Central Railway’s Mumbai Division on Thursday announced the ‘Train Mahotsav’ celebration of the Deccan Queen Express at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). As per the official statement from the Central Railway, the celebrations will take place on Friday, March 27. Event highlights Festivities will begin one hour before departure at 05:10 pm from CSMT. The train will be adorned with floral decorations, symbolising its grandeur. Furthermore, audio-visual presentations will showcase the rich history of the Deccan Queen, India’s first superfast and electrically hauled train since 1930. Upgradation works Central Railway also highlighted that the Deccan Queen has undergone significant refurbishment to enhance passenger comfort and preserve its heritage charm in view of ‘Train Mahotsav’. They further highlighted a few changes made on the train to facilitate the passengers: Dining car refurbished with heritage aesthetics, renovated furniture, a ceiling, and flooring for a premium onboard dining experience. Lavatories fitted with vinyl, Duro wipe mats, soap and tissue dispensers for improved hygiene. AC coach seats upgraded with seat covers; vinyl provided in doorway areas. Roof and panel boards redesigned with vibrant themes. Air fragrance dispensers installed. Deccan Queen The prestigious Deccan Queen was India’s first deluxe train, introduced on June 1, 1930, and connected Mumbai and Pune. It pioneered several firsts: India’s first superfast train, first long-distance electric-hauled passenger train, and one of the first vestibule trains. Heritage significance of Deccan Queen While highlighting the heritage significance of the train, Central Railway also said, “It is a train that has bound generations of loyal passengers. With its vibrant history and continuous modernisation, it remains a symbol of Central Railway’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation.” Initially, the train was introduced with 2 rakes of 7 coaches each one of which was painted in silver with scarlet mouldings and the other with royal blue with gold lines. The under frames of the coaches of the original rakes were built in England while the coach bodies were built in the Matunga Workshop of the GIP Railway. The Deccan Queen, initially, had only first class and second-class accommodation. First class was abolished on 1st January 1949 and second class was redesigned as first class, which continued up to June 1955 when third class was introduced on this train for the first time. This was later re-designated as second class from April 1974 onwards. The coaches of the original rakes were replaced in 1966 by anti-telescopic steel bodied integral coaches built by Integral Coach Factory, Perambur.
26 March,2026 07:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTrain services on the Western Railway were severely disrupted on Thursday afternoon after an unidentified person was run over by a high-speed Vande Bharat Express in the Virar section. According to railway officials, the incident occurred between Vaitarna and Virar when the individual allegedly trespassed onto the tracks and got entangled with the fast-moving train, leading to a fatal accident. A spokesperson from Western Railway confirmed that the mishap led to significant delays and disruptions in suburban services. The spokesperson stated, “Due to a railway accident involving an individual between Vaitarna and Virar, the 3:00 pm Dahanu local train departing from Virar has been halted between Naringi and Ghaskopri in Virar. Additionally, the 3:45 pm Virar-Dahanu local train has been detained at Virar."
26 March,2026 06:34 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarA massive fire broke out at a bamboo godown in Ghansoli, Navi Mumbai, on Thursday, March 26, triggering panic in the surrounding area. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. Highly Combustible Material Fuels Rapid Spread According to initial reports, the blaze spread rapidly due to the highly combustible bamboo stored inside the warehouse. At least five fire tenders were rushed to the spot, and firefighting operations are currently underway on a war footing. Nearby Residential Buildings Raise Concerns The situation remains critical as several residential buildings are located close to the godown, raising fears of the fire spreading further. Fire officials are making all-out efforts to bring the blaze under control and prevent it from affecting nearby structures. No Casualties Reported, Losses Expected Fortunately, no injuries or casualties have been reported so far. However, the godown is believed to have been completely gutted, and significant material losses are expected. Authorities Continue Close Monitoring Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as firefighting efforts continue.
