The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) in Maharashtra's Thane has awarded a compensation of Rs 18.96 lakh to the family of a 38-year-old man killed in an accident on the Mumbai-Pune Highway in 2020, reported news agency PTI. Thane MACT member K P Shrikhande directed the owner of the car involved in the crash and its insurer, TATA AIG General Insurance Co. Ltd., to pay the compensation jointly and severally with an interest of 9 per cent per annum from February 28, 2023, until the realisation of the amount to the deceased man's wife and minor son, reported PTI. A copy of the order passed on Thursday was made available on Saturday. According to the petition, the victim, Bandu Barku Andre, a milk vendor, was riding his bicycle on the night of January 31, 2020, when a speeding car crashed into him near Naigaon in Maval. Andre sustained fatal injuries and was declared dead at a local hospital. While the insurance company contested the claim, alleging that the deceased was riding negligently in the middle of the road, the Thane MACT rejected this defence, citing that there was no evidence for it, reported PTI. The total compensation of Rs 18.96 lakh includes loss of dependency, future prospects, and conventional heads such as loss of estate, funeral expenses, and loss of consortium, reported PTI. Thane MACT orders Rs 38.7 lakh compensation to kin of father-son killed in road accident In another case, the Thane Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) has awarded a compensation of Rs 38.74 lakh to the family of a father-son duo killed in a road accident in 2020, reported PTI. Thane MACT member RV Mohite on Tuesday passed two separate orders of compensation for the death of the man and his son. The incident occurred near a petrol pump in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, on September 6, 2020, when Jayshankar Jangiram Yadav (54) was riding a motorcycle with his 25-year-old son, Aashutosh, as a pillion rider. A speeding truck swerved into the wrong lane and dashed into their two-wheeler, reported PTI. Both succumbed to their injuries at a local hospital. Yadav's wife and elder son, residents of Thane in Maharashtra, approached the tribunal here seeking separate compensation for the deaths, reported PTI. The offending truck's owner did not appear before the tribunal and the matter was decided ex parte against him. The truck's insurer, however, contested the claim, alleging negligence on the part of the motorcycle rider, but the tribunal dismissed the arguments due to a lack of evidence. The driver of the offending vehicle could not control speed, left his lane, entered the opposite lane and gave dash to the motorcycle of the deceased. There is nothing on record to show any contributory negligence on the part of the deceased, the Thane MACT observed, reported PTI. The tribunal awarded a compensation of Rs 15,29,000 for Yadav's death, noting his service as a heavy vehicle driver. For his son's death, the Thane MACT granted a compensation of Rs 23,45,000. Though he was not yet employed, the tribunal considered his educational qualifications, including a Master's in Computer Application, while deciding on the amount, reported PTI. The tribunal ordered the truck owner and insurer to pay the total amount jointly and severally with 9 per cent interest per annum from the date of the petition. (With inputs from PTI)
14 March,2026 04:43 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentThe Shiv Sena (UBT) on Saturday criticised the BJP-led central government over the reported disruption in LPG supply amid the escalating West Asia conflict, alleging that official assurances of adequate stock are not reflected in the situation on the ground, reported news agency IANS. In a strongly worded editorial published in its mouthpiece Saamana, the party claimed that the gap between the government’s claims and the ground reality is widening, with people facing long queues outside gas agencies and several eateries reportedly shutting down due to shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, reported IANS. Sena (UBT) claims LPG shortage affecting several cities The editorial stated that despite repeated assurances from the Centre that LPG supply remains stable and production has increased, many cities are witnessing disruptions, reported IANS. It alleged that the shortage of commercial cooking gas cylinders has begun affecting various cities across the country, including those in Maharashtra. According to the article, customers have been standing in queues outside gas agencies in cities such as Mumbai and Pune, as well as in places like Bhopal, Indore and Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, reported IANS. West Asia tensions blamed for supply disruptions The editorial linked the situation to geopolitical tensions in West Asia, particularly the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz — a key global energy transit route. It noted that India depends heavily on imports of crude oil, LPG and other petroleum products from Gulf countries, making it vulnerable to disruptions in the region. According to the editorial, the ongoing conflict has affected supply chains, leading to shortages of cooking gas cylinders in several areas. Hotels, hostels and religious events affected The Saamana editorial claimed that the shortage has begun affecting everyday activities in different parts of the country, reported IANS. It alleged that student hostels in Pune have temporarily modified their menus due to limited cooking gas availability. According to the editorial, students were advised to consume simpler meals until the situation improves. The article also claimed that the Nath Shashti Yatra in Paithan was affected, with some religious processions reportedly forced to turn back due to fuel shortages, reported IANS. Additionally, the editorial said the shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has impacted the hospitality sector, claiming that several hotels and restaurants in Mumbai have temporarily shut operations. Party questions government’s claims of adequate supply The editorial also