Eleven Naxalites, including five senior operatives, with a total bounty of Rs 68 lakh on their heads surrendered before the police and CRPF in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district on Thursday, an official said. The eleven include a divisional commander (DVCM), an area committee secretary, one people's party committee member (PPCM), one commander and an area committee member, a release from the office of the Gadchiroli superintendent of police said. "The Maharashtra government had announced a cumulative reward of Rs 68 lakh on them. Since 2025, a total of 123 armed Maoists have surrendered in Gadchiroli. Left Wing Extremism in the district has almost come to an end. Once active in all 10 sub divisions of Gadchiroli, it is now confined to border areas of Bhamragad sub-division," the release added. Till date, a total of 794 Naxalites have surrendered in Gadchiroli, it said. Gadchiroli Police set up new assistance centre in remote Bangadi village to curb Maoist activities In a major push to strengthen security and accelerate development in Maoist-affected regions of Maharashtra, the Gadchiroli police on Thursday established a new police assistance centre at Bangadi. As per the official statement, this is an extremely remote village in the Bhamragad sub-division; therefore, the police assistance centre will help make the situation under control. Located just 8 km from Laheri Sub-Police Station and barely 2 km from the Chhattisgarh border, the newly set-up centre is expected to play a crucial role in curbing Maoist activities while improving access to government services in the region. According to the officials, the facility was constructed within 24 hours using a workforce of over 1,000 personnel. The operation involved C-60 commandos, Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) teams, newly recruited police personnel, 500 special police officers, and private contractors, supported by heavy machinery including JCBs, excavators, trailers, and trucks. Police assistance centre equipped with modern amenities The newly built centre is equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi connectivity, portacabins, a generator shed, an RO water plant, a mobile tower, and sanitation facilities. Robust security arrangements have also been put in place, including deployment of Gadchiroli Police personnel, SRPF units, CRPF forces, and special operations squads, along with fortified bunkers and perimeter defences. Marking the occasion, a Jan Jagran Mela (public awareness drive) was organised, during which essential items such as sarees, dhotis, blankets, utensils, school supplies, and sports equipment were distributed to local residents.
19 March,2026 08:28 PM IST | Gadchiroli | mid-day online correspondentIn an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm and cultural fervour, the annual ‘Navvarsh Swagat Yatra’ was held in Thane on Thursday to mark Gudi Padwa, the Maharashtrian New Year. The procession was jointly organised by Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) and Kopineshwar Sanskrutik Nyas. The yatra began at 7 am from Kopineshwar Temple after Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde performed the traditional ‘puja’ of the ‘palakhi (palanquin)’. Swagat Yatra chairperson Dr Dhanashree Lele was present during the inauguration. Among the prominent attendees were Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, Member of Parliament (MP) Naresh Mhaske, legislator Sanjay Kelkar, Mayor Sharmila Pimpalkar, Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao, Deputy Mayor Krishna Patil, House Leader Hanmant Jagdale, additional commissioners Sandeep Malvi and Prashant Rode, along with several corporators including Pawan Kadam, Sanjay Waghule, Narayan Pawar, Mrunal Pendse, Namrata Koli, and Madhuri Metange. Office-bearers of Kopineshwar Sanskrutik Nyas and a large number of citizens also joined in large numbers. The procession featured a colourful display of folk arts, innovative tableaux conveying social messages, dhol-tasha beats, aerial silk performances, mallakhamb, gymnastics demonstrations, traditional attire cycle rallies, group walks by various organisations, and a women's bike rally. Participants dressed in traditional clothing created an unprecedented crowd. The palkhi passed through rangoli-decorated pathways from Jambhli Naka to Dagdi School, where tableaux joined the procession. Floral showers (pushpavrushti) were offered on the palakhi at three locations: Chintamani Chowk, Hariniwas Circle, and Gokhale Road. This year marked a notable participation by the transgender community, who conveyed a message of equality through their involvement. Karnataka Sanskrutik Manch presented a cultural showcase, while tableaux from Bhagini Nivedita (on environmental messages) and TJSB Bank drew attention as highlights. Gudi Padwa 2026: Cultural performances, social themes tableaux highlight unity and awareness Vanavasi Kalyan Ashram presented Tarpa dance, Eklavya Krida Mandal from Yeoor showcased a blend of Warkari and Dharkari performances, Man:Shakti Kendra highlighted intellectual pollution, the transgender community featured an electric pink rickshaw, and Thane Netrarogya Association raised awareness on glaucoma through a tableau. Thane Municipal Corporation's water supply, gardens and tree authority, solid waste management, public health, and education departments and Rajiv Gandhi Medical College also participated with thematic tableaux. The event reflected the spirit of unity, tradition, and social awareness, bringing together diverse sections of society to celebrate the beginning of the new year with joy and cultural pride.
19 March,2026 07:30 PM IST | ThaneThe Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL) have enabled booking of quick response (QR)-code-based tickets for Metro Lines 2A (Dahisar East and Andheri West) and 7 (Dahisar East and Andheri East) directly on Uber app, using the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). The integration was announced on Wednesday by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Commuters can purchase tickets using the app and receive an instant 50 per cent discount, capped at Rs 10. Lines 2A and 7 currently serve over 3.5 lakh passengers every day. Metro ticketing through ONDC is already accessible on various platforms, including Yatri, Ixigo, Navi, EMT, Tummoc, Tripozo, One Ticket, Autope, Magicpin, Chalo, RedBus, Highway Delite, Pelocal, ConfirmTkt, EaseMyTrip, RedRail, Vodafone Idea, and WhatsApp (via Pelocal). The addition of Uber provides users with one more option to book via a familiar app. Mumbai's digital mobility options include the Mumbai One App, which combines suburban railway, metro, bus, and monorail services; the Mumbai One Card (National Common Mobility Card); and WhatsApp-based ticketing. Around 72 per cent of tickets for Lines 2A and 7 are booked digitally. Mumbai Metro integration drive gains pace; last-mile connectivity, new lines in focus Efforts to improve last-mile connectivity continue through enhanced Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) bus services, foot overbridges, and parking facilities at metro stations. Lines 2B and 9 are slated to become operational soon, with similar digital ticketing features expected to be extended. Chief Minister Fadnavis stated that the initiative supports integrated, accessible public transport and strengthens digital infrastructure in Maharashtra. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Chairman of MMRDA, noted its role in bridging metro stations to final destinations and increasing public transport use. Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Sanjay Mukherjee called it a milestone for a unified multimodal ecosystem. MMMOCL Managing Director Rubal Agarwal said such integrations leverage technology for better planning and connectivity as the network expands. The feature is currently limited to Lines 2A and 7, with future inclusion of additional routes planned. MMRDA said it continues to focus on a commuter-centric, sustainable transport system for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
19 March,2026 06:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra government is planning to develop a modern jetty at the Gateway of India to manage heavy tourist footfall and improve passenger movement, reported the PTI. State Ports Development Minister Nitesh Rane informed the state legislative assembly during the ongoing Maharashtra Budget Session 2026 regarding the modern jetty on Wednesday. He was replying to a calling attention notice raised by member Ashok Patil. Legislators Varun Sardesai and Prakash Surve participated in the discussion. Rane said the government aims to develop Mumbai into an international-standard tourism and maritime hub by strengthening jetty management, introducing modern boats, and building marinas and passenger amenities. Noting that the Gateway of India area witnesses heavy congestion due to high passenger movement, he said new jetty infrastructure is being planned to ease crowding and improve safety. The initiative is part of a broader plan to transform Mumbai into an international-standard tourism and maritime hub. Addressing congestion at the waterfront As part of the plan, the Maharashtra government aims to improve jetty management, introduce modern boats and develop marinas and passenger amenities, according to the PTI. These steps are expected to enhance both tourist experience and safety at the busy waterfront. The Gateway of India area sees heavy passenger traffic, leading to frequent congestion. Currently, there are five jetties - - Jetties 1 to 4 are used by general passengers and managed by Mumbai Port Trust - Jetty No. 5 is proposed for private and larger yachts, which could reduce crowding at other jetties The new infrastructure is expected to streamline operations and ease pressure on existing facilities. Tariff and policy concerns Rane also highlighted concerns over the revenue-sharing model at Jetty No. 5, where a significant share goes to a private operator, according to the PTI. The state government has written to the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways seeking a review of tariffs, permissions, and safety norms. Support for fishermen and boat operators To improve livelihoods, the government is encouraging - - Transition from traditional wooden boats to modern vessels - Access to bank loans for upgrades - Adoption of electric boats These measures aim to boost efficiency while promoting sustainable practices, officials said, the news agency reported.
19 March,2026 03:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe ongoing disruption around the Strait of Hormuz amid the West Asia war is beginning to impact real estate sector in parts of the world including India's financial capital in Mumbai, the industry experts say. According to a research, the developers are facing delays of 10-20 days for shipments of construction materials, as vessels are being rerouted via longer routes. This has increased shipping costs by Rs 1.5-3.5 lakh per container, adding pressure on ongoing and upcoming projects. Key construction materials have seen sharp price increases In an analytical report, Dr. Prashant Thakur, Executive Director & Head - Research & Advisory, ANAROCK Group, stated that the construction materials have seen price rise in recent time. These include - - Steel prices have risen by around 20 per cent to Rs 72,000 per tonne - Marine fuel costs have surged to Rs 1 lakh per tonne - Aluminium prices have climbed to approximately Rs 3.5 lakh per tonne These increases are pushing up construction costs, with estimates suggesting an additional Rs 50 per sq ft for high-rise buildings. Cities dependent on vertical development, including Mumbai and Delhi, are expected to feel the impact most, the report stated. Luxury housing faces direct impact It stated that high-end housing markets, especially in areas such as South Mumbai, Worli, and Bandra-Kurla Complex, are likely to see the strongest effects. Mumbai remains India’s leading market for ultra-luxury homes priced above Rs 40 crore, accounting for nearly 88 per cent of such sales in 2024. Premium materials like imported marble and fittings have become more expensive due to increased freight and insurance costs. However, experts believe that luxury buyers may absorb price hikes, with developers expected to increase prices by over 5 per cent. NRI buyers and market dynamics Non-resident Indians (NRIs), who contribute significantly to luxury housing demand, may also be affected. Travel disruptions linked to the Gulf situation could delay property visits and purchase decisions, the report stated. NRIs typically account for 15-22 per cent of high-end housing sales, and up to 30 per cent of total sales value in premium projects, making them a crucial segment. Wider economic impact The crisis has also pushed up fuel prices, influencing construction logistics and labour costs. Over the past four years, construction costs in major cities have already risen by nearly 39 per cent, further tightening margins for developers. Even if the situation improves quickly, experts warn that cost pressures will remain for at least 1-3 months, as shipping backlogs clear and supply chains stabilise. Outlook for 2026 According to the report, while the disruption may not significantly dent luxury home demand, it is expected to: - Delay project timelines - Increase overall construction costs - Put pressure on mid-range housing affordability The situation has highlighted the need for stronger domestic supply chains and reduced reliance on imports for critical construction materials.
19 March,2026 03:36 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentGudi Padwa, the Marathi New Year, was on Thursday celebrated with great enthusiasm in Girgaon, one of Mumbai’s most culturally vibrant neighbourhoods. The area came alive with traditional fervour as residents gathered to take part in colourful processions, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of dhol-tasha. Dhol-tasha troupes playing during the Shoba Yatra. PIC/ ATUL KAMBLE The highlight of the celebrations was the lively procession that moved through key parts of Girgaon. Participants carried Gudis, decorated with bright cloth, neem leaves, garlands, and an inverted kalash, symbolising victory, prosperity, and good fortune. The sight of Gudis fluttering atop homes and along the procession route added a distinctly festive visual to the neighbourhood. Lady performing during the procession in Girgoan. PIC/ ATUL KAMBLE Dhol-tasha troupes played a central role, drawing large crowds as their synchronised beats set the tempo for the celebrations. Youngsters and children actively participated, dancing to the traditional rhythms and showcasing their enthusiasm. Cultural groups also performed folk dances, further enriching the festive spirit. Local residents said the celebrations reflect the deep-rooted traditions and unity of the community. The festivities also included the decoration of homes and streets, with rangolis adorning entrances and marigold garlands enhancing the festive decor. Sweets and traditional delicacies were shared among families and neighbours, strengthening the sense of togetherness. As the day progresses, Girgaon continues to resonate with joy and cultural pride, offering a glimpse into Mumbai’s rich traditions. The Gudi Padwa celebrations once again highlight the city’s spirit of unity, as people from all walks of life come together to welcome the new year with hope, positivity, and vibrant celebrations. Meanwhile, from early morning, streets in Mahim as well witnessed a festive transformation, with people dressed in traditional attire joining the celebrations. Women adorned in nauvari sarees and men wearing kurta-pyjamas and saffron turbans added to the cultural charm of the occasion. Gudi Padwa celebrations in Mahim. PIC/ SATEJ SHINDE People took part in the Malad Shobha Yatra 2026, organised by the Navvarsh Swagat Samiti of the Malad Devasthan Trust, marking its 25th year, at Swami Vivekananda Road in Malad (West), Mumbai today. This year’s theme was “Goddesses of Mumbai.” PIC/ SATEJ SHINDE The sound of drums and cymbals echoed through the lanes, creating an energetic and celebratory atmosphere.
19 March,2026 03:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA massive fire broke out at a furniture warehouse in Chamunda Complex of Bhiwandi area in Maharashtra, officials said, adding that the fire-fighting operations were launched following the blaze. According to the Regional Disaster Management Cell (RDMC), the incident took place at around 11:30 am on Thursday. The fire was reported at a furniture warehouse in the Chamunda Complex, located near the Kasheli Bridge in Bhiwandi. The blaze has largely affected a warehouse storing furniture, according to officials. Operations launched Firefighters from fire Department arrived at the scene with two fire engines, while Thane Fire Department sent one jumbo water tanker to assist in controlling the fire, officials said. Officials said that so far no injuries have been reported in the incident. The Bhiwandi Fire Control Centre reported that firefighting teams are actively working to bring the fire under control. Further details were awaited.
19 March,2026 01:21 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentThe Dadar-Ratnagiri trains were recently slightly hit due to suburban rail operations, Central Railway said on Thursday. The punctuality issues faced were primarily linked to the city operations, it said. An official explained, when Konkan trains enter or leave Diva station to join the Main Line, 6-8 suburban trains near Diva or Vidyavihar are held for 6-10 minutes. This temporary detainment impacts the schedule of suburban services, which require strict adherence to timings due to heavy commuter traffic. Other routes unaffected Officials said that trains heading towards Nagpur or Pune do not face similar operational conflicts. Similarly, the Gorakhpur-bound train will run without affecting the punctuality of the suburban network. The Mumbai suburban railway system is critical for daily commuters, and even short delays can cascade across multiple services. Officials say Central Railway, CPRO said, "The operational issues faced while running the Dadar-Ratnagiri train are because of problems faced by the Suburban trains. When the Konkan side train enters or leaves Diva station to enter Main Line 6-8 Mumbai suburban trains near Diva or Vidyavihar, are detained for 6-10 minutes. This affects the punctuality in Mumbai Suburban which is a critical requirement. There is no problem operating trains that go towards Nagpur or Pune. Gorakhpur train will not interfere with the punctuality of suburban system in any way." CR announces night block between Titwala and Asangaon on March 18-19 night Meanwhile, Central Railway has announced a special traffic and power block between Titwala and Asangaon near Mumbai during the intervening night of March 18 and 19 (Wednesday and Thursday). The block has been announced in order to facilitate the railway infrastructure work. As per an official statement from Central Railway, the block will be carried out on both UP and DOWN North-East lines from 2.10 am to 2.50 am on March 19. The work involves stringing a 400KV transmission line by the Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited. Various trains to be regulated on March 19 Several long-distance trains will be regulated because of the block, leading to minor delays. Train number 22104 Ayodhya-Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Express will be held at Vasind between 2.27 am and 2.50 am on March 19 and is expected to arrive 20 to 25 minutes late. Similarly, Train 18030 Shalimar-LTT Express will be halted at Asangaon from 2.37 am to 2.50 am, resulting in a delay of around 10 to 15 minutes. The 12810 Howrah–Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Express will be controlled at Atgaon during the same time window and is likely to be delayed by 10 to 15 minutes. Railway authorities said that any other mail, express or passenger trains running late on the day may also be regulated or short-terminated depending on operational requirements during these hours. “These blocks are essential for infrastructure upkeep and safety. Passengers are requested to bear with the railway administration for the inconvenience caused,” Central Railway stated.
19 March,2026 01:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Central Railway has announced a special traffic and power block between Titwala and Asangaon near Mumbai during the intervening night of March 18 and 19 (Wednesday and Thursday). The block has been announced in order to facilitate the railway infrastructure work. As per an official statement from Central Railway, the block will be carried out on both UP and DOWN North-East lines from 2.10 am to 2.50 am on March 19. The work involves stringing a 400KV transmission line by the Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited. Various trains to be regulated on March 19 Several long-distance trains will be regulated because of the block, leading to minor delays. Train number 22104 Ayodhya-Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Express will be held at Vasind between 2.27 am and 2.50 am on March 19 and is expected to arrive 20 to 25 minutes late. Similarly, Train 18030 Shalimar-LTT Express will be halted at Asangaon from 2.37 am to 2.50 am, resulting in a delay of around 10 to 15 minutes. The 12810 Howrah–Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Express will be controlled at Atgaon during the same time window and is likely to be delayed by 10 to 15 minutes. Railway authorities said that any other mail, express or passenger trains running late on the day may also be regulated or short-terminated depending on operational requirements during these hours. “These blocks are essential for infrastructure upkeep and safety. Passengers are requested to bear with the railway administration for the inconvenience caused,” Central Railway stated. Kalyan-bound AC local train runs past Bhandup station platform Earlier this week, a Kalyan-bound fast Mumbai AC local train overshot the platform at Bhandup railway station on Tuesday morning, causing concern among passengers. The train, identified as 95711 Mumbai Suburban Railway service from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Kalyan, went ahead by a few coaches beyond the designated stopping point. According to a passenger, the 9.29 am local entered Bhandup Station at a relatively high speed. The driver applied the brakes sharply on approaching the platform, but the train had already moved too far ahead. The train is scheduled to halt at Bhandup as part of its regular timetable.
19 March,2026 12:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThousands of Mumbaikars are waiting longer than ever for justice as staff shortages cripple consumer courts, despite presidents being in place between 2021 and 2025, according to the latest Consumer Justice Report, released on Wednesday (March 18). Not a single year saw full member strength across the four Mumbai District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions (DCDRCs). By 2025, three operated with just one member, while Mumbai Suburban Additional had both seats vacant for three straight years (2023-2025). Maharashtra ranked 11th among 19 states, while Andhra Pradesh topped and Telangana ranked last, highlighting widening gaps in consumer justice delivery. ‘STRONG SYSTEM NEEDED’ Valay Singh, project lead, India Justice Report. ‘Mumbai, India’s financial capital, which has some of the highest household consumption levels, deserves a stronger consumer redressal system. Yet, its four district commissions cleared only 36 per cent of 4388 cases (2022-2025). No year saw all posts filled, and staff shortages persist. With cases pending beyond three years despite a six-month mandate, the system is failing to keep pace with the city’s growing consumer demand’ RTI revelations The Mumbai Suburban DCDRC has gaps in representation, case clearance, and fund utilisation, according to RTI data. Representation: Between 2021 and 2025, the commission never appointed a woman member, reporting a woman representative only in 2023 when the president was female. Caseload: From 2022-2025, the four Mumbai DCDRCs cleared just 36 per cent of 4388 cases; Mumbai Suburban performed worst at 19.5 per cent, clearing only five per cent of 575 cases in 2024. Central Mumbai and Mumbai Suburban together handled over 60 per cent of filings. Budget: Mumbai Suburban received R13.3 crore (47 per cent of total R28.6 crore) but utilised only 41 per cent, dropping to 26 per cent in 2024-25. Other commissions fully utilised funds in 2023-24. Impact: Experts warn that vacancies, low case clearance, and poor fund utilisation undermine consumer confidence in Mumbai’s grievance redressal system. Empty desks, growing pressure The shortage extends beyond decision-makers. Courtrooms are being supported by incomplete teams, stretching already limited resources. - On average, one in three staff positions remained unfilled - No commission achieved full staffing in five years - In South Mumbai, vacancies actually increased over time - Two suburban commissions operated without any data management staff at all In a digital age where case tracking and efficiency depend on data systems, this absence raises serious concerns. Why this matters? - Mumbai is not just India’s financial capital but also one of its busiest consumer markets - Disputes from real estate to online shopping are growing in volume and complexity - With rising consumer spending across Maharashtra, especially beyond metros, the burden on courts is set to increase Woman power - Mumbai’s consumer courts largely complied with gender representation norms. - In 2023, all four commissions had women presidents. - Women held most member positions, marking a rare snapshot of inclusivity. - Consistency not sustained across all years, highlighting ongoing gaps. A national problem Across 51 consumer commissions in India: - Over 60,000 cases were filed between 2022 and 2024 - While 82 per cent were disposed of, many lingered for years - Some cities have never even appointed a president - Only one commission in the country reported zero vacancies Expert view Legal experts warn that vacancies are not just administrative lapses; they directly impact justice delivery. Fewer members mean slower hearings, longer waits, and growing frustration among citizens. “For a city that never stops, even a small delay can feel like a lifetime. Until vacant chairs are filled and systems strengthened, Mumbai’s promise of quick consumer justice risks remaining just that, a promise,” said Valay Singh. Mumbai District Commissions’ Staff (2021-2025) Staff actual DISTRICT COMMISSIONS 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Central Mumbai 8 (4) 11 (6) 10(5) 11 (8) 11 (7) Mumbai Suburban 8 7 8 9 7 Mumbai Suburban Additional 6 6 7 6 6 South Mumbai 9 (5) 7 (4) 11(5) 10 (5) 6 (4) Staff vacancy DISTRICT COMMISSIONS 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Central Mumbai 33.3 8.3 16.7 8.3 8.3 Mumbai Suburban 27.3 36.4 27.3 18.2 35.4 Mumbai Suburban Additional 40.0 40.0 30.0 40.0 40.0 South Mumbai 25 41.7 8.3 16.7 50.0 Note: Women staff, as reported, in brackets. Source: RTI responses received between April to June, 2025
19 March,2026 12:26 PM IST | Mumbai | Vinod Kumar MenonThe India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for several districts in Maharashtra, warning of thunderstorms and rain even as large parts of the state continue to reel under above-normal temperatures. Districts under the orange alert include Jalgaon, Nashik, Ahilyanagar, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Jalna, Parbhani, and Beed, where thundershowers and gusty conditions are likely. Mumbai weather remains stable with light rain possibility In Mumbai and its suburbs, the IMD has forecast a mainly clear sky, with the possibility of light rain during the early morning hours. Daytime temperatures are expected to hover around 32 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may settle near 23 degrees Celsius. According to the SAMEER App, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 72 on Thursday, indicating satisfactory air quality. AQI across Mumbai Bandra Kurla Complex – 82Borivali East – 91Byculla – 77Andheri East – 81Chembur – 75Colaba – 61Deonar – 103Ghatkopar – 100 Heat continues despite rain alert Despite the rainfall warning, heat and humidity continue to grip Maharashtra, offering little respite to residents. The IMD’s latest bulletin shows that interior regions are experiencing a steady rise in temperatures. Marathwada and North Maharashtra heat up Jalgaon (37.7 degrees Celsius), Osmanabad (36.8 degrees Celsius), Parbhani (36.2 degrees Celsius), Beed (36 degrees Celsius), and Malegaon (36 degrees Celsius) recorded some of the highest maximum temperatures, highlighting intensifying heat across Marathwada and North Maharashtra. Night temperatures in these areas ranged between 18 degrees Celsius and 22 degrees Celsius, providing limited relief. Central Maharashtra sees dry, warm conditions Ahilyanagar (35.2 degrees Celsius), Aurangabad (34.5 degrees Celsius), and Nashik (34.5 degrees Celsius) also recorded above-normal temperatures, indicating dry and warm weather across the central belt. Mixed conditions in western Maharashtra Kolhapur (34.7 degrees Celsius) and Satara (35.2 degrees Celsius) experienced warm days, though cooler nights, particularly in Mahabaleshwar (16.6 degrees Celsius), offered some respite. Coastal belt remains humid but moderate Coastal regions including Mumbai, Alibag, Ratnagiri, and Dahanu recorded relatively moderate temperatures between 31 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius. However, high humidity levels, reaching up to 88 per cent in Dahanu and over 80 per cent in Mumbai, kept conditions warm and uncomfortable. Outlook The IMD has indicated that while interior Maharashtra will continue to witness rising temperatures, the Konkan coast is likely to remain relatively stable but humid. Residents are advised to take precautions against heat exposure, especially during peak afternoon hours.
19 March,2026 11:15 AM IST | MumbaiADVERTISEMENT
-1773932078568_d.png?tr=w-436,h-271 "Around 794 Naxalites have surrendered in Gadchiroli. File Pic")