26 March,2026 05:06 PM IST | Navi Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA temple associated with arrested self-styled godman Ashok Kharat received more than Rs 1 crore in government funding under a Maharashtra tourism scheme in 2018, according to official records, reported news agency PTI. The development comes amid an ongoing investigation into serious criminal allegations against Kharat, including rape charges filed earlier this month. Funds Approved Under Tourism Development Scheme As per official documents, administrative approval of Rs 1.05 crore was granted on March 31, 2018, for development works at the Shri Ishanyeshwar Devasthan temple in Sinnar, Nashik district, reported PTI. The funds were sanctioned under a regional tourism development scheme by the state’s tourism and cultural affairs department, which was then headed by Jaykumar Rawal. Out of the total sanctioned amount, Rs 25 lakh was released during the 2017–18 financial year. Infrastructure Development at Temple Site The approved works included construction of a hall, installation of paving blocks, separate toilet facilities for men and women, changing rooms, parking space, accommodation for visitors, landscaping, and electrification, reported PTI. Officials said the work was executed through the Public Works Department as part of standard infrastructure development, reported PTI. Part of Larger Statewide Development Plan The allocation was part of a broader government decision to approve projects worth around Rs 112 crore for the development of 58 religious sites and tourist locations across multiple districts in Maharashtra. Around Rs 17 crore was released to executing agencies, including the Public Works Department and local administrative bodies, during that financial year. Sources said the temple received the highest allocation among four projects from Nashik district under the scheme, reported PTI. No Allegations at Time of Sanction Officials clarified that funding for religious and tourism sites is a routine annual process and that there were no allegations against Kharat when the funds were approved in 2018, reported PTI. They added that such decisions are based on development needs and tourism potential. Multi-Agency Probe into Criminal and Financial Links Kharat was arrested on March 18 after a 35-year-old woman accused him of repeated sexual assault over three years. A Special Investigation Team led by Tejaswi Satpute is probing the case. Officials said at least six criminal cases have been registered so far. Investigators have reportedly found around 100 objectionable videos and assets worth approximately Rs 1,500 crore linked to Kharat. Authorities said the Income Tax Department is examining financial records and property holdings, while cyber police are analysing digital evidence, reported PTI. The investigation is being monitored by Maharashtra Director General of Police Sadanand Date along with senior officials. (With inputs from PTI)
26 March,2026 04:57 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Bombay High Court has advised railway authorities to introduce public safety announcements on all long-distance trains, similar to those used in modern services like Vande Bharat Express, to enhance passenger awareness and prevent accidents, reported news agency PTI. The court also cautioned passengers against attempting to board or alight from moving trains, stressing that such actions pose serious risks to life. Court Recommends Systematic Announcements for Passenger Safety In its ruling, a bench led by Justice Jitendra Jain observed that unlike suburban trains, long-distance trains often lack clear announcements or display boards indicating stations where they will not halt, reported PTI. The court noted that many passengers use long-distance trains for short journeys between nearby stations, making it essential for them to be informed about halting patterns, reported PTI. It suggested that introducing regular onboard announcements specifying upcoming stops and non-stop stations could significantly reduce confusion and accidents. No Fault if Passengers Unaware of Non-Halting Stations The court emphasised that when no prior information is provided about non-halting stations, passengers cannot be entirely blamed for attempting to disembark, reported PTI. It observed that in such situations, passengers may act under confusion or urgency, especially when they realise the train will not stop at their intended destination. However, the bench reiterated that passengers should avoid taking risks and instead wait for the next station, even if it involves paying a penalty. Compensation Awarded in Decade-Old Injury Case The court passed the observations while hearing a plea filed by Rohidas Kumavat, who had challenged an earlier order of the Railway Claims Tribunal denying him compensation, reported PTI. Kumavat sustained injuries nearly a decade ago while attempting to get down from a moving train near Jalgaon station. Overturning the tribunal’s decision, the High Court held that the incident could not be termed as a self-inflicted injury and awarded him compensation of Rs 80,000, reported PTI. Tribunal Order Set Aside, Passenger Declared Bona Fide The bench noted that Kumavat was a legitimate passenger who had boarded the train believing it would halt at Jalgaon, a significant railway station in Maharashtra, reported PTI. When the train did not stop, he attempted to get down in panic, resulting in injuries to his head and legs. The court observed that such reactions are natural and do not indicate intent to cause self-harm. Call for Better Infrastructure and Awareness Highlighting broader safety concerns, the court stressed that improved communication systems, including announcements and display boards, are essential for passenger safety on long-distance routes, reported PTI. It directed railway authorities to consider implementing such systems across trains to minimise accidents caused by lack of information. The compensation awarded to Kumavat is to be paid by railway authorities within 12 weeks, the court ordered. (With inputs from PTI)
26 March,2026 04:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on thursday reportedly conducted searches in Mumbai in connection with the Anil Ambani-Reliance Telecom SBI fraud case, reported the IANS. The CBI has registered a case against Reliance Telecom Ltd and its former directors, Satish Seth and Gautam B Doshi, in connection with an alleged bank fraud of Rs 114.98 crore involving the State Bank of India (SBI). The case also names unknown public servants and others, based on a complaint filed by the SBI. Officials said the agency has invoked charges of criminal conspiracy and cheating under the Indian Penal Code, along with provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, related to alleged misuse of official position, according to the IANS. Loan from consortium of banks According to investigators, SBI was part of a consortium of 11 banks that had sanctioned a total term loan of Rs 735 crore to Reliance Telecom. The complaint alleges that the accused caused financial losses to the bank through fraudulent actions linked to this loan, as per the IANS. Searches conducted in Mumbai Following the registration of the case, the CBI carried out searches at multiple locations in Mumbai. These included the residences of Seth and Doshi, as well as the company’s registered office, the news agency reported. Officials confirmed that documents related to loan transactions and financial dealings have been seized during the raids. Probe underway The agency is now examining banking records, internal approvals, and correspondence connected to the loan disbursal. Further action will depend on findings from the ongoing probe, with searches still continuing, reported the IANS. Linked developments involving According to the IANS, the case comes amid broader investigations into alleged financial irregularities involving companies linked to the Reliance Group. Earlier this month, the CBI questioned Anil Ambani for several hours in a separate case related to an alleged Rs 2,929 crore fraud involving Reliance Communications. Officials said that case involves alleged misuse of loan funds and violations of lending norms. Anil Ambani has been asked to join the investigation again, while other executives have also been examined, the news agency reported. (with IANS inputs)
26 March,2026 04:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA 42-year-old businessman was killed in a tragic hit-and-run incident after a speeding car allegedly driven by a minor rammed into his bicycle in Maharashtra’s Thane district, police said on Thursday, reported news agency PTI. The accused, a 17-year-old boy, fled the scene after the accident but was later traced and detained by authorities. Fatal Accident on Incomplete Kalyan Ring Road Stretch The incident took place around 8 pm on Tuesday on an unfinished stretch of the Kalyan Ring Road, which locals say has become prone to reckless driving due to lack of regulation, reported PTI. The victim, Srinivas Tandle, who owned multiple garment stores, had reportedly taken up cycling for fitness on the same day. According to police, while he was riding along the stretch, a car approached at high speed, swerved suddenly, and struck him with force, throwing him into the air, reported PTI. Victim Declared Dead at Hospital Following the collision, the driver fled the scene, leaving the victim severely injured. Passersby rushed Tandle to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. Police described the impact as severe, indicating that the vehicle was being driven at excessive speed at the time of the crash. Juvenile Traced Through CCTV Footage Investigators relied on CCTV footage from the area to identify the vehicle involved in the incident. The damaged car was later located in a residential parking area in Kalyan, reported PTI. The teenager believed to be driving the vehicle was subsequently detained by police. An FIR has been registered against the juvenile under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Motor Vehicles Act for rash and negligent driving. Locals Raise Safety Concerns Over Road Conditions Residents of the area have expressed strong anger over the incident, highlighting the dangers posed by the incomplete Barave–Vadavali stretch of the Kalyan Ring Road, reported PTI. According to locals, the poorly maintained and unfinished road has increasingly become a hotspot for speeding and dangerous stunts by motorists. They also pointed out that a similar accident on February 21 left a 50-year-old man seriously injured, raising concerns about repeated safety lapses. Demand for Immediate Safety Measures In the wake of the latest fatality, residents have demanded urgent intervention from authorities, including the installation of barricades and strict monitoring to prevent reckless driving. They have also called for the swift completion of pending roadwork to ensure safer commuting conditions and prevent further loss of life. Police said further investigation is underway, and appropriate legal action will be taken based on findings in the case. (With inputs from PTI)
26 March,2026 03:48 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Legislative Council Chairman Ram Shinde said that his deputy Neelam Gorhe’s order on suspending the Satara Superintendent of Police (SP) will be referred to legal experts, after which a ruling will be issued, reported the PTI. Ram Shinde made the remarks in the Upper House on Wednesday, effectively putting on hold the suspension of Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Tushar Doshi and other officials over an alleged ruckus during the Satara Zilla Parishad (ZP) elections last week. The action was followed after political leaders raised the issue in the Council. Following which the Council Deputy Chairperson Gorhe had on Monday directed the state government to suspend Satara Superintendent of Police Doshi, a move that did not go down well with the BJP, which heads the ruling coalition. Final decision to be announced after expert opinion “The decision on the suspension of the Satara SP and other officials will be referred to legal and constitutional experts, and a ruling will be given later,” Shinde said in the Council on Wednesday. He maintained that the government must probe the incident and take action in accordance with the law after considering the deputy chairperson’s decision. The chairman concurred with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ argument on the issue. On Tuesday, Fadnavis said that the powers of the executive, judiciary, and legislature are clearly defined in the Constitution. Executive powers rest with the executive, which is accountable to the legislature, he said, adding that the government makes efforts to implement directions issued by the chair. CM says legislature cannot assume executive powers “However, after apologising to the chair, I must say that the Speaker (of the Assembly) and the Chairman (of the Council) cannot step into the shoes of the executive,” the Chief Minister asserted, reported PTI. “When the chair issues a direction, it is based on the circumstances at the time. The executive acts if there is substance to it. If the facts differ, the executive has the right to inform the legislature that the direction cannot be implemented,” said Fadnavis, who also holds the Home portfolio. Ministers Shambhuraj Desai (Shiv Sena) and Makarand Patil (Nationalist Congress Party) had alleged that local police personnel manhandled them during the March 20 poll to elect the Satara ZP president. Bharatiya Janata Party’s Priya Shinde was elected Satara ZP president, defeating the Shiv Sena-NCP combine’s candidate despite the latter having a majority in the rural local body. The BJP narrowly surpassed the Sena-NCP alliance’s tally to secure the top post. (With PTI inputs)
26 March,2026 03:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe iconic dabbawala network of Mumbai continues to earn global acclaim for its unmatched efficiency and discipline, with Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde describing the service as a defining symbol of the city’s work culture and operational excellence. A Living Example of Precision and Service Excellence Highlighting the global reputation of Mumbai’s dabbawalas, Mayor Tawde said their service extends far beyond delivering lunchboxes. She noted that their system represents a “living model” of management excellence, rooted in punctuality, teamwork, and reliability. According to her, the dabbawalas have emerged as true ambassadors of Mumbai’s service-oriented ethos, earning admiration from across the world. Visit to International Experience Centre in Bandra On March 25, the Mayor paid a goodwill visit to the ‘Mumbai Dabbawala International Experience Centre’ located at Rizvi College in Bandra (West). During her visit, she toured various sections of the facility and closely observed the intricate processes of sorting, coding, and distribution that enable the seamless delivery of thousands of tiffins. The centre, designed to preserve and showcase the legacy of the dabbawala system, offers visitors an immersive experience through digital exhibits, a Heritage Display, and a Virtual Reality (VR) zone. These installations narrate the evolution of the service and provide insights into its operational efficiency. The Mayor also experienced an AI-based interactive feature that allows visitors to visualise themselves as a dabbawala. Over 135 Years of Uninterrupted Service Speaking during her interaction with members of the dabbawala community, Mayor Tawde emphasised that the service has been running uninterrupted for over 135 years and remains an integral part of Mumbai’s daily life. Delivering nearly one lakh tiffins with remarkable accuracy, the system continues to support lakhs of citizens across the city. She further noted that the dabbawala tradition is deeply rooted in the Warkari philosophy, reflecting devotion, discipline, and community service. Their operational model, she said, is widely studied by management professionals globally. Welfare Measures and Future Plans Announcing new initiatives, the Mayor revealed that one of the proposed entrance gateways to Mumbai will be designed around the dabbawala concept, symbolising their contribution to the city. Additionally, around 105 e-bikes will be provided to support their operations and improve efficiency. She assured that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation will extend full support for the welfare of dabbawalas and the strengthening of initiatives at the centre. Medical Emergency and Swift Response In a related development, dabbawala association member Dinesh Arde suffered a heart attack on the same evening and was admitted to Dr. R. N. Cooper Hospital. Upon receiving the information, Mayor Tawde visited the hospital, met the patient, and reviewed his condition with medical staff. Officials confirmed that his condition is now stable. Legacy Sustained Despite Challenges Providing historical context, Kiran Gavande stated that the service, which began in 1890, once handled nearly double the current volume of deliveries before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, strong support from Mumbaikars and well-wishers globally helped sustain the livelihoods of dabbawalas during the crisis. He added that the system is now steadily regaining momentum. Gavande also acknowledged the support of Devendra Fadnavis and Shrikant Bharatiya in establishing the experience centre, which has emerged as a knowledge hub for students, tourists, and management experts worldwide. Several dignitaries, including local corporators and representatives of dabbawala organisations, were present during the Mayor’s visit, underscoring the continued civic and institutional support for one of Mumbai’s most enduring traditions.
26 March,2026 03:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a significant move aimed at streamlining property tax recovery and reducing disputes, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has secured approval for an amendment to Section 154 of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888. The bill has been passed by both the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and the Maharashtra Legislative Council. Relief for property owners, no additional tax burden The civic body clarified that the amendment will not lead to any increase in property tax for residential or commercial property owners. Instead, it is designed to simplify the assessment mechanism while providing relief to taxpayers. A key change under the amendment is the exclusion of Floor Space Index (FSI) from land tax assessment. This is expected to remove long-standing complexities in valuation and give a push to both stalled and ongoing real estate projects across Mumbai. Major administrative relief, fewer disputes One of the most impactful outcomes of the amendment is that nearly 10.5 lakh (1.05 million) properties within the BMC jurisdiction will no longer require reassessment dating back to 2010. This is likely to significantly reduce administrative workload and help avoid prolonged legal disputes between property owners and authorities. Clearing the way for pending dues recovery The amendment also addresses pending tax liabilities linked to a 2014 interim order of the Bombay High Court. Under that order, many property owners had been paying only 50 percent of their property tax. With the revised legal framework now in place, these property owners will be required to pay the remaining 50 percent, enabling the civic body to recover long-pending dues. Boost to civic and state revenues Officials said the amendment will strengthen the BMC’s ability to collect outstanding property taxes more efficiently. In addition, it is expected to facilitate the recovery of pending revenues owed to the state government. BMC warns of property seizure for tax defaulters ahead of March 31 deadline Meanwhile, The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a strong warning to property owners across Mumbai, stating that strict penal action - including immediate attachment and seizure of properties - will be initiated against those who fail to clear pending property tax dues before the March 31, 2026 deadline. The civic body has stepped up its recovery efforts in the final days of the financial year, urging taxpayers to comply and avoid enforcement action. Officials have been instructed to make concerted efforts to achieve the set tax collection targets within the stipulated timeframe.
26 March,2026 02:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCongress has demanded removal of Maharashtra Minister Narhari Zirwal after a purported video, showing him with a transwoman went viral on social media. The Opposition in state has now demanded action on the alleged "obscene and unethical conduct" of the state minister. According to PTI, the Congress alleged that the video shows Zirwal, who is the Food and Drugs Administration Minister, in a compromising position with the transwoman at his official residence. The party condemned the incident, calling it a reflection of moral decline in Maharashtra politics and describing the minister’s conduct as a "blot on public life." Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar attributed the emergence of the video to a tussle between ruling allies. "This is nothing but a gang war within the government, where the ruling parties are trying to finish each other. This is not good for Maharashtra. We hang our heads in shame. The same is the case with (arrested self-styled godman) Ashok Kharat, who exploited so many women. All these developments are not good for Maharashtra," he said. Wadettiwar added that, according to available information, Zirwal was with a transgender person, and the latter’s brother allegedly made the video viral as part of a blackmail attempt. "What Zirwal did at his official residence with that transgender individual is absolutely wrong," he said. Harshwardhan Sapkal calls viral video objectionable Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal described the incident as a stark example of moral decline in state politics. "The objectionable video of minister Narhari Zirwal going viral on social media is not just an incident, but a glaring example of moral degradation in Maharashtra politics," he said in a social media post. "A responsible public representative, entrusted with the faith of the people and taxpayers’ money, indulging in such obscene and unethical behaviour is extremely condemnable. This is not just a breach of personal boundaries, but a blot on public life," Sapkal added. He further stressed that elected representatives are expected to adhere to basic standards of morality, reported PTI. "At the very least, a minister elected by the people is expected to follow a framework of ethics. However, the video clearly shows that these expectations have been completely violated," he said, demanding immediate action against Zirwal. "The Chief Minister must, without any delay, remove Zirwal from the ministerial post." “Cannot comment without full details,” says Jayant Patil When reporters sought NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil’s reaction to the video on Wednesday evening, he refused to comment, saying he had not watched it. "It would be better to comment if I am aware of the details. I cannot comment right now," Patil said, the news agency reported. Social activist Anjali Damania told reporters on Thursday that a senior minister like Zirwal should have been mindful of propriety. "He should have realised what he was doing, especially in government accommodation," she said. "It is clear that the video was shot and made viral with an intention to blackmail," she added, demanding a thorough probe. Last month, opposition parties had demanded Zirwal’s resignation following bribery allegations involving his office staffer at the state secretariat. The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) had caught FDA clerk Rajendra Dherange allegedly accepting a Rs 35,000 bribe at Mantralaya in south Mumbai on February 12. Zirwal’s private secretary, Dr Ramdas Gade, was also relieved of his post and directed to report back to his parent department following a related sting operation. (With PTI inputs)
26 March,2026 02:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