referred to a statement by Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri in Parliament that LPG production has increased by around 28 per cent and supply remains smooth, reported IANS. However, the Shiv Sena (UBT) argued that the government’s decision to extend the waiting period between LPG cylinder bookings contradicts those claims. Under the revised norms, urban consumers must wait at least 25 days between bookings, compared with the earlier 21-day interval, while rural consumers may have to wait up to 45 days. Editorial warns of economic impact The party also warned that restrictions on gas supplies to industries could lead to closures of factories and affect employment. The editorial further claimed that the ongoing wedding season and tourism activity during March and April could be impacted as catering businesses struggle with rising cylinder costs, reported IANS. Concluding its criticism, the editorial said the government’s assurances of adequate supply appear inconsistent with the situation reported by consumers and businesses across the country. (With inputs from IANS)
14 March,2026 03:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTourists visiting Sanjay Gandhi National Park now have a reason to rejoice, as the iconic toy train ‘Van Rani’ has resumed services, offering visitors a chance to once again enjoy a scenic ride through the park. The much-loved attraction was inaugurated on Saturday by Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, along with Ganesh Naik, Forest Minister of Maharashtra. Other dignitaries present at the launch included Ashish Shelar, minister of information technology and cultural affairs, and Pravin Darekar, chairman of the Self Group Redevelopment Authority. The toy train service at the park, which first began in 1970, was originally operated by a diesel engine and soon became one of the biggest attractions for visitors, especially children. Running on a 2.7-km narrow-gauge track, the train with three bogies would take tourists through the scenic areas of the park, offering glimpses of its lush surroundings. However, the service had remained suspended since May 2021 after the train and its infrastructure suffered significant damage during Cyclone Tauktae. The restoration and redevelopment project has now been completed at a cost of over Rs 43 crore. The newly introduced train is battery-operated, making it more environmentally friendly. Tourists will also get to enjoy panoramic views of the park through vistadome coaches, enhancing the overall ride experience. The three coaches can accommodate around 70 to 80 passengers, and officials believe the service will also boost the park’s revenue. The track-laying, development of new stations, and related infrastructure work were carried out by the Rail India Technical and Economic Service. The service will operate on battery power, aligning with sustainable tourism practices within the park. SGNP mini train runs through Krishnagiri Upavan The toy train route runs through Krishnagiri Upavan, a 5.5 sq km recreational zone within the park that is easily accessible to visitors, while the core forest area remains restricted to protect wildlife. The zone also houses a mini-zoo, where visitors can observe animals from close quarters. Often described as one of the most visited national parks within city limits in Asia, SGNP attracts not only people from Mumbai but also tourists from across India and abroad. The return of the ‘Van Rani’ toy train is expected to further enhance the park’s appeal as a major recreational destination. When operational, the toy train runs every 30 minutes between 9 am and 12 pm and again from 1.30 pm to 5.30 pm. Each trip requires a minimum of 20 passengers for departure.
14 March,2026 02:44 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavA fire broke out in the air-conditioning duct of a residential building in the MHB Colony area of Borivali West during the early hours of Saturday. The blaze prompted a response from multiple emergency agencies. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in the incident so far, officials said. Furthermore, the blaze was extinguished at 11:50 am on Saturday. As per the official statement from the authorities, the incident occurred at Prathamesh Tower, a ground-plus-eight-storey building located in the MHB Colony area. The fire was reported at 10:55 am to the Mumbai Fire Brigade. Soon after receiving the information, fire officials rushed to the spot. MFB declared it a Level-I fire at around 10:46 am, indicating a minor blaze that was brought under control with prompt action. Cause of fire Authorities said the fire originated in the AC duct of the building, which led to smoke in parts of the structure. Firefighters were quickly dispatched to the site to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to other sections of the building. Apart from the Mumbai Fire Brigade, several agencies were mobilised for the emergency response, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation fire brigade teams, local police personnel, staff from the concerned electricity distribution company, 108 ambulance services, and ward-level civic staff. Emergency teams conducted precautionary checks and ensured the safety of residents while firefighting operations were carried out. Officials confirmed that no injuries have been reported in the incident. Further details regarding the cause of the fire are yet to be ascertained. Fire breaks out in Thane In a similar incident, a fire broke out in waste material at an open plot in the Vartak Nagar area of Thane on Saturday morning. As per the officials, the incident was reported at around 5:10 am on March 14. The fire occurred in an open plot near Ramdas Garden at Vartak Nagar Naka in Vartak Nagar. The firefighting operation was carried out by the concerned authorities using one fire tender and one rescue vehicle, which helped contain the flames before they could spread further. Officials said the fire was completely extinguished by around 6 am, after which the situation was declared under control. No injuries were reported in the incident.
