The city and its suburbs are likely to witness mainly clear skies on Thursday, with temperatures expected to hover around 34 degrees Celsius (maximum) and 24 degrees Celsius (minimum), according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). AQI across Mumbai Air quality in Mumbai remained in the ‘satisfactory’ category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 63, as per the Central Pollution Control Board’s Sameer App. At this level, minor breathing discomfort may be experienced by sensitive individuals. Across the city, AQI levels varied: Deonar (119) recorded the highest pollution levels, followed by Bandra Kurla Complex (90), Andheri East (89) and Borivali East (82). Relatively cleaner air was reported in Colaba (63), Chembur (56) and Byculla (52). AQI in MMR In the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Thane (80), Navi Mumbai (70) and Kalyan (58) also reported air quality in the satisfactory range. Overall, weather conditions are expected to remain stable with no major fluctuations, while air quality is likely to stay within the satisfactory bracket. Maharashtra weather update: Dry conditions persist, temperatures hover above normal in parts Maharashtra continued to witness largely dry weather on Thursday, with several regions recording above-normal maximum temperatures, according to the IMD's latest morning update at 8.30 am. Interior districts such as Sholapur (38.1 degrees Celsius), Jeur (37.5 degrees Celsius), Parbhani and Sangli (37.3 degrees Celsius each) emerged among the hottest locations, indicating a steady rise in daytime temperatures across central and southern parts of the state. Temperatures in coastal areas Coastal areas remained relatively moderate, with Mumbai recording 33.6 degrees Celsius at Colaba and 33.0 degrees Celsius at Santacruz, close to normal levels. Dahanu and Ratnagiri also saw milder conditions compared to interior regions. Night temperatures stayed comfortable in most places, ranging between 20 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius. Cooler conditions were observed in hill stations like Mahabaleshwar (17.2 degrees Celsius), while cities like Pune division and Marathwada recorded minimum temperatures slightly below normal. Humidity levels across Maharashtra Humidity levels remained high along the coast, particularly in Dahanu (78 per cent) and Mumbai (around 70–76 per cent) in the morning hours, while interior regions experienced comparatively drier conditions by evening. Overall, the state is expected to continue with dry weather, with no significant rainfall activity indicated and temperatures likely to remain steady or rise slightly in the coming days.
09 April,2026 09:32 AM IST | MumbaiA stretch of Dadar beach that had been used as a construction storage site for over three months was cleared by Wednesday afternoon following mid-day reports highlighting the issue. Residents and contractor staff confirmed that the beach was cleared around 4 pm, with steel bars, reinforcement rods, pipes, welding gas cylinders, metal benders, and noisy cutting machines removed from the site. Residents expressed relief that the public space is accessible again. A stretch of Dadar beach used as a construction storage site, with steel bars, pipes and noisy machinery dumped for months. File pic/Ashish Raje The action followed reports published in this newspaper earlier this week. A follow-up report also highlighted concerns raised by environmentalists over alleged violations in the CRZ-1B (intertidal coastal regulation zone) area. What was found on the beach >>Steel bars and reinforcement rods>>Pipes and noisy machinery>>Welding gas cylinders>>Metal benders and cutters Construction materials, including reinforcement rods and gas cylinders, occupy beach in a CRZ-1B area. Pic/Ashish Raje Timeline Over 3 months: Beach used as a construction storage siteTuesday: First report highlights misuseWednesday: Follow-up raises CRZ violation concernsWednesday: Materials cleared by afternoon Dadar beach stretch cleared of all construction materials on Wednesday following reports highlighting the misuse. Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi Residents raise questions on accountability While welcoming clearance, residents questioned how the situation was allowed to continue for months without intervention. Rahul Nadkarni, a Dadar resident‘Someone from BMC has to oversee what contractors are doing. Regular site visits must be part of that process. What repercussions do contractors or officials face? When would barricades be reinstated to prevent vehicles from accessing the beach?’ Vaibhav Rege, secretary of Shivaji Park ALM,‘Open spaces must be used appropriately. For five to six months, construction materials were dumped here. After residents intervened and wrote to the authorities, the issue was highlighted, and action was taken. Our message is that citizens must take initiative to protect public spaces’ Nishant Gala, a Dadar resident‘Thanks to the clearance, a space meant for the public has been restored. Only after residents raised their voices and the media highlighted the issue was action taken. Many mishaps have now been avoided’ Supriya Junnarkar, a Shivaji Park resident,‘It is a respite for those who regularly visit the beach that the construction materials have finally been removed after nearly four to five months’
09 April,2026 09:32 AM IST | Mumbai | Sarthak MehtaIn a sharp turn of events, the BEST committee on Tuesday took up the issue of three rotting double-decker buses lying under the JJ flyover, previously highlighted by mid-day, and suggested bringing them back on the roads via heritage routes. The discussion comes at a symbolic time, as BEST marks 100 years of bus operations in Mumbai. What triggered the move Raising a point of order, BEST committee member Ajay Singh called out the condition of the buses:“I visited the area and found that these buses are just standing there without any purpose and getting damaged and ruined. The area has become a hub of druggies and unsafe. It is all giving a bad name to the BEST undertaking,” Singh said. Iconic BEST double-decker parked near JJ Junction. Pics/Sayyed Sameer Abedi He proposed reviving them: “I suggest that we take back these buses and put them in operation. We can take special permission and run them on heritage routes where these buses can be easily operated.” BEST chairperson Trushna Vishwasrao accepted the suggestion and directed the administration to examine the proposal and respond. Funding push Demand to BMC: Rs 4000 crorePurpose: >> Clear pending gratuity dues>> Support operational expansion“We have requested a one-time fund to pull BEST out of financial peril,” Sethi said. Recruitment restarts After a long pause, BEST has resumed hiring to stabilise operations.Officials say a “studied approach” is being adopted for long-term recovery. Existing fleet stays >> Own buses: 249>> Operational life left: ~7 years“The fleet will not decline further now; only additions will happen,” an official said. The financial reality Accumulated losses: Rs 9500 croreMonthly BMC support: Rs 100 croreBEST continues to rely heavily on subsidies and loans to function. BEST General Manager Sonia Sethi The backstory: From ‘beautification’ to a pile of junk Year introduced: 2021 beautification projectNumber of buses: 3 double-deckersOriginal depot: MarolStatus: Retired after 15 years of service The buses were redesigned as: >> Cafeteria>> Library>> Art galleryThey were placed in BMC’s B ward (Kalbadevi, Masjid Bunder, Bhendi Bazaar areas). But residents say the plan has failed: >> Buses lie unused>> Structures deteriorating>> Area turning unsafe Voices Ramniraj Dubey, Activist‘Finally, some momentum at BEST. A bigger fleet and fresh hiring could mean shorter waits and less overcrowding. If funding flows on time, this could be the turnaround Mumbai has been waiting for’ Dhiraj Singh, Bus enthusiast‘Good news on paper, but execution is everything. Will the 2500 buses actually hit the roads on schedule? And can BEST sustain operations without slipping back into losses?’ Gautam Shirke, Commuter‘After years of decline, BEST finally shows signs of life. Restarting recruitment is a big signal. A stronger workforce means better service, but training and retention will decide if this revival sticks’ Shubham Padave, Bus fan‘Old diesel powered double-decker buses were roaring lions on the streets of Mumbai. Recently, Keralam revived their vintage bus as a part of heritage, referring to which BEST should also make all six double-decker buses (3 from JJ Flyover + 3 from scrapyard) operational on the streets of Mumbai for tourism purposes by getting special permissions from the Transport Department of Maharashtra’ Revival begins at BEST After years of decline, the undertaking is showing signs of recovery:Fleet expansion planCurrent fleet: 2500 busesTarget (short term): 5000Long-term goal: 7000“For FY 2026-27, deliveries under the PM e-Drive scheme are projected at 2200-2500 buses,” BEST General Manager Sonia Sethi said. “Realistically, over 2000 buses are expected by year-end,” she added. The cost Total spent: Rs 69.23 lakhCurrent value: Effectively junkResidents have demanded their removal, calling them a “nuisance”
09 April,2026 09:28 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarAlong Mumbai’s busy coastline lies a world that often goes unnoticed. Between the tides, marine life quietly thrives, crabs scuttle, anemones bloom from the sand, and starfish leave patterns behind. Despite pollution, plastic waste, and constant human activity, these species continue to survive, adapting to an increasingly hostile environment. Biologist Dr Abhishek Nandkishor Neelam Satam has documented this hidden ecosystem through photographs captured along Mumbai’s shores. Marine life is most visible during low tide, typically in the early morning or late evening. Key locations include Bandra Bandstand rocky shore, Haji Ali, Carter Road, Priyadarshini Park, and Juhu. Species along Mumbai’s coast Porcelain crabs Porcelain crabs, small and delicate in appearance, are among these survivors. When threatened, they can shed their limbs to escape predators and regenerate them later through moulting. Despite their name, they are not true crabs. They belong to a group called Anomurans, or “false crabs”, shaped by an evolutionary process known as carcinisation. They have only three pairs of walking legs, with a reduced fourth pair tucked near the body. Did you know?Porcelain crabs can drop their limbs to escape danger and grow them back later. Where to spot marine life >> Bandra Bandstand rocky shore>> Haji Ali>> Carter Road>> Priyadarshini Park>> JuhuBest time: Early morning or late evening during low tide Zoanthids This image, captured near Priyadarshini Park at night, shows glowing zoanthids against the city’s skyline, highlighting the contrast between urban life and marine ecosystems. Through beach walks and photography, Satam aims to raise awareness about this fragile yet resilient ecosystem. Did you know?These small, flower-like animals grow in colonies on rocks. Feather duster worms (Sabellidae) These marine worms build tube-like structures using sand and shell fragments. Their feathery appendages extend outward to capture food particles from the water. The image captures feather duster worms alongside zoanthids, showcasing the coexistence of multiple species in polluted coastal zones. Despite increasing sewage and plastic waste, such marine habitats continue to survive. Did you know?These worms live in tubes and use feather-like structures to feed. Gastropod (Spiral melongena) During one marine walk, participants witnessed a rare moment — a gastropod laying eggs along the shore. The sight highlights how extraordinary marine life exists alongside the city, often unnoticed. Did you know?This sea snail lays visible egg clusters along the shore. Starfish A starfish moving across the sand creates natural patterns, turning the shoreline into a living canvas. These slow-moving creatures are known for their ability to regenerate lost limbs. Did you know?Some starfish can regrow their arms if damaged. Sponges Sponges growing along the coast resemble vertical structures, drawing comparisons to the city’s skyline. Though sensitive and typically found in clean water, these organisms have adapted to survive in polluted conditions. Did you know?Sponges are animals that soak in water and filter out food to survive. White beauty sea slug (Goniobranchus trimarginatus) This striking sea slug, first described from Mumbai, is considered rare and is usually seen between March and May. Spotting it outside this period, especially in winter, makes the sighting unusual and significant. Did you know?This colourful sea slug appears only during specific times of the year. Pearly sand anemone On the sandy stretch of Girgaon Chowpatty, the pearly sand anemone survives beneath the surface. About the size of a palm, it buries its body in the sand, with only its flower-like tentacles visible. It is often called the “carrot anemone” due to its shape. Did you know?This soft-bodied animal hides in the sand, exposing only its tentacles.
09 April,2026 09:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavWhile Mumbai’s air quality index (AQI) has, on average, remained in the satisfactory category over the past two weeks — with three days recording ‘good’ air quality — experts warn that constant fluctuations since the beginning of the year are quietly impacting public health. Medical experts say this variability is reshaping how the body responds to the environment. No longer limited to respiratory allergies, erratic AQI is now being linked to a broader range of conditions that often go unnoticed or are misdiagnosed. From inflamed skin and irritated eyes to sudden breathing difficulties, the body’s defence system is increasingly under stress. Experts attribute this to the constant shift between ‘moderate’, ‘satisfactory’ and ‘good’ air days, exposing people to varying pollutant levels and making the immune system more reactive and unpredictable. Respiratory impact: Where it begins Dr Sajid Shaikh, consultant ENT specialist at Saifee Hospital ‘The very first mechanism of the body that gets affected with environmental change is the respiratory tract. While asthma and bronchitis are commonly discussed, people often overlook allergic rhinitis. That is where it begins. If not treated in time, it can lead to more serious conditions like asthma’ Dr Ankit Jain, ENT specialist at Apollo Spectra ‘Like the mind, the body adapts to a routine. When it is forced to adjust to changing AQI levels daily, it becomes exhausted. One day the lungs function easily, the next day they struggle. This constant uneven expansion and contraction puts pressure on the lungs’ Eye impact: Why symptoms are confusing “Eyes are highly reactive to environmental changes,” said Dr Sunil Morekar, ophthalmologist at Lilavati Hospital. “When AQI fluctuates, dryness of mucus and changes in blood flow cause the eyes to become dry. Ironically, this leads to excessive watering, which confuses patients.” He added that reduced nasal mucus affects the eye’s ability to retain moisture, making them more vulnerable to allergens. Frequent touching or rubbing further increases the risk of infection. Skin impact: The invisible damage “Over the years, I have seen more patients with skin problems such as sensitivity, rashes and itching. Many also experience flare-ups of eczema despite no change in skincare routine,” said Dr Sonali Kohli, senior consultant, dermatology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital. “The common factor is fluctuating AQI. The skin acts as a protective barrier, but frequent changes do not allow it to adjust. Pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide remain on the skin longer, triggering allergies.” Explained: How pollution affects the skin >> Oxidative stress: Free radicals damage skin cells and collagen>> Inflammation: Causes redness, itching and irritation>> Barrier dysfunction: Leads to moisture loss, dryness and sensitivityWhen the skin barrier weakens, allergens can penetrate more easily. This often results in reactions to products that were previously well tolerated. Common symptoms >> Sudden itching or burning sensations>> Red patches on the skin>> Increased sensitivity>> Breakouts or congestion Eye care Dos and don’ts >> Wear protective glasses outdoors>> Avoid rubbing eyes; rinse with clean water instead>> Do not ignore persistent watering beyond a day>> Avoid touching eyes unnecessarily Skin care What to do >> Use a gentle cleanser to remove pollutants>> Apply a moisturiser with ceramides and fatty acids>> Use antioxidants such as vitamin C>> Avoid over-exfoliation>> Apply sunscreen daily Mumbai AQI trend (Jan 1 to April 8, 2026) (CPCB) 49 days: Moderate45 days: Satisfactory3 days: Good Know your AQI Good: 0-50 (Dark green)Satisfactory: 51-100 (Light green)Moderate: 101-200 (Yellow)Poor: 201-300 (Orange)Very poor: 301-400 (Red)Severe: 400+ (Dark red)
09 April,2026 09:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Ritika GondhalekarAmboli police have arrested a 31-year-old caretaker for allegedly sexually abusing two pet female dogs at a flat in Andheri West after deliberately changing the angle of CCTV cameras. The accused, identified as Ranjan Shah, had been hired temporarily by the pet owner while their regular worker was on leave. The complainant, who has owned the dogs for three years, was in Delhi when the incident occurred. CCTV clue Around midnight on April 7, the owner checked the house CCTV feed and noticed the camera angle in the hall had been altered. Suspicion grew after observing the unusual behaviour of the dogs. A neighbour, along with a woman known to the complainant and the owner’s fiancé, rushed to the flat. Confession and case “When confronted, the accused initially gave evasive replies, claiming he was merely playing with the dogs. However, upon further questioning, he allegedly confessed to touching the smaller dog’s private parts with his finger and sexually assaulting the bigger dog,” a police officer said. The accused has been booked under Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. “He has been taken into custody, and further investigation is underway,” police said.
09 April,2026 09:19 AM IST | Mumbai | Dinesh VaktaniaMumbai Police have said no action can be taken against filmmaker Rohit Shetty over the alleged use of a ‘police’ sticker and beacon lights on a private vehicle, as no such violations were found during inspection and photographs alone are insufficient for enforcement, according to the RTI activist Anil Galgali. Galgali, who filed a complaint with the commissioner of police and the joint commissioner of traffic, citing mid-day’s report, had sought strict action against Shetty for allegedly using symbols reserved for authorised government vehicles. Galgali said, according to the police response, Shetty’s vehicles were inspected, but no police stickers, nameplates or dome lights were found at the time. Officials also cited court guidelines stating that vehicles cannot be fined solely on the basis of photographic evidence. Activist questions police stand Galgali questioned the response, arguing that the alleged misuse was removed only after it came to light. “Strict action must be taken against individuals misusing police, government or official beacon lights and boards. After being exposed, the unauthorised board was immediately removed. Such misuse should not be tolerated, and strict vigilance is necessary,” he said. He added that public participation is key to enforcement. “Citizens should actively report misuse of police or government boards, beacon lights and traffic violations through platforms like X. Together, we can ensure accountability and safer roads,” Galgali said. Case study: Similar offence booked A recent case in Mumbai saw police register an FIR for misuse of an MLA identification sticker on a private vehicle.>> Date: January 27, 2026>> Police station: Samta Nagar>> Sections invoked: Section 205, BNS According to police sources, a private individual was booked after affixing an MLA sticker and state emblem on a private vehicle in Kandivli East. The vehicle falsely displayed identification reserved for elected representatives, potentially misleading the public. No response from police This newspaper contacted Joint Commissioner of Traffic Anil Kumbhare to confirm whether any action has been taken against Shetty, but no response was received till press time. What the law says Legal experts said such actions could attract criminal as well as traffic violations, depending on intent. Abha Singh, Advocate‘Affixing a ‘police’ sticker on a private vehicle could invite prosecution under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.Such conduct can attract Section 204, which deals with personating a public servant and carries a punishment of six months to three years’ imprisonment along with a fine. It may also invite Section 205, which provides for punishment up to three months’ imprisonment or a fine. The act also violates the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988’Arvind Tiwari, Advocate‘Under Section 177, unauthorised use of restricted markings attracts monetary penalties. However, the applicability of criminal provisions depends on intent to mislead or derive unlawful benefit. As per electronic evidence norms, photographic evidence is credible. Offences can be registered based on images submitted through citizen portals such as the MTP app, WhatsApp or official email channels’
09 April,2026 09:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Samiullah KhanDo it for the reels Youngsters create videos at Marine Drive Promenade Twenty, and growing taller Readers at the bookstore In a city that rarely pauses, a children’s book space in Prabhadevi quietly marked two decades. Co-founder Sangeeta Bhansali reflected as Kahaani Tree turned 20 on April 4. “This was something so out-of-the-blue. Back when I started in 2006, there were hardly any dedicated literature spaces or bookstores around town, especially for kids. Messages of appreciation and notes displayed by regulars during the celebration. Pics courtesy/Kahani Tree Even in the ever-growing digital space, we don’t see many bookstores that are only for children. To my surprise, the space was full of illustrators, authors, library educators, and publishers like Deepa Balsavar, Richa Jha, Tanvi Bhat, Lubaina Bandukwala.” Many of the children who once sat cross-legged when the store first opened have since returned, only taller and older now, she reminisced. Meet the young notaphilist Early notes after the Independence (right) a 1874 silver coin by the British East India Company. Pics courtesy/Ved Singh Ved Singh, a 22-year-old MBBS student from Pune has a unique passion as a collector. For him, it is currency, specifically, notes and coins spanning from the East India Company era to early issues of Independent India. “I’ve always been fascinated by travel, photography, and world cultures. My passion for collecting banknotes began in childhood when my mother gifted me my first currency album. That moment sparked something within that has never faded. Till now, I have collected banknotes from 195 countries, plus several territories and unrecognised nations; I have over 3000 unique notes in total,” revealed Singh. Like father, like son Sukant Deepak. Pic courtesy/Yasmin Hussain Culture writer and translator Sukant Deepak has been awarded the Karan Singh Foundation Fellowship for Translation. His next project will be a translation of select stories by his father, Swadesh Deepak — a pioneering Hindi writer who explored anxiety and social insight through his works. Swadesh was also diagnosed with bipolar disorder. “Translating my father’s stories is both a tribute to his work and an effort to understand his world,” shared Sukant, who previously translated his father’s works for the anthology, A Bouquet of Dead Flowers (Speaking Tiger). Hit the right note Participants and attendees sing together on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities at the centre. Pics courtesy/Yash Charitable Trust Yash Charitable Trust will host its first karaoke night with a purpose on April 11 at its centre in Vile Parle inviting anyone in the city to take the mic for something more meaningful. “Open to all, and not just neurodivergent individuals, the event aims to create an inclusive space. Since this is the first time we are doing it, it is a free and open night to promote awareness and to spread more awareness regarding the topic,” said founder and managing trustee Sushama Nagarkar. Sushama Nagarkar Each participant gets about three minutes to sing, sway, or simply soak in the music. Café Arpan will keep the snack counter stocked with thoughtfully prepared treats. For more details check out @yashcharitabletrust.
09 April,2026 08:28 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayDo 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 9. Aries March 21 – April 20Soon you may be asked to deal with a safe project that isn’t risky. Someone may be hiding ill feelings towards you.Cosmic tip: Consciously and peacefully face facts if something isn’t working. TaurusApril 21 – May 20Ensure words carry clarity, so no point is misunderstood. Intuition and perception are strong today. Cosmic tip: Be prepared to deal with extra expenses. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Make sure all income-tax work is completed on time. A temporary dark cloud clears away by evening.Cosmic tip: Write thoughts and happenings of the day in a journal to understand emotions. Cancer June 22 – July 23This is a positive karmic cycle to introduce the person chosen to be a life partner to elders. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Dust and tidy up the bookcase; you may discover something important. Leo July 24 - Aug 23A holiday is planned. Atmosphere at home is happy due to changed circumstances. Unspoken thoughts and words can be troubling sometimes.Cosmic tip: Keep memory sharp by doing puzzles, reading. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23There are so many small jobs to complete at home which take longer than expected. Couples could strengthen their bond.Cosmic tip: Look forward to a completely new karmic cycle. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Living life in the moment with faith is the best way to go through normal ups and downs. Cosmic tip: Be careful who you confide in. A confidence trickster may create problems. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22A friend shares good news that includes you too. Fine-tune some marketing ideas before discussing them at a meeting. Do get enough sleep.Cosmic tip: Take time off too, to relax and just chill. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Stay away from flatterers who have an ulterior motive for being so sweet, drowning you in compliments. An ‘ex’ calls. Cosmic tip: Relax by meeting friends for dinner. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Receiving a job offer is fine, but consider it from all angles before making a decision. A sibling comes to spend some time with you and the extended family. Cosmic tip: Maintain a healthy diet. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Not carrying work pressures home helps keep vibes at home relaxed and peaceful. An increase in finances is revealed. Cosmic tip: Keep personal spaces clutter-free. Make time every week to do this. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Following through with a decision made against advice given is because you are so sure of what you are doing. Cosmic tip: Open yourself to the vast connection of universal love.
09 April,2026 02:39 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseA Level-I fire broke out in a residential high-rise at Royal Palms Estate in Goregaon (East) on Tuesday evening, prompting a swift response from emergency services. According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB), the incident was reported at 7:43 pm. The blaze occurred at Emerald No. 1, Unit No. 30, located on Aarey Road. Fire confined to upper floors, declared Level-I Officials said the fire was confined to flat no. 803 and partially affected flat no. 804 on the 8th floor of the stilt-plus-20-storey building. The blaze involved electric wiring and installations, wooden furniture, office records and files, PVC pipes, insulating materials, steel rods, and stock of scrap materials. Additionally, wooden doors, frames, and scrap materials in the adjacent flat were also impacted. The Mumbai Fire Brigade declared the incident as a Level-I fire at 8:09 pm, categorising it as a minor blaze. Firefighting teams, along with police personnel, ambulance services, and officials from the electricity department, were rushed to the spot. Fire brought under control; residents rescued As per the latest update recorded at 10:30 pm, the fire was successfully extinguished at 9:47 pm. During the operation, five persons were safely rescued by fire brigade personnel through the building’s staircase. Additionally, 22 residents — including 10 men, 8 women, 3 children, and a pet dog — were found safe in the refuge area on the 15th floor. No injuries reported No injuries were reported in the incident. Authorities are yet to ascertain the exact cause of the fire. Further investigation is underway, officials said. Fire breaks out at industrial estate in Andheri; no injuries In another incident, a fire broke out on March 27 at an industrial building located on Mahakali Caves Road in Andheri East, prompting a swift response from multiple emergency agencies. According to officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB), the incident was reported at approximately 4:41 pm at Nand Bhavan Industrial Estate. The Level-II fire was later upgraded to a Level-II emergency at 5:08 pm as thick smoke engulfed parts of the structure. Fire officials stated that the blaze was confined to the ground and first floors of the ground-plus-two (G+2) industrial building. Heavy smoke was observed billowing from the premises, raising concerns among nearby occupants and workers in the area.
08 April,2026 11:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a concerning incident reported near Nirmal Lifestyle in Mulund, a small Mugger crocodile measuring approximately 1.5 feet was found struggling in a sewage-filled nala under extremely poor conditions. Following a distress call from local residents, teams from the Wildlife Welfare Association, along with officials from the Forest Department, promptly reached the site and successfully rescued the reptile. Search operations underway amid fears of more sightings Residents in the area have expressed concerns that more crocodiles may be present nearby. In response, authorities have initiated search and monitoring operations in and around the locality to ensure the safety of both citizens and wildlife. Natural dispersal behaviour of Mugger crocodiles The Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) is known to be a territorial species. Wildlife experts note that younger crocodiles often disperse from their original habitats in search of new territories as population density increases. Such movement is considered a natural behavioural pattern. Urban water bodies remain key crocodile habitats Mumbai’s ecosystem continues to support a population of crocodiles, particularly in water bodies such as Tulsi, Vihar, and Powai lakes. Tulsi Lake falls within the protected limits of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, while Vihar and Powai lakes are closely integrated with the city’s urban landscape. Rising sightings over the past decade Over the last ten years, crocodile sightings in and around Mumbai have seen a noticeable increase. Experts attribute this trend to habitat expansion and connectivity through natural water channels, which sometimes extend into drainage systems. Notably, such movements are not restricted to the monsoon season and can also occur during dry periods, as crocodiles search for water, food, and suitable habitats. Authorities urge vigilance, caution citizens Crocodiles are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, making their conservation a top priority. Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and avoid approaching the animals if spotted. Residents are advised to immediately inform the Forest Department or local wildlife rescue teams in case of any sightings.
08 April,2026 11:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
