Samajwadi Party Maharashtra state president and legislator Abu Asim Azmi has highlighted the growing panic among hotel owners in the city due to the acute shortage of commercial liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders. Speaking to news agency IANS, Azmi stated that hoteliers contacted him in desperation, fearing immediate closures. “Yesterday hotel owners called me saying their hotel would have to shut today. I tried to help and managed to send them an extra cylinder through a relative. There is complete panic,” he said. Mumbai, Maharashtra: Samajwadi Party state president and MLA Abu Azmi on the LPG cylinder shortage said, “Yesterday hotel owners called me saying their hotel would have to shut today. I tried to help and managed to send them an extra cylinder through a relative. There is complete… pic.twitter.com/86DyPMLsYD — IANS (@ians_india) March 12, 2026 He further mentioned that his own household has ordered two electric stoves as a precautionary measure amid the uncertainty. Mumbai has been facing commercial LPG supply challenges, with hoteliers and restaurateurs reporting difficulties in procuring cylinders, leading to concerns over business continuity in the hospitality sector. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has clarified that there is no official ban on commercial LPG supply, though industry voices have noted reduced availability and disruptions potentially linked to global supply chain issues. No shortage of petrol, diesel, kerosene, ATF or fuel oil: Hardeep Puri tells Lok Sabha Meanwhile on Thursday, Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri informed the Lok Sabha that India is successfully navigating major disruptions in global energy supplies following the West Asia conflict. “India has sufficient gas production and supply arrangements to sustain this position even in the event of a prolonged conflict. Power generation for every household and for industry is fully protected,” Puri said. Opposition members sloganeered and protested against the minister’s remarks. The Union Minister noted that the conflict has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping. The route typically handles about 20 per cent of the world’s crude oil, natural gas and LPG supplies. Addressing the House, Puri said India’s crude supply remains secure even though about 45 per cent of the country’s imports earlier passed through the affected route, news agency ANI reported. He added that “Non-Hormuz sourcing has risen to approximately 70 per cent of crude imports, up from 55 per cent before the conflict began”. The minister attributed the stability to diversification of supply sources, noting that India now imports crude from 40 countries compared to 27 in 2006-07. He assured the House that “There is no shortage of petrol, diesel, kerosene, ATF or fuel oil. The availability of petrol, diesel, aviation turbine fuel, kerosene, and fuel oil is fully assured,” adding that refineries are operating at high capacity utilisation, at times “exceeding 100 per cent”. On natural gas supply, the government has implemented a prioritised allocation system under the Natural Gas Control Order issued on March 9. (With IANS and ANI inputs)
12 March,2026 07:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik on Thursday informed the state Legislative Assembly that the government will urgently seek permission from the wildlife department to pump out excess water from Lonar Lake, where rising water levels have submerged several historic temples and restricted access for devotees, reported news agency PTI. The issue was discussed in the Assembly after a calling attention motion was raised by Siddharth Kharat, who highlighted the difficulties faced by devotees and the delay in initiating pumping operations despite funds being sanctioned for the project. Water levels rise sharply after heavy rainfall Responding to the concerns, Naik said that unusually heavy rainfall in the region this year had activated several natural springs around the crater lake, causing the water level to rise significantly, reported PTI. According to the minister, the level of water in Lonar Lake has increased by nearly 20 to 25 feet, leading to the submergence of temple structures located along the lake’s periphery. As a result, devotees are currently unable to access many of the temples situated near the lake, which are considered important religious sites in the region. Six temples submerged due to rising lake water During the discussion, Kharat pointed out that at least six temples in the area have been submerged due to the rising water levels. These include the Gaymukh Temple, Ramgaya Temple, Paphreshwar Temple and the Kamla Ja Devi Temple. He said that although the government had sanctioned Rs 41 lakh for pumping out water from the lake to reduce the level, the work had not begun because of a lack of coordination between the wildlife department and the archaeology department, reported PTI. The legislator urged the state government to resolve the issue quickly so that devotees can regain access to the temples. Meeting scheduled to secure wildlife department approval Naik informed the Assembly that a meeting has been scheduled on Friday to obtain the necessary approval from the wildlife department to begin pumping out water from the lake, reported PTI. He said discussions will also be held with senior