14 March,2026 02:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThree men were killed after being run over by a goods train while walking on railway tracks near Palghar Railway Station in Maharashtra on Friday night, officials from the Government Railway Police said, reported news agency PTI. However, family members of the deceased have alleged that the trio was running on the tracks to escape from police personnel at the time of the accident. Three local residents killed in train accident According to police officials, the incident occurred between 8:30 pm and 9 pm on Friday when a goods train struck the three men on the tracks near the station, reported PTI. The deceased have been identified as Swapnil Shailesh Palande (23), Kunal Kumar Dubla (23), and Afroz Khalil Sheikh (28), all residents of the Virendra Nagar area in Palghar East, reported PTI. A police official said the men were walking along the railway tracks when they were hit by the train. “The three men were walking on the tracks when they were fatally knocked down by the goods train. We do not have any information about them being chased by the police or attempting suicide,” said Senior Inspector Sachin Ingavale of the Palghar GRP, reported PTI. Bodies sent for post-mortem examination Soon after the incident was reported, personnel from the Government Railway Police reached the spot and began an initial investigation. The bodies were later shifted to a government hospital for post-mortem examination, officials said. Police have registered an accidental death case for the time being while further investigation continues. Families allege youths were chased by police Relatives of the deceased, however, have claimed that the youths were allegedly being chased by police personnel before the accident occurred. According to family members, a few police personnel in plain clothes had allegedly assaulted the three men earlier. They claimed the youths ran towards the nearby railway tracks in an attempt to escape and were subsequently hit by the passing goods train. Probe underway to determine circumstances A senior police official said authorities are investigating the incident to establish the exact circumstances that led to the deaths. “The GRP has registered a case of accidental death for the time being, and a probe is underway to ascertain the circumstances of the accident,” the official said, reported PTI. Meanwhile, local authorities have deployed additional police personnel in the area to maintain law and order, as the incident has triggered tension among residents in Palghar. (With inputs from PTI)
14 March,2026 02:15 PM IST | Palghar | mid-day online correspondentTwo people were injured in a human–wildlife conflict incident near Kurar village adjacent to Sanjay Gandhi National Park on Saturday morning. Both injured persons were taken to Kandivali’s Shatabdi Hospital for treatment. According to villagers, the injured are a father and son who had gone to fetch water from a well near their hamlet between 5.30 am and 6 am. A woman from their house who had gone ahead first reportedly spotted a leopard and began shouting for help. Hearing her cries, the father and son ran towards her and tried to scare away the leopard that was sitting in the bushes. Shifted to BMC hospital for treatment During the attempt to drive the animal away, the leopard suddenly attacked and injured both of them. Locals rushed to help and the injured were later shifted to the BMC-run Shatabdi Hospital in Kandivali for treatment.
14 March,2026 01:49 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavA video from Mumbai featuring an auto-rickshaw driver discussing his daily earnings has gone viral on social media, leaving many viewers surprised and sparking a debate about income, job choices and the rising cost of living in the city. The clip shows a conversation between a content creator and an auto driver about how expensive it is to live in Mumbai. What caught people’s attention, however, was the driver’s claim about his average daily earnings. Auto driver says he earns Rs 2,500 per day In the video, the man begins by discussing how costly life in Mumbai can be. During the conversation, the auto driver responds that while the city is expensive, it also offers opportunities to earn. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @uvichar_ “So meri abhi bhaiya se baat ho rahi thi, main bol raha tha ki Mumbai shehar bada mehnga hai. Toh wo kehte hai ki mehnga par yahan paisa bhi bahut hai, bas pakadne wale ki dikkat hai,” the man says in the video. The driver then reveals that he earns around Rs 2,500 per day on average after expenses, a statement that leaves the interviewer visibly surprised. When calculated over a month, the amount comes to roughly Rs 75,000, prompting the interviewer to remark that he did not earn that much even after completing his engineering degree and starting his first job. Video sparks debate over ‘success’ and income The video also carries an overlay caption that reads: “In India, a Rs 30,000 job is considered respectable. An auto driver earning Rs 75,000 isn’t. Strange definition of success.” The clip quickly gained traction online, accumulating close to a million views and generating thousands of reactions across social media platforms. Many users joked about quitting corporate jobs to drive auto-rickshaws in Mumbai. Internet reacts with humour and curiosity Social media users responded with a mix of humour, curiosity and debate. One user commented jokingly, “Bhaiya ke paas team member ki vacancy hai kya?” (Does he have a vacancy for a team member?) Another user wrote, “Maa… autowali banna hai mujhe!” (Mom, I want to become an auto driver.) Some viewers suggested that auto drivers in major cities can indeed earn substantial amounts due to the constant demand for transport services. Others joked about combining a corporate job with driving an auto as a side hustle, asking whether that would be considered “moonlighting”. Viewers highlight reality behind the earnings While the video generated excitement, some users also pointed out that such income figures may not tell the complete story. One comment noted that while auto drivers may earn more in some months, the job involves long hours on busy roads, exposure to heat and traffic, and uncertain daily income.
14 March,2026 01:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai woke up to clear skies and warm weather on Saturday as the city continues to experience a persistent spell of heat. According to the India Meteorological Department, the city is likely to witness “hot and humid” conditions, with daytime temperatures expected to rise significantly. The weather department has advised residents to take precautions as humidity combined with rising temperatures may lead to discomfort, particularly during afternoon hours. IMD Forecasts Temperature Between 23 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius The India Meteorological Department said Mumbai is expected to record temperatures ranging between 23 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius, indicating a noticeable increase in daytime heat. Meteorologists have issued a “hot and humid” alert for the city, warning that elevated humidity levels could make the weather feel warmer than the actual temperature. Authorities have advised residents to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak afternoon hours. Citizens have also been encouraged to remain hydrated, wear light clothing and consume lighter meals to cope with the rising heat and humidity. Mumbai Air Quality Improves In Last 24 Hours Despite the rising heat, Mumbai’s air quality has improved significantly over the past 24 hours. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board through its Sameer application, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) currently stands at 100, which falls under the “satisfactory” category. The AQI has remained relatively stable during the day, indicating better air quality compared to the severe pollution levels reported in the city in recent months. AQI Levels Across Major Areas In Mumbai Air quality monitoring stations across different parts of Mumbai reported mixed but generally improved readings. Among the areas recording moderate AQI levels, the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) recorded an AQI of 118, while Borivali East registered 111 and Andheri East recorded 126. Some locations reported relatively cleaner air in the satisfactory category. Sewri recorded an AQI of 95, Byculla reported 107, and Chembur recorded 97. However, Shivaji Nagar recorded an AQI of 125, which still falls within the moderate category. Air Quality In Mumbai Metropolitan Region Neighbouring cities in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) also reported similar air quality conditions. In Thane, the AQI was recorded at 92, indicating satisfactory air quality. Navi Mumbai reported an AQI of 128, while Kalyan recorded 124, both falling under the moderate category. Officials said the improvement in air quality is a positive sign, although residents are still advised to remain cautious as weather conditions continue to remain hot and humid across Mumbai and surrounding regions.
14 March,2026 01:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPassengers travelling on the suburban network of Central Railway should prepare for service disruptions on Saturday, 14 March, and Sunday, 15 March. As per the official statement, Central Railway will undertake a special traffic and power block for platform extension works at two major stations. According to the official statement issued by the authorities, the block will be implemented from 12:00 am (Saturday midnight) to 10 am (Sunday), March 15, 2026. Stations between Mulund and Thane to be affected The platform extension work will affect sections between Mulund and Thane and Diva and Dombivli. The work is being carried out to extend platform numbers 3 and 4 at Thane Railway Station and platforms 1A, 1 and 2 at Dombivli Railway Station. Slow local train cancelled According to the authorities, during the block period, all UP and Down slow local trains scheduled on the affected routes will remain cancelled, which may significantly impact early morning commuters. Suburban trains to be diverted Several suburban services will be diverted to minimise disruption. Down slow trains departing between late Saturday night and Sunday morning will be diverted to the Down fast line at Mulund Railway Station and rediverted to the slow line at Thane. Some services will run on the fast corridor and skip halts at Kopar and Thakurli stations. Similarly, UP slow trains from Kalyan Junction will be diverted to the UP fast line and will not halt at Thakurli and Kopar stations before rejoining the slow corridor between Diva and Thane. Additional halts for fast trains To ease commuter inconvenience, Up and Down fast locals will temporarily halt at Kalva, Mumbra and Diva stations during the block period, in addition to their regular stops. Trains likely to run late Central Railway, while issuing the advisory, has also said that trains arriving or departing during the block window may reach their destinations around 15 minutes later than scheduled. Changes in mail and express train routes Along with the local trains on the Central Railway, Mail and Express services departing from or arriving at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and Dadar will also be affected. However, down trains leaving Mumbai will run on the fifth line between Vidyavihar/Thane and Kalyan, while arriving trains will use the sixth line between Kalyan and Thane/Vidyavihar during the block. Short termination and origination of locals A number of suburban trains scheduled late on Saturday night will terminate earlier at Kurla, Thane or Kalyan, while several Sunday morning services will originate from stations such as Mumbra, Kalyan, Thane or Kurla instead of their usual starting points. Railway authorities further urged commuters to check revised schedules before travelling and plan their journeys accordingly.
14 March,2026 11:03 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVisitors to the iconic Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) have reason to celebrate. As per the officials, the much-awaited Vanrani mini train is set to be inaugurated on Saturday. The mini train is expected to bring back one of the park’s most popular attractions for tourists and families. According to officials, the inauguration ceremony will take place at Krushanagiri Station inside the SGNP at 11:30 am. The event will be attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, and Ganesh Naik, Maharashtra Forest Minister. Furthermore, Ashish Shelar, minister of information technology and cultural affairs, and Pravin Darekar, chairman of the Self Group Redevelopment Authority, are also expected to join the inauguration ceremony. Vanrani mini train: A key attraction for tourists The Vanrani mini train is a favourite among children and nature lovers. It offers a scenic ride through the lush greenery of the national park, allowing them to experience the forest landscape in a unique and relaxing way. While the attraction had been closed for a considerable period, its reopening has been eagerly awaited by regular visitors of SGNP. SGNP land encroachment row escalates Residents of Abhinav Nagar in Borivali East recently alleged that Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) was encroaching on about 2250 sq ft of land near their locality bordering the park. A local public representative who visited the site claimed the work was being carried out on the instructions of SGNP director and IFS officer Anita Patil. Notice issued Amid the controversy, SGNP director Anita Patil issued a show-cause notice to SGNP deputy director (South) Kiran Patil. The notice states that the officer allegedly failed to provide timely clarification on the forest department’s stand to residents, public representatives, and the media. Department view Sources from the forest department said, “Had Deputy Director (South) Kiran Patil clearly communicated the forest department’s stance earlier, the misinformation about SGNP allegedly encroaching on land would not have spread. The delay in responding to the allegations ended up tarnishing the image of the park administration and the forest department. The notice also refers to the deputy director’s alleged inefficient working method and seeks an explanation for the delay in clarifying the issue. Matter escalates The allegations soon gained attention, and the matter was later raised in the Maharashtra State Assembly, where some public representatives demanded action against the park director.
14 March,2026 10:31 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra government on Friday introduced the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill (Dharma Swatantrya Adhiniyam), 2026, aimed at tightening provisions against forced or fraudulent religious conversions. Minister of State for Home Pankaj Bhoyar tabled the Bill in the State Legislative Assembly. The proposed legislation seeks to uphold the constitutional right to freedom of religion while establishing legal safeguards against unlawful conversions and creating a regulatory framework for religious conversion. Provisions in the draft legislation According to the draft legislation, the Bill aims to prevent unlawful religious conversions carried out through misrepresentation, force, undue influence, coercion, allurement, or marriage. The government argues that such practices can disturb social harmony and undermine an individual’s constitutional right to freely profess and practise religion. Punishment for violations Non-compliance with procedural requirements may invite penalties, including imprisonment and fines, as proposed in the Bill. Draft provisions As per the draft Bill, any person intending to convert must submit prior notice to the district magistrate. The law requires a 60-day advance intimation before conversion and mandates that the conversion be registered within 25 days after it takes place. Priests or organisations conducting the conversion must also inform the authorities in advance. Failure to comply may attract penal action under the proposed law. Reason for the legislation The state cabinet recently approved the draft following a reported rise in cases of alleged forced religious conversions. While states such as Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Tamil Nadu have laws regulating forced religious conversions, Maharashtra currently does not have a specific law addressing the issue. What happens next The Bill will now be taken up for discussion in both Houses of the state legislature. If approved by the Assembly and the Legislative Council, it will be sent to the governor of Maharashtra for assent. The legislature is expected to deliberate on the Bill next week. Call for detailed debate BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar described the proposed legislation as historic and called for a detailed discussion, saying, “Adequate time should be given to deliberate on the Bill, and the legislation should not be rushed through in haste.” Opposition raises concerns Opposition MLAs Jitendra Awhad and Rais Shaikh expressed reservations about the Bill while speaking to the media at Vidhan Bhavan. “It looks like this was done to target a particular community,” Shaikh said.
14 March,2026 08:24 AM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev ShivadekarADVERTISEMENT
