A massive fire broke out at the JWR Logistics Park in Uran on Saturday afternoon, sending thick black smoke into the sky and causing panic among people in the area. The site is located close to Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Navi Mumbai in Maharashtra, officials said. The blaze reportedly began at around 3 pm and was followed by several loud explosions. Officials said the fire erupted in a section of the facility where hazardous chemicals were stored, making the situation more dangerous and difficult to control. Fire engines from multiple agencies, including City and Industrial Development Corporation, Panvel Municipal Corporation and JNPA, rushed to the spot soon after the alarm was raised. At least nine fire tenders have been deployed, and teams have been working for over three hours to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby warehouses. No casualties reported The officials said that so far no injuries have been reported so far. However, significant damage to property is expected. The area has been cordoned off as a safety precaution to keep workers and local residents away from the site. Officials say Chief Fire Officer Vijay Rane of CIDCO said the fire call was received at around 2:45 pm. He noted that while the fire is partly under control, the presence of hazardous materials is making access difficult for firefighters. He added that the exact cause of the fire will be determined after a detailed investigation once cooling operations are completed. Situation being monitored Firefighting and cooling operations are still ongoing, with authorities closely monitoring the situation to ensure it does not escalate further.
18 April,2026 08:04 PM IST | Mumbai | Abhitash SinghMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said that the state would fast-track the process of land acquisition for data centre investments. According to an official statement, Fadnavis directed officials to provide land quickly to companies planning to invest in data centres across the state. The move comes as several global firms, particularly from the Middle East, have shown strong interest in setting up data centre projects in Maharashtra. At a review meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai, the Chief Minister said all essential processes, especially land allocation, must be completed within fixed timelines after agreements are signed, it said. He stressed that delays could affect investment opportunities and asked authorities to act swiftly. Priority power supply for companies The statement said that CM Fadnavis also instructed the energy department to ensure uninterrupted and priority electricity supply for data centre companies. He directed officials to make land available for substations and ensure adequate infrastructure to support the sector’s growth. The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) has been asked to develop a dedicated land bank for data centre projects. Officials said this would help in faster allocation of land and smooth implementation of projects. The officials stated that the Chief Minister that infrastructure for data centres is being strengthened. The energy department also assured sufficient power supply for upcoming projects. The initiative is expected to boost Maharashtra’s position as a key hub for data centres, attracting global investment and supporting the growth of the digital economy. Maharashtra Plans ‘Educity’ and ‘Medicity’ An another statement stated that CM Fadnavis said that Maharashtra plans for new ‘Educity’ and ‘Medicity’ projects that will offer students access to world-class higher education opportunities within the state. He noted that several leading international universities have shown interest in setting up campuses in Maharashtra. He emphasised the need for swift action by all departments to support the establishment of global university campuses. Projects near Navi Mumbai Airport Officials said the Educity and Medicity projects will come up near the Navi Mumbai International Airport. The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) has begun the process of land acquisition, and a detailed project plan has already been prepared. The statement said that the presence of reputed international universities will not only improve access to quality education but also promote research and innovation. Officials added that the initiative is expected to encourage the growth of startups and create a strong knowledge-based ecosystem in Maharashtra. The projects aim to position Maharashtra as a major hub for global education, allowing students to access high-quality learning without having to go abroad.
18 April,2026 07:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs part of the Mumbai Fire Service Week 2026, the Mumbai Fire Brigade officials showcased their skills with breathtaking drills in city as the BMC announced its plans for modern upgrades of emergency services. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said it will focus on improving both the capacity and quality of infrastructure of the Mumbai Fire Brigade. Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde made the announcement while addressing the annual fire drill competition and prize distribution ceremony. Annual fire drill competition held in Byculla The final round of the Annual Fire Drill Competition 2026 was held at the Fire Brigade headquarters in Byculla area in central Mumbai. Senior officials, including Maharashtra Fire Services Director Santosh Warik and Chief Fire Officer Ravindra Ambulgekar, were present at the event. Tribute to 1944 fire tragedy heroes At the start of the programme, the Mayor paid tribute to the 66 fire personnel who lost their lives during the Bombay Dock Explosion. Floral tributes were offered at the memorial, followed by a ceremonial salute by fire brigade personnel. The Mayor said the Mumbai Fire Brigade is among the best in the world and continues to adapt to modern challenges such as high-rise buildings, narrow roads, and fire hazards. She highlighted the use of advanced technology and increased focus on fire prevention and public awareness. The Mayor urged citizens to take responsibility for fire safety by conducting fire audits, checking gas leaks, and following safety rules. She stressed that preventing fires is as important as responding to them. Development Plan Under the Development Plan 2034, the BMC plans to set up new fire stations and further strengthen infrastructure and equipment. Awareness initiatives such as fire rallies are also being organised to educate the public. Winners of the competition In the competition, the Fort Fire Station team was declared the overall best performer. Fireman Nitin Tukaram Jadhav was awarded as the best fireman. Teams from Mulund, BKC, Memonwada, Kurla, and other stations secured top positions in various categories, including pump drills and ladder operations. Officials said the annual competition, held since 1948, tests the physical fitness, teamwork, and readiness of fire personnel. The drills include ladder climbing, hose handling, rescue operations, and coordination exercises, helping teams stay prepared for emergencies.
18 April,2026 06:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Central Railway marked World Heritage Day 2026 with a series of events at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai, showcasing the rich legacy of Indian Railways. Senior officials, including Additional General Manager Prateek Goswami, led a heritage walk at CSMT. The event saw participation from railway staff, civil defence members, Scouts and Guides, and members of the public. The walk highlighted the architectural beauty and historical importance of the iconic station. An exhibition was organised at the Heritage Alley between Platforms 14 and 15. It featured displays on railway architecture, bridges, and heritage lines such as the Neral-Matheran Railway. Visitors also saw models of old locomotives and coaches, photographs of heritage sites in Maharashtra, and a statue of Mahatma Gandhi made from railway scrap. The walk highlights architectural beauty of the iconic station. Pic/Central Railway Neral-Matheran light railway The Neral-Matheran Light Railway, a 119-year-old heritage line, commenced operations in 1907. This scenic narrow-gauge railway remains a delightful experience for adults, children and senior citizens alike. It offers passengers a unique journey through lush forests and hilly terrain, preserving the charm of vintage rail travel. Various events were also organised at all Divisions and Workshops on Central Railway as part of World Heritage Day. Visit to museum and historic areas Participants visited the Heritage Museum and the Star Chamber within the CSMT premises as part of the programme, gaining insight into the history and evolution of Indian Railways. Officials administered a pledge encouraging staff and visitors to protect railway heritage, promote awareness, and support conservation efforts. Visitors witnessed the Heritage Museum at CSMT. Pic/Central Railway Illuminated landmark The historic CSMT building was illuminated on the eve of World Heritage Day, adding to the celebrations. CSMT, designed by British architect Frederic William Stevens, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Indo-Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1878 and was completed in 1888. Other heritage highlights include Byculla Railway Station, one of India’s oldest railway stations, and the Neral-Matheran Light Railway, a scenic narrow-gauge line over a century old. Events across divisions The heritage walk at CSMT. Pic/Central Railway Similar programmes were organised across various divisions and workshops of Central Railway to mark the occasion. Officials said Central Railway remains committed to preserving its historic assets while continuing to modernise services for the future.
18 April,2026 04:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCentral Railway on Saturday, April 18, announced 34 additional summer special train services connecting Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) with Sultanpur and Varanasi. As per the official statement, the special trains between LTT and Varanasi aim to provide enhanced travel convenience during the summer season. Mumbai–Sultanpur Weekly Specials Officials further highlighted that a total of 18 train services will run between Mumbai and Sultanpur. Train number 04211 will depart from Lokmanya Tilak Terminus every Thursday at 2:35 pm from May 21 to July 16, 2026. The train will reach Sultanpur at 11:00 pm the following day. While returning, train number 04212 will leave Sultanpur every Wednesday at 4:00 am from May 20 to July 15, arriving in Mumbai (LTT) at 12:20 pm the next day. Mumbai–Varanasi weekly specials As per the official statement, Central Railway will also operate 16 train services between Mumbai and Varanasi. Train number 04225 will depart Lokmanya Tilak Terminus every Friday at 2:35 pm from May 22 to July 10, reaching Varanasi at 2:05 am on the third day. Whereas train number 04226 will depart from Varanasi every Thursday at 1:35 am from May 21 to July 9 and arrive in Mumbai at 12:20 pm the following day. Key Halts The above-mentioned trains will have halts at major stations, including Thane, Kalyan, Nashik Road, Bhusaval, Khandwa, Itarsi, Rani Kamalapati, Bina, Jhansi, Kanpur Central and Lucknow, among others. The Varanasi-bound trains will additionally halt at Sultanpur and Jaunpur City, as per the official statement. Coach composition Each train will consist of 14 AC 3-tier economy coaches, four general second-class coaches, and two generator vans. When will the bookings start? The Central Railway has announced that booking for these trains (04211) and (04225) is now open. Passengers can book tickets through the UTS app for unreserved coaches or via the RailOne app for reserved tickets. Detailed schedules are available on the official railway enquiry portal and the NTES app. Central Railway said the additional services are part of its seasonal efforts to accommodate increased travel demand and ensure smoother journeys for passengers during peak summer travel.
18 April,2026 02:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai city and its suburbs are likely to experience partly cloudy skies over the weekend (Saturday), with maximum and minimum temperatures expected to be around 34°C and 24°C, respectively. According to the Centre’s SAMEER app, Mumbai recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 72 at 12 pm, placing it in the ‘satisfactory’ category. At this level, minor breathing discomfort may be experienced by sensitive individuals. Deonar recorded an AQI of 135, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category. Meanwhile, other areas such as Bandra-Kurla Complex (56), Byculla (61), Chakala (97), Colaba (71), Bandra East (77), and Mazgaon (88) remained within the satisfactory range. Sion recorded an AQI of 46, placing it in the ‘good’ category. Similarly, Vile Parle (50), Sewri (50), Powai (48), and Malad West (50) also recorded ‘good’ air quality levels. No rainfall is expected in the immediate forecast, and wind patterns are likely to remain light, keeping weather conditions stable without major fluctuations, while air quality is expected to stay within the satisfactory to moderate range. Delhi sees sharp drop in minimum temperature The national capital saw a sharp drop in the minimum temperature on Saturday, even as the city woke up to a sunny morning. This comes a day after the city saw moderate rainfall in several parts. The Safdarjung observatory, which provides representative data for the city, recorded a minimum temperature of 19.8 degrees Celsius, 1.8 degrees below the normal and 4.2 degrees lower than the day before. According to the data by the India Meteorological Department, while several parts of the city recorded rainfall till late hours of Friday, no rain was recorded in the early hours of Saturday. The maximum temperature, according to the IMD is likely to be around 39-41 degrees Celsius. The air quality index (AQI) of the city improved drastically to the moderate category and was logged at 177 (moderate) at 9 am on Saturday, compared to the 24-hour average AQI of 263 (poor) recorded at 4 pm on Friday, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. The Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) for Delhi has, however, forecast the AQI to deteriorate to the poor category again by Saturday and remain so in the next few days. (Inputs from PTI)
18 April,2026 01:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA court in Maharashtra's Thane district sentenced a 42-year-old man accused of stabbing his neighbour to death over a dispute in 2016 to imprisonment for life. The court also acquitted his parents, citing a lack of evidence to establish their role in the crime. As reported by news agency PTI, additional sessions judge D S Deshmukh on Friday found Mohammed Asgar alias Samar Dilshad Husen Sayyed, guilty of the charges under section 302 (murder) and 504 (intentional insult) of the Indian Penal Code. The court had earlier sentenced him to imprisonment for life and imposed a fine of Rs 50,000. Moreover, the court also acquitted Asgar's father, Dilshad Husen Shahanshah Sayyed, and mother, Efsari Dilshad Husen Sayyed. Additional public prosecutor V G Kadu stated that the incident in the Kausa area of Mumbra on May 21, 2016, occurred when the victim, Ahmad Raja Shaikh, confronted Asgar for allegedly harassing and "peeping" into his house to look at his sister. A scuffle ensued, and the accused rushed into his house to retrieve a knife and stabbed Ahmad multiple times in front of several witnesses. The victim succumbed to his injuries three days later at Sion Hospital. Judge Deshmukh noted that prosecution witnesses had made "improvements" in their statements by saying that the accused's parents caught hold of the victim's hands and allowed their son to commit murder. This created doubt about their involvement in the murder, he held, while acquitting the parents. Thane EOW books company and its directors for duping investors The Economic Offence Wing (EOW) of Thane Police in Maharashtra has registered a case against a company and its directors for allegedly duping investors and has launched a high-level probe into the matter, officials said, reported the PTI. According to the police, the alleged fraud exceeds Rs 4.31 crore. The company and its directors reportedly deceived investors through multiple financial schemes. The suspected scam is believed to have taken place over several years, the news agency reported. Investment scam The officials said that the accused lured investors between 2017 and 2022 by promoting schemes that promised unusually high returns. After collecting substantial sums for investors, they allegedly failed to repay both the assured profits and the original invested amounts upon maturity, as per the PTI. One complainant has reported a personal loss of Rs 24.82 lakh. The officials estimate that the total fraud amount, involving multiple investors, stands at approximately Rs 4.31 crore.
18 April,2026 12:47 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentTwo men allegedly snatched a 28-gram gold chain worth Rs 2 lakhs from a 74-year-old woman at Pushp Vihar Junction in Ghatkopar in the early hours of April 15. The victim, 74-year-old Kishori Mehta, was targeted by two accused—identified as Irfan and Mohammad Ali Shaukat Ali Mirza—who allegedly snatched her gold chain and attempted to flee on a motorcycle. A Mumbai police constable chased and caught a chain snatcher after two men robbed a 74-year-old woman at Pushp Vihar Junction during an early morning incident.The stolen gold chain was recovered, and one accused was arrested. Police praised the constable’s quick action, while… pic.twitter.com/H9u51yaJRF — Mid Day (@mid_day) April 18, 2026 Police constable Ravindra Kurhe from Pant Nagar Police Station, who was on patrol duty in the area, spotted the incident and immediately gave chase. In what appeared like a scene straight out of a film, Kurhe pursued the suspects and managed to nab Mirza with swift action and presence of mind. The entire incident was captured on CCTV cameras in the area. The stolen gold chain has been recovered from the accused. Further investigation is underway.
18 April,2026 12:07 PM IST | Mumbai | Aishwarya IyerIn a tragic road accident during the early hours of Saturday, April 18, two bank employees were killed after a severe collision between a container truck and a motorcycle. As per the information, the incident took place near the Nashik-Mumbai highway, ahead of the Khadi Bridge in Kalwa. According to preliminary information, the accident occurred when a speeding container rammed into a motorcycle carrying two individuals, including a woman. Both victims sustained critical injuries in the impact. As soon as the incident was reported, emergency services rushed to the spot, and the injured were immediately taken to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hospital in Kalwa for treatment. However, despite efforts by medical personnel, both individuals succumbed to their injuries. As per sources, the victims were a newly married couple who had gone to visit the husband’s mother, currently admitted to a hospital in Dombivli. As per the information received, the couple resided in Bhandup. The husband was employed at HDFC Bank’s Andheri branch, while the wife worked at Axis Bank’s Kalina branch. Local authorities confirmed that the Kalwa police were promptly informed about the incident. Beat Marshal HC Gaikwad reached the scene and took the container driver, identified as Shivbahadur, into custody for further investigation. While the exact cause of the accident is yet to be determined, police have launched a probe to ascertain whether negligence or overspeeding led to the fatal crash. Man injured after speeding biker crashes into his scooter in Bhandup In a different scenario, a man was seriously injured after a speeding biker crashes into his scooter in Mumbai's Bhandup on Friday, officials said, adding that the cops have launched a manhunt to nab the suspect. According to the police, a speeding motorcycle hit a scooter rider in Bhandup West and later allegedly fled the scene. The incident took place on Friday morning. The incident took place around 10 am near National School Road and Tank Road. The victim, 25-year-old Laxus Pathare, was riding his scooter when a high-speed motorcycle reportedly turning at speed collided with him. Rider flees after crash According to the victim, the motorcycle rider also fell during the collision but got up and fled the spot instead of helping. Pathare said the entire incident happened within seconds and that the bike appeared suddenly before the crash. The motorcycle is believed to be a black and white KTM Duke, but the rider has not yet been identified.
18 April,2026 10:42 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFlight operations at Pune Airport were temporarily suspended late Friday night following an incident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft. According to officials, the incident occurred at around 10:25 pm when a fighter aircraft experienced an undercarriage failure during landing, resulting in the blockage of the runway. The aircrew onboard were reported safe, and no damage to civil property was recorded. In an official statement, the Indian Air Force confirmed that the runway had become temporarily unavailable due to the incident, adding that efforts were immediately initiated to restore normal operations. Air Traffic Control (ATC) sources indicated that it took approximately four to five hours to clear the runway and ensure safety compliance. Reacting to the incident, Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol said the runway operations were temporarily halted due to the IAF aircraft incident, but all crew members are safe and no civil damage has occurred. He added that all airlines have been informed and around five hours were required to restore operations. Mohol further stated that he is in constant coordination with airport authorities and IAF officials to ensure the situation is normalised at the earliest. Airport authorities confirmed at 7:40 am on Saturday that the runway had been cleared with safety checks completed on priority. Departures resumed from 7:30 am, followed by arrivals from 8:00 am, with operations gradually normalising through the day. The runway at Pune Airport, which was temporarily unavailable due to an incident involving an Indian Air Force aircraft, has now been restored and declared operational.All necessary safety inspections and clearances have been completed. Operations are resuming in a phased… — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) April 18, 2026 According to the Indian Air Force, the runway at Pune Airport, which was temporarily unavailable due to an incident involving an IAF aircraft, has now been restored and declared operational. All required safety inspections and clearances have been completed, and flight operations are being resumed in a phased manner.
18 April,2026 10:21 AM IST | Pune | Archana DahiwalClean sweep As the city reeled under a heatwave, it was work as usual for sanitation workers cleaning the walkway outside Juhu beach. Tagore musings in Mumbai A scene from Noukadubi. PIC COURTESY/RABINDRAKATHA TAGORE FILM FESTIVAL The Rabindrakatha Tagore Film Festival, celebrating the legacy of the Nobel laureate, opened on Friday with a curated line-up of films, discussions and sessions exploring cinematic adaptations of his works. In an interesting development, this diarist has learnt that the event has witnessed growing interest from non-Bengali audiences. The three-day festival showcases classic and contemporary interpretations, reflecting the continued relevance of Tagore’s storytelling. The opening screening featured Noukadubi by Rituparno Ghosh, while the programme also includes a documentary on Tagore by Satyajit Ray. Beyond screenings, interested folk can attend a panel discussion on how Tagore’s works have been adapted over time, featuring Joy Sengupta, Bhawana Somaaya, and Meenakshi Shedde among others. Joy Sengupta; Bhawana Somaaya “Early registrations indicate participation from across communities, suggesting the festival’s appeal is expanding beyond its traditional base,” said honorary creative head Anusree Bonnerjee. With free entry, the festival aims to bring Tagore’s timeless stories to a more diverse audience. Check @shahana.tagore_centre for the itinerary. Solar energy is the way The new solar bench in Bandra. PIC COURTESY/MAYANK POONEKAR Going the eco-friendly way is cool, and we are happy to report the installation of new solar-powered benches at Bandra Fort Garden and Joggers Park. Equipped with free Wi-Fi and charging ports, the benches highlight the practical use of renewable energy in public spaces. Mayank Poonekar, who heads the Darshanik Works team that designed and built the benches, assured us that an acrylic panel over the solar panels means visitors can rest assured on the benches. “By promoting clean energy and reducing electricity consumption, we envision a greener city. We hope to set up more benches across Mumbai soon,” Poonekar assured us. We’ll continue to track how these small, significant steps help create a sustainable Mumbai. Waiting for Javed saab’s nod Yadnesh Raikar and Javed Akhtar. PIC COURTESY/YADNESH RAIKAR AAP jaise bade kalakaron ko milkar acha lagta hai,” you’d expect these words being said to iconic screenwriter, lyricist, poet Javed Akhtar, not coming from him. The kalakaar in question was 26-year-old violinist Yadnesh Raikar, who sat down with the veteran lyricist earlier this week. “I wasn’t expecting that to be the first thing he’d say to me on our first meeting. We were working on a spoken word piece for a private performance, featuring Javed saab’s words, and my violin score. He made me comfortable that I nearly imagined I was jamming with a friend,” revealed Raikar. So, what does brainstorming with an icon fee like? “Nervous, to be honest,” Raikar admitted. Seated across Akhtar at his residence, the violinist put together melodies on the go as the lyricist read his lines in Urdu. “After some experimentation, he looked up and nodded his head in approval. We had our melody. I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to collaborate with him,” the violinist recalled. Flutter-by classrooms Common Tiger. FILE PIC; (right) Red Pierrot butterfly. PICS COURTESY/DR V SHUBALAXMI; The campus butterfly garden at Don Bosco School in Nerul Butterflies will soon flutter by schools across Mumbai, thanks to Dr V Shubhalaxmi. The entomologist is working on a new guide book titled Beyond Butterflies that will take learning out of the classroom, and into butterfly gardens. “Growing up, I remember learning about wildlife through examples that felt imaginary. Children learn by seeing and experiencing. The new book will feature activities that can be undertaken at school gardens,” she told us. Dr V Shubhalaxmi To that end, her foundation iNatureWatch has already built campus butterfly gardens in nearly 10 schools in Navi Mumbai over the last seven months. “We hope to build more butterfly havens across the city soon,” she confirmed. Those keen to get their hands on the book can keep an eye on @inaturewatch next month.
18 April,2026 09:29 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayADVERTISEMENT
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