As mid-day continues with its ‘Know Your Wards’ series, we now focus on the ‘B’ administrative ward, which borders the Arabian Sea, forming a part of Mumbai’s western coastline. The B ward is characterised by high population density, limited open spaces, frequent traffic congestion and a severe shortage of parking facilities. The area is undergoing rapid transformation due to multiple redevelopment projects; however, it is also notorious for unchecked and unauthorised vertical development, raising concerns over infrastructure strain and civic regulation. Administrative ward: B ward Areas under ward: Mohammad Ali Road, Dongri, and Bhendi Bazar Characterised by: High population density, fewer open spaces, traffic jams, and a lackof parking spaces. Area fast changing due to redevelopment projects, but also notorious for unchecked, unauthorised vertical development Population of ward: 131,544 | gross density of ward: 479 Main issues: Chronic water-logging spots- none Vulnerable settlements - 10 dilapidated buildings, and a number of illegal constructions Open spaces- 18 including Babula Tank Playground Lack of parking space and frequent traffic jams; large presence of unauthorised hawkers Road concreting statusPartially completed- 13completed- 8Not started- 62 Electoral ward 223 in the B Ward: 223: Umarkhadi, Dana Bundar, Princess Dock, Wadi Bundar Demographic details Total population: 63,045SC: 4780 (8%)ST: 759 (1%) Ward reservation 2017- Reserved for OBC 2025- Reserved for women Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 46,906Male: 24,224Female: 22,682Others: 0 Political detailsPrevious Municipal Councillor (2012): Javed JunejaMunicipal Councillor's name (2017): Nikita Dnyanraj Nikam (Congress)Winning margin: 39%Votes received: 8634Total votes cast: 22,085 Electoral Ward 224 in the B Ward: 224: Victoria Dock, Bengalipura Koliwada, Mandvi, Pydhonie Demographic details Total population: 64,245SC population: 558 (1%)ST population: 330 (1%) Ward reservation2017 - Reserved for women2025 - Reserved for women belonging to OBC Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 56,605Male: 28,917Female: 24,176Others: 3 Political detailsPrevious Municipal Councillor (2012): Ganesh SanapMunicipal Councillor's name (2017): Afrin Shaikh (Congress) Winning margin: 39%Votes received: 7681Total votes cast: 19,482
25 December,2025 09:07 PM IST | Mumbai | Eshanpriya MSThe leopard rescued from the densely populated Bhayandar East area in Mumbai has been fitted with a radio collar by officials of Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) officials. The step has been taken to closely monitor the animal’s movement after it is released back into the wild. Forest officials said the radio collar will help them track the leopard and study its behaviour in the surrounding landscape. An SGNP official said the leopard was radio-collared on Thursday and will soon be released into its natural habitat. “After the release, the SGNP team, along with researchers, will monitor the animal’s movements to understand how it navigates and uses the surrounding areas,” the official said. Procedure conducted by SGNP veterinary team The radio collaring was carried out by SGNP veterinarian Dr Nikhil Bangar on the instructions of SGNP Director Anita Patil. Several senior forest officials were present during the procedure, including Deputy Conservator of Forests Kiran Patil, Range Forest Officer Niket Shinde, members of the SGNP leopard rescue team, and other staff. Aim to reduce human-wildlife conflict Officials said the monitoring will help in understanding leopard movement patterns and reduce possible human-wildlife conflict in residential areas near forest boundaries. SGNP officials said that they will continue to carry out the monitoring efforts to ensure both public safety and wildlife protection.
25 December,2025 08:43 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavMumbai’s suburban rail network is set to undergo a major transformation, with railway infrastructure projects worth Rs 18,364.94 crore currently under execution or in planning stages across the Central and Western Railway zones. The projects, spanning a total length of 400.53 kilometres, aim to enhance capacity, ease congestion, improve punctuality, and strengthen suburban connectivity amid steadily rising commuter demand. Mumbai’s suburban rail system currently operates across multiple corridors, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)–Karjat–Khopoli and Kasara on the Main Line, CSMT–Panvel and Bandra on the Harbour Line, Thane–Panvel on the Trans-Harbour Line, Nerul–Belapur–Uran on the Port Line under Central Railway, and Churchgate–Dahanu and Goregaon–CSMT under Western Railway. Recently, 10 additional services were introduced on the Nerul–Belapur–Uran line, while two new stations — Targhar and Gavan — were commissioned for the benefit of commuters. With demand for suburban services continuing to grow across Mumbai and its suburbs, Indian Railways has planned a series of new lines, extensions and capacity augmentation works under different phases of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP). These projects are at various stages of execution and involve both Central and Western Railway networks. Projects on Central Railway CSMT–Kurla 5th and 6th line project The CSMT–Kurla 5th and 6th line project under MUTP-II spans 17.5 track kilometres at an estimated cost of Rs 891 crore and is being executed in two phases. Phase I, covering the Parel–Kurla stretch of 10.1 km, is targeted for completion by December 2025, while Phase II from Parel to CSMT is also under progress. The project is expected to enhance track capacity for suburban and long-distance services, reduce congestion and delays on existing lines, and improve overall punctuality. Panvel–Karjat suburban corridor The Panvel–Karjat suburban corridor project under MUTP-III covers 29.6 track kilometres at an estimated cost of Rs 2,782 crore and is being executed by the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC). Earthwork, tunnelling and bridge construction are currently underway, with completion targeted by December 2025. The corridor will introduce new suburban connectivity between Panvel and Karjat, reduce travel time, provide an alternate route to Karjat and improve train frequency in the region. Kalyan–Asangaon 4th line project The Kalyan–Asangaon 4th line project under MUTP-III-A spans 32 track kilometres at a cost of Rs 1,759 crore. Land acquisition for the project is currently in progress, with completion targeted by December 2026. The project is expected to increase corridor capacity, reduce overcrowding on suburban trains, improve operational efficiency on this high-density route and support future growth in both passenger and freight services. Kalyan–Badlapur 3rd and 4th line project The Kalyan–Badlapur 3rd and 4th line project under MUTP-III-A covers 14.05 track kilometres at an estimated cost of Rs 1,510 crore and is being executed by MRVC. Utility shifting, earthwork and bridge construction are currently in progress, with completion targeted by December 2025. The project will provide additional track capacity for suburban services, reduce overcrowding and improve the reliability and punctuality of the suburban network. Kalyan–Kasara 3rd line project The Kalyan–Kasara 3rd line project spans 67 track kilometres at an estimated cost of Rs 792 crore and is being executed in two phases — Asangaon to Kasara and Kalyan to Asangaon. Both phases are targeted for completion by December 2025. The project will allow greater operational flexibility, particularly during peak hours, reduce disruptions and delays, and improve connectivity for passengers travelling to and from Mumbai’s northern suburbs. Airoli–Kalva elevated suburban corridor link The Airoli–Kalva elevated suburban corridor link project under MUTP-III spans 3.3 track kilometres at a cost of Rs 476 crore and is being executed by MRVC in two phases. Digha Gaon station has been commissioned under Phase I. Phase II will be taken up 30 months after completion of land acquisition and rehabilitation and resettlement. The project has provided an alternative route for suburban trains, enhanced connectivity between Thane and Navi Mumbai, reduced congestion on existing routes and improved travel time and accessibility for passengers. Nilaje–Kopar double chord line project The Nilaje–Kopar double chord line project by Central Railway spans 5 track kilometres at an estimated cost of Rs 338 crore and is currently under execution. The project is aimed at increasing capacity for both passenger and freight trains, reducing congestion and improving frequency, reliability and punctuality on the corridor. Badlapur–Karjat 3rd and 4th line project The Badlapur–Karjat 3rd and 4th line project covers a total route length of 64 kilometres and includes eight major bridges, 106 minor bridges, one road under bridge and six stations along the route. The project, costing Rs 1,324 crore, is being funded on a 50:50 basis by the Railways and the Maharashtra government. It is a crucial link for the Mumbai suburban network and will ease traffic on the Kalyan–Karjat route, benefit daily suburban commuters as well as passengers travelling between Mumbai and Pune, enable the introduction of additional passenger and freight services and address capacity constraints amid industrial expansion. The project is expected to generate additional freight traffic of 7.2 million tonnes per annum, save 41 lakh litres of diesel annually, result in logistics cost savings of Rs 46.2 crore every year and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 2 crore kg annually, equivalent to planting around eight lakh trees. Asangaon–Kasara 4th line project The Asangaon–Kasara 4th line project spans 35 track kilometres at an estimated cost of Rs 737.85 crore and is currently under process. The project will benefit daily commuters on the Mumbai suburban network, improve operational flexibility, reduce the chances of disruptions and delays and enhance connectivity for passengers travelling to and from Mumbai’s northern suburbs. Projects on Western Railway Mumbai Central–Borivali 6th line project The Mumbai Central–Borivali 6th line project under MUTP-II covers 30 track kilometres at an estimated cost of Rs 919 crore and is being executed in two phases. Phase I, covering the Khar–Kandivali section, has already been commissioned. Phase II work is currently underway on the Kandivali–Borivali stretch of 3.21 km, with completion targeted by January 2026. The project will enhance line capacity on the Mumbai suburban section, ease congestion on busy suburban and mainline tracks, improve punctuality, provide dedicated lines for trains operating to and from Bandra Terminus and allow segregation of mainline and suburban services, benefiting commuters on the Andheri–Borivali–Virar section. Extension of Harbour line from Goregaon to Borivali The extension of the Harbour line from Goregaon to Borivali under MUTP-III-A covers 7.08 track kilometres at an estimated cost of Rs 898 crore. Land acquisition for the project is currently in progress. The Goregaon–Malad section is targeted for completion by March 2028, while the Malad–Borivali section is expected to be completed by December 2028. The project will provide direct connectivity between Borivali and CSMT, add line capacity on the Goregaon–Borivali section, reduce crowding at Goregaon and Borivali stations and eliminate the need for passengers to change trains at Goregaon while travelling to CSMT. Borivali–Virar 5th and 6th line project The Borivali–Virar 5th and 6th line project under MUTP-III-A spans 26 track kilometres at a cost of Rs 2,184.09 crore. The alignment has been finalised, and utility shifting along with bridge and platform works are currently in progress. The project, being executed by MRVC, is targeted for completion by March 2028 and will increase line capacity, allow the operation of additional suburban trains, ease travel conditions for commuters between Virar and Borivali and enable segregation of mainline and suburban services. Virar–Dahanu 3rd and 4th line project The Virar–Dahanu 3rd and 4th line project under MUTP-III spans 64 track kilometres at an estimated cost of Rs 3,578 crore and is being executed by MRVC. The project has achieved 43 per cent physical progress, with 50 bridges and road under bridges completed so far. Completion is targeted by December 2026. The project will add line capacity on the Virar–Dahanu section, facilitate additional suburban services, ease travel for commuters between Vaitarna and Dahanu Road and benefit daily commuters in Palghar district travelling beyond Virar. Naigaon–Juichandra double chord line project The Naigaon–Juichandra double chord line project by Western Railway covers 6 track kilometres at an estimated cost of Rs 176 crore and is currently under execution, with completion targeted by March 2028. The project will provide direct connectivity for Konkan Railway and services towards Panvel and beyond from Mumbai Central and Bandra Terminus without the need for locomotive reversal at Vasai Road. It is expected to benefit passengers from the western suburbs travelling towards Konkan, Goa and further destinations and facilitate the introduction of new train services.
25 December,2025 08:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA 52-year-old Mumbai-based businessman was allegedly cheated of Rs 53 lakh by a woman who befriended him through a dating app. The woman whom the victim met through a dating app induced him to invest in a fraudulent scheme, police said on Thursday. A police official, while addressing the incident, asserted, “The complainant, who is in the logistics business and also runs a marketing company, had created an account on a dating app, as he wanted to marry, and received a friend request from a female user who identified herself as 'Priyanka Gupta', a resident of Juhu,” as per PTI. She told him that she had separated from her husband and was living with her six-year-old daughter, the official added. The two then started chatting on WhatsApp. The complainant said that the woman told him that she wanted to marry a businessman and not a salaried person. After having a conversation for some time across dating and social media apps, soon they decided to get married. Woman duped the victim of Rs 35 lakh On October 13, the woman told the victim that she did gold trading through a firm called 'Market Axess Company' and he too should invest in it, as it paid handsome returns. Initially hesitant, the victim eventually agreed to invest in the gold trading firm. The woman then allegedly created an account for him on the company's platform, and, over a period, he deposited a total of Rs 53.30 lakh, reported PTI. His account showed that his virtual balance had grown to Rs 1.08 crore, but when he tried to withdraw some of the amount, the company executives told him that he would first have to deposit 30 per cent of the amount. The victim, while briefing about the incident, also added that, “As he could not arrange the money, he requested a refund of his principal investment, but the company representatives started giving him evasive replies,” as cited by PTI. Realising that he had been duped, the businessman approached the police and lodged a complaint against the woman. However, an FIR has been registered against two unidentified persons for alleged cheating and offences under the Information Technology Act; the police official said that the investigation is underway. (With inputs from PTI)
25 December,2025 07:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) becomes operational on Thursday, the demand to name the newly built airport after late local leader, activist and politician D B Patil is finding new momentum. As reported by news agency PTI, the NMIA commenced commercial flight operations on Thursday with the first flight from Bengaluru, operated by IndiGo, touching down on the runway at 8 am. Former Member of Parliament Sanjeev Naik on Thursday expressed happiness over the commencement of operations at the Navi Mumbai International Airport. While talking to the media on Thursday, he said, "It is a matter of great happiness. When I became an MP, a huge struggle was carried out in Parliament to ensure that Navi Mumbai gets its own international airport. It took nearly 15 years of waiting to witness this day... The airport is not just for Navi Mumbai; it will contribute to the growth of the entire country," as cited by news agency PTI. Ex-Member of Parliament Sanjeev Naik also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for the launch of the facility; he said that the airport should be named after the late D. B. Patil. Naik emphasised that, "It is the wish of all Navi Mumbaikars that this airport should bear the name of D B Patil Saheb. To express this sentiment, we travelled on the first flight. Had the airport been named after him today, our happiness would have been doubled," as per PTI. Family members of D B Patil, who were present at the airport to welcome the passengers, echoed similar feelings. While expressing happiness over the airport's inauguration, they said they hope the issue of the airport's name will be resolved soon. Dinkar Balu Patil, popularly known as D. B. Patil, who served as an MP and MLA, died in 2013. He is known to have played a key role in shaping the development of Navi Mumbai and championed the rights of those displaced by land acquisition. NMIA’s first commercial flight received a water salute The aircraft was accorded a ceremonial water cannon salute on arrival, a time-honoured aviation tradition marking NMIA's first commercial touchdown and departure, the airport operator said in a statement. Commercial services started at Navi Mumbai International Airport Thursday, with the inaugural IndiGo arrival from Bengaluru and first departure to Hyderabad marking a new era for India’s aviation sector.IndiGo, Air India Express, Akasa Air and Star Air will operate day-one… pic.twitter.com/7e4OHEhiim — Mid Day (@mid_day) December 25, 2025 The inaugural arrival was followed by the airport's first departure, IndiGo flight 6E882 to Hyderabad at 08:40 am, completing NMIA's inaugural arrival and departure cycle. In the first month, NMIA will operate for 12 hours -- between 08:00 hours and 20:00 hours -- handling 23 scheduled daily departures. During this period, the airport will manage up to 10 flight movements per hour.
25 December,2025 07:58 PM IST | Navi Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn view of strengthening their preparations for the upcoming Maharashtra Maharashtra local body elections, the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Thursday submitted its list of 40 star campaigners to the State Election Commission. As reported by news agency IANS, the list, issued by State President Sunil Tatkare, includes high-profile leaders and key party members intended to lead the party’s outreach across the state. The list of NCP star campaigners is headed by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, followed by senior leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare. Furthermore, other prominent ministers and leaders include influential names such as Hasan Mushrif, Nawab Malik, Dhananjay Munde, Narhari Zirwal, Aditi Tatkare and Mushtaq Antulay. NCP star campaigners The Nationalist Congress Party has included a mix of veteran leaders and youth faces, including Amol Mitkari, Rupali Chakankar, Samir Bhujbal, film star Sayali Shinde, deputy speaker of the state assembly Anna Bansode, Sana Malik and Zeeshan Siddique. Considering that party veterans, including minister Chhagan Bhujbal and former minister Dilip Walse Patil, are missing from the list, speculations are being made that the NCP this time is betting on youth faces for the Maharashtra civic poll election campaign. NCP released the list of star campaigners at a time when the party is still hopeful of being part of the MahaYuti alliance for the BMC elections. Besides, the party is also expecting its due share in the Mahayuti alliance in the adjoining Thane Municipal Corporation, reported IANS. Fuelling the fire between the political parties, NCP insiders have said that if they do not get due seats in the Mahayuti alliance, they are ready to go solo in these two civic bodies. As per the reports, NCP will engage in a friendly fight with the BJP in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. BJP and NCP to fight independently On the other hand, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has already announced that the BJP and NCP will fight independently and will have a friendly fight to avoid benefiting a third party in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad, as reported by news agency IANS. Tatkare said discussions regarding the MahaYuti are ongoing at various levels. He indicated that a decision to contest all these elections as part of the Mahayuti is likely. He further highlighted that the political situation varies from one municipal corporation to another. The NCP leader also noted, “Where a party is in power, it is natural for it to seek a larger share. While party workers’ sentiments are important, multiple rounds of discussions are required within an alliance. NCP remains in favour of contesting the civic body elections as a part of the Mahayuti,” as per IANS. (With inputs from IANS)
25 December,2025 07:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWestern Railway, while sharing Mumbai local train updates, on Thursday announced that four additional pairs of special local trains will be operated on the night of December 31, 2025 and January 1, 2026 to help commuters travelling during New Year 2026 eve. The special services will run between Churchgate and Virar, an official statement said. The additional local trains will operate during the late-night and early-morning hours of Wednesday night and Thursday morning, it said. Railway officials said that the decision has been taken to manage the expected rush of passengers and to provide safe and convenient travel options during New Year’s Eve. Suburban rail connectivity The extra services are expected to benefit office-goers, late-night workers and revellers returning home after celebrations. Western Railway regularly introduces special suburban services on festive occasions to ease crowding and improve passenger convenience. Advice to passengers Passengers have been advised to check train timings in advance and follow safety instructions while travelling late at night. Railway authorities have appealed to commuters to cooperate with staff and avoid overcrowding on platforms and trains. Central Railway to run four special suburban trains on New Year’s Eve Central Railway has announced that it will be operating four special suburban trains during the midnight hours of December 31, 2025, and January 1, 2026. According to a release issued by the Central Railway, the special services will operate on both the Main Line and Harbour Line, ensuring smoother and safer travel for passengers celebrating the New Year across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Trains on Main Line As per the release issued by the Central Railway, a New Year’s Eve special local train will depart from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) at 1.30 am and reach Kalyan at 3.00 am on the Main Line. Whereas, another special service will depart from Kalyan at 1:30 am and arrive at CSMT at 3 am. Trains on Harbour Line The New Year special suburban train on the Harbour Line will leave CSMT at 1:30 am and will reach Panvel at 2:50 am. Similarly, another special train will depart from Panvel at 1.30 am and reach CSMT at 2:50 am. Central Railways, while announcing the special trains, has also clarified that all four special trains will halt at all the stations on their respective routes.
25 December,2025 07:44 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs mid-day continues with its ‘Know Your Wards’ series, we now focus on the ‘A’ administrative ward, which borders the Arabian Sea, forming a part of Mumbai’s western coastline. AHEAD of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, mid-day will bring you a 'Know Your Ward' update with details of Mumbai's 227 electoral wards, across the 24 administra- tive wards. Each instalment will highlight ward-wise charteristic challenges issues that put the spotlight on development priorites, key landmarks, demographic patterns, and the political landscape of the ward . The population density of the area, natural boundaries such as the city coast-line and rivers, or human-made boundaries such as nullahs and railway lines, determine boundaries of these wards. Each of Mumbai's 24 administrative wards is home to a varied number of electoral wards. While some administrative wards, such as L ward in Kurla and the F-North ward in Matunga, comprise as many as 10 electoral wards, South Mumbai's A and B wards have only three and two electoral wards, respectively. The first in the series are 'A ward' comprising wards 225, 226, and 227, and 'Ward B', comprising wards 223, and 224. Administrative ward: A ward Areas under ward: Colaba, Cuff Parade, Vidhan Bhavan, Mantralay, Marine Drive, Churchgate, Fort, and Azad Maidan Characterised by: High floating population, both for business and tourism, few parking spaces compared to the demand Population of ward: 185,014 | gross density of ward: 165 Main issues: Chronic water-logging spots- none Vulnerable settlements (due to seafront with a population of 95,552)- 8 Open spaces- 17 (including Bhatia Garden, Horniman Circle Garden, Gateway of India CPRA Garden in Cuff Parade) Lack of parking spaces in the business areas of Nariman Point, Fort and Churchgate Road concreting statusPartially completed- 19completed- 7Not started- 48 Electoral ward 225 in the A Ward: 225: Fort, Taj Mahal Hotel, Gateway of India Demographic details Total population: 61,341SC: 6735 (11%)ST: 1321 (2%) Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 56,605Male: 30,427Female: 26,175Others: 3 Ward reservation 2017- Open2025- Reserved for women belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 56,605Male: 30427Female: 26175Others: 3 Political detailsPrevious Municipal Councillor (2012): Sushma SalunkheMunicipal Councillor's name (2017): Sujata Digvijay Sanap (Shiv Sena) Winning margin: 41%Votes received: 10,388Total votes cast: 25,619 Electoral Ward 226 in the A Ward: 226: Nariman Point, Machhimar Nagar, Ganeshmurti Nagar Demographic details Total population: 62, 978SC population: 4243 (7%)ST population: 1644 (3%) Ward reservation2017 - Reserved for women2025 - Reserved for Other Backward Classes Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 54,121Male: 29,876Female: 24,244Others: 1 Political detailsPrevious Municipal Councillor (2012): Anita Yadav Municipal Councillor's name (2017): Harshita a Narvekar (BJP) Winning margin: 45%Votes received: 11,053Total votes cast: 24,463 Electoral Ward 227 in the A Ward: 227: Geeta Nagar, Afghan Church, and Navy Nagar Demographic details Total population: 60,695SC population: 2656 (4%)ST population: 228 (0%) Ward reservation2017 - Open2025 - Reserved for women Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 44,813Male: 26,801Female: 18,010Others: 2 Political detailsPrevious Municipal Councillor (2012): Makarand Narvekar Municipal Councillor's name (2017): Makarand Narvekar (BJP) Winning margin: 56%Votes received: 6987Total votes cast: 12,498
25 December,2025 07:09 PM IST | Mumbai | Eshanpriya MSThe Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Indore Zonal Office, has conducted search operations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) at premises linked to the Ruchi Group at multiple locations in Mumbai and Indore, news agency IANS reported, quoting the agency, on Thursday. The raids carried out on Tuesday targeted the group’s premises in connection with alleged bank fraud cases, the agency said. ED, while briefing about the raids, said that the probe stems from multiple FIRs registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Bhopal, against several Ruchi Group entities, IANS reported. The FIR in the alleged bank fraud case includes M/s Ruchi Global Ltd (now renamed M/s Agrotrade Enterprises Ltd), M/s Ruchi Acroni Industries Ltd (now M/s Steeltech Resources Ltd), and M/s RSAL Steel Pvt Ltd (now M/s LGB Steel Pvt. Ltd). Furthermore, the Enforcement Directorate also said that the companies, promoted by the late Kailash Chandra Shahra and Umesh Shahra, are also accused of orchestrating large-scale bank frauds through fund diversion, syphoning, and accounting manipulations, resulting in substantial wrongful losses to public sector banks, IANS reported. ED officers have revealed that the investigation uncovered a sophisticated conspiracy involving the creation of numerous shell entities. They added that the conspiracy was done for round-tripping transactions, where spurious letters of credit and cash credit facilities were manipulated to divert funds for private gain. “Bogus sales and purchases were recorded, and deliberate losses inflicted to syphon off loan amounts obtained ostensibly for legitimate business purposes,” ED stated. The proceeds of crime generated from these frauds were allegedly concealed and layered to disguise their illicit origins. The agency, while briefing about the seizures, further highlighted, “During the searches, authorities froze bank balances exceeding Rs 20 lakh belonging to the accused persons and their family members. Additionally, cash amounting to over Rs 23 lakh was seized, along with significant incriminating documents and digital devices that establish the roles of the accused in the fraud." This action revives scrutiny on the Ruchi Group, which has faced prior allegations of financial irregularities. CBI probe in 2021 In 2021, the CBI's probe had flagged similar issues in group companies, including an Rs 188 crore fraud case involving a bank consortium. Meanwhile, the current investigation by ED signals intensified efforts to trace and recover laundered assets, the agency said. Further investigation is underway, and sources indicated that attachment of properties and deeper scrutiny of the beneficiaries of the diverted funds may follow. (With inputs from IANS)
25 December,2025 06:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs mid-day continues with its ‘Know Your Wards’ series, we now focus on the ‘C’ administrative ward, which borders the Arabian Sea, forming a part of Mumbai’s western coastline.The D ward, is considered a VIP ward in Mumbai being home to the governor of Maharashtra’s residence Raj Bhavan, and the official residences of the chief minister, deputy chief minister, and various leaders of the Maharashtra legislature. The ward is also home to the iconic Hanging Gardens in Malabar Hill, and yet another iconic open space fondly associated with India’s freedom struggle — the August Kranti Maidan, from where Mahatma Gandhi kick-started the Quit India Movement in 1942. Administrative ward: D ward Areas under ward: Tardeo, Gowalia Tank, Mahalaxmi Temple, Malabar Hill, Raj Bhavan, Girgaum Population of ward: 346866| Gross Density of ward: 418 Characteristics by: A 'VIP' ward with residences of the governor, chief minister and other ministers; has a few open spaces Main issues: Chronic waterlogging spot: 01 at Nana Chowk Vulnerable populations: Settlements: 11 due to seaside, 15 landslide-prone locations due to Malabar Hills Population affected: 8,193 Open spaces: 25, including Hanging Garden, Amarson Garden, Kamla Nehru Park, August Kranti Maidan, Priya Darshani Park, Tata Garden, Rock Garden (Nepean Sea Road), Banganga Park (near Banganga Tank) Road concreting status:Partially completed: 7Completed: 14Not started: 58 Electoral Ward 214 in the D Ward: 214: Mahalaxmi Mandir, Jaslok Hospital, Tardeo, Gowalia Tank, Janta Nagar Demographic details Total population: 60,236SC population: 1,839 (3%)ST population: 217 (-) Ward reservation2017 - Open 2025 - Open Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 53,258Male: 27,322Female: 25,933Others: 3 Political detailsPrevious Municipal Councillor (2012): Jyotsna Mehta (BJP)Municipal Councillor's name (2017): Sarita Patil (BJP) Winning margin: 52%Votes received: 13,859Total votes cast: 26,436 Electoral Ward 215 in the D Ward: 215: Willingdon Sports Club, R.T.O. Chikalwadi, Bhatia Hospital, Tulsiwadi, Bane Compound, Talmiki Wadi Demographic details Total population: 53,084SC population: 8,979 (17%)ST population: 382 (1%) Ward reservation2017 - Women2025 - SC Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 47,242Male: 23,809Female: 23,430Others: 3 Political detailsPrevious Municipal Councillor (2012): Surendra BagalkarMunicipal Councillor's name (2017): Arundhati Dudhwadkar (Shiv Sena) Winning margin: 42%Votes received: 10,215Total votes cast: 24,251 Electoral Ward 216 in the D Ward: 216: B.I.T. Chawl, Navjeevan Society, Dalal Estate Demographic details Total population: 59,265SC population: 3,628 (6%)ST population: 77 (-) Ward reservation2017 - OBC 2025 - OBC Women Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 69,231Male: 45,304Female: 23,925Others: 2 Political detailsPrevious Municipal Councillor (2012): Chogalal Doshi (Congress)Municipal Councillor's name (2017): Rajendra Dattatray Narwankar (Congress) Winning margin: 40%Votes received: 8,541Total votes cast: 21,325 Electoral Ward 217 in the D Ward: 217: August Kranti Maidan, Gavdevi, Girgaum Chowpaty, Papanas Wadi, Shapur Baug Demographic details Total population: 57,385SC population: 1,231 (2%)ST population: 149 (-) Ward reservation2017 - OBC Women2025 - Open Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 52,116Male: 27,075Female: 25,037Others: 4 Political detailsPrevious Municipal Councillor (2012): Yugandhara SakekarMunicipal Councillor's name (2017): Minal Patel (BJP) Winning margin: 54%Votes received: 13,623Total votes cast: 25,039 Electoral Ward 218 in the D Ward: 218: Sikka Nagar, Mangal Wadi, Kranti Nagar, Gaiwadi, Opera House, Mafatlal Swimming Pool Demographic details Total population: 56,993SC population: 419 (1%)ST population: 447 (1%) Ward reservation2017 - OBC Women2025 - Women Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 55,109Male: 28,569Female: 26,540Others: 0 Political detailsPrevious Municipal Councillor (2012): Sampat Thakur (Shiv Sena)Municipal Councillor's name (2017): Anuradha Potdar (BJP) Winning margin: 54%Votes received: 15,289Total votes cast: 28,565 Electoral Ward 219 in the D Ward: 219: Kamala Nehru Park, Raj Bhavan, Teen Batti, Malabar Hill, Simla Nagar, Hyderabad Estate Demographic details Total population: 59,903SC population: 748 (1%)ST population: 357 (1%) Ward reservation2017 - Women2025 - OBC Voter detailsTentative voters (2025): 53,831Male: 28,245Female: 25,586Others: 0 Political detailsPrevious Municipal Councillor (2012): Veena Jain Municipal Councillor's name (2017): Jyotsna Mehta (BJP) Winning margin: 60%Votes received: 15,361Total votes cast: 25,569
25 December,2025 06:27 PM IST | Mumbai | Eshanpriya MSFlight operations at Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) began successfully on Thursday, December 25, 2025, marking a major milestone for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The officials said that on the first day of operations, 15 departure flights were scheduled to various domestic destinations and by January end this would increase to 40. The first scheduled flight, an early-morning service to Hyderabad, departed at 8.40 am from the newly opened airport. Commercial operations launched The launch follows several years of planning, construction and infrastructure development. Officials said the airport will play an important role in supporting air travel demand in and around Mumbai. Flight schedule to increase in phases As many as 15 departure flights were scheduled to various domestic destinations on Thursday, officials said, adding that from December 26, 2025, the airport will handle 25 scheduled departure flights daily. The officials said that they expect this number to rise to 40 departures per day by the end of January 2026, in line with capacity expansion and airline plans. Several airlines are operating services from the airport as part of the initial phase. Passenger facilities and security Passengers using the terminal were welcomed by officials from Navi Mumbai International Airport Limited (NMIAL) and airline staff. All security arrangements were put in place before the start of operations, following guidelines issued by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) to ensure the safety of passengers and airport personnel. About Navi Mumbai International Airport Located in Ulwe, Navi Mumbai, the airport has been developed as a second major aviation hub for the Mumbai region. It is expected to ease congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, one of the busiest airports in India. The project has been developed under a public-private partnership led by Adani Airport Holdings and CIDCO, through Navi Mumbai International Airport Limited. In its first phase, the airport can handle 20 million passengers annually, with plans for further expansion in the coming years. The airport has been assigned the IATA code NMI and ICAO code VANM. Regional connectivity gets boost The opening of the airport is expected to improve air connectivity across Maharashtra and neighbouring states, reduce travel pressure on Mumbai’s existing airport and will support economic growth and tourism in the region, officials said.
25 December,2025 06:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1766668252310_d.png?tr=w-436,h-271 "The A and B wards are part of Mumbai’s coastline. File Photo")
-1766669940374_d.png "The A and B wards are part of Mumbai’s coastline. Pic/ATUL KAMBLE")
-1766660968075_d.png "Girgaon residents enjoy an evening of shopping as a breeze blows through the chawl-lined Kandewadi area. In the backdrop, the spectre of densely packed high-rises looms over the future of the historic precinct. File Pic/Shadab Khan")