officials, including the divisional commissioner and the district collector, to ensure that the process is expedited and the water removal work begins as soon as possible. The minister added that the government is closely monitoring the condition of the lake, noting that its water has turned pink and is naturally saline in character, reported PTI. Major funds allocated for Lonar Lake development Naik further told the House that the state government has allocated ₹434 crore for development works in the Lonar Lake region. Out of this amount, approximately Rs 168 crore has already been spent on various infrastructure and conservation-related initiatives in the area. During the discussion, Kharat also raised concerns about the absence of elected representatives in the committee responsible for the conservation and management of Lonar Lake. He urged the government to ensure that public representatives are included in the decision-making process related to the protection and development of the historic crater lake site. (With inputs from PTI)
12 March,2026 05:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra government on Thursday informed the Legislative Assembly that action has been taken against 11,890 illegal structures in Navi Mumbai, as part of a crackdown on unauthorised constructions on government and civic land, reported news agency PTI. Minister of State for Urban Development Madhuri Misal provided the information while replying to a calling attention motion raised by BJP legislator Manda Mhatre in the Assembly, reported PTI. Issue of illegal constructions raised in Assembly During the discussion, Mhatre alleged that land mafias were carrying out illegal construction on land belonging to the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation as well as the City and Industrial Development Corporation, reported PTI. She urged the state government to take stringent action against such encroachments and prevent further illegal developments in the city. The legislator also raised concerns that unauthorised constructions were being carried out on a large scale, and sought clarity on the steps taken by the authorities to address the issue, reported PTI. Civic body issues notices, demolishes illegal structures Responding to the concerns, Misal said the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation had taken action in several cases of illegal construction, reported PTI. According to the minister, the civic body issued 870 notices to individuals involved in unauthorised construction activities. “Out of these cases, action was taken against 340 illegal structures and 3,133 illegal huts,” Misal said, adding that 126 cases have also been registered against those responsible for the violations, reported PTI. The action forms part of ongoing efforts by the municipal corporation to curb illegal construction and encroachments in Navi Mumbai. CIDCO demolishes thousands of encroachments The minister further informed the House that CIDCO has also undertaken a major drive against illegal structures. She said CIDCO issued 10,160 notices in cases related to unauthorised constructions and subsequently demolished 8,417 encroachments. In addition, four cases were registered in connection with these violations, reported PTI. “With the combined action taken by the municipal corporation and CIDCO, a total of 11,890 illegal structures have been acted upon in Navi Mumbai,” Misal told the Assembly, reported PTI. Government assures action against illegal political arches During the discussion, Mhatre also raised the issue of unauthorised arches and structures erected by political parties across the city, reported PTI. She demanded that the government take action against such installations if they are found to be illegal. Responding to the concern, Misal assured the House that the authorities would examine the matter and take prompt action if the arches are found to be encroachments. “If such arches are found to be illegal or encroachments, action will be taken against them within eight days,” the minister said. The government reiterated its commitment to tackling illegal constructions and encroachments to ensure planned urban development and protect public land in Navi Mumbai. (With inputs from PTI)
12 March,2026 05:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra, has issued a public notice confirming the final examination dates for the 2026 Common Entrance Tests (CET) under the Higher Education Department. This follows the earlier tentative schedule released on November 21, 2025, and provides confirmed dates for professional courses in education and law. According to the official notice, the CET exams will be held as per the following schedule: MAH-MPEd CET-2026: March 24 (Field Test Offline: March 25) MAH-MEd CET-2026: March 25 MAH-BEd (General & Special) and BEd ELCT CET-2026: March 27–29 MAH-LLB (Three-Year) CET-2026: April 1–2 MAH-BPEd CET-2026: April 4 (Field Test Offline: April 5–7) MAH-BEd Med (Three-Year Integrated Course) CET-2026: April 9 MAH-LLB (Five-Year) CET-2026: May 8 The notice, signed by the Commissioner and Competent Authority of the State CET Cell, Mumbai, has urged candidates to regularly check the official websites — cetcell.mahacet.org or mahacet.org — for updates on admit cards, examination instructions, and other announcements. The cell has asked candidates to note the final course-wise dates and plan their preparation accordingly. These entrance exams are crucial for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in teacher education, physical education, and law across Maharashtra. The announcement finalises the CET 2026 schedule under the Higher Education Department, helping aspirants organise their studies and logistics, while other CETs, such as those under Technical Education, follow separate timelines. For complete details, candidates can refer to the official public notice on the CET Cell portal. Maharashtra CET Cell bans AI tools, gadgets to curb cheating in exams In an effort to prevent cheating and misuse of technology, the State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell has introduced revised rules and stricter regulations for upcoming entrance examinations conducted across the state. The new guidelines are aimed at curbing malpractice involving digital devices, cyber tools and artificial intelligence (AI) during computer-based tests. The CET Cell conducts entrance examinations for 17 different professional courses, of which 15 are held in computer-based mode at designated examination centres across Maharashtra. Officials said the updated regulations are intended to strengthen the examination system and ensure transparency and fairness. Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against candidates, exam staff or institutions found involved in any form of malpractice, misconduct or use of unfair means during the examination process. Under the revised rules, the use or possession of modern digital gadgets inside the examination hall is strictly prohibited. The banned items include smartphones, mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, earphones and calculators where they are not permitted. Officials said these restrictions have been imposed to prevent candidates from accessing external information or communicating during the exam. The CET Cell has also specifically banned the use of artificial intelligence tools and other advanced digital technologies that could be misused during examinations. These include AI-based applications, hidden cameras, screen mirroring technology, remote access software and any other digital tools that may facilitate cheating during the examination.
12 March,2026 04:57 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai’s civic bus operator BEST has sought a Rs 3000 crore financial lifeline from the BMC to stabilise its struggling finances, expand its bus fleet and clear pending dues of retired staff. BEST chairperson Trushna Vishwasrao, the undertaking’s first woman chief, said the request was made after BMC allocated only Rs 1000 crore in its budget. With mounting operational losses and rising fuel, maintenance and staff costs, the city’s largest bus network is dependent on civic subsidies to keep Mumbai moving. BEST by the numbers Indicator Figure Daily passengers Rs 28 lakh Accumulated losses Rs 9500 crore Monthly BMC bailout Rs 100 crore BMC budget allocation Rs 1000 crore Funding now requested Rs 3000 crore BEST operates one of Mumbai’s largest public transport networks but has faced persistent financial strain over the past decade. Then vs now Period Fleet size 15 years ago 4800 buses Current fleet 3000 buses (approx.) Potential after funding 5400 buses Experts say Mumbai already has the depot infrastructure and operational experience to handle a larger fleet. Why BEST needs more funds >>Rising fuel and maintenance costs>>Staff and pension liabilities>>Fleet modernisation, especially electric buses>>Operational losses and debt obligationsThe additional funding would also help settle dues owed to retired BEST employees. What the chairperson says Trushna Vishwasrao, Chairperson, BEST“After the budget allocated just Rs 1000 crore, I have written to the BMC chief seeking Rs 3000 crore to stabilise operations and support expansion.” She said the funding would help maintain services and ensure financial stability for the undertaking. What Rs 3000 crore could fund Transport planner Aditya Rane outlines a possible spending plan Proposed use Estimated cost Support existing fleet operations Rs 800 crore Purchase-2700 new buses Rs 1350 crore Operate the new buses Rs 800 crore This investment could potentially double BEST’s fleet to around 5400 buses, improving service coverage across Mumbai. Public transport watchers say spending will be crucial Jitesh Utekar,‘BEST is running into losses, so how this Rs 3000 crore is utilised will be important. Will the fleet of 3000 self-owned buses be preserved with the funds you requested? Or will the BEST divert money to private bus contracts? Or will officials and BEST committee buy new cars with this money, or will they issue tenders for the renovation of depots and bus stands? And will new contracts for reconstruction be issued again in the name of modernising bus stops?’ Rupak Dhakate,‘This Rs 3000 cr aid, though, is a very small amount; it should be used mainly for buying new CNG midi and 11-metre buses. Currently, BEST’s own bus fleet is too small, and BEST is at the mercy of contractors. If they go on strike, BEST will suffer.’ Gandharva Purohit,‘Can revenue from scrap sale be utilised in addition to Rs 3000 crore for this too? TMT bought 20 non-AC CNG Buses. Why can’t BEST? Also, they should settle the money of retired staff. How much would be required for it?’
12 March,2026 04:07 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday assured that the state government will provide the necessary funds for land acquisition required for key infrastructure projects, particularly those aimed at addressing traffic congestion in the rapidly expanding Pune-Pimpri Chinchwad region, reported news agency PTI. The chief minister made the remarks in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly during a discussion on worsening traffic congestion and the government’s efforts to improve connectivity through new road networks, metro corridors and ring road projects. Government committed to funding land acquisition Fadnavis said the state government would ensure that financial resources are made available wherever required to facilitate land acquisition for major infrastructure works, reported PTI. “The state government will make available the funds needed for land acquisition. In some cases, the municipal corporations will also have to contribute, and we will coordinate to ensure the work moves forward,” he said, reported PTI. He emphasised that smooth and timely acquisition of land is essential for completing major transport and connectivity projects designed to ease congestion in the fast-growing urban corridor around Pune. Strategic planning underway for Pune-Pimpri Chinchwad region During the discussion, Minister of State for Urban Development Madhuri Misal informed the assembly that the state government is undertaking strategic planning to tackle traffic congestion in the Pune-Pimpri Chinchwad belt, reported PTI. She said several infrastructure initiatives, including road widening, metro connectivity and ring road projects, are currently underway or in advanced stages of planning and implementation. Misal also noted that improving connectivity in Pune’s rapidly growing IT and industrial belt remains a key priority for the government to prevent the infrastructure challenges faced by other major technology hubs, reported PTI. New road connectivity projects planned across region According to the minister, despite the cancellation of the earlier development plan of the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority, the government has directed authorities to continue strategic infrastructure planning, reported PTI. She said new road networks, including 18-metre and 24-metre wide roads, are being planned to strengthen connectivity across the metropolitan region. Several works aimed at easing traffic congestion are already underway in areas such as Wakad, Tathawade and Punawale. The government is also developing road connectivity between Bhumkar Bridge and Navale Bridge to improve traffic movement. Major transport projects progressing in region Misal informed the assembly that a proposal worth around Rs 3,660 crore has been submitted for the Nere–Ravet bridge project, while the Nashik Phata to Khed eight-lane corridor has already received approval, reported PTI. She added that metro expansion in the Pune metropolitan region has also made significant progress. Metro corridors from PCMC to Phugewadi and from Phugewadi to District Court are nearing completion, with the overall work reaching around 98 per cent. Smart traffic systems and ring road work underway The minister said the government is also planning to introduce artificial intelligence-based smart traffic signal systems to improve traffic management in the Pune metropolitan region, reported PTI. Land acquisition for several road stretches, including the Bhosari–Indrayani river corridor, has already reached around 69 to 70 per cent completion, with the remaining process expected to move forward once funds are allocated. Misal added that work on multiple packages of the ring road project under the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation has already begun, while land acquisition for the inner ring road planned by PMRDA is currently underway, reported PTI. She also assured the House that encroachments along major roads would be addressed and necessary directions would be issued to relevant authorities to help reduce congestion in the region. (With inputs from PTI)
12 March,2026 02:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAmid growing concerns over LPG shortages reportedly linked to the escalating conflict in West Asia, the Shiv Sena (UBT) on Thursday criticised the government. In an editorial published in the party’s mouthpiece Saamana, the party argued that the government’s optimistic claims about the limited impact of the conflict on India’s economy are at odds with the situation on the ground, reported the IANS. The editorial said the intensifying conflict between Iran and Israel has begun to strain the Indian economy. According to the article, the Indian rupee has weakened sharply, touching a record low of 92.33 against the US dollar, while domestic fuel shortages have started affecting several sectors. The editorial also referred to recent remarks by Nirmala Sitharaman, who had said rising global crude oil prices would not significantly affect domestic inflation. However, the Sena (UBT) claimed the situation suggests otherwise, as per the IANS. Claims of economic impact across sectors The editorial alleged that the ongoing conflict has disrupted energy supplies after reported attacks on oil refineries in Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait, along with restrictions on oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, the news agency reported. It claimed these developments have triggered economic difficulties in India. According to the Saamana editorial - - Agricultural exports are reportedly stuck at ports in Dubai and Kuwait. - The automotive and pharmaceutical sectors are facing uncertainty. - Nearly 1,000 foundry units in Maharashtra are said to be at risk of closure due to gas shortages. - Around 40 per cent of restaurants in Mumbai have allegedly shut operations due to a shortage of commercial gas, according to the IANS. Criticism of political priorities The editorial also criticised the Prime Minister’s political engagements, claiming that he remained focused on election campaigning in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and West Bengal while the economic challenges were intensifying. It further referred to a controversial remark attributed to Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, claiming that Donald Trump allowed India to purchase Russian oil because the Indian Prime Minister acted according to American direction. The editorial described the statement as an insult to India. ‘Gutter Gas’ remark In a satirical tone, the editorial mocked what it described as government claims that gas could be produced by installing pipes in sewers and drains. The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) suggested sarcastically that, if such ideas were implemented, drains and gutters could replace oil wells around the world and that India could become a global leader in producing gas from sewage systems, reported the IANS. The editorial even joked that a major gas production project could be launched along the polluted Mithi River in Mumbai and sarcastically suggested inviting the Prime Minister and Devendra Fadnavis for its inauguration. Using satire, the editorial argued that while other nations focus on oil wells, India’s abundance of polluted rivers, drains and stagnant water bodies would ensure it remains a leader in what it called “gutter gas” production. (with IANS inputs)
12 March,2026 01:57 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra government on Thursday informed the state Assembly that Mumbai receives an average water supply of around 4,100 million litres per day (MLD) against an estimated demand of 4,665 MLD, leaving a shortfall of about 565 MLD. The information was provided by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in a written reply to a question raised by MLA Yogesh Sagar (Charkop) during the ongoing Budget Session of the Maharashtra Legislature. Water shortage concerns raised In his question, Sagar asked whether it was true that despite the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) supplying nearly 4,000 MLD of water daily, residents in several parts of Mumbai were still struggling to obtain water, particularly during December 2025. He also sought to know whether people living in slums and hilly areas were facing additional financial burdens to access water due to factors such as inadequate supply to chawls undergoing redevelopment, severe shortages in hill settlements, pipeline leakages during development works, and water theft. Leakages repaired, pipelines replaced Responding to the query, Shinde said the BMC has been taking measures to improve water distribution and minimise losses. According to the reply, the civic body identified and repaired 11,540 leakage points between January 1, 2025 and January 31, 2026 to curb water wastage. In addition, 58 kilometres of old and dilapidated water pipelines were replaced during 2025–26 as part of ongoing efforts to ensure smoother water supply across the city. Challenges in old chawls and hilly areas The deputy chief minister noted that many old chawl buildings in Mumbai do not have ground-level water storage tanks, and therefore receive water directly from the municipal distribution network. For residents living in hilly areas, water supply is ensured through municipal pumping stations as per requirement. New projects to bridge supply gap The government also acknowledged the existing 565 MLD supply deficit, adding that steps are being taken to address the gap and meet future demand. The BMC has undertaken the Gargai Dam project, which is expected to add 440 MLD to Mumbai’s water supply, along with a desalination project with a capacity of 200 MLD. Shinde stated that given these ongoing initiatives, the question of delay in addressing water supply issues does not arise.
12 March,2026 01:33 PM IST | Mumbai | Ronak MastakarMumbai was on Thursday expected to witness mainly clear skies in the city and suburban areas with temperature likely to touch 34 degrees Celsius, according to the latest weather update. According to the weather department the minimum temperature may remain near 23 degrees Celsius. The weather was expected to remain stable with clear skies and moderate daytime heat across the region after days of heatwave conditions earlier this week. Weather office on Thursday issued a green alert for Mumbai, Thane and Palghar, along with some other parts of Maharashtra. Meanwhile, a yellow alert was issued for Mumbai and its adjoining areas including Raigad, Thane, Palghar. It said, "Heatwave conditions in isolated pockets." Heatwave earlier this week Earlier this week, Mumbai, its adjoining areas and parts of of Maharashtra were under an orange and yellow alerts, predicting heatwave and hot and humid weather in isolated pockets. On Tuesday, the maximum temperature recorded by the IMD Santacruz observatory was 40 degrees Celsius, which was 7.6 degrees Celsius above normal, while the IMD Colaba observatory recorded 35.4 degrees Celsius, which was 4.3 degrees Celsius above normal. A green alert generally indicates normal weather conditions with no significant warning, although residents are advised to stay updated with local forecasts. Mid-day had on Wednesday morning reported that after a scorching start to the week, with temperatures touching 40 degrees Celsius in Mumbai, the city is expected to get slight relief from March 11 as the mercury is likely to dip. The temperatures in the city dropped by over 6 degrees Celsius on Wednesday. Akola remains under yellow alert Meanwhile, the Akola district on Thursday remains under a yellow alert, with the weather department predicting, 'heatwave conditions in isolated pockets.' AQI in Mumbai According to the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) Sameer app, Mumbai’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was on Thursday recorded 'Satisfactory' at 10:05 pm and stood at 111. A health impact message stated, "Minor breathing discomfort to sensitive people." AQI recorded in parts of the city Bandra Kurla Complex: 96 (Satisfactory) Borivali East: 58 (Satisfactory) Mazgaon: 87 (Satisfactory) Malad West: 109 (Moderate) Chembur: 79 (Satisfactory) Colaba: 89 (Satisfactory) Meanwhile, the air quality was recorded as 'Moderate' in Thane which reported an AQI at 127 on Thursday morning. In Kalyan AQI was recorded at 135, and in Navi Mumbai at 103 both were in 'Moderate' categories.
12 March,2026 01:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra minister Shambhuraj Desai on Thursday said the state government will hold discussions with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Ajit Pawar regarding demands to include first-floor slum dwellers under rehabilitation schemes implemented by the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) in Mumbai, reported news agency PTI. The issue was raised by several legislators in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, who highlighted that many residents in the city have been living on the first floors of slum structures for several decades and could be left out of redevelopment benefits under the current policy. Legislators raise concerns over exclusion of first-floor residents During the discussion in the assembly’s Question Hour, members pointed out that excluding first-floor occupants from rehabilitation eligibility could make the goal of achieving a slum-free Mumbai more difficult, reported PTI. Many slum settlements in the city have evolved over time into multi-level structures where families reside on upper floors built above original ground-floor units. Legislators argued that these long-standing occupants should also be considered for rehabilitation benefits when redevelopment projects are undertaken, reported PTI. Existing rules recognise only ground-floor structures Responding to the discussion, Desai clarified that under the current SRA policy framework, only ground-floor structures are officially recognised and assigned identification numbers to determine eligibility for rehabilitation, reported PTI. He said any proposal to extend eligibility to upper-floor residents, including the concept of recognising “one-plus-one” structures, would require policy-level changes. “If any change, such as considering ‘one plus one’ structures, is to be made, the matter will have to be discussed with the chief minister and both deputy chief ministers,” Desai said, reported PTI. He added that the Urban Development Department, headed by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, would present the factual position to the top leadership before taking further action based on their directions. Government cautions against informal agreements with builders The minister also addressed concerns raised by legislators regarding allegations that some developers had entered into agreements with first-floor occupants despite their current ineligibility under the existing rules. Desai warned that such agreements would not be legally enforceable if they violate the prevailing laws governing slum redevelopment. “Ignorance of the law cannot be an excuse. If agreements are executed in violation of the law, they are non-binding,” he said, reported PTI. He further assured the House that if specific details or complaints regarding such agreements are submitted to the government, the concerned department will examine the matter. Speaker directs government to consider members’ suggestions During the discussion, Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar intervened and directed that all suggestions made by members regarding the inclusion of first-floor residents be officially recorded, reported PTI. He instructed that these views be placed before the state government while examining the issue of possible policy changes related to SRA projects. Desai said the government would present the concerns raised by legislators before the chief minister and deputy chief ministers and attempt to complete the consultation process at the earliest. (With inputs from PTI)
12 March,2026 01:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA Liberian-flagged crude oil tanker captained by an Indian has safely arrived at Mumbai port after transiting through the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz, even as tensions continue to escalate in West Asia following recent military developments involving Iran, the United States and Israel, reported news agency ANI. The vessel, Shenlong Suezmax, carrying crude oil from Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura port, docked at Mumbai port on Wednesday after receiving clearance from Iranian authorities to pass through the narrow maritime corridor, according to officials from the Mumbai Port Trust, reported ANI. Tanker sails through Strait of Hormuz with Iranian clearance The tanker had departed from the Saudi port of Ras Tanura on March 1 and successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz before arriving in Mumbai. Authorities confirmed that the vessel was granted permission by Iran to pass through the critical waterway, which has seen heightened security concerns following recent military tensions in the region. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most vital energy shipping routes, linking the Persian Gulf to global markets. The safe passage of the tanker comes at a time when maritime traffic in the area has been significantly affected by the escalating geopolitical situation. Iran tightens restrictions on vessels in strategic waterway Iran has recently intensified monitoring and restrictions on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. According to Iranian officials, vessels must obtain prior approval from Tehran before transiting through the strategic passage, reported ANI. Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) Naval Force, warned that ships ignoring Iranian directives could face military action. In a statement posted on X, he claimed that two vessels — Express Rome and Mayuree Naree — were targeted after allegedly ignoring warnings and attempting to pass through the strait without permission, reported ANI. Iranian authorities have also indicated that ships not aligned with the interests of the United States and Israel may be allowed to transit safely through the waterway. Global oil trade heavily dependent on Strait of Hormuz More than 20 million barrels of crude oil pass through the Strait of Hormuz every day, making it one of the most critical chokepoints for global energy supplies. The volume represents roughly one-fifth of the world’s daily oil consumption and nearly a quarter of global seaborne oil trade. In addition to crude oil shipments, a substantial portion of the world’s liquefied natural gas also moves through this route. Any disruption in traffic through the narrow channel separating Iran and Oman can have immediate ripple effects on global energy markets, supply chains and fuel prices worldwide, reported ANI. India monitoring safety of seafarers and vessels Amid the evolving maritime situation, India’s Shipping Ministry has said that the safety of Indian seafarers and vessels in the Persian Gulf region is being closely monitored, reported ANI. According to the ministry, 28 Indian-flagged ships are currently operating in the region. Of these, 24 vessels carrying 677 Indian seafarers are located west of the Strait of Hormuz, while four vessels with 101 Indian crew members are operating east of the strait, reported ANI. Authorities have set up a 24-hour control room in the Shipping Ministry and the Directorate General of Shipping since February 28 to monitor developments and coordinate assistance if required. Government coordinating with embassies and maritime agencies The ministry said Indian authorities, ship management companies and recruitment agencies are working closely with Indian embassies and local officials in the region to ensure the safety of seafarers, reported ANI. Officials added that the government remains committed to safeguarding Indian maritime interests and ensuring the welfare of Indian crew members working aboard vessels in sensitive international waters. (With inputs from ANI)
12 March,2026 12:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
