In one of India’s largest people-science initiatives, Lonar Lake, the iconic meteorite crater in Maharashtra’s Buldhana district, is set to be transformed into a vibrant centre for science, biodiversity, cultural heritage, archaeology, and sustainability. The move aims to bring this National Geo-Heritage Monument closer to the public. Lonar Lake, formed nearly 50,000 years ago within the basaltic Deccan Plateau, is renowned for its ecological, geological, and planetary significance, with features resembling impact craters on the Moon and Mars. The National Centre for Science Communicators (NCSC), Mumbai, in collaboration with the Nehru Science Centre, the Scientific Research Centre of Kelkar Education Trust, Mulund, and Late Ku Durga K Banmeru Science College, Lonar, held a one-day conference titled 'Exploring Lonar Lake: Science, Biodiversity, Sustainability, and Cultural Heritage' to chart the roadmap for the lake’s preservation. The conference highlighted the need for sustained research, science communication, policy support, and public participation to ensure the lake’s long-term conservation. Experts raised concerns over rising ecological stress, including sewage inflow, agricultural encroachment, excessive tourism, climate change impacts, and declining alkalinity, which indicate ecological imbalance. “Lonar Crater or Lonar Lake is not just a site. If we look at Lonar town, it is a university in itself. While Lonar Lake is the focal point of attraction and geo-heritage site, there are temples which are known for their archaeology and mythology. Besides, there is rich biodiversity and birdlife,” said NCSC Chief Executive Officer Suhas Naik-Satam, one of the leading science communicators. As part of the initiative, a Centre for Excellence in Lunar Exploration (CELE) will be established at Ku Durga K Banmeru Science College to engage the public in lunar science and planetary research and make complex scientific issues accessible to common citizens. Conference highlights Conference convenor and College Principal Dr Prakash K Banmeru highlighted Lonar’s global relevance as a multidisciplinary research hub. In his presidential address, NCSC Chairman Siddhivinayak Barve called for a dedicated National Lonar Lake Research and Conservation Laboratory to ensure long-term ecological protection. Former University of Mumbai Vice-Chancellor Sanjay Deshmukh cautioned against unregulated tourism, stressing that poorly managed inflow could harm the lake’s fragile ecosystems. Architect Samrat Sarode traced the evolution of Hemadpanthi temple architecture around the crater and pointed out key conservation challenges. Veteran science journalist and NCSE Vice Chairman Vitthal Nadkarni explained the lake’s impact features, including shock-metamorphosed rocks and shatter cones, underscoring Lonar’s significance as a global field laboratory. NCSC Secretary Chandrashekhar Marathe detailed the lake’s rich biodiversity, highlighting extremophile microorganisms, algal diversity, migratory birds, and unique flora. Geologist Mayura Deshmukh linked the crater’s formation to the Deccan Traps, while researcher Ganesh D Gaikwad emphasised the importance of cultural heritage and community participation in conservation efforts. In the valedictory address, Umesh Kumar Rustagi, director of the Nehru Science Centre, said such interdisciplinary platforms are crucial for integrating science, sustainability, and heritage. A sky observation session conducted by Sheetal Chopade allowed participants hands-on experience with celestial observation, further enhancing the learning experience.
28 March,2026 09:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has secured the fourth rank among 29 municipal corporations in the state under the 150-day e-governance administrative reforms programme, conceptualised by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The recognition highlights the civic body’s push towards digital governance, transparency, and citizen-centric services. At a function held at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai, Additional Municipal Commissioner Sunil Pawar accepted the citation on behalf of civic chief Dr Kailas Shinde. The award was presented by Fadnavis in the presence of state Information Technology (IT) Minister Ashish Shelar and Chief Secretary Rajesh Agarwal. Digital push and citizen services Under Shinde’s leadership, NMMC has significantly expanded its digital footprint over the past year. Key services such as property tax payments, birth and death certificates, grievance redressal, and civic information are now accessible online via its website, My NMMC app, and integration with the Aaple Sarkar portal. A WhatsApp chatbot and real-time dashboards have further simplified citizen interaction. Strong backend systems The civic corporation has implemented the NIC-developed e-office system, with over 1,000 officials using it regularly. This has improved transparency, speed and efficiency in administrative processes. A centralised dashboard system enables real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making across departments. Advanced tech adoption NMMC’s use of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain played a key role in the evaluation. AI-powered chatbots help classify and resolve complaints quickly, while blockchain ensures secure documentation, including school leaving certificates and monitoring of tree plantation drives. GIS and smart monitoring The civic body has also developed over 150 GIS layers, aiding in solid waste management, vehicle tracking, mechanical sweeping and climate impact analysis. Geo-tagged civic facilities have been made available for public access. Consistent performance NMMC had earlier secured the third rank in the 100-day reforms programme. Building on that momentum, it has now improved its systems further to achieve a top-four position in the 150-day evaluation conducted by an independent agency. Speaking after receiving the award, Pawar said the corporation will continue to innovate and leverage digital platforms to deliver faster, transparent and high-quality services to citizens.
28 March,2026 08:56 PM IST | Mumbai | Abhitash SinghAn Indian marsh crocodile that entered a residential area at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Bombay in Powai was rescued in the early hours of Saturday following a complaint received at the Mumbai Forest Range office. Forest officials said the rescue was carried out around 1.30 am by the night patrol team along with Kurla forest staff, forest guards, members of the NGO SARRP India, and the Thane Rescue Team. The animal was rescued safely. The operation was conducted under the guidance of Deputy Conservator of Forests (Thane) Sachin Repal and led by Assistant Conservator of Forests Sonal Walvi and Range Forest Officer (Mumbai) Santosh Dagale. Those involved in the operation included forester Janardan Bodekar (Kurla), forest guard Chipalunkar, and SARRP India rescue team members Santosh Shinde, Arbaz Khan, Sheldon D’Souza, Sandeep Desai, Arun Pandit, Hit Shah, and Vinod Gangarkar. A member of the Thane Rescue Team, Bhangne, along with other staff, also participated. Santosh Shinde, president of SARRP India (Spreading Awareness on Reptiles & Rehabilitation Programme), said, “The rescue was carried out in coordination with the forest department. The animal was found in a human-dominated area, and our priority was to ensure its safe capture without causing stress or harm. Such incidents highlight the need for awareness and careful handling of wildlife situations.” About the species The marsh crocodile, also known as the mugger (Crocodylus palustris), is native to the Indian subcontinent, Myanmar, and parts of Iran. It is commonly found in freshwater habitats such as rivers, lakes, ponds, hill streams and reservoirs. The species was once widely distributed across the region, but its population has declined over time due to habitat loss, hunting, reduction in prey base and increasing human-wildlife interactions.
28 March,2026 06:31 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavIn view of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 matches at Wankhede Stadium, the Mumbai Traffic Police has issued a detailed traffic advisory to manage congestion and ensure smooth vehicular movement in south Mumbai. The order, issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic-South) Prashant Pardeshi under provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, will remain in force on match days depending on requirements. Match Schedule at Wankhede Stadium The matches featuring Mumbai Indians will be played on the following dates: March 29 – Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders (7:30 pm)April 12 – Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (7:30 pm)April 16 – Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings (7:30 pm)April 23 – Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings (7:30 pm)April 29 – Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hydrabad (7:30 pm)May 4 – Mumbai Indians vs Lucknow Super Gaints (7:30 pm)May 24 – Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals (3:30 pm) Authorities expect heavy footfall and vehicular traffic during these fixtures. Public Transport Advisory Officials have urged spectators to rely on public transport, including suburban trains and metro services, as there is no parking facility available at the stadium. Key Parking Restrictions Parking will be restricted on multiple roads around the stadium, including: C Road, D Road, E Road, F Road and G Road stretchesN.S. Road (from Mafatlal Bath signal to Air India junction)Veer Nariman Road (Churchgate to Sundar Mahal junction) Additionally, pay-and-park facilities will be temporarily suspended on: Veer Nariman RoadI.M.C. MargTraffic Diversions and One-Way Routes To streamline traffic: D Road will operate one-way (west to east) from N.S. Road towards E and C RoadsE Road will be one-way (southbound) from D Road towards C RoadMajor Road Closures Temporary closures may be enforced on key stretches such as: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road (select sections)Coastal Road (both directions, as required)Routes between Marine Drive, Worli and Tardeo Alternative routes via Maharshi Karve Road, Charni Road, Opera House and Peddar Road have been designated for commuters. Available Parking Near Churchgate Limited parking options are available near Churchgate station, including: CR2 MallH.T. Parekh MargNCPA MargVidhan Bhavan areaDinshaw Wachha RoadPolice Appeal The Mumbai Traffic Police has appealed to citizens to cooperate with authorities, follow diversions, and avoid private vehicles near the stadium during match hours to prevent congestion in Mumbai’s busy south zone.
28 March,2026 06:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will offer free permissions to sculptors making eco-friendly Ganesh idols to set up temporary mandaps for the 2026 Ganeshotsav and Navratri festivals, according to a civic circular. The move is aimed at encouraging the use of environmentally friendly materials in idol-making, as part of ongoing efforts to reduce pollution during festival seasons. Free Spaces Subject to Availability Civic officials said that spaces for temporary mandaps will be allotted free of cost to eligible sculptors, depending on availability. The allotment will follow a “first come, first served” basis and will be limited to those producing eco-friendly idols. The civic body will also provide ‘shadu’ clay to such sculptors. Natural colours may be supplied in limited quantities, subject to availability. Online Permission System Introduced The BMC has introduced an online “single window system” for permissions on its website from March 27. Applications for Ganeshotsav and Navratri idol-making can be submitted until October 10, 2026, while permissions will be valid until October 20. Officials said the system is intended to streamline approvals by bringing multiple permissions under one platform. Guidelines and Compliance Measures The circular follows directions related to environmental norms and court-mandated guidelines on festival-related activities. The civic body has issued detailed instructions regarding the construction and use of temporary mandaps. Deputy Commissioner (Zone 2) and Ganeshotsav Coordinator Prashant Sapkale confirmed that the guidelines have been issued for implementation ahead of the festival season. Conditions for Permission According to the circular, permissions will be granted only to eco-friendly idol makers, and the use of Plaster of Paris (POP) idols is not allowed under this scheme. The allotted spaces cannot be used for commercial sale of idols. Applicants will have to submit required documents, including undertakings, fire safety declarations and, where applicable, society no-objection certificates. Permissions will be processed after scrutiny and subject to clearances from police and traffic authorities. The circular also states that digging of roads or footpaths for mandap construction is prohibited. Violations will attract a penalty of Rs 2,000 per pit. Part of Broader Environmental Push The initiative is part of the civic body’s efforts to promote less polluting festival practices in Mumbai, particularly during large-scale celebrations such as Ganeshotsav, which have significant environmental impact each year.
28 March,2026 05:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal on Saturday urged authorities to accelerate the expansion of piped natural gas (PNG) connections, citing the possibility of disruption in LPG supply in the coming months due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, reported news agency PTI. Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Bhujbal referred to inputs from the Centre indicating that LPG availability could be affected after about three months, prompting the need for alternative fuel infrastructure, reported PTI. Push for faster approvals and infrastructure rollout To speed up PNG expansion, Bhujbal said approvals for laying pipelines would be expedited, with inter-departmental permissions deemed granted within 24 hours. The move is aimed at removing bureaucratic delays and ensuring rapid rollout of piped gas connections across urban areas, reported PTI. He also called on municipal bodies to prioritise PNG infrastructure and scale up implementation at the local level. High-level meeting reviews LPG supply situation The minister said he participated in a review meeting in the national capital with Union Ministers Manohar Lal Khattar, Hardeep Singh Puri, and Pralhad Joshi, along with state representatives and senior officials, reported PTI. The meeting focused on ensuring uninterrupted LPG supply to domestic and commercial consumers and identifying potential bottlenecks in the distribution system. PNG seen as cost-effective and sustainable alternative Highlighting the advantages of piped gas, Bhujbal said PNG is currently more affordable and should be utilised to the maximum extent. He stressed the need to promote wider adoption as a long-term solution to reduce dependence on LPG cylinders, reported PTI. He further suggested that municipal authorities should make PNG connections mandatory for residential and commercial buildings, similar to water and electricity connections, before issuing occupancy certificates. Kerosene supply measures to address shortages Addressing concerns about fuel availability in areas lacking LPG or PNG infrastructure, Bhujbal said the state has permitted the use of kerosene as an interim measure, reported PTI. He added that steps are being taken to distribute kerosene through fuel stations, and pending renewals of old dealers will be treated as approved to ensure uninterrupted supply. Balancing short-term relief with long-term transition The minister emphasised that while immediate steps like kerosene distribution are necessary to manage potential shortages, the long-term focus remains on expanding cleaner and more efficient energy solutions such as PNG, reported PTI. The push comes amid heightened global uncertainty affecting energy supply chains, with authorities aiming to strengthen resilience and ensure uninterrupted access to cooking fuel for citizens. (With inputs from PTI)
28 March,2026 05:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has intensified its pre-monsoon desilting operations across the city, with Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani directing officials to ensure meticulous planning, strict monitoring, and timely completion of the work to prevent waterlogging during the upcoming monsoon season. Focus on Planning, Timely Disposal and Coordination Reviewing the progress of desilting work across wards and zones, Gagrani emphasised that proper planning must be at the core of operations. He instructed that silt removed from drains should be transported and disposed of at designated locations within 48 hours to avoid secondary blockages and hygiene issues. Highlighting inter-agency coordination as critical, the Commissioner directed officials to maintain close collaboration with the Railway Administration and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), particularly for works near railway tracks and infrastructure zones. He also stressed the deployment of ‘trash booms’ at 14 identified locations to trap floating waste and prevent garbage from entering the sea. Joint Inspections with Public Representatives In a bid to enhance transparency and accountability, Gagrani instructed that elected representatives, ward committee chairpersons, and other public representatives be regularly updated on the progress of desilting work. He further directed officials to conduct joint inspection visits with them to assess on-ground execution. Senior officials, including Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects) Abhijit Bangar and Chief Engineer (Storm Water Drains) Kalpana Raut, along with zonal and ward-level officers, attended the review meeting. Key Drains and River Work Prioritised The Commissioner noted that desilting work is progressing rapidly across Mumbai’s three administrative divisions—city, eastern suburbs, and western suburbs. He also announced that desilting of the Mithi River will commence shortly, with instructions to accelerate operations to meet deadlines. Special attention is being given to critical drains such as Mogra Nala, Majas Nala, Mankhurd Nala, Somaiya Nala, Vakola Nala, and the Dadar-Dharavi drain. Deployment of machinery and trash booms at these locations has been prioritised to ensure smooth water flow. Deadline Set for May-End Completion The civic body has set a deadline of May 31, 2026, for completion of all storm water drain-related works, including desilting, widening of drains, and cleaning of culverts, especially those beneath railway tracks. Officials have also been instructed to install pumps at vulnerable locations to facilitate quick drainage of rainwater and prevent flooding during heavy rainfall. Tech-Driven Monitoring and Public Dashboard To improve transparency, the BMC has introduced a digital dashboard on its official website, where citizens can access photos and videos of desilting work in real time. The Commissioner directed that this dashboard link be widely shared with citizens, media, and public representatives. Additionally, the civic body will use Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems to analyse videos of desilting work, ensuring better monitoring and accountability. Strict Action Against Irregularities Additional Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar stated that with only two months remaining before the monsoon, the work must be completed within schedule. He warned that any malpractice or negligence in desilting operations will invite strict action. He also noted that new contractors have been appointed this year and stressed the need for strong coordination with them to ensure efficient and timely execution of the work.
28 March,2026 05:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will roll out its annual ‘Vruksha Sanjeevani’ (Tree Revival) campaign from April 1 to April 30, 2026, as part of its efforts to conserve and maintain trees across public spaces in Mumbai. The month-long initiative coincides with World Earth Day and aims to improve the overall health and longevity of the city’s green cover. Focus on Urban Tree Health According to the civic body, Mumbai has a total of 2,975,283 trees within the BMC’s jurisdiction, of which nearly 1,354,966 are located along roadsides, in gardens, and other public areas. These trees form a crucial part of the city’s urban ecosystem, and the campaign is expected to play a key role in their upkeep. Under the initiative, the civic body will undertake several measures to restore tree health. These include removing layers of cement and concrete from around tree bases and replacing them with loose red soil to improve water and air absorption. Authorities will also remove nails, ropes, cables, and advertisement boards attached to tree trunks, along with pruning branches that obstruct pedestrian movement. Additionally, protective coatings of geru (red ochre) and lime will be applied to safeguard tree trunks. Learning from Previous Efforts The 2025 edition of the campaign saw significant action on the ground. Civic teams removed concrete from around 340 trees and took down 1,460 advertisement boards. In addition, 17.43 kilograms of nails were extracted from tree trunks—measures that helped improve tree health and reduce structural damage. Experts have highlighted that concrete surrounding tree roots restricts water percolation and oxygen flow, weakening root systems and increasing the likelihood of trees drying out. Similarly, nails and wires can cause long-term damage to trunks, making trees more vulnerable to collapse. Public Participation and Awareness The campaign will also emphasise community involvement and awareness. Schools, colleges, social organisations, and citizens are expected to actively participate, alongside employees from various municipal departments. Officials noted that raising awareness about tree conservation under the Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Tree Protection and Conservation Act, 1975 remains a key responsibility of the Tree Authority. The campaign is therefore seen as an important step toward fostering civic responsibility and environmental stewardship. Garden Superintendent Jitendra Pardeshi stated that the drive will be carried out using existing municipal resources, ensuring efficient implementation without additional financial burden.
28 March,2026 03:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentShiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Saturday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the Centre's 'Team India strategy' amid the West Asia crisis a "hypocrisy". PM Modi chaired a meeting with Chief Ministers to review preparedness in light of the emerging situation amid the West Asia crisis, and said that working together as "Team India," the nation will successfully overcome the situation, reported ANI. Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Raut hit back at the Centre, pointing out the Prime Minister's absence from the all-party meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also demanded a parliamentary discussion on the situation. Raut questions PM Modi’s ‘Team India’ concept during West Asia crisis "Who is part of Team India? Team India is a national idea, but does the Prime Minister think of the nation? Even within his party, there is no team (spirit). He was not present at the all-party meeting. In the moment of crisis, all parties sat together, and the Opposition parties assured support towards the Centre. However, the Centre is perpetuating this ' Team India' hypocrisy. Team India's leader should ensure that the impact of the conflict is discussed in the Parliament, and he answers the questions. But this did not happen," he said, according to the news agency ANI. Reiterating the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA)'s demand to appoint Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly, Raut asked the Mahayuti government to form a Team Maharashtra and work in coordination with the Opposition to address the impact of the West Asia conflict on the state. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP stresses collective approach for resolving Maharashtra issues He said, "A genuine Team Maharashtra should be formed, one that includes the principal opposition party, to collectively address and resolve the crises currently facing the state. To this end, a Leader of the Opposition should be formally selected, a process that ought to be initiated and overseen by the Chief Minister." This comes after PM Modi chaired a meeting of state CMs and stressed that the government's priorities are to maintain economic and trade stability, ensure energy security, safeguard the interests of citizens, and strengthen industry and supply chains. Meanwhile, Sanjay Raut also alleged that apart from Shiv Sena MLA Deepak Kesarkar and NCP leader Rupali Chakankar, 40 other MLAs were also linked to the sexual assault accused Ashok Kharat. Raut questions targeting of MLAs, demands transparency in Chakanakar issue The Sena (UBT) MP said, "The issue itself is extremely grave. Is it only Chakanakar who is involved? Even Deepak Kesarkar asks, 'Why am I the only one being singled out?' There were 40 other MLAs who went to the Baba. The Chief Minister must publicly disclose the identities of those 40 MLAs. Who is providing air travel services to Kharat? It must be revealed what exactly he intended to do upon his visit to Delhi." Earlier on Friday, Rupali Chakankar resigned from the position of the NCP Women Wing's State President over the allegations of her involvement in the Nasik case linked to Captain Ashok Kharat. Chakankar had also resigned as Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women. This stems from the case pertaining to the arrest of Kharat, who has been accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting a 35-year-old woman over several years under the pretext of spiritual guidance. (With ANI inputs)
28 March,2026 02:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai is likely to witness mainly clear skies on Saturday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting maximum and minimum temperatures around 36 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius, respectively. Air quality in the city remained in the ‘satisfactory’ category, with an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 76, according to the Central Pollution Control Board’s Sameer app. AQI across Mumbai However, AQI levels varied across different parts of Mumbai. Andheri East (116) and Malad West (110) recorded ‘moderate’ air quality, while Borivali East (98), Deonar (91), and Kurla (92) hovered close to the higher end of the ‘satisfactory’ range. Other areas, such as Byculla (60), Colaba (63), Ghatkopar (64), and Powai (64) reported relatively better air quality, while Kandivali East recorded a low AQI of 38. In neighbouring regions, AQI levels were also mixed, with Thane and Navi Mumbai both at 80, and Kalyan recording a higher AQI of 106. Sholapur hottest at 40.4 degrees Celsius as heat grips Maharashtra Maharashtra continued to experience warm weather conditions on March 28, with several regions recording above-normal temperatures, according to the IMD's latest weather report. Among the hottest locations, Sholapur recorded a maximum temperature of 40.4 degrees Celsius, followed by Jalgaon and Jeur at 39.5 degrees Celsius each, and Parbhani at 39.5 degrees Celsius. Ahmednagar (38 degrees Celsius), Aurangabad (38.2 degrees Celsius), and Satara (38.2 degrees Celsius) also reported high daytime temperatures. Mumbai warmer than usual as temperatures rise In the Mumbai region, Colaba recorded a maximum temperature of 34.1 degrees Celsius, while Santacruz was warmer at 37.1 degrees Celsius, both above normal levels. Minimum temperatures in the city remained around 24.7 degrees Celsius to 24.8 degrees Celsius. Coastal humidity high Coastal areas such as Alibag (34.3 degrees Celsius), Dahanu (33.4 degrees Celsius), and Ratnagiri (35.4 degrees Celsius) experienced relatively moderate temperatures, though humidity levels remained high. Dahanu reported morning humidity as high as 89 per cent. In contrast, hill station Mahabaleshwar remained cooler, with a maximum temperature of 30.7 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 18.2 degrees Celsius. Minimum temperatures across the state largely ranged between 18 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius, with Sholapur recording the highest minimum at 25.5 degrees Celsius. Several regions, including Malegaon and Osmanabad, also saw warmer nights than usual. Humidity levels in Maharashtra Humidity levels varied significantly, with coastal and some inland regions reporting higher morning humidity, while drier conditions prevailed in parts of Marathwada. Overall, the data indicate rising temperatures across Maharashtra, with several districts experiencing heat above seasonal averages, signalling intensifying summer conditions.
28 March,2026 12:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe toy train service at the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) in Borivli is likely to resume within a day or two as the replacement part is expected to arrive soon, forest department officials told mid-day on Friday. The iconic ‘Van Rani toy train’ returned to SGNP on March 14, 2026, after a four-year closure; however, barely 10 days after its inauguration, the services were suspended after a shaft connecting the engine to the coaches broke down due to the undulating terrain. The affected sections have been repaired, and levelling work is currently underway, said the officials, adding that “minor issues are expected during the initial trial phase”. Authorities blame company Since the said work was implemented by RITES Limited and the company that supplied the train, Khodal Corporation, Ahmedabad, is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the technical issues regarding the track and train, this office has taken the matter seriously and has immediately contacted both responsible persons. The technical team of the company has been given clear instructions to be present at the site, examine it and resolve the problems. Did the train derail? Kids from Pune wanted to ride the toy train ride. PIC/BY SARTHAK MEHTA SGNP Deputy Director (South) Kiran Patil clarified, “This is a misleading message being circulated. At a few spots, the tracks have slightly sunk as they were laid after the monsoon. This led to minor undulations at one or two locations.” Officials at the SGNP main gate are informing visitors about the temporary suspension of the train. Official Speak On March 23, during the regular safari of the mini train in the evening, it was noticed that some technical problems were arising along the train track. Instructions were given by officials to take immediate action in this regard, said a forest officer. Piyush Goyal steps in Union Minister of Commerce and Industry and North Mumbai MP Piyush Goyal has directed SGNP authorities to ensure immediate resolution of the technical issues affecting the ‘Van Rani mini toy train’. Regular follow-up Regular follow-up is being done by the SGNP authorities in order to put both trains into service. Also, a meeting has been organised with the agencies concerned on March 28, under the chairmanship of the Conservator of Forests and Director, SGNP, to implement long-term measures to prevent such problems from arising in the future. Voices Anurupa Mitra, Pune resident‘We [three moms] brought our kids to the park, but we were disappointed to find that the new toy train was closed for maintenance.’ Sagir Shaikh, Mulund resident‘We were not informed at the main entry gate that the toy train was shut for maintenance; we were here with our kids specially for the train as it had just opened after years, but unfortunately we found it to be closed.’ Dilip Mourya, Goregaon West resident‘We only came for the toy train and didn’t expect that they would have shut it so soon. We got to know at the entry gate that the train is closed for repair. My relatives and I had taken out time off our busy schedules for this trip, but it was a failure. We paid '113 each for entry and didn’t like anything.’ Days train remained operational after inauguration: Nine days (March 14 to March 22) 2646Total ridership in nine days Rs 2.91LAround Revenue earned Although the toy train services were inaugurated on March 14, 2026, SGNP officials, in a press statement, claimed that the operations had commenced earlier on January 6, 2026. “The toy train had started in January following all the final safety trials in December 2025. The train remained operational from January 6 to March 23 with regular ticket sales. Only the formal inauguration ceremony took place on March 14. The train has gone under maintenance since March 23. We are expecting Vanrani to resume service from March 28,” a senior forest official told mid-day. Train operational since January 6, 2026Total ridership: 15,556Total ticket revenue: Over R13L
28 March,2026 12:29 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet Jadhav | Sarthak MehtaADVERTISEMENT
