Do you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for April 7. Aries March 21 – April 20Use this time to experiment with hobbies, different art forms or increasing knowledge just for the love of it.Cosmic tip: Keep all good news to yourself to divert envious feelings and vibes. TaurusApril 21 – May 20A community place or a gathering is where you could meet lots of new people to increase the friends circle. Cosmic tip: Consider new angles since there’s a change in flow of life. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Giving an opinion only if asked for it is a good habit to cultivate. Make an investment today.Cosmic tip: Don’t believe all you hear from someone as half of it is sheer gossip. Cancer June 22 – July 23Some good news received works like an instant energiser, compelling action. Be aware about where you keep money, keys.Cosmic tip: Take time to work through options as crossroads in life appear. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Income increases gradually. Family principles help save an awkward situation. A karmic cycle of goals being reached begins.Cosmic tip: Be clear about what information is being looked for. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Working with compatible people helps achieve more than you set out to do. There could be an addition to the family.Cosmic tip: Go with the first thought as intuition is strong today. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22There’s completion with a solution being found to an unresolved issue you’ve been trying to figure out.Cosmic tip: Enjoy this sense of freedom and knowledge that life moves along smoothly. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Everyone’s life has different experiences and lessons, so don’t be judgemental. A positive evolution of events helps you become well known.Cosmic tip: Beware of someone who sounds deviously sincere. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22A love relationship is just the kind that you had been wishing for. Nurture it. Make quick decisions during consultations. Cosmic tip: Stop yourself from making the same mistake over and over again. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Tapping into inner reserves of strength helps find answers that were hidden in plain sight.Cosmic tip: Be as logical as possible when faced with having to give an instant reply. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Treading carefully through the day helps navigate a tricky path where even the smallest word or look could be misinterpreted.Cosmic tip: Enjoy this state of just being. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Walk away if someone tries to convince a situation is fine, when it is clearly not. An unusual opportunity appears.Cosmic tip: Flow with the karmic cycle as this is more important than luck.
07 April,2026 03:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseIn a significant shift in passenger operations, the two Mumbai Metro lines in the western suburbs will split from Wednesday and run as independent lines with an interchange point at Dahisar Metro station. While the Red Line 7 will continue from Gundavli all the way till Mira Road, the Yellow Line 2A will go from DN Nagar/Andheri to Dahisar station. They will no longer integrate the Western Express Highway with the link road. Dahisar station has been upgraded as an interchange station with seamless connectivity. The new timetable on the corridors will get into effect from April 8. “Commuters can continue to benefit from easy interchange at Dahisar metro station between Line 2A and Line 7, without exiting the paid area, ensuring smooth transfers even after operational separation,” an official said. Metro Line 9 launch This follows the launch of Metro Line 9 (Dahisar East to Kashigaon) — the first metro corridor in Thane district — and Metro Line 2B [Mandale to Diamond Garden, Phase 1], which brings metro connectivity to key Harbour Line areas. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is set to launch the new corridors on Tuesday morning. “The revised schedules have been designed to make metro travel simpler, faster, and more predictable for commuters, with improved frequency, streamlined operations, and better network integration,” an official said. Incomplete staircase works at the Kashigaon Metro Station. PIC/SATEJ SHINDE Key changes Metro Line 9 and Line 2B begin operations from April 8. Line 7 extended up to Kashigaon through Line 9 integration. Line 2A and Line 7 now operate as separate corridors. Corridor-wise operations Metro Line 2A: Metro Line 2A will now function as a standalone corridor, focusing on efficient operations between Andheri West and Dahisar East. First Train: 5.50 AM Last Train: 10.35 PM-11:00 PM Frequency: Every 6 minutes (peak hours) Every 8-10 minutes (non-peak) Total Trips: 289 (weekdays), 231 (Saturdays), 213 (Sundays) Metro Line 7 & Line 9 With the launch of Line 9 (Phase 1), Metro Line 7 — Gundavli to Kashigaon — it now operates as an extended integrated corridor, significantly improving suburban connectivity. Route Length: 19.79 km First Train: 5.50 AM Last Train: 11.00 PM Frequency: Every 5 minutes 50 seconds (peak hours) Every 8-10 minutes (non-peak) Total Trips: 276 (weekdays), 223 (Saturdays), 205 (Sundays) Metro Line 2B (Phase 1) Metro Line 2B (Phase 1) introduces a new corridor serving Harbour Line areas — Maharashtra Nagar-Mandale to NG Acharya Udyan, Diamond Garden — enhancing east-west connectivity. Corridor Length: 5.38 km First Train: 6.00 AM Last Train: 10.15 PM-10.30 PM Frequency: Every 9 minutes 30 seconds Total trips: 209 Revised operations aim to deliver: Reduced waiting time with frequent services (6-10 minutes) Better connectivity across western suburbs and extended regions Improved reliability through corridor-wise optimisation Simplified travel planning with predictable schedules Passengers are advised to review updated timings before travel while benefiting from a more efficient, integrated, and commuter-friendly metro system. Official speak Dr Sanjay Mukherjee, metropolitan commissioner, MMRDA, and chairman, Maha Mumbai Metro. File Pic Dr Sanjay Mukherjee, metropolitan commissioner, MMRDA, and chairman, Maha Mumbai Metro, said, “The operational restructuring of Metro Line 2A and Line 7, along with the launch of Metro Line 9 and Line 2B [Phase 1], marks a significant milestone in Mumbai’s metro expansion." "These changes have been carefully planned to ensure seamless passenger movement, reduce operational overlaps, and enhance overall network efficiency. The integration of Line 7 with Line 9 enables direct connectivity across key suburban corridors, while Line 2B brings metro access to important Harbour Line areas. Step by step, we are moving closer to our vision of a fully integrated 337 km metro network and a ‘Mumbai in Minutes’ reality,” he added.
06 April,2026 10:32 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarDays after fire at Sion Hospital's X-ray unit, the officials have concluded that poor maintenance of an air-conditioning (AC) unit was the preliminary cause of a recent explosion in the department of the OPD building in Mumbai. Officials said that the AC unit had been running continuously in a small room with limited ventilation, which may have caused overheating and led to the incident. They pointed out that while most hospital equipment is covered under Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC), maintenance alone may not be enough. An official from the Mumbai Fire Brigade said that electrical systems also have a load-bearing capacity, which must be monitored regularly. He added that large hospitals should assess whether their wiring and switches can handle increased load, especially as demand rises over time. Need to review safety protocols Speaking on the issue, Dr Shailesh Mohite said fire audits in civic hospitals are currently conducted once every five years. He suggested that authorities may need to reconsider the frequency of such audits, although he noted that some accidents may still occur despite regular checks. Spotlight on safety at civic hospitals The incident has raised concerns about safety standards in major civic hospitals run by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). On the occasion of World Health Day, a review of key hospitals highlighted their latest fire audit status and available safety equipment. Fire Audit Status of Major Hospitals - Sion Hospital: Last audit in August 2023; 530 fire extinguishers - Nair Hospital: Last audit in January 2026; 666 fire extinguishers - KEM Hospital: Last audit in August 2025; 1,600 fire extinguishers - Cooper Hospital: Last audit during 2023–2024; 81 fire extinguishers
06 April,2026 10:07 PM IST | Mumbai | Ritika GondhalekarMaharashtra government has clarified that there is no shortage of petroleum products in the state, even as tensions in West Asia raised concerns about supply disruptions. The state officials urged citizens to avoid panic buying, assuring that petrol and diesel stocks are adequate and the situation has stabilised. Additional Chief Secretary Anil Diggikar said that while there were some initial challenges in LPG supply due to dependence on imports from Gulf countries, conditions are now improving. “Petrol and diesel stocks are adequate in the state. The situation has stabilised. LPG supply to the commercial sector has also been partially restored,” he said, reported PTI. Phased restoration of LPG supply Authorities explained that LPG supply to commercial users was temporarily halted following central directives but has now been restored in phases. In the first phase, 20 per cent supply was allowed for essential services such as hospitals, schools and government establishments. The second phase extended another 20 per cent allocation to restaurants, dhabas and community kitchens. In the third phase, priority was given to labour- intensive industries like steel, textiles, dairy and pharmaceuticals. Officials added that Maharashtra is currently 45–50 per cent self-sufficient in LPG, helping maintain stability. Adequate stock and strong supply network The state currently holds around 27,000 metric tonnes of LPG, enough for nearly three days. In Mumbai and nearby areas, 25–50 per cent of fuel supply comes from domestic production, providing an added buffer. The supply network also remains robust, with 24 depots and over 8,000 petrol pumps across the state. Daily consumption continues at around 18,500 kilolitres of petrol and 40,000 kilolitres of diesel, with no drop in demand, reported the news agency. Additionally, around 5.8 lakh LPG cylinders are supplied daily from 23 plants, matching pre-crisis levels. Action against hoarding and black marketing To prevent misuse, the government has taken strict action against hoarding and black marketing. Between March 1 and April 5, authorities conducted over 12,000 inspections, seizing thousands of cylinders and registering multiple FIRs. Officials said goods worth more than Rs 2.4 crore have been confiscated, and monitoring committees are actively tracking fuel supply and distribution across the state. Push for PNG and future planning The government is also promoting Piped Natural Gas (PNG) as a more stable and cost-effective alternative. Efforts are being made to expand PNG networks in cities like Mumbai, Thane and Pune, with faster approvals and infrastructure support. Consumers in areas with PNG access have been asked to register by June 30, failing which LPG supply may be restricted in those regions. However, officials clarified that LPG supply will continue uninterrupted in areas where PNG is not feasible, such as slums and difficult terrains, as per PTI. PNG is estimated to be 20–22 per cent cheaper than LPG and is seen as a safer and more sustainable option. Public advised not to panic Officials reiterated that there is no shortage of domestic LPG, even in areas where concerns were raised. Citizens have been advised not to visit distribution centres unnecessarily, as an OTP-based home delivery system is already in place. With stable stock levels, phased supply restoration and strict monitoring, the government emphasised that the situation is under control and there is no need for panic. (With PTI Inputs)
06 April,2026 09:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSir JJ School of Art, Architecture and Design witnessed a large participation of specially-abled artists on the opening day of a three-day art workshop in Mumbai. A three-day art workshop titled “Celebrating Diversity for Specially-Abled Artists” began at the school on April 6, 2026. The workshop will continue until April 8 and aims to bring together talented Divyang artists from across the city and nearby areas, an official statement said. More than 18 institutions are taking part in the workshop, including Helen Keller Institute for Deaf and Deafblind and Society for the Rehabilitation of Paraplegics, along with several schools, trusts and vocational centres, it said. Artists associated with Mouth and Foot Painting are also participating in the event. Diverse group of artists A total of 42 specially-abled artists are part of the workshop, representing a wide range of conditions such as autism, Down syndrome, hearing impairment, low vision, paraplegia and other locomotor disabilities. The initiative highlights inclusivity and equal opportunities in the field of art. Focus on skill development The workshop includes creative painting sessions, skill-building activities and confidence development programmes. Organisers said the aim is to encourage self-expression and introduce participants to possible career opportunities in art and design. Exhibition to mark conclusion The workshop will conclude with an exhibition on 8 April, where artworks created by the participants will be displayed. The exhibition is expected to showcase the creativity and talent of the artists to a wider audience. Vice Chancellor's message Vice Chancellor Him Chatterjee stressed the importance of inclusive platforms for persons with disabilities. He said art is a powerful medium for expression and empowerment and assured continued support for such initiatives in the future. BMC hosts 'admission festival' for pre-primary students Meanwhile, an 'admission festival' was held in pre-primary sections of CBSE-affiliated Mumbai public schools run by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday, April 6, the officials said. Senior officials and public representatives welcomed young students across different schools in Mumbai. Students demonstrated their knowledge in subjects such as the galaxy, coding languages and artificial intelligence, reflecting growing exposure to modern learning tools, the officials said. According to an official statement, Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde welcomed students at the Rajawadi school in Ghatkopar. At the Hariyali Village CBSE School in Vikhroli, Education Committee Chairperson Rajeshree Shirwadkar distributed gifts to children. Newly appointed Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide greeted students at the Bhavani Shankar Road school in Dadar with roses, pencils and chocolates, it said. Additional Municipal Commissioner Dr Avinash Dhakne visited the Natwar Parekh School in Govandi.
06 April,2026 08:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe last span of the century-old Elphinstone Bridge was brought down on Sunday to pave the way for a double-deck connector, but the old structure’s plaques will be embedded in its replacement. Quietly working behind the scenes with a push from Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Sanjay Mukherjee — who helped get funds sanctioned for the endeavour— Sanjay Adhav of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) Heritage Cell coordinated with MMRDA and Railways to save all the basalt stones and arches of the bridge. These were documented and numbered by a team of conservationists led by Rahul Chemburkar. A plaque from the old structure. FILE PIC mid-day has been following upon the journey of the plaque and the stones, which are in safe hands. The earlier example of such restoration is the use of pillars from the old Reay Road bridge, which are now living a second life in the August Kranti Maidan entry gate wall. Adhav, executive engineer of the civic body’s heritage conservation department, said, “Stones and arches saved from Elphinstone bridge will be used appropriately for heritage conservation of old buildings and city infrastructure, while the plaques will be embedded in the new design of the bridge, and conservation architects are working on this.” Preservation efforts To preserve the two engraved foundation stones on Elphinstone Bridge, several discussions were held in various meetings between BMC and MMRDA officials, along with officers from STUP Consultants Pvt Ltd. A specialised expert agency was appointed for the dismantling and safe removal of these heritage stones. The stones were successfully retrieved and returned in safe condition to the senior division engineer of the Environment and Housekeeping Management Office of Central Railway (CR). The spot in Parel over which the historic Elphinstone Bridge used to hang, on Sunday. Pic/Ashish Raje Factoid Elphinstone Bridge was named after Lord John Elphinstone, the nephew of the more famous Lord Mountstuart Elphinstone, the man after whom Elphinstone College in South Mumbai is named. Both Elphinstones served as Governors of Bombay in the 1800s, three decades apart. ‘These small acts of continuity matter’ Deepak Rao, city historian‘Elphinstone Bridge was built at a time when Mumbai was growing. See how it stood the test of time. The stone-carved plaques are still in a good state. It’s good to know that they have been saved’ Railway heritageCR Mumbai’s Divisional Railway Manager Hiresh Mina helped save the engraved plaque by directing officials to take possession of it from the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd team that dismantled the bridge. Conservation Speak Rahul Chemburkar, conservation architect‘We at VaastuVidhan undertook the documentation of this bridge, conducting a thorough study in collaboration with the heritage cell of BMC. Subsequently, we created documentation drawings of the stone masonry and meticulously marked every stone prior to the bridge’s dismantling. With built heritage vanishing from the city, documentation and studies help to build an archive and understanding of an era when Mumbai’s infrastructure was first being built.’ Bharat Gothoskar, city chronicler and founder, KHAKI‘The bridge was undeniably an important part of the Girangaon or mill land in Central Mumbai. The approach ramps were made in stone while the central span above the railway lines was prefabricated in Glasgow, Scotland, and assembled here using rivets. It is heartening to know that the plaques are being conserved thanks to the requests by heritage activists’ R Ventakesh, researcher and historian‘With the bridge gone, multigenerational memories are lost; a familiar sight of grounding of over a hundred years of collective consciousness is lost. The new double-deck bridge is at best for only personal car movement. End of an era!’ Kunal Tripathi, who runs social media account Mumbai Heritage‘For generations, Elphinstone Bridge was more than just a crossing; it was part of the city’s daily rhythm, connecting neighbourhoods, people, and memories. While redevelopment is necessary for a growing city, it is reassuring that its plaque has been preserved. These small acts of continuity matter because they ensure that even as Mumbai changes its skyline, it does not completely lose sight of the stories that built it’
06 April,2026 08:29 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarA six-foot long crocodile was rescued from a lake in Maharashtra's Thane district after a 15-hour operation, officials said on Monday. The sightings of reptile near the ancient Masle Talao lake in a village close to Murbad had created panic among local tribals, they said. The crocodile had not been recorded in the area before and was frequently seen near a water pit accessed by villagers, especially as water levels in the lake receded. The rescue operation To prevent human-wildlife conflict, the Forest Department, Thane decided to safely capture and relocate the crocodile. A 12-member team, assisted by locals, carried out the operation over 15 hours under the supervision of senior forest officials, including the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Assistant Conservator of Forests, and Range Forest Officers. Wildlife organisations step-in The operation was jointly conducted with RAWW (Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare) and Ashwamedh Pratisthan. Experts Chinmay Joshi and Mahesh Ithape from RAWW, along with Avinash Harad from Ashwamedh Pratisthan, led the capture to ensure the crocodile’s safety. After the rescue, the reptile will undergo a medical examination by a team of veterinarians associated with RAWW in Mumbai. Based on the assessment, the Forest Department will decide its relocation to the nearest natural habitat, with continued support from the non-profit organisations.
06 April,2026 08:17 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavThe Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) on Monday announced a simplified and passenger-friendly Mumbai Metro timetable of lines 9 and 2B ahead its launch on Tuesday. The schedules will come into effect from April 8, 2026, aiming to make metro travel faster, smoother and more predictable, an official statement said. Two new lines—Mumbai Metro Line 9 and Mumbai Metro Line 2B—will start operations from the same date. Line 9 marks the first metro corridor in Thane district, while Line 2B improves connectivity in Harbour Line areas such as Chembur. Network expansion With the new additions, Mumbai Metro Line 7 will be integrated with Line 9, providing direct connectivity from Andheri East to Kashigaon in Mira-Bhayandar. Meanwhile, Mumbai Metro Line 2A and Line 7 will now operate as separate corridors, improving operational efficiency. The timetable The revised timetable focuses on reducing waiting time and enhancing commuter convenience. - Peak hour frequency will range from around 5.5 to 6 minutes - Non-peak frequency will range from 8 to 10 minutes - More trips will be operated across all corridors Officials said this will help manage increasing passenger demand and reduce crowding. Key changes - Metro Line 9 & Line 2B begin operations from April 8 - Line 7 extended up to Kashigaon through Line 9 integration - Line 2A and Line 7 now operate as separate corridors - Improved train frequency across all corridors - Simplified schedules aligned with passenger travel patterns Corridor-wise plans for services Line 2A (Andheri West-Dahisar East) Line 2A will operate as a standalone corridor with improved reliability. Services will begin early in the morning and run till late evening, with frequent trains during peak hours. - First Train: 5:50 AM - Last Train: 10:35 PM - 11:00 PM - Peak Hours: 6 minutes - Non-Peak: 8-10 minutes -Total Trips: 289 (Weekdays), 231 (Saturdays), 213 (Sundays) Line 7 and Line 9 (Integrated Corridor) The integration of Line 7 with Line 9 will create a longer corridor from Gundavali to Kashigaon, significantly improving suburban connectivity and reducing travel time. - Route Length: 19.79 km - First Train: 5:50 AM - Last Train: 11:00 PM - Peak Hours: 5:50 minutes - Non-Peak: 8–10 minutes - Total Trips: 276 (Weekdays), 223 (Saturdays), 205 (Sundays). Line 2B (Phase 1) Line 2B will connect Mandale to Diamond Garden, covering key areas in eastern Mumbai and providing better east-west connectivity. - Corridor Length: 5.38 km - First Train: 6:00 AM - Last Train: 10:15 PM – 10:30 PM - Frequency: Every ~9 minutes 30 seconds - Total Trips: 209 Seamless interchange service Passengers can continue to interchange easily at Dahisar station between Line 2A and Line 7 without exiting the paid area, ensuring smooth transfers. According to MMRDA, the changes are designed to improve reliability of services, offer predictable and easy-to-follow schedules, enhance connectivity across suburbs and support balanced passenger distribution. Metropolitan Commissioner and Chairman, Maha Mumbai Metro, Dr Sanjay Mukherjee said that the move is a major step towards building a fully integrated metro network and improving daily travel for citizens.
06 April,2026 07:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentLeaders and party workers of the Shiv Sena (UBT) on Monday staged a sit-in protest at Shivaji Park in Mumbai, claiming that the condition of the ‘Samyukta Maharashtra gallery’ was 'poor' and being ignored by the authorities. The party also shared about the protest on its official X handle. The gallery, located in Shivaji Park area of Dadar, showcases the history of the Samyukta Maharashtra movement, was conceptualised by Bal Thackeray and later taken forward by Uddhav Thackeray. The party leaders claimed that the gallery has fallen into disrepair and requires urgent attention. The issue was presented before members of the media during the protest. वंदनीय हिंदुहृदयसम्राट शिवसेनाप्रमुख बाळासाहेब ठाकरे ह्यांच्या संकल्पनेतून आणि पक्षप्रमुख मा. श्री. उद्धवसाहेब ठाकरे ह्यांच्या पुढाकाराने संयुक्त महाराष्ट्राच्या ऐतिहासिक लढ्याचा इतिहास सांगणाऱ्या छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराज पार्क येथील ‘संयुक्त महाराष्ट्र दालना’च्या झालेली दुरावस्था… pic.twitter.com/jnVBUe33nF — ShivSena - शिवसेना Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (@ShivSenaUBT_) April 6, 2026 They stressed the importance of preserving the site, which reflects the historic struggle for the formation of Maharashtra. Party leaders join the protest Several senior leaders were present at the protest, including former Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar, Vishakha Raut, Sainath Durge and MLA Mahesh Sawant, along with other party workers and office-bearers. They reiterated their commitment to protecting the legacy of the Samyukta Maharashtra movement. Civic official responds In the social media post, the Shiv Sena (UBT) claimed that a senior official from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has assured urgent repairs following the party's concerns. Deputy Municipal Commissioner Ajitkumar Ambi, assured that repair work at the gallery would begin within the next two days, the post stated. The assurance came after demands from party leaders for immediate restoration, it said. Congress slams Sena (UBT) for accusing it of using regional allies as 'crutches' Meanwhile, the Congress on Monday hit out at the Shiv Sena (UBT) over the latter's accusation that the grand old party was using regional outfits as "crutches", and not treating them as "equal stakeholders" in the Opposition alliance, reported the PTI. Maharashtra Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant criticised the editorial in the Sena (UBT) mouthpiece 'Saamana', alleging that the newspaper's executive editor, MP Sanjay Raut, appears confused on several occasions between his roles as a politician and journalist. In a strongly-worded post on X, he noted that while a journalist's duty is to point out shortcomings objectively, a political spokesperson often targets opponents, and confusing the two roles leads to ignoring one's own accountability.
06 April,2026 06:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell has revised the schedule for the PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) examination for CET 2026, an official statement said on Monday. The decision was taken after multiple requests from candidates, as several major national-level examinations are scheduled on April 12, 2026. According to officials, the following examinations are set to be held on the same day - - UPSC NDA and NA Examination (I) 2026 - UPSC CDS Examination (I) 2026 - NATA 2026 Phase 1 To prevent inconvenience to students appearing for multiple exams, the CET authority has adjusted its schedule. New exam window announced The revised examination window for the PCM CET is now from April 11 to 20 April 2026. However, April 12 has been excluded from the schedule. Instructions for candidates Candidates have been advised to check updated details carefully. The City Intimation Slip, which mentions the exam district and date, was made available on April 5 after 2 pm. The Admit Card with complete venue details will be available for download on April 7, 2026. Students must ensure they download the latest documents to avoid any confusion. Advisory The CET Cell has urged candidates to rely only on official updates and prepare according to the revised timetable. Officials also extended their best wishes to all candidates appearing for the examination. Maharashtra CET Cell bans AI tools, gadgets to curb cheating in exams Meanwhile, in an effort to prevent cheating and misuse of technology, the State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell had last month stated that it has introduced revised rules and stricter regulations for upcoming entrance examinations conducted across Maharashtra. The new guidelines are aimed at curbing malpractice involving digital devices, cyber tools and artificial intelligence (AI) during computer-based tests. The CET Cell conducts entrance examinations for 17 different professional courses, of which 15 are held in computer-based mode at designated examination centres across Maharashtra. Officials said the updated regulations are intended to strengthen the examination system and ensure transparency and fairness. Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against candidates, exam staff or institutions found involved in any form of malpractice, misconduct or use of unfair means during the examination process. Smartphones, smartwatches and digital gadgets prohibited Under the revised rules, the use or possession of modern digital gadgets inside the examination hall is strictly prohibited. The banned items include smartphones, mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, earphones and calculators where they are not permitted. Officials said these restrictions have been imposed to prevent candidates from accessing external information or communicating during the exam. AI tools, hidden cameras and remote access software banned The CET Cell has also specifically banned the use of artificial intelligence tools and other advanced digital technologies that could be misused during examinations. These include AI-based applications, hidden cameras, screen mirroring technology, remote access software and any other digital tools that may facilitate cheating during the examination. Strict penalties for cheating and misconduct The CET Cell has identified 13 categories of misconduct, with penalties varying depending on the seriousness of the violation. Candidates found talking, gesturing or attempting to communicate with others during the examination will have their candidature for the ongoing CET cancelled. Similarly, candidates copying from notes, books or other candidates, or allowing others to copy electronically or physically, will face cancellation of candidature for the CET as well as other CET exams in the same academic year, in addition to possible legal action.
06 April,2026 04:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTwo new 15-car train rakes have arrived at the Virar carshed, boosting capacity on the Western Railway suburban network in Mumbai as it plans a total of 17 15-car services on Virar-Dahanu route, officials said. The additions are expected to improve passenger convenience, especially during peak hours. Railway officials said that approximately 17 suburban services will soon be upgraded from 12-car to 15-car trains. The move is aimed at reducing overcrowding and increasing carrying capacity on some of the busiest routes. First-time introduction on Virar-Dahanu route In a significant development, 15-car services will be introduced for the first time on the Virar-Dahanu section, officials said. Around eight services on this stretch will be converted to 15-car trains, benefiting daily commuters in the extended suburban corridor. Churchgate-Virar services also to benefit In addition, about nine services between Churchgate and Virar will also be upgraded to 15-car trains. This route is among the most crowded suburban sections, and the move is expected to ease congestion. With a total of 17 services being converted, the initiative is part of ongoing efforts by Western Railway to enhance suburban rail capacity and provide a more comfortable travel experience. WR conducts successful 15-coach EMU trial A trial run of an EMU train was successfully conducted earlier by Western Railway in coordination with MRVC. The upgraded platforms are scheduled to be handed over to the Zonal Railway shortly for commencing 15-coach suburban services. Significant progress has been achieved under the Virar-Dahanu Road (VR-DRD) quadrupling project with capacity augmentation works at Virar (VR) station. Platform No. 3A and 4A have been widened from 6.50 metres to 10.50 metres and extended to accommodate 15-coach local trains, as against the earlier provision for 12-coach trains. In addition, a new home platform (Platform No. 5A) has been constructed on the western side. The works have been completed in a record time of four months, demonstrating efficient execution despite operational constraints at this high-density suburban station. A trial run of an EMU train was successfully conducted today by Western Railway in coordination with MRVC. The upgraded platforms are scheduled to be handed over to the Zonal Railway shortly for commencing 15-coach suburban services. These developments will significantly enhance carrying capacity, improve passenger convenience, and support the growing commuter demand on the Western suburban corridor.
06 April,2026 04:31 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarADVERTISEMENT
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