Amid the LPG supply concerns due to the ongoing West Asia war, the Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL) on Tuesday reaffirmed its commitment to providing uninterrupted Piped Natural Gas (PNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) distribution across its operational areas in Maharashtra and Karnataka. In an official statement, the MGL stated that it is taking necessary steps to ensure reliable and safe fuel supply for households and transport, in line with the Natural Gas Supply Regulation Order 2026, which gives top priority to domestic PNG and CNG. MGL’s services extend across several regions, including Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Mira-Bhayander, Raigad, Ratnagiri, as well as areas in Karnataka such as Chitradurga and Davanagere, the official statement said. Concerns have been growing after Iran announced closure of Strait of Hormuz, a major oil and gas supply route, in response to joint attacks on it by US and Israel. New benefits for domestic customers To encourage wider adoption of PNG, MGL has introduced several customer-friendly initiatives including - - Free gas worth Rs 500 for new registrations between 16 March and 30 April 2026 - Rs 1,000 bill adjustment for customers in buildings with over 60 per cent PNG usage - Rs 500 instant discount for online registrations - Waiver of minimum charges during non-usage periods - Plans to introduce zero upfront registration charges - Flexible payment options for customers - Incentives for Commercial Users For commercial customers, MGL has waived registration charges and will also invest in downstream infrastructure at its own cost, making it easier for businesses to switch to PNG. Advisory to prevent fraud MGL has also issued a safety advisory to customers and stated to avoid the following - - Avoid clicking on unknown links - Do not download suspicious files or apps - Never share OTPs or bank details - Use only MGL’s official verified communication channels Official statement Managing Director Ashu Shinghal said, "the company remains focused on expanding access to natural gas and supporting the transition to cleaner energy." MGL stated that it will continue to strengthen its infrastructure and customer engagement efforts to ensure dependable service and promote the use of cleaner fuel alternatives across its network, the official statement said.
24 March,2026 03:37 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) on Tuesday launched its new ‘Rajmata Jijau’ bus service, aimed at offering modern, safe and comfortable travel to passengers across the state. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the service at a ceremony held at the Vidhan Bhavan premises. 📍 विधान भवन, #मुंबई |महाराष्ट्र राज्य परिवहन महामंडळाच्या पुढाकाराने सुरू करण्यात आलेल्या 'राजमाता जिजाऊ' या आधुनिक बससेवेचा लोकार्पण सोहळा आज मुंबईतील विधिमंडळाच्या आवारात संपन्न झाला. यावेळी मुख्यमंत्री देवेंद्र फडणवीस आणि उपमुख्यमंत्री सुनेत्रा पवार यांच्या उपस्थितीत या… pic.twitter.com/zo2RRpUCgg — Eknath Shinde - एकनाथ शिंदे (@mieknathshinde) March 24, 2026 The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, Environment Minister Pankaja Munde, School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, Minister of State Madhuri Misal, along with legislators from both Houses. Senior officials including Additional Chief Secretary (Transport) Sanjay Sethi, MSRTC Managing Director Madhav Kusekar, Ashok Leyland senior manager John Mathew, and Tata Motors Global Head Sushant Naik were also present. Tribute to Rajmata Jijabai’s Legacy The ‘Rajmata Jijau’ bus service has been conceptualised as a tribute to Rajmata Jijabai, whose guidance and values played a crucial role in shaping Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of Hindavi Swarajya. The naming of the service reflects Maharashtra’s rich cultural and historical heritage, officials said. A symbolic installation depicting Rajmata Jijau on horseback was displayed in front of the bus during the inauguration, adding a historical and inspirational dimension to the ceremony. 3,000 Buses to Be Added in Phases Under the initiative, MSRTC plans to induct around 3,000 ‘Rajmata Jijau’ buses into its fleet in a phased manner across Maharashtra. The move is expected to significantly enhance the quality of public transport by improving passenger comfort, safety, and accessibility. The corporation already operates several premium and semi-premium services, including ‘Shivneri’, ‘Shivshahi’, ‘Shivai’, ‘Hirkani’, and ‘Yashwanti’. The addition of the ‘Rajmata Jijau’ service is set to further strengthen MSRTC’s transport network and make it more passenger-centric. Formal Inauguration with Traditional Ceremony The launch was marked by a traditional puja and ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by Chief Minister Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Shinde and Pawar. Following the inauguration, the dignitaries took a symbolic ride in the newly launched bus, marking the formal commencement of the service. Officials said the initiative aligns with the state government’s focus on modernising public transport infrastructure while preserving Maharashtra’s cultural identity.
24 March,2026 03:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCongress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar on Tuesday raised serious concerns over the safety of girls in Maharashtra, alleging a deterioration in law and order and highlighting a recent case involving missing minor girls in Chandrapur district. Six Minor Girls Missing in Chandrapur Sparks Alarm Raising the issue through an adjournment motion in the state assembly, Wadettiwar pointed to a troubling incident in Brahmapuri in Chandrapur, where six minor girls studying in Classes 10 and 12 reportedly went missing, reported news agency PTI. He informed the House that while two of the girls have been traced, four remain unaccounted for, intensifying concerns among families and the local community. The Congress leader demanded immediate action, including the formation of a special search team to locate the missing girls, reported PTI. Questions Raised Over CCTV and Police Preparedness Wadettiwar criticised the effectiveness of existing surveillance systems, questioning whether investments in CCTV infrastructure were translating into improved safety at the grassroots level. “The government spends crores on CCTV systems, but where are these mechanisms at the taluka level?” he asked, highlighting gaps in implementation, reported PTI. He also raised concerns about police response in such cases, stating that authorities must act swiftly when incidents involving minors are reported, especially when communication channels like mobile phones are switched off. Demand for Awareness Campaigns in Schools and Colleges In addition to immediate search efforts, Wadettiwar called for preventive measures, including awareness programmes in schools and colleges to educate students about personal safety. He stressed the importance of proactive initiatives to safeguard young girls and prevent such incidents in the future, reported PTI. Unseasonal Rains Add to Farmers’ Distress The Congress leader also brought attention to the impact of unseasonal rains and hailstorms across the Marathwada region. He stated that thousands of hectares of rabi crops have suffered severe damage in districts such as Nanded, Hingoli, Dharashiv, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, reported PTI. According to Wadettiwar, farmers are facing heavy financial losses, and in several areas, damage assessment surveys have yet to begin. He also reported two human fatalities and the death of 41 livestock due to adverse weather conditions, reported PTI. Call for Immediate Relief and Government Action Wadettiwar urged the government to conduct prompt surveys and provide immediate financial assistance to affected farmers. He criticised what he described as inadequate response measures and questioned the government’s priorities, reported PTI. Political Criticism Amid Law and Order Debate In a sharp remark, Wadettiwar said that while citizens are grappling with safety concerns and agricultural losses, the government appears distracted by other issues, including cases involving self-styled godmen such as Ashok Kharat, who was recently arrested in Nashik, reported PTI. The issue has added to the ongoing political debate in Maharashtra over governance, law enforcement, and the need for stronger mechanisms to ensure public safety and farmer welfare. (With inputs from PTI)
24 March,2026 03:02 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Tuesday indicated its intent to ensure that the upcoming by-election in Baramati is held unopposed, with senior leader Sunil Tatkare confirming that discussions will be initiated with Opposition parties, including the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), reported news agency PTI. NCP Seeks Consensus for Unopposed Election Tatkare stated that the party is keen to avoid a contest in the Baramati assembly bypoll, citing the emotional and political context following the death of senior leader Ajit Pawar. He emphasised that the NCP would reach out to key stakeholders to build consensus on the matter, reported PTI. The bypoll in Baramati, located in Pune district, along with another by-election in Rahuri in Ahilyanagar, is scheduled to be held on April 23. Senior Leaders to Engage Congress, Sena UBT Tatkare revealed that he, along with senior NCP leader Praful Patel, will hold discussions with Congress leaders in Delhi and also meet Uddhav Thackeray to explore the possibility of a consensus candidate, reported PTI. “If required, we will engage with senior Congress leadership to ensure the bypoll is held unopposed,” Tatkare said, underlining the party’s commitment to maintaining unity in light of recent developments, reported PTI. Candidate to File Nomination on April 6 He further informed that the party’s candidate is expected to file nomination papers for the Baramati seat on April 6. The by-election has been necessitated following the demise of Ajit Pawar, a prominent NCP leader, whose passing earlier this year has significantly impacted the political landscape in the region, reported PTI. Support from Supriya Sule, Congress Yet to Decide Tatkare thanked Supriya Sule for announcing that her faction would not field a candidate in the bypoll, signalling support for an unopposed election. However, he noted that the Congress has indicated it may still contest the seat, reported PTI. Congress Maintains Stand on Electoral Contest The Congress has so far dismissed calls for an uncontested election. State unit chief Harshwardhan Sapkal reiterated that elections are a democratic process and should be contested, reported PTI. He also pointed out that there is no consensus within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) regarding the proposal to hold the bypoll unopposed. Political Significance of Baramati Seat The Baramati constituency holds significant political importance in Maharashtra, traditionally associated with the Pawar family. The upcoming bypoll is being closely watched as it could influence political equations within the state, particularly among alliance partners. As discussions unfold, it remains to be seen whether opposition parties will align with the NCP’s proposal or opt for a competitive electoral contest in one of Maharashtra’s most high-profile constituencies. (With inputs from PTI)
24 March,2026 02:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUnion Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday launched the Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (RIIT), sponsored by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), marking its listing on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). The maiden public issue of the RIIT received a strong response from investors, marking its debut on the BSE. Officials described the listing as an important step in attracting investment into India’s highway infrastructure sector, reported ANI. Addressing the listing ceremony, Gadkari said the next target is to monetise 1,500 kilometres of highways over the next three years through Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (InvIT). He added that the initiative enables direct public participation in India’s infrastructure growth and contributes to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to create an Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Gadkari highlighted that the Raajmarg InvIT represents a transformative step, turning national highway users into stakeholders in the projects. He also noted that the public issue of the InvIT was oversubscribed nearly 14 times, marking a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure investment journey, reported ANI. Domestic markets open higher, recover from recent selling pressure Meanwhile, earlier in the day, the domestic share markets opened on a positive note, taking a breather from recent selling pressure, with both benchmark indices registering strong gains in early trade. However, market volatility remained high amid ongoing uncertainty linked to the Strait of Hormuz. The Nifty 50 opened at 22,878.45, gaining 365.80 points, or 1.62 per cent, while the BSE Sensex surged by 1,516.08 points, or 2.09 per cent, to open at 74,212.47. Market experts noted that despite the recovery, uncertainty continues to weigh on investor sentiment. Sectoral indices on the NSE showed broad-based buying, with all sectors opening in the green. Nifty Auto surged more than 2 per cent, Nifty PSU Bank gained 2.40 per cent, Nifty IT rose 1.46 per cent, Nifty FMCG increased 1.44 per cent, Nifty Metal jumped 2.31 per cent, Nifty Pharma advanced 1.15 per cent, and Nifty Private Bank gained 1.62 per cent. In other Asian markets, a positive trend was observed. Japan’s Nikkei 225 index rose 0.75 per cent to 51,920, Singapore’s Straits Times gained 0.13 per cent to 4,849, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index increased 1.75 per cent to 24,797, Taiwan’s Weighted index remained flat at 32,697, and South Korea’s KOSPI index surged more than 2 per cent to 5,522. US markets also ended higher on Monday. The Dow Jones rallied 1.38 per cent to close at 46,208, the S&P 500 gained 1.15 per cent to 6,581, and the Nasdaq rose 1.38 per cent to 21,946. (With ANI inputs)
24 March,2026 02:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe civic transport undertaking of Thane has presented a Rs 791.86 crore budget for the financial year 2026-27, with a strong focus on expanding its electric bus fleet and improving sustainability, while ensuring that passenger fares remain unchanged. The budget was tabled by Balchandra Behere, manager of Thane Municipal Transport (TMT), outlining a roadmap to transform the public transport system into a modern, eco-friendly, and technology-driven network. Major Push for Electric Bus Expansion A key highlight of the budget is the large-scale induction of electric buses under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme. Around 100 air-conditioned electric buses are expected to be added to the TMT fleet during 2026-27. Additionally, the tendering process is currently underway for procuring 160 more AC electric buses through funding from the 15th Finance Commission’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) grants. This move is aimed at reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality in the rapidly growing Thane region. Target of 370 New Buses by 2027 TMT has set an ambitious target of adding 370 new buses to its fleet by March 2027. This includes 270 air-conditioned electric buses and 100 non-AC buses powered by CNG. The shift reflects a strategic move away from conventional diesel-powered vehicles towards cleaner alternatives. The transition is expected to enhance passenger comfort, reduce operational costs over time, and align with broader environmental goals. No Fare Hike Despite Rising Costs Despite increasing fuel costs and operational expenses, the transport body has decided not to increase passenger fares. This decision is expected to benefit daily commuters, especially senior citizens and women, who already receive subsidised travel benefits. However, to manage the financial gap, TMT has sought a grant of Rs 538.29 crore from the Thane civic administration to offset losses arising from subsidies and rising expenses. Revenue Projections and Financial Planning The undertaking has projected total revenue of Rs 182.27 crore through bus operations and advertisement streams. The budget reflects a continued reliance on civic support to maintain affordability while upgrading infrastructure and services. Retrofitting and Cleaner Fuel Transition In addition to new procurements, the budget also includes plans to retrofit 240 existing diesel buses with CNG kits. This step will further accelerate the shift toward cleaner fuel options and help reduce emissions from the existing fleet. Digital Initiatives to Improve Efficiency TMT is also set to introduce digital passes for senior citizens, aimed at streamlining operations and improving ease of access. The initiative is part of a broader push towards adopting technology-driven solutions to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency. Vision for Sustainable and Modern Transport Overall, the Rs 791.86 crore budget underscores Thane’s commitment to building a sustainable, commuter-friendly, and future-ready public transport system. With a clear emphasis on electrification, affordability, and digital innovation, TMT aims to significantly upgrade urban mobility in the coming years. (With inputs from PTI)
24 March,2026 02:17 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra CM Fadnavis on Tuesday launched the ‘Rajmata Jijau’ smart bus services and also took a ride along with deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar. The bus service is named after Jijabai, widely respected for her role in shaping the life and values of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Officials said the name reflects the state’s effort to connect modern development with Maharashtra’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Modern features and expansion plan The new smart bus service was launched at the state legislature complex in Mumbai on Tuesday, an official statement said. It said that the event featured traditional drum performances and cultural displays, creating a festive atmosphere to mark the beginning of the new transport services. The launch ceremony was attended by several senior leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, Environment Minister Pankaja Munde, and Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, among others. The ‘Rajmata Jijau’ service will include around 3,000 modern buses, to be introduced in phases across the state. The buses are designed to offer improved safety, comfort, and reliability for passengers, officials said. They said that the new service will join the existing fleet of well-known state transport services such as ‘Shivneri’, ‘Shivshahi’, ‘Shivai’, ‘Hirkani’, and ‘Yashwanti’. Symbolic first journey After the inauguration, Maharashtra CM and other leaders took a short ride in the new bus, marking the symbolic beginning of the service, the statement said. A notable highlight was the artistic display on the bus, showing Rajmata Jijau on horseback, adding a cultural and historical touch to the modern vehicle. Step towards upgraded public transport Officials described the new service as more than just a transport facility, stating that it represents Maharashtra’s progress while preserving its identity and values. The initiative aims to improve public transport services and provide a better travel experience for passengers across the state. Key Features of the new buses The ‘Rajmata Jijau’ buses are equipped with several modern features to improve comfort and safety- - 3×2 seating layout with a total of 56 seats - Higher capacity compared to existing buses - CCTV cameras for security - GPS tracking system - Panic button for emergencies - Public announcement system - Electronic route display boards These features aim to provide a safer, smarter and more comfortable travel experience, officials said.
24 March,2026 01:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Centre has directed the Maharashtra government to urgently address concerns raised by climate activists over the decline of flamingo habitats as Navi Mumbai wetlands turn toxic, reported PTI. On World Water Day, activists flagged the deteriorating condition of the DPS, NRI, and T S Chanakya lakes in Nerul, which serve as satellite wetlands for the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary (TCFS), a Ramsar site. According to PTI, they sounded a “wetland emergency,” stating that three key flamingo habitats in Navi Mumbai have turned toxic, with water sample tests revealing alarming results. MoEFCC seeks urgent action report from state authority The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), in its response on Monday, asked the Maharashtra State Wetland Authority to address the grievance on priority and submit an action taken report to both the complainant and the Centre. The ministry cited the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, under which the discharge of untreated waste and effluents, dumping of solid and construction waste, encroachment, and any alteration of the ecological character of wetlands are prohibited. Flamingo season in Navi Mumbai runs from November to May, with January to March being the peak viewing period, when bird lovers and enthusiasts gather at wetlands to catch a glimpse of the “pink parade.” Tests show wetlands under severe stress, activists alert PM Modi and CM Fadnavis Water sample tests commissioned by the NatConnect Foundation indicate a system under severe stress, activists said in messages sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The warning is reinforced by the absence of flamingos this season, said B N Kumar, director of the NatConnect Foundation. Four basic indicators, TDS, pH, BOD, and COD, paint a consistent picture of decline. The results show over-concentrated, stagnant water instead of natural tidal flushing. “Put simply, all four indicators tell the same story, the water is not moving as it should in a healthy intertidal wetland,” Kumar said, pointing to blocked or restricted tidal flow, the news agency reported. Instead of being regularly flushed, the wetlands are turning into stagnant, polluted basins. Activist blames CIDCO, alleges regulatory inaction in wetland damage The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) is “largely responsible for what has happened,” climate activist Nandakumar Pawar said, adding that regulators such as the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority and the forest department have “simply looked the other way.” The wetlands, he warned, are a public asset being destroyed in plain sight. (With PTI inputs)
24 March,2026 01:00 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentNCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar hosted a dinner for Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) leaders in Mumbai, in his first meeting with them after a recent spell of illness kept him away from public engagements. Mumbai, Maharashtra: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray attended a dinner hosted by NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar pic.twitter.com/JsAA8x9HmV — IANS (@ians_india) March 23, 2026 According to PTI, the dinner meeting, held at the Yashwantrao Chavan Centre on Monday night, was attended by key alliance leaders, including Shiv Sena (UBT) head and former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray, his son and MLA Aaditya Thackeray, Congress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar, and former state Congress president Nana Patole. PTI sources said discussions touched on the upcoming Maharashtra Legislative Council (MLC) elections, with the terms of nine members, including Uddhav Thackeray, set to expire in May. Earlier this month, MVA nominee Pawar and six candidates of the ruling Mahayuti alliance were elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Maharashtra. Last month, the 85-year-old former Union minister was admitted to a hospital in Pune twice following a chest infection and complaints of dehydration. Sharad Pawar discharged from Ruby Hill Clinic after health scare After suffering serious health concerns, Sharad Pawar was discharged from Ruby Hall Clinic on February 14. Dr Purvez said that, “He will be discharged today. The medical team has advised him to take adequate rest for a few days, following which he may gradually resume his routine work and public engagements.” The party chief was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune on February 9, due to throat-related problems, persistent coughing, and chest congestion. Sharad Pawar’s condition after being admitted to hospital improved significantly within two days. However, he was kept under observation for the next few days, considering his medical history. Sharad Pawar was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic on February 9 The initial assessment by the treating doctor, Dr Abhijeet Lodha, showed stable heart rate and oxygen levels, though respiratory rate was slightly elevated when the NCP (SP) was brought to Ruby Hill Clinic on February 9. Sources said the chief, an oral cancer survivor, had experienced fatigue due to continuous travel and engagements, along with chest congestion. No oxygen support or ventilator was required, and he was admitted to a private room. Briefing further about Pawar’s improving health, Dr Simon Grant earlier added, “Mr Pawar continues to show consistent improvement under medical supervision. Based on his current progress, the medical team is planning for his discharge in the next two days, subject to continued recovery.” (With PTI inputs)
24 March,2026 12:26 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) carried out a massive demolition drive in Versova, removing 33 structures that were obstructing the ongoing Mumbai Coastal Road (North) project, officials said, reported the PTI. The action was undertaken by the K-West ward, focusing on constructions that were delaying progress on the proposed stretch connecting Versova to Dahisar. The Mumbai civic body stated that clearing these obstructions is essential to ensure timely completion of the infrastructure project. According to an official release, the demolished structures included 3 residential units and 29 commercial establishments, according to the PTI. One property owner has challenged the demolition in court, with the matter scheduled for hearing on March 24, officials said. More removals planned The BMC also indicated that proposals are underway to remove an additional 12 structures that fall under the jurisdiction of the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority, the news agency reported. Demolition in Worli In a similar action last year in September, the BMC had conducted a massive demolition drive near Mumbai Coastal Road in Worli and removed 169 illegal structures. An official statement had earlier said that the Mumbai civic body carried out a major demolition drive in Madraswadi in Worli to demolish illegal structures built along Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan Road, near the Dharamveer Swarajya Rakshak Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Coastal Road Project also known as the Mumbai Coastal Road. The action was taken by the G (South) ward of the BMC as part of its ongoing campaign to clear encroachments and ensure compliance with urban regulations. Also a cause of waterlogging "These structures were also identified as a major cause of waterlogging during monsoons," the BMC had said. It had said that the demolition was conducted under the instructions of Municipal Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani, and under the guidance of Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) Dr. Ashwini Joshi. The operation was led by Deputy Commissioner (Zone 2) Prashant Sapkale and Assistant Municipal Commissioner of G (South) Ward, Swapnaja Kshirsagar, the official statement had earlier said. It had said that a team of 35 workers, along with the necessary machinery and equipment, carried out the demolition. Security and law-and-order arrangements were provided by Worli Police Station. The BMC has made it clear that action against illegal structures and encroachments will continue across the city in a systematic and sustained manner, the officials said. (with PTI inputs)
24 March,2026 11:53 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA dramatic rescue unfolded in Ratnagiri after a black panther fell into a 50-foot-deep well in Kolambe village, likely while chasing prey. The incident came to light around 7 am on Saturday, March 21, when people from Kolambe village heard loud growls and discovered the animal trapped at the bottom. Chasing prey, a rare melanistic black panther slipped and fell into a 50-foot-deep well, leaving it stranded and visibly distressed Locals immediately alerted the forest department, prompting a team led by officials, including Round Officer Lahanu Gavde, to rush to the site. The well had around five feet of water and a rocky ledge where the panther had settled, making the rescue more challenging as the animal remained calm and unwilling to move. Startled by loud growls, villagers gathered around the well and were shocked to find the trapped big cat pacing inside Rescue plan Round Officer Lahanu Gavde said, “Our priority was to rescue the animal safely, but it wasn’t moving as it had found the spot comfortable to rest, which made the operation challenging. We then devised a strategy and called in two water tankers. From a distance of nearly 400 metres, water was pumped into the well through pipes to gradually raise the water level and prompt the animal to move." The forest department rushed in and, after assessing the situation, began a careful rescue by raising the water level and lowering a metal cage into the well As the water level increased, the animal was forced to shift and eventually entered the water. That’s when the forest department lowered a metal trap cage into the well using ropes. After some time, the animal stepped into the cage, allowing the forest department to safely pull it out. After hours of waiting, the panther finally entered the cage. Following a 36-hour-long operation, it was safely pulled out under close supervision. Illustrations/Uday Mohite The operation, involving 20 forest staff and over 20 villagers, lasted 36 hours. The approximately five-year-old animal was later examined, found fit, and released back into its natural habitat. The black panther that fell into the well Did you know? Rescue team with the black panther after a 36-hour operation in Ratnagiri. Pics/By Special Arrangement Melanistic leopards are commonly called black panthers or black leopards. They are found in the forests of the Western Ghats and north-east India and are black due to the presence of excess melanin in their bodies. The colour of their fur is a mixture of blue, black, grey, and purple. 5Approximate age of the animal
24 March,2026 11:13 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavADVERTISEMENT
