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Suburban trains to be affected as CR announces night block on Feb 14-15

The Central Railway, while sharing Mumbai local train updates, on Friday said that several suburban services will be affected due to a night block on February 14 and 15. The Central Railway said that it will operate a special traffic and power block on the night of 14-15 February 2026 for infrastructure work at Kanjurmarg railway station. An official statement said that the block is being taken to launch four girders, each six metres wide, for a new Foot Over Bridge (FOB) at kilometre 24/13-14 on the Kalyan end of the station. The work will be carried out using a road crane. The block will take place during the night of Saturday and Sunday, from 1.05 am to 4.35 am on February 15, 2026. The traffic block section will be between Vikhroli and Mulund stations, excluding both stations. Cancellation of suburban trains Due to the block, the following suburban services will be cancelled: - CSMT-Thane local (T-1) departing CSMT at 12.24 am on 15 February 2026 - Thane-CSMT local (T-2) departing Thane at 4.04 am on 15 February 2026 "Passengers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly," Central Railway said. Diversion of train The CSMT-Karjat local (S-1) departing CSMT at 12.12 am on 15 February 2026 will be diverted on the down fast line between Matunga and Mulund stations. This train will not halt at Vidyavihar, Kanjurmarg and Nahur stations during the diversion. Railway officials stated that the block is essential for infrastructure development and passenger safety. The installation of FOB girders is part of ongoing efforts to improve facilities and ease passenger movement at the station. Passengers have been requested to bear with the railway administration for the inconvenience caused. Mid-night traffic block on Feb 14-15 at Kharbao is cancelled Meanwhile, in an another statement, The Central Railway on Friday said that a special traffic and power block scheduled on mid-night of February 14-15 (Saturday/Sunday mid-night) for commissioning of new UP and DOWN Goods line at Kharbao in connection with DFCCIL Project has been cancelled.  "Accordingly the cancellations and rescheduling of trains due to the same stands cancelled," it said. 

13 February,2026 11:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Funds will be released under the designated budget head for general education, an official notification said. Representational Pic/File/iStock

Maharashtra govt approves 'Free School Bag' scheme for classes 1-8

The Maharashtra Government has approved a major scheme to provide free school bags to pupils studying in Classes 1 to 8 in local authority schools across the state. The decision follows the implementation of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, which has been in force since April 1, 2010. The law guarantees free and quality education to every child between the ages of 6 and 14. The scheme also aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy 2020, which aims to create a joyful and supportive learning environment and develop well-rounded personalities equipped with 21st-century skills. Under the new government resolution, administrative approval has been granted to provide free school bags within a financial limit of Rs 165 crore. The benefit will cover a total of 4,143,054 pupils enrolled in Classes 1 to 8 in schools run by local self-government bodies across Maharashtra. However, pupils studying in municipal corporations that already run their own free school bag schemes using their own funds will not be included in this state-funded programme. Part of educational support initiative The state government already provides free textbooks and midday meals under the PM Poshan scheme to improve enrolment, attendance and learning outcomes. The free school bag scheme will be implemented as part of the broader “educational materials” initiative. As school bags are considered educational material, the expenditure will be met under the existing budget head for providing learning materials such as science kits, laboratory equipment and desks. E-Tender process and financial rules The Director of Primary Education, Maharashtra State, Pune, has been directed to carry out the procurement process through an e-tender system. All purchases must follow the prescribed government procurement rules and financial regulations. Funds will be released under the designated budget head for general education. Authorities have also been instructed to strictly follow the Finance Department guidelines issued on 7 April 2025 regarding fund distribution and expenditure. Utilisation certificates for the distributed funds must be submitted to the government without delay. The Government Resolution (GR) has been issued in accordance with the financial powers granted under the relevant rules and circulars.

13 February,2026 10:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The traffic notification was issued due to upcoming road work in the Wagle Traffic Division area, officials said. Representational Pic/File

Thane Police issues traffic diversions near Cadbury Junction for road repairs

The Thane Traffic Police on Friday announced traffic diversions near the Cadbury Junction for road repair works and issued alternative routes for motorists in city. The traffic notification was issued due to upcoming road work in the Wagle Traffic Division area, officials said. The project involves cement concreting of the service road between Cadbury Junction and Korum Mall. The work is being carried out on behalf of M/s Swastik Infralogic Pvt. Ltd., Navi Mumbai, due to the construction, traffic congestion is likely in the area. According to the notification issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Pankaj Shirsat, entry will be closed for all types of vehicles travelling from Cadbury Junction towards Korum Mall and Nitin Junction via the service road. The restriction will apply at the Cadbury Junction service road entry point. Alternative route for motorists The police notification said that the vehicles are advised to take the following alternative route:  - Motorists should proceed from Cadbury Junction onto the Nashik-Mumbai lane of the Eastern Express Highway. From there, they should travel towards Nitin Junction and take a right turn to access the service road to reach their desired destination. - Drivers are requested to follow the diversion signs and cooperate with traffic officials to avoid inconvenience. Duration of traffic restriction The traffic notification will come into effect from 20 February 2026 and will remain in force until 31 May 2026. Exempted vehicles The traffic restriction will not apply to emergency and essential service vehicles. These include police vehicles, fire brigade vehicles, ambulances, green corridor vehicles, oxygen gas transport vehicles, and other essential service vehicles. The police have urged the public to plan their journeys in advance and use the alternative routes to ensure smooth traffic flow in the area. Dadar's Tilak bridge to remain closed for heavy vehicles for 3 months Dadar's Tilak bridge will be temporarily closed for heavy vehicles for three months, the Mumbai Traffic Police said on Wednesday. The move is aimed at easing traffic congestion and ensuring smoother movement of vehicles in the area, said an official. The decision comes amid ongoing reconstruction work on the Elphinstone flyover and the Sion ROB bridge, which has increased traffic on alternative routes such as Dharavi and Tilak Bridge, according to an official traffic notification. The closure will be effective from February 12, 2026 to May 12, 2026, every day from 7 am to 11 pm. It applies to heavy vehicles such as tankers, mixers, dumpers, trailers and similar vehicles. The order has been issued under the powers of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and will be enforced by the Traffic Divisions of Matunga and Dadar.

13 February,2026 10:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Aaditya Thackeray on Friday reacted to Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde's remarks. File Pic

Tawde questions previous leadership on illegal Bangladeshi's; Aaditya reacts

A political row on Friday broke out on the issue of illegal Bangladeshi's in Mumbai, with Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde questioning the previous leadership in the city civic body and Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray reacting to it. The exchange comes amid recent civic action and statements regarding the identification and deportation of foreign nationals living illegally in Mumbai. Tawde questioned why the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had failed to act earlier against alleged illegal Bangladeshi residents, despite BJP leader Kirit Somaiya having submitted evidence and information to the authorities. She said that necessary steps must be taken to verify documents and ensure that those staying illegally in the city face action as per the law. Responding to it, Aaditya Thackeray said he welcomed the move to deport illegal Bangladeshi nationals. However, he questioned how they were allowed to enter the country in the first place. In a post on his social media handle X, Aaditya Thackeray stated that if infiltration had taken place, it pointed to a failure of both the central and state governments, which are led by the BJP. He said the responsibility for border security and preventing illegal entry lies with the Government of India and the state administration. How illegal migrants entered Mumbai He argued that if large numbers of illegal migrants had entered Mumbai, it reflected a serious lapse in governance. The issue has added to ongoing tensions between the ruling BJP and the opposition Shiv Sena (UBT) in Maharashtra. While both sides appear to agree on deporting illegal residents, they differ sharply on who should be held accountable for their alleged presence in Mumbai. He further wrote that while the newly elected Mumbai mayor appeared focused on the issue of alleged Bangladeshi infiltrators, pressing civic problems in the city were being ignored. He listed concerns such as dug-up roads, uncollected garbage, poor condition of footpaths, encroachment on open spaces by developers, and polluted air and water. नवनिर्वाचित महापौरांना आता एकच प्रश्न सतावतोय बांगलादेशी घुसखोरांचा! चांगलं आहे पण मुंबईतील नागरी प्रश्नांकडे मात्र त्यांचे दुर्लक्ष होतेय; खोदून ठेवलेले रस्ते, न उचलला जाणारा कचरा, पादचारी मार्गांची दुरवस्था, मोकळ्या जागांवरील बांधकाम व्यावसायिकांचे अतिक्रमण, प्रदूषित पाणी आणि… — Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) February 13, 2026 Questions on border security Thackeray argued that issues related to illegal immigration fall under the jurisdiction of the Union and State Home Ministries, not the municipal corporation. He questioned how alleged Bangladeshi nationals could have entered India illegally and travelled across BJP-ruled states to reach Mumbai. He also asked how they had managed to stay in the country for several years despite the BJP being in power at the Centre for over a decade. Mayor orders seizure of 237 fake birth certificates Mumbai Mayor, Ritu Tawde, on Friday directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) health department to seize 237 fake birth certificates issued to illegal residents within one month, officials said. They said that she also announced that the city will carry out strict checks on birth certificates held by hawkers, especially those believed to be illegal foreign residents. Tawde held a press conference following the meeting, in which she revealed that action will be taken against those involved in issuing fake documents. In an official statement, the Mumbai civic body said that the Deputy Municipal Commissioner of Public Health, Sharad Ughade, said that all 237 certificates have been cancelled on the official portal. However, Tawde said criminal cases will be filed against the doctors and health officials who issued these fake certificates. So far, eight people have been charged, and action against the remaining officials will begin from Monday, the statement said. She also demanded a fresh investigation into cases where birth certificates were issued after a delay of 21 days. Two medical officers have already been suspended, and further action is expected against others. The mayor stated that all documents issued after January 1, 2016 will be thoroughly reviewed, officials said.

13 February,2026 09:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The move aims to improve commuter comfort and reduce overcrowding. Representational Pic/File

WR announces 12 AC and 3 non-AC Mumbai local trains from Feb 19

Western Railway, while sharing Mumbai local train updates, on Friday announced the introduction of 12 additional air-conditioned (AC) local services and 3 new non-AC trains on its Mumbai suburban network from February 19. "The new services will start from February 19, 2026, bringing the total number of local trains on the Western Railway network to 1,414," an official said. The move aims to improve commuter comfort and reduce overcrowding, especially on popular routes where AC services have become increasingly sought after. Out of the 12 new AC services, 11 will replace existing non-AC trains, while one will be an entirely new AC service. With this change, the total number of AC local trains will rise from 121 to 133. In addition, the number of AC services operating on weekends will see a major boost. On Saturdays and Sundays, AC trains will increase from 77 to 106, providing greater comfort and capacity for weekend travellers. Non-AC services increased Along with the AC upgrades, Western Railway will introduce three additional non-AC services. These services aim to maintain affordable travel options for commuters who rely on non-AC trains. A slow local service currently running between Bhayandar and Bandra will now operate from Virar, improving connectivity for passengers travelling from the outer suburbs. Improved commuting Western Railway said the initiative is part of its ongoing commitment to provide safer, efficient, and passenger-friendly services across Mumbai’s suburban network, often referred to as the city’s lifeline. The full schedule and details of the new services Western Railway to operate four-hour jumbo block on Sunday Western Railway, while sharing Mumbai local train updates, on Friday said that it will carry out a four-hour jumbo block on Sunday, February 15, 2026. The Western Railway said that it will operate the block to undertake maintenance work on tracks, signalling systems and overhead equipment. The block will be in place from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on the UP Fast line and the 5th line between Ram Mandir and Borivali stations. According to a press release issued by Western Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Vineet Abhishek, several train services will be diverted during the block period. All UP Fast line trains will run on the UP Slow (6th) line between Borivali and Andheri. Meanwhile, all 5th line trains will operate on the Down Fast line between Andheri and Borivali. Some services to remain cancelled Due to the block, some UP and Down suburban train services will remain cancelled. In addition, some Andheri and Borivali services will run only up to Goregaon on the Harbour Line. Passengers can obtain detailed information from Station Masters at all suburban railway stations. Western Railway has requested passengers to take note of the changes and plan their journeys accordingly to avoid inconvenience. The maintenance work is part of routine efforts to ensure the safety and reliability of suburban train services, Western Railway said.

13 February,2026 08:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Ritu Tawde said criminal cases will be filed against the doctors and health officials who issued these fake certificates. File Pic/X

Mumbai Mayor orders seizure of 237 fake birth certificates

Mumbai Mayor, Ritu Tawde, on Friday directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) health department to seize 237 fake birth certificates issued to illegal residents within one month, officials said. They said that she also announced that the city will carry out strict checks on birth certificates held by hawkers, especially those believed to be illegal foreign residents. The announcement came after a review meeting at the Mumbai Municipal Corporation headquarters on February 13 2026. Tawde held a press conference following the meeting, in which she revealed that action will be taken against those involved in issuing fake documents. In an official statement, the Mumbai civic body said that the Deputy Municipal Commissioner of Public Health, Sharad Ughade, said that all 237 certificates have been cancelled on the official portal. However, Tawde said criminal cases will be filed against the doctors and health officials who issued these fake certificates. So far, eight people have been charged, and action against the remaining officials will begin from Monday, the statement said. She also demanded a fresh investigation into cases where birth certificates were issued after a delay of 21 days. Two medical officers have already been suspended, and further action is expected against others. The mayor stated that all documents issued after January 1, 2016 will be thoroughly reviewed, officials said. Strict verification of hawkers Former MP Kirit Somaiya had earlier demanded that fake certificates be seized and criminal action taken against the responsible officers. In response, Tawde ordered immediate verification of hawkers’ records, licences, identity proofs, and residential documents, the statement said. It said that the mayor stressed that the municipal corporation and police must work together to check the identity documents of hawkers, including Aadhaar cards, and take legal action against those using fake papers. Concerns over illegal residents Tawde noted that complaints have been rising about the large number of hawkers in Mumbai, with some foreign nationals living illegally and doing business. She said this not only increases financial pressure on local hawkers but also raises concerns about women’s safety in some areas. The city mayor also highlighted that overcrowding on footpaths, unauthorised businesses, and encroachments are affecting law and order. She said that BMC is committed to removing encroachments and providing a safer environment for residents and action has been ordered in various municipal wards, and officials have been instructed to enforce the law strictly.

13 February,2026 08:28 PM IST | Mumbai | Eshanpriya MS
The process follows a public interest litigation order dated May 7, 1997 from the Bombay High Court. Representational Pic/File

State publishes list of encroachers in SGNP, opens document submission window

The Maharashtra government has published a preliminary list of 16,478 encroachers residing inside Mumbai's Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), marking a major chance in the rehabilitation process, officials said. The process follows a public interest litigation order dated May 7, 1997 from the Bombay High Court. The rehabilitation process is being carried out under the supervision of a high-powered committee formed as per the court order. The South Deputy Director of SGNP has appointed M/s Grant Thornton Bharat LLP as the official agency to conduct the survey. A High Power Committee, formed as per the court’s directions, is supervising the process. The survey was conducted by the authorised agency Grant Thornton Bharat LLP and has now been published for public verification. The preliminary list has been uploaded on the Forest Department website and displayed on notice boards at SGNP offices. It is also available for public viewing at the rehabilitation room for verification, the officials said. They said the list will now be examined carefully to determine final eligibility for rehabilitation, as per the High Court’s orders and government directives. Final opportunity to submit documents Encroachers named in the list, as well as those living inside the park whose names are not included, have been given a final opportunity to submit the required documents and survey information. Documents required for eligibility include proof of name in the electoral roll as on January 1, 1995, receipt of Rs 7,000 paid earlier for rehabilitation, hut number allotted by the Forest Department, proof of name in electoral roll between January 1, 1995 and January 1, 2011, voter ID and other identity documents such as Aadhaar or ration card. Submission deadline Documents must be submitted between February 17 and February 28, 2026, from 7:30 am to 9:30 pm, at the designated locations mentioned in the notice. Forest officials have emphasised that only those who submit the required documents within the deadline will be considered for final eligibility.

13 February,2026 08:11 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet Jadhav
CM Fadnavis said that the relationship remains an important pillar of Indo-Japanese friendship. Pic/X

Fadnavis proposes Bamiyan Buddha replica during meeting with Japanese delegation

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis on Friday met Izumi Miyazaki, Governor of Wakayama Prefecture, and a Japanese delegation in Mumbai and proposed a Bamiyan Buddha replica in Nagpur. CM Fadnavis shared the proposal on X after the meeting, stating that he held discussions on strengthening ties between Maharashtra and Japan. The meeting also highlighted the long-standing sister-state partnership between Maharashtra and Wakayama, which began in 2013. The Chief Minister said that the relationship remains an important pillar of Indo-Japanese friendship. CM Fadnavis noted that Japan has played a major role in supporting major infrastructure projects in Maharashtra. These include the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu, the expanding underground Metro network in Mumbai, and the upcoming Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project. During the discussions, both sides explored ways to further enhance cooperation in strategic sectors and open new avenues for collaboration. Proposal for Bamiyan Buddha replica The Chief Minister also proposed constructing a replica of the Bamiyan Buddha in Nagpur. He said the project would aim to spread a global message of peace from the city where B. R. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism. The proposal is intended to symbolise peace, cultural exchange and the deep spiritual connection between India and Japan. It was a great pleasure to meet H. E. Izumi Miyazaki san, Governor of Wakayama Prefecture and the esteemed delegation in Mumbai today. Japan and India, particularly Maharashtra and Wakayama, have a deep and enduring partnership. Maharashtra's decade-long sister-state… pic.twitter.com/TlWetkom2a — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) February 13, 2026 The meeting was attended by Yagi Koji, Consul General of Japan in Mumbai; Akizuki Fuminari, Vice Speaker of the Wakayama Prefectural Assembly; Nijima Takeshi, President of the Japan-India Friendship Promotion Group of Wakayama Prefectural Assembly; and Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, among others. Sports and Cultural Exchanges Grow Fadnavis noted that sports exchanges between the two regions have also grown. He cited examples such as sumo wrestlers visiting Mumbai, training in Pune, and performing demonstrations at the Gateway of India. He said such initiatives will help develop sporting talent in both countries. Remembering the late former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Fadnavis said his tenure strengthened India–Japan relations and led to major projects such as the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train.

13 February,2026 06:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The block will affect both the Main Line and Harbour Line services in the Mumbai division, Central Railway said. Representational Pic/File

CR announces mega block on its Main and Harbour Lines on Sunday, check details

Central Railway, while sharing Mumbai local train updates, on Friday said that it will operate a mega block on its Main and Harbour Lines on Sunday, February 15, 2026. The block will be undertaken to carry out important engineering and maintenance works, the Central Railway said. It said that the block will affect both the Main Line and Harbour Line services in the Mumbai division. Block on Main Line According to an official statement, on the Main Line, the UP and DOWN fast lines between Matunga and Mulund stations will remain under block from 11.05 am to 3.45 pm. DOWN fast services leaving Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) from 10.36 am to 3.10 pm will be diverted to the DOWN slow line at Matunga. These trains will halt at their scheduled stations between Matunga and Mulund and are expected to reach their destination about 15 minutes late. Beyond Thane, fast trains will return to the DOWN fast line at Mulund, the statement said. Similarly, UP fast services leaving Thane from 11.03 am to 3.38 pm will be diverted to the UP slow line at Mulund. They will halt at scheduled stations between Mulund and Matunga before rejoining the UP fast line at Matunga. These trains will also arrive about 15 minutes behind schedule, it said. Block on Harbour Line On the Harbour Line, UP and DOWN services between Kurla and Vashi stations will remain suspended from 11.10 am to 4.10 pm. DOWN Harbour services towards Vashi, Belapur and Panvel leaving CSMT from 10.34 am to 3.36 pm will remain cancelled. Similarly, UP Harbour services towards CSMT from Panvel, Belapur and Vashi between 10.17 am and 3.47 pm will also be cancelled. However, special suburban trains will operate on the CSMT-Kurla and Panvel-Vashi sections during the block period. Harbour Line passengers will be allowed to travel between Thane and Vashi/Nerul stations from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm during the block. Railway officials said that the mega block is necessary for infrastructure maintenance and passenger safety. The Central Railway said that the commuters have been requested to plan their journeys accordingly and cooperate with the railway administration.

13 February,2026 06:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The measure aims to ensure that no student is disadvantaged due to technical difficulties, officials said. Representational Pic/File

Candidates can now also apply for CET 2026 without Aadhaar, APAAR authentication

Candidates applying for CET 2026 and facing difficulties with Aadhaar and Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) authentication will now be able to complete their registration without mandatory verification, an official notification said on Friday. APAAR is a part of India's 'One Nation, One Student ID' initiative. It is a unique 12-digit digital ID for students from pre-primary to higher education. While Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identity number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to residents of India based on their biometric and demographic data. The announcement comes after several applicants reported technical and other genuine problems while completing Aadhaar and APAAR authentication during the online registration process. The notification was issued by Dileep B. Sardesai, Commissioner, State Common Entrance Test Cell, Mumbai. Officials clarified that Aadhaar authentication remains the preferred method for verification in the Common Entrance Test (CET) registration process. However, to ensure that no eligible candidate is prevented from applying, a special facility has been introduced. From February 13, 2026, candidates who are unable to complete Aadhaar and APAAR authentication may fill and submit their application forms without this verification on the CET 2026 registration portal. The candidates who are able to complete Aadhaar and APAAR authentication are required to continue following the previously notified registration procedure. In the notification, the officials have advised all applicants to carefully read the instructions provided on the portal and complete their registration within the prescribed deadline. The facilitation measure aims to ensure that no student is disadvantaged due to technical difficulties, officials said. Mumbai University scraps 304 old exams including 125 with no enrolment Meanwhile, the Mumbai University has announced that 304 old examinations including 125 with zero enrolment have been declared inactive and will no longer be conducted, an official statement said on Thursday. It said that out of the total, 125 examinations have been discontinued because no students registered for them over the past two to three academic years. These include 23 exams from the Faculty of Commerce and Management, 15 exams from the Faculty of Humanities, 42 interdisciplinary exams and 45 exams from the Faculty of Science and Technology. University officials said that these exams have seen zero enrolment for several years and are therefore being closed. In addition, 179 examinations linked to courses that have completed 10 years have also been permanently discontinued. These include 10 exams from the Faculty of Science and Technology, 86 exams from the Faculty of Commerce and Management, 38 exams from the Faculty of Humanities, and 45 interdisciplinary exams. According to a university circular dated 10 February 2026, these examinations will not be conducted in the future. Provision for reactivation in special cases The university clarified that if any affiliated college or institution submits a proposal for student registration in courses that were closed due to zero enrolment, the examinations may be reactivated. In such cases, the university will restart the examination process as per rules, including scheduling, question paper setting, examiner appointments and other formal procedures. However, courses that have completed 10 years will not be revived, the Board of Examinations and Evaluation has said.

13 February,2026 05:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The sky will remain mainly clear from the afternoon through the evening, causing temperatures to rise steadily. Representational pic

Mumbai wakes up to hazy morning; mercury likely to reach 34 degrees Celsius

Mumbaikars woke up to a hazy morning on Thursday. However, the visibility is likely to improve as the day progresses, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting clear skies for the rest of the day.  The maximum temperature is likely to hover at 34 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is expected to be around 19 degrees Celsius, indicating warm daytime conditions with relatively cooler early mornings. The combination of morning haze and clear skies later in the day is typical of the ongoing winter transition period, with no significant change in weather conditions anticipated over the next 24 hours. Meanwhile, according to the Centre's SAMEER app, the overall air quality index (AQI) in Mumbai stood at 128 on Thursday, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category. Pollution levels varied significantly across locations, with Bandra-Kurla Complex recording an AQI of 140, Borivali East 94, Byculla 141, Andheri East 157, Chembur 115, Colaba 118, and Kandivali East 132. Ghatkopar registered an AQI of 148, Kandivali East 132, Malad West 152, and Mazgaon 132.  Delhi's air quality improves slightly but AQI remains in 'poor' category at 275 The national capital saw a slight improvement in air quality on Thursday morning, with the overall air quality index (AQI) recorded at 275 on Thursday around 7 am. However, it continued to remain in the 'poor' category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). On Wednesday, the AQI in the national capital was 'very poor' at 312. Meanwhile, on Thursday, despite the improvement in AQI, a thin layer of smog persisted in parts of the city.  According to CPCB data, several areas in the capital recorded the 'very poor' air quality, including Anand Vihar (332), Bawana (306), Ashok Vihar (320), Dwarka Sector 8 (328), RK Puram (314), Rohini (322) and Patparganj (307).Aya Nagar recorded an AQI of 214, Chandni Chowk (218), and Sonia Vihar (299) experienced improved air quality, though the levels still fell within the 'poor' category. As per AQI classification, a reading between 0 and 50 is 'good', 51 to 100 'satisfactory', 101 to 200 'moderate', 201 to 300 'poor', 301 to 400 'very poor' and 401 to 500 'severe'. IMD stated that the rainfall signalled the beginning of an active weather phase, with thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds, and hail likely to affect several states during the day. Light rain lashed several parts of the city and adjoining NCR areas in the early morning hours. (With inputs from ANI)

13 February,2026 05:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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