The Central Railway has announced a special traffic and power block between Titwala and Asangaon near Mumbai during the intervening night of March 18 and 19 (Wednesday and Thursday). The block has been announced in order to facilitate the railway infrastructure work. As per an official statement from Central Railway, the block will be carried out on both UP and DOWN North-East lines from 2.10 am to 2.50 am on March 19. The work involves stringing a 400KV transmission line by the Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited. Various trains to be regulated on March 19 Several long-distance trains will be regulated because of the block, leading to minor delays. Train number 22104 Ayodhya-Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Express will be held at Vasind between 2.27 am and 2.50 am on March 19 and is expected to arrive 20 to 25 minutes late. Similarly, Train 18030 Shalimar-LTT Express will be halted at Asangaon from 2.37 am to 2.50 am, resulting in a delay of around 10 to 15 minutes. The 12810 Howrah–Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Express will be controlled at Atgaon during the same time window and is likely to be delayed by 10 to 15 minutes. Railway authorities said that any other mail, express or passenger trains running late on the day may also be regulated or short-terminated depending on operational requirements during these hours. “These blocks are essential for infrastructure upkeep and safety. Passengers are requested to bear with the railway administration for the inconvenience caused,” Central Railway stated. Kalyan-bound AC local train runs past Bhandup station platform Earlier this week, a Kalyan-bound fast Mumbai AC local train overshot the platform at Bhandup railway station on Tuesday morning, causing concern among passengers. The train, identified as 95711 Mumbai Suburban Railway service from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Kalyan, went ahead by a few coaches beyond the designated stopping point. According to a passenger, the 9.29 am local entered Bhandup Station at a relatively high speed. The driver applied the brakes sharply on approaching the platform, but the train had already moved too far ahead. The train is scheduled to halt at Bhandup as part of its regular timetable.
17 March,2026 10:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTaking serious note of shocking revelations in an illegal egg selling racket linked to Badlapur, Thane Mayor Sharmila Pimpalkar has directed the civic administration to conduct thorough inspections of all IVF and sonography centres across the city. The directive comes after links to similar malpractices surfaced in a prominent hospital in Thane, prompting swift action by the civic body’s health department. The hospital's approval for its unauthorised IVF centre was immediately cancelled, and three sonography machines were sealed during a raid on March 6. Pimpalkar chaired a high-level meeting on Tuesday in her chamber, attended by Shiv Sena Group Leader Pawan Kadam and Chief Medical Health Officer Dr Prasad Patil. During the meeting, Dr Patil informed that poor women were lured with money to undergo injections for hyper-ovulation to produce extra eggs, which were then extracted and sold for lakhs of rupees to childless couples, often charging exorbitant amounts in the process. The racket involved exploiting vulnerable women financially and coercing them into illegal egg donation, bypassing medical and legal norms. 'Won't tolerate violations': Thane Mayor In response to these grave irregularities, the mayor has instructed the health department to urgently inspect every IVF centre in the TMC limits and launch a special drive against illegal sonography centres. She has also ordered regular monitoring of the probe, with weekly reports to be submitted by the administration. The health department has been directed to continue strict enforcement on similar lines to ensure no such violations occur. "This is a serious matter affecting women's health and dignity. We will not tolerate any unauthorised or illegal activities in medical facilities," Mayor Pimpalolkar emphasised. The broader egg donation racket first came to light in Badlapur (Thane district), with threads extending to Thane city, highlighting violations of fertility laws and exploitation of economically disadvantaged women. The TMC has assured that the crackdown will be comprehensive to safeguard public health and prevent commercial exploitation in reproductive technologies.
17 March,2026 09:51 PM IST | MumbaiEnvironmental NGO Vanashakti has alleged large-scale discrepancies in mangrove compensatory afforestation linked to the Versova-Bhayandar Coastal Road project. Vanshakti also accused the authorities of misleading the Bombay High Court and warned of possible perjury proceedings. While writing a letter to the civic authorities and forest officials, Vanashakti director Stalin D. has demanded an immediate halt to mangrove cutting for the project. He further claimed that official submissions regarding plantation and survival rates are “false and misleading”. According to the NGO, authorities had stated that around 13.7 lakh mangroves were planted at Survey No. 342 in Bhayandar, with a survival rate of 90 per cent and protective chain-link fencing at the site. However, following a site visit, the NGO claimed these assertions do not match ground reality. On the contrary, NGO Vanashakti alleged that no chain-link fencing exists at the site and said such protection would be impractical, as saplings were planted along fishbone channels. They further claimed that these channels were found completely dry, with no tidal water flow for over a month. The NGO further stated that over 90 per cent of the Ceriops tagal saplings that are used for the plantation have died. Describing the site conditions as “dry and like desert sand, the letter by the NGO also noted, "The truth is that the plantation has completely failed.” NGO Vanshakti also questioned the choice of species and location, claiming the area is already densely populated with Avicennia marina mangroves, leaving no space for additional plantations. Furthermore, the NGO alleged that smaller Ceriops tagal saplings were introduced within an existing mangrove patch, calling the exercise “unscientific” and “haphazard”, and arguing that it cannot qualify as compensatory afforestation. Alleging that fully grown mangrove trees were cut to make space for planting smaller saplings in several locations, the NGO also claimed that key documents, including Stage-II clearance, are not reflected on official platforms, while survival rates have been overstated. Vanshakti NGO alleges government is misleading the court Raising serious allegations, Vanashakti has accused concerned government departments of misleading the court and said it would initiate contempt of court and perjury proceedings if corrective steps are not taken within 48 hours. The NGO has urged authorities to immediately stop any further mangrove cutting for the project, revisit the entire plan, and place the “true facts” before the court before proceeding further.
17 March,2026 09:29 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavChief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has said that the Maharashtra government will announce financial assistance for mango and cashew orchard owners in the Konkan region who have suffered heavy losses due to the dropping of blossoms. He assured that the relief package will be declared in the assembly before the current session concludes. Mango and cashew are key crops and an important part of Konkan’s identity. Unseasonal conditions have caused large-scale damage this year, affecting farmers’ livelihoods. The chief minister stated that the government recognises the seriousness of the situation and is committed to supporting affected growers. A high-level meeting on the issue was held at the Vidhan Bhavan, attended by several ministers, public representatives from Konkan, and senior officials. Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar, former Union Minister Narayan Rane, Industries Minister Uday Samant, Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne, Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane, Rural Employment Guarantee and Horticulture Minister Bharat Gogawale, Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare, Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam, MP Sunil Tatkare, and MLAs Pravin Darekar, Deepak Kesarkar, Bhaskar Jadhav, Mahendra Dalvi, Nilesh Rane, Rajendra Gavit, Prasad Lad, Kiran Samant, Dnyaneshwar Mhatre, along with Principal Secretary of the Relief and Rehabilitation Department Vinita Ved Singhal, were present at the meeting. Vice-Chancellor Sanjay Bhave of Konkan Agricultural University also participated via video conferencing. Chief Minister Fadnavis said that the available information indicates the severity of the losses. In such situations, the government will review how assistance was provided in similar cases in the past and will extend support after considering all aspects. Opinions of both Deputy Chief Ministers, the Horticulture and Agriculture Ministers, and public representatives from Konkan will be taken into account. Additional Chief Secretary of the Agriculture Department, Vikas Chandra Rastogi, made a detailed presentation during the meeting, while Konkan representatives strongly urged the government to provide immediate relief to affected farmers. Senior officials from the concerned departments were also present along with Konkan representatives. Maharashtra power surplus, ready for rising industrial and data centre demand: CM Devendra Fadnavis Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said the state has emerged as a power-surplus region and is fully prepared to meet the growing electricity demand driven by industrial expansion and the rapid growth of data centres, reported news agency PTI. Responding to a discussion during Question Hour in the Assembly, Fadnavis emphasised that the government is focused on ensuring reliable, affordable and sustainable power supply while maintaining tariff stability.
17 March,2026 08:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on Tuesday passed a Bill to repeal 80 obsolete Acts and laws, in a move aimed at improving governance and streamlining administrative processes. The Maharashtra Repealing Bill, 2026 (Assembly Bill No. 17), was introduced by General Administration Minister Ashish Shelar and cleared by the House after a detailed discussion. Presenting the government’s position, Shelar said several laws had become redundant due to constitutional changes, reorganisation of states, and the enactment of new legislation over the years. He noted that retaining such outdated provisions was creating ambiguity in governance. To address this, the state government undertook a comprehensive review of existing laws and identified those no longer in use for repeal. These include Acts and regulations from the Bombay, Bengal, Central Provinces and Berar, Hyderabad, and Madhya Pradesh regions. Of the 80 laws repealed, 24 are Bombay Acts, 8 from Central Provinces and Berar, 18 from Hyderabad, 3 from Madhya Pradesh, and 24 Appropriation Acts. The list of repealed legislations includes several outdated laws such as the Bengal Alluvion and Diluvion Regulation, 1825; the Acknowledgements of Debts, Interest, Mortgages Regulation, 1827; the Broach and Kaira Encumbered Estates Act, 1877; the Bombay Abkari Act, 1878; the Borstal Schools Act, 1929; the Maharashtra Opium Smoking Act; the Bombay Fodder and Grain Control Act, 1939; and the Bombay Cotton Control Act, 1942. Notably, the Bombay Abolition of Whipping Act, 1957, which had already lost relevance, has also been repealed as part of the exercise. Officials said the move is expected to simplify the legal framework, reduce redundancy, and enhance administrative efficiency in the state. Maharashtra Assembly passes Freedom of Religion Bill The Legislative Assembly passed the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion (Dharma Swatantrya Adhiniyam), 2026 Bill on Monday. Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis told legislators the proposed law is not directed at any religion but is meant to curb forced or fraudulent conversions and maintain social harmony. The Bill, introduced in the Assembly last week, proposes strict penalties, advance declaration rules and regulatory oversight for religious conversions, with the government arguing that the legislation is necessary to prevent conversions through force, fraud, inducement or marriage. However, the debate also exposed sharp divisions within the opposition alliance, with some legislators backing the law and others questioning its intent.
17 March,2026 08:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has intensified its drive to recover pending water dues, collecting Rs 14.88 crore within just 16 days in March, officials said on Tuesday. According to the civic body, a total of Rs 14,88,02,133 was recovered by the water supply department between March 1 and March 16 as part of a special drive. The corporation is currently offering a 100 per cent waiver on interest, penalties and administrative charges on outstanding water bills. The scheme will remain in force till March 31. Authorities have warned that stricter action will be initiated against defaulters from April 1. Mayor Sharmila Pimpleolkar and Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao have urged residents to take advantage of the waiver scheme and clear their dues promptly. Thane civic body cracks down on water bill defaulters As part of enforcement measures, the civic body has disconnected 533 water connections across various wards. In addition, 28 pumps have been seized, 14 pump rooms sealed, and notices issued to 717 defaulters. The highest recovery was recorded in the Majiwada-Manpada ward at Rs 4.36 crore, followed by Kalwa (Rs 1.74 crore), Vartaknagar (Rs 1.69 crore), and Naupada-Kopri (Rs 1.69 crore). Other contributions came from Uthalsar, Diva, Lokmanya-Savarkar Nagar, Mumbra, and Wagle Estate wards. An additional Rs 33.91 lakh was collected through civic facilitation centres and other channels. Officials said the recovery drive will continue in the coming weeks, urging residents to pay their water bills on time to avoid punitive action.
17 March,2026 07:51 PM IST | MumbaiThe Maharashtra government on Tuesday ordered a vigilance audit after a BJP MLA alleged a Rs 2,000 crore scam in housing schemes in Mumbai. As reported by news agency PTI, the report of the audit is expected within 30 days, Minister of State for Urban Development Madhuri Misal told the legislative assembly. Madhuri Misal further stated that action would be taken against officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) if they are found to have ignored violations of rules by developers, as per PTI. Mihir Kotecha, BJP MLA from Mulund, raised the issue through a calling-attention motion. He said, “Developers have misused provisions under Development Control Regulations (DCR) 33(11) and 33(20)(b), meant for in-situ Permanent Transit Camp (PTC) and Project Affected Persons (PAP) housing,” as per PTI. BJP MLA alleges Rs 2000 crore housing scam In-situ PTC housing was shown in approved plans, but instead the developers constructed and sold commercial units and high-end residential flats, he claimed, adding that transactions worth over Rs 100 crore had taken place in Mulund alone and the total scale of the scam across Mumbai was more than Rs 2,000 crore, reported PTI. Minister Misal admitted that certain irregularities had come to light, and some developers had failed to hand over mandatory housing stock to authorities despite availing additional Floor Space Index (FSI) benefits. She further added, "Stop-work notices have already been issued in some cases. If it is found that sales took place and BMC officials ignored them, strict action will be taken," as cited by PTI. Misal also said that the government is reviewing policies related to the relocation of slum dwellers, particularly the cases where beneficiaries are shifted beyond the stipulated five-km radius from project sites. However, she also added that "a final decision on policy changes will be taken after consultations", as cited by PTI. Maharashtra registered 2,163 investment-related cybercrimes A total of 2,163 cybercrimes linked to investment scams were recorded in Maharashtra last year, and 455 people were arrested in connection with the cases, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis told the state assembly on Tuesday. CM Fadnavis, who also oversees the home department, said the state has enhanced measures to combat cyber fraud, focusing on protecting vulnerable groups including women, children, and senior citizens, reported PTI. “The Maharashtra Cyber Security Project has been implemented with advanced technology and skilled manpower, with headquarters at Mahape in Navi Mumbai,” he noted in a written reply to a question by Congress MLA Aslam Shaikh.
17 March,2026 07:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe upcoming Bullet Train stations along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor are being developed with a focus on seamless connectivity, as authorities push to integrate them with existing urban transport systems. Multi-modal integration to improve last-mile connectivity Officials said Multi-Modal Integration (MMI) facilities and station plazas are being planned to ensure smooth passenger movement between high-speed rail and local transport options. The aim is to create efficient transit hubs that connect the Bullet Train network with buses, taxis, private vehicles and intermediate public transport. The initiative is expected to significantly improve last-mile connectivity, a key challenge in urban transport systems, by enabling commuters to switch between different modes of travel without inconvenience. The station areas are being designed to support safe and organised passenger flow while reducing congestion around entry and exit points. Station plazas to double as urban public spaces The station plazas are being conceptualised as well-planned public spaces rather than just transit points. These areas will include dedicated parking zones, pick-up and drop-off points, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and improved streetscaping. In addition, facilities such as modern street lighting, signage systems, CCTV surveillance, landscaping and plantation are being incorporated to enhance commuter safety and overall experience. Public amenities and fire safety systems are also part of the design plan, indicating a broader push towards passenger-centric infrastructure. Contracts awarded for multiple stations The National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), which is implementing the project, has awarded contracts for MMI and station area development at several stations in Gujarat, including Surat, Bilimora, Vapi, Bharuch, Anand and Vadodara. This marks a significant step in the execution of integrated infrastructure around Bullet Train stations, with multiple sites now witnessing parallel development. Construction progress across stations Work on key stations is at varying stages of completion. At Surat, the structural framework and roof sheeting have been completed, with finishing works such as ceiling installation, cladding and flooring currently underway. Track work is also in progress. Bilimora station has completed slab casting at rail and platform levels, along with structural steel erection. Architectural finishing and mechanical, electrical and plumbing works are ongoing. At Anand, major structural work, including slab casting and roof construction, has been completed. Installation of lifts and escalators is done, while facade cladding is currently underway. Vadodara station has completed slab casting at concourse and track levels, with platform-level work and steel erection still in progress. In Bharuch, structural and slab work has been completed, and finishing activities are ongoing. Similarly, Vapi station has completed slab casting and steel erection, with electrical works currently in progress.
17 March,2026 06:38 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarAn adult female golden jackal was rescued after falling into a 15-foot-deep open well in Khadkumbe village, Maharashtra, on Monday. Jackal was rescued in a joint rescue effort by the Maharashtra Forest Department and the Wildlife SOS rescue team at Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre (MLRC). The distressed jackal was first spotted by local villagers, who promptly alerted the forest department authorities. The Maharashtra Forest Department immediately contacted the Wildlife SOS team at the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre (MLRC), and a rescue team was mobilised to the site without delay. Upon arrival, the team assessed the situation and devised a careful extraction plan to ensure the mammal’s safety while minimising stress. Jackal rescued after 1.5-hour long rescue operation With coordinated efforts, the jackal was successfully guided into a secure rescue setup and gently lifted out of the well. The rescue was carried out with precision in a 1.5-hour-long operation, ensuring that the jackal remained unharmed throughout the process. Following the rescue, the jackal, who is said to be 3-4 years old, was examined on-site by the veterinary team and was found to be in stable condition with no visible injuries. According to the official's statement, given her health, the jackal was released back into her natural habitat in a nearby safe location on the same day. Jackal after being rescued, was released back in the jungle (Pic/Wildlife SOS) Open well conservation by SOS Wildlife Open well continue to pose a serious and often overlooked threat to wildlife across rural landscapes in Maharashtra. Recognising this persistent danger, Wildlife SOS, in collaboration with the Maharashtra Forest Department. The organisation has been working to mitigate such risks through its well-covered initiative. Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO, Wildlife SOS, informed, “Our Open Well Conservation project is a proactive step towards reducing the risks posed by habitat fragmentation. Following this rescue, the open well in Khadkumbe village was also covered, bringing the total number of wells covered under this initiative to 31.” Dr Avinash Visalkar, Veterinary Officer, Wildlife SOS, asserted, “Incidents like these highlight how vulnerable wild animals are to human-made hazards such as open wells. Fortunately, this jackal was rescued in time and did not sustain any injuries. Immediate response and coordination played a crucial role in ensuring her safe return to the wild.” Moreover, Smita Rajhans, Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF), Junnar Forest Division, added, hailing the collaborative efforts of SOS Wildlife and the Maharashtra Forest Department, “We appreciate the swift response from Wildlife SOS in assisting the Junnar Forest Division to respond to wildlife emergencies. Covering open wells is a critical step towards preventing such incidents, and we urge local people to remain vigilant and report distressed animals promptly.”
17 March,2026 06:34 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavMaharashtra Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal on Tuesday assured the Legislative Assembly that there is no shortage of LPG, petrol or diesel in the state, stating that adequate stocks are available and proactive measures are being taken to prevent black marketing and ensure smooth distribution. Govt assures adequate fuel supply Addressing the House, Bhujbal said the state has sufficient reserves of petroleum products despite global supply disruptions. He noted that domestic LPG production has been increased from 9,000 metric tonnes to 11,000 metric tonnes per day to maintain steady availability. He also clarified that petrol and diesel stocks remain stable, with no change in retail prices across Maharashtra. Impact of global tensions on LPG prices The minister acknowledged that geopolitical tensions in West Asia have impacted supply chains, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for India’s LPG imports. As a result, domestic LPG cylinder prices have increased by Rs 60 to Rs 912.50, while commercial cylinder rates have risen by Rs 114.50 to Rs 1,835 from March 7. However, Bhujbal reiterated that pricing decisions for petroleum products are under the jurisdiction of the central government. Priority supply for essential services To ensure uninterrupted functioning of critical sectors, the state has prioritised the allocation of commercial LPG cylinders for essential services such as hospitals, educational institutions and public utilities. He added that under the Mukhyamantri Annapurna Yojana, around 75 lakh beneficiaries in the state continue to receive three free LPG refills annually. Crackdown on black marketing and illegal use The minister said the government has intensified enforcement under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, to curb black marketing and misuse of domestic LPG. Between January and March this year, authorities conducted 2,129 inspections across 21 districts, resulting in the seizure of over 1,208 cylinders. A total of 23 cases have been registered and 18 individuals arrested in connection with illegal activities. Monitoring mechanisms and helpline introduced Bhujbal said district-level vigilance teams and special monitoring committees have been set up to track supply and address bottlenecks. Control rooms have also been activated at both state and district levels. A dedicated WhatsApp helpline (9769919221) has been launched to allow citizens to report grievances and irregularities related to LPG supply. He added that daily stock reporting has been made mandatory, and regular review meetings are being held with oil marketing companies and distributors to ensure transparency. Measures to ensure smooth distribution The state has also provided police protection to personnel involved in LPG transportation and distribution to prevent disruptions. Strict action will be taken against the spread of misinformation on social media, Bhujbal said. In addition, the government is exploring alternative fuel options, including kerosene, particularly for rural areas, in case of any supply disruptions. Govt monitoring global supply situation The minister noted that recent disruptions in global oil supply, including reduced production by some Gulf countries and logistical challenges, have temporarily slowed imports of crude oil and petroleum products. Despite these challenges, he said the government has taken timely steps to ensure that Maharashtra continues to have adequate availability of LPG and other fuels, while maintaining transparency and preventing irregularities in distribution.
17 March,2026 06:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAmid the rising tensions in West Asia, senior transport leader Bal Malkit Singh has cautioned that the ongoing geopolitical developments could adversely impact India’s economy, particularly the road transport and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sectors, and urged the Centre to take proactive measures. Singh flagged the risk of a potential “energy war” that could disrupt supplies of crude oil, gas and related products, noting that early signs of strain are already visible across industries. He said rising input costs, reduced production and operational challenges are beginning to affect factories, small businesses and trading establishments. The road transport sector, a key pillar of India’s supply chain, is already witnessing a slowdown in movement due to declining industrial output. In some segments, vehicle movement has reportedly dropped by up to 50 per cent, with concerns that it could fall further to 70–80 per cent if the situation persists. He also pointed to increasing costs of tyres, fuel, lubricants and essential inputs, along with rising expenses at highway eateries, which are impacting the driver community. Reduced work opportunities could also trigger migration among drivers, he warned. According to Singh, the cascading impact of these developments could raise production costs, put additional pressure on MSMEs and lead to an increase in the overall cost of living. “The current geo-political developments are an early warning signal for our economy. The road transport sector, being the lifeline of trade and commerce, is already experiencing stress due to reduced movement and rising operational costs. If timely interventions are not considered, the situation could escalate significantly in the coming weeks,” he said. West Asia conflict: 'Govt must consider relief measures such as deferment of EMIs' He urged the government to consider relief measures such as deferment of EMIs, soft loan schemes and tax relaxations to support transporters and MSMEs, ensuring business continuity and economic stability. While expressing confidence in the leadership of Narendra Modi in handling emerging challenges, Singh emphasised the need for timely policy support to mitigate disruptions on the ground. He added that the industry remains committed to supporting national interests and maintaining supply chain continuity, provided adequate policy backing is extended during the ongoing crisis.
17 March,2026 06:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
