What action is being taken?Action has been initiated against the contractor of the line, Milan Infra, who has been fined R5 crore. The general consultants monitoring the line, Louis Berger and DB-Hill, have been penalised for a sum of R1 crore. The deceased and the injured have been offered compensation, and their medical expenses will be looked into with the best possible treatment. Will the contractor be prosecuted?Safety is of paramount importance to MMRDA. An inquiry committee led by Project Director Basavraj MB has been set up. Legal action will be initiated against all those found guilty. The team The team will be led by MMRDA Director (Projects) B Bhadragond, with senior engineers and safety officials as members, along with external safety heads from other Metro lines. The inspection, commencing on February 15, will last for at least three consecutive days and may continue longer if necessary. What will it do? The team will submit day-wise inspection notes, a list of unsafe conditions and immediate actions taken, a corridor-wide compliance matrix and a consolidated report recommending corrective and preventive measures and whether work should resume or continue. Scope of audit Inspectors have been asked to examine parapets, edge beams, crash barriers, handrails, structural elements near traffic and public areas, precast segments, reinforcement work, temporary works, shuttering, construction debris, barricading, and traffic management arrangements. Compliance with approved drawings, safety protocols, and construction procedures will also be checked. Site visits All contractors and supervising agencies must provide full access to sites and produce drawings, method statements, quality assurance records, and inspection reports. Any lapse in supervision or execution found during the inspection will be recorded and responsibility fixed as per contractual provisions. Expected action MMRDA has issued strict directions that any unsafe or non-compliant element must be immediately secured, removed or rectified without waiting for the final report. Construction activity at locations identified by the inspection team may be restricted or suspended until written clearance is granted.
16 February,2026 07:50 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarOn Sunday, a large number of people from around 600 societies from Malad and Kandivli conducted a joint meeting and took the signatures of 80 societies to start a campaign, as they have not been able to redevelop their societies since 2014 due to being located in a 500-yard radius of defence lands. They have requested the defence ministry and government to scrap the old gazette in this regard. The residents told mid-day that after 2024, BMC stopped giving NOCs for redevelopment. Most existing societies are around 45 years old, and many have been demolished as they were in the C-1 (very dangerous, dilapidated) category, but all such building redevelopment has been stuck due to the 1967 defence gazette. Defence gazette says… The gazette states that all societies located within a 500-yard radius are not allowed any kind of development of their lands. Any development requires permission from the defence ministry and civic authorities. mid-day had earlier reported on how 200 societies in Juhu were facing issues of redevelopment due to this gazette. A total of three defence land parcels are located at Malad and Kandivli. Atul Bhatkar, MLA from Kandivali, also joined the meeting and gave an assurance that he will help local residents. Resident Speak Dilip Jain, Malad East plot ownerIn 2019, our building was demolished due to being in the C-1 category. Our plot is located less than 500 yards from defence land. We have a total of 150 flats, including commercial spaces. But we can undergo redevelopment only if we get permission. Anand Alhat, Pushpa Park, Malad EastMy society was demolished due to being in the C-1 category five years ago, but after that, we didn’t get any approval for redevelopment. The BMC is also not giving any NOC, nor giving any statements in writing. Our project is stuck. Residents and commercial shop owners are struggling. Sandeep Tamhane, chairman, Jay Shivam Society, Malad EastWe have a total of 104 flats and 500 residents. Our building is a ground-plus-four structure without a lift. Our society was constructed in 1972. We have been struggling for many years due to being unable to undertake redevelopment. Nikhil Desai, Varun Valley Society, Kandivli EastMy society is within 358 yards of defence land. Our building is in bad condition and requires redevelopment. We have been struggling for many years but haven’t got permission. If we still fail to get permission, we will protest on the road and ask the local MLA and corporators to join us, as they are from the BMC. They should support us. Sandeep Talekar, secretary, Shanti Nagar Society, Malad EastWe have a four-storey structure constructed in 1975. We have combined Gautam Nagar society with our complex. We have 138 flats and 550 residents in total. We want redevelopment. All senior citizens are facing issues climbing four floors. The government should help us.
16 February,2026 07:46 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirish VaktaniaRamdhani Yadav, 49, the sarpanch of Barthani village in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, had come to the city to meet with a potential groom for his daughter and was on his way to meet the young man in Mulund on Saturday, when his life was cut short in the Metro slab collapse, the deceased’s relatives told mid-day. Yadav arrived in Mumbai on February 10, and on the day of the incident, he was travelling in an autorickshaw from Kalwa, where he was residing with relatives, to Mulund and the vehicle was driven by Rajkumar Yadav, 45, a fellow villager. Ramdhani Yadav, Uttar Pradesh resident who lost his life in mishap According to the Mulund police, the incident occurred around 12.30 pm opposite the Johnson and Johnson factory on LBS Road when a concrete parapet wall fell on an auto rickshaw and a car, injuring four and killing one. The accused >> Harish Chauhan, project director>> Kuldeep Sapkal, project manager>> Saurab Singh, deputy manager>> Prashant Bhoir, supervisor>> Avdhoot Inamdar, project manager Friends and relatives of Ramdhani Yadav at the Mulund police station on Sunday. PICS/SHIRISH VAKTANIA Police Speak Amol Chavan, Investigation officer API‘We have arrested five people in this case who are responsible for the incident. We have now started taking help from the engineers and experts to find out how this slab fell’ Brother speaks Ramsamuj Yadav, brother of the deceased‘My brother helped many people and did a lot of work for the development of the village. He resided with his wife, Gudiya, and three children. Five days ago, my brother came to Mumbai to fix his daughter’s marriage. On Saturday, he was to meet the potential groom in Mulund, but my brother died on the way. His relatives should receive government jobs and '2 crore in compensation’
16 February,2026 07:41 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirish VaktaniaDo you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for February 16. Aries March 21 – April 20Discussing a dilemma with two trustworthy friends, gradually reveals hidden situational insights. Reaching an elusive goal is finally a victory.Cosmic tip: Remember, words mean nothing without timely action. TaurusApril 21 – May 20Some friends go out of their way to meet (this is surprising since they had created distance). Flow peacefully in this karmic cycle of reunions.Cosmic tip: Don’t allow yourself to be taken for granted. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Allowing the universe to work behind the scenes is why there’s sudden clarity and a way forward in a complicated matter. Cosmic tip: Be aware of body language when discussing an important issue. Cancer June 22 – July 23Making monthly savings is something done consistently. A friendship develops over time. Do get enough sleep.Cosmic tip: Be aware of how people seem to repeat thoughts that have been present in your mind. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Nurturing language paves the way for a sustained good relationship with family. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Maintain this level of awareness which keeps focus on the spiritual path while living in a material world. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Continue building up a basketful of positive karmas, which are not always easy to accumulate. Cosmic tip: It’s quite alright to be pleased with a decision taken recently. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Maturity comes from the soul level of knowing you’ve tried to right whatever was in your hands. A work assignment is exciting.Cosmic tip: Self-counsel to do your best in an upcoming situation. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Several projects/ assignments are on the point of being signed. Avoid a legal hassle (it’s a waste of money and time). Cosmic tip: Willingly listen without judging when someone at work explains a situation. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22A friendship based on mutual interests begin low-key. This karmic cycle favours tweaking changes gradually at work. Cosmic tip: Be well prepared when meeting a new client for initial talks. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Reach a business meeting on time. The day supports those in the media, music or the fine arts.Cosmic tip: Maintain this closeness in a relationship by being aware of various moods. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19A change of attitude is all that’s needed to turn life around in a great way. Singles meet their twin flame from another lifetime. Cosmic tip: Be consistent in keeping promises. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Life and situations are being rectified through events for a more positive time. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Be aware of steps taken, habits changed, which gives impetus to the universe for rewarding you.
16 February,2026 03:04 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseAhead of the PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Mumbai, the city police have issued a traffic advisory for motorists on February 17. In an official traffic notification, the Mumbai Traffic Police announced temporary traffic restrictions on the Western Express Highway (WEH) on February 17, 2026, due to the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the President of France. The restrictions have been imposed as part of heightened security arrangements for the two dignitaries and to prevent traffic congestion in the western suburbs. According to the notification, movement of all Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) will remain completely prohibited on both northbound and southbound carriageways of the Western Express Highway. The restriction will be in force from 8.00 am to 9.00 pm between Vakola Flyover and Dahisar Toll Naka. The order has been issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Western Suburbs, Ajit Borhade, under Section 115 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, along with relevant rules and government circulars. Exemptions for emergency services Certain vehicles will be exempted from the ban. These include ambulances, fire brigade vehicles, police vehicles, government vehicles deployed for VVIP security and vehicles specifically permitted by the Mumbai Traffic Police for operational needs. Officials have warned that violators will face action under the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. The Mumbai Traffic Police have appealed to motorists to cooperate and follow instructions to ensure smooth movement and public safety. Macron to visit Mumbai French President Emmanuel Macron is set to arrive in Mumbai, Maharashtra, on Monday, where he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, the External Affairs Ministry (MEA) announced. After their Mumbai meeting, both leaders will travel to New Delhi to participate in the AI Impact Summit 2026. During the Mumbai visit, Prime Minister Modi and President Macron are scheduled to exchange memorandums of understanding (MOUs), followed by a joint press statement., reported the AI. The Hotel Taj Mahal Palace will host the India-France Innovation Forum, which will be followed by celebrations marking the India-France Year of Innovation and Cultural Commemoration at the Gateway of India, the news agency reported. Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Madame Brigitte Macron will visit Mumbai and Delhi during their visit to India from February 16-19, the officials said/ The Year of Innovation 2026 initiative will be celebrated throughout the year in both countries and aims to deepen collaboration in innovation, technology, research, and people-to-people exchanges.
16 February,2026 12:29 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai will host the country’s first-ever climate summit from February 17 to 19, 2026. The three-day event will bring together national and international leaders including Hillary Clinton to discuss climate action and sustainable development, an official statement said on Sunday. The initiative has been organised by Project Mumbai with support from the Maharashtra government’s Environment and Climate Change Department. It is also backed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. The main sessions will be held at the Jio Convention Centre in Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC). The event will see participation from several well-known personalities and policymakers, including former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, public health expert Soumya Swaminathan and cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, the statement said. Mumbai Climate Week on Feb 17, here's all about event. Read more... Union ministers such as Pralhad Joshi and Piyush Goyal, along with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, are also expected to attend. Industry leaders including Noel Tata, Jamshyd Godrej and Nadir Godrej will join discussions on climate finance and policy direction. Actors Dia Mirza and Bhumi Pednekar will also take part as environmental advocates. Focus on Urban Resilience and Energy Transition The discussions will focus on climate solutions relevant to India and the Global South. Key themes include urban resilience, food systems, and energy transition. Grassroots organisations, industry experts, researchers and policymakers will share ideas and strategies to tackle climate challenges. The week will follow a hub-and-spoke model. The central hub will host leadership dialogues, innovation challenges, youth competitions and a climate solutions exhibition. Programmes such as public lectures, film screenings, cultural events and citizen workshops will also be organised across different parts of the city. Entry to the main sessions will be open to registered participants. Innovation and youth engagement The Mumbai Climate Week Innovation Challenge, organised in partnership with the National Stock Exchange of India, will give startups and institutions a platform to present climate solutions. Youth engagement activities will be conducted with UNICEF India and YuWaah, offering young people aged 16 to 24 the chance to showcase their ideas to policymakers. A new climate platform for India Organisers say Mumbai Climate Week aims to become an annual platform that highlights India’s leadership in climate action. The initiative promotes citizen participation, public-private partnerships and city-level implementation as key pillars of climate governance.
15 February,2026 10:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has began intensive corridor-wide safety inspection following the Mumbai Metro Line 4 slab collapse on February 14. The incident took place on Saturday near pier P196 in Mulund area of Mumbai on the under-construction Metro Line 4, leaving one dead and three others injured. The MMRDA said that it has formed a special safety team to monitor Wadala-Kasarvadavali metro project and conduct inspections of the works. Mid-day had earlier in the day reported the launch of a special safety inspection following the Mulund incident. Read more here The measure aims to ensure public safety, construction quality, and compliance with statutory regulations. Officials stated that the inspection is a preventive step and does not affect the ongoing investigation into the incident. A dedicated Special Intensive Safety Inspection Team has been constituted under the leadership of Shri Basavraj M. Bhadragond, Director (Projects), MMRDA. The team includes Deputy Team Leaders, Project Directors, Safety Heads, Executive Engineers, QA/QC Officers, Design Engineers, and external safety experts from Metro Line-5 and Line-9. External members are tasked with recording observations independently, with their findings forming part of the official record. Scope of inspection The inspection is comprehensive and corridor-wide, covering parapets, edge beams, crash barriers, handrails, and attachments, structural elements above live traffic or public areas, precast, cast-in-situ, and interface zones, fixity, anchorage, reinforcement detailing, workmanship and finishing, temporary works, supports, shuttering remnants, and construction debris and barricading, safety nets, exclusion zones, and traffic protection. Compliance with approved drawings, method statements, and safety protocols The inspection began on February 15, 2026 and will continue for three to four days, or as directed by the team leader. It combines physical checks with documentary verification, recording observations day-wise on the ongoing Mumbai Metro Line 4 work, and identifying unsafe conditions immediately. Immediate actions include- - Securing, removing, or rectifying unsafe elements without waiting for the final report - Restricting, regulating, or suspending construction activity at identified unsafe locations - Full cooperation from contractors, consultants, and supervision staff, including providing site access, drawings, QA/QC records, and inspection reports - Deliverables and Reporting The Team Leader will submit- - Day-wise inspection notes - A list of unsafe conditions and immediate actions taken - A corridor-wide safety and compliance matrix - A consolidated inspection report detailing findings, corrective and preventive measures, and recommendations on resumption or continuation of works The report will be submitted to the Competent Authority on priority, officials said. Commitment to safety The MMRDA stressed that the step reflects its commitment to public safety, transparency, and adherence to engineering and safety standards.
15 February,2026 09:13 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavADVERTISEMENT
