Ramashray Pandey, a senior officer of the Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE) of the 1990 batch, has taken over the charge as General Manager of Western Railway on Friday, 10th April, 2026. Prior to his posting as General Manager, Western Railway, Pandey was working as Chief Administrative Officer (Construction/South), East Central Railway in Patna. During his career, Pandey has served as Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Varanasi Division on North Eastern Railway and also held the position of Chief Engineer on Northern Railway, New Delhi. He has held several important positions, including Deputy Chief Engineer at Gorakhpur and Samastipur; Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Member Engineering at the Railway Board; Director of Vigilance at the Railway Board; and Deputy Chief Vigilance Officer at Hajipur. He also served as Group General Manager at Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), where he executed several notable infrastructural projects. Educational background Pandey is a B.Tech graduate from IIT Roorkee and holds an M.Tech degree from IIT Delhi. In the domains of railway operations and infrastructure management, he has also undergone extensive international training. As per the officials' statement, Pandey earlier also received training in track recording in Italy, completed an Advanced Management Program in Singapore and Malaysia, underwent training in high-speed train operations in Spain, and received training in tunnelling techniques in Turkey and Norway. Western Railway also stated that Pandey brings with him vast experience in infrastructure development, along with management and administration. Pandey is well respected among officers and staff alike, and under his dynamic leadership, Western Railway will achieve new milestones and scale greater heights. He also contributed significantly as Group General Manager at Rail Vikas Nigam Limited, where he oversaw the execution of several major infrastructure projects. An alumnus of IIT Roorkee and IIT Delhi, Pandey holds a B.Tech and an M.Tech degree, respectively. He has also undergone extensive international training in railway operations and infrastructure, including specialised programmes in Italy, Spain, Turkey, Norway, Singapore, and Malaysia. With vast experience in infrastructure development, administration, and project execution, Pandey is expected to steer Western Railway towards further growth and modernisation. Railway officials expressed confidence that under his leadership, the zone will achieve new milestones and enhanced operational efficiency.
10 April,2026 05:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSenior Opposition leaders in Maharashtra on Friday claimed there is a growing “sense of discomfort” within the ruling Shiv Sena despite being in power. However, they dismissed as speculative reports suggesting that a faction of Shiv Sena (UBT) may split and join the camp led by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, reported news agency PTI. The leaders asserted that there is no indication of any major political upheaval in the state in the near future, even as rumours continue to circulate in political circles. ‘Operation Tiger’ Rumours Spark Political Buzz In recent days, speculation has grown around a purported strategy dubbed ‘Operation Tiger’, allegedly aimed at engineering defections from the Shiv Sena (UBT) into the ruling Sena faction. The reports have triggered widespread discussion, though no concrete evidence has emerged to support the claims, reported PTI. Responding to these rumours, Eknath Shinde termed them “baseless” and accused those spreading such narratives of attempting to create unnecessary sensation in the political landscape. Congress Leader Downplays Possibility of Realignment Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, senior Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar said that while there may be internal unease within the ruling party, it does not necessarily point towards any imminent political shift, reported PTI. “Despite being in power, there appears to be some discomfort within the Shiv Sena, including among senior leaders and ministers,” he said, reported PTI. Addressing reports of a supposed meeting between Shinde and Members of Parliament from the Uddhav Thackeray faction, Wadettiwar said such interactions should not be overinterpreted. He noted that MPs often meet ruling leaders for constituency-related development work, and such meetings do not automatically signal political realignment, reported PTI. NCP (SP) Questions Credibility of ‘Operation Tiger’ Echoing similar sentiments, NCP (SP) leader and former home minister Anil Deshmukh dismissed the very existence of ‘Operation Tiger’, calling it speculative, reported PTI. He asserted that MPs belonging to the Shiv Sena (UBT) remain united and continue to firmly support Uddhav Thackeray. Given this unity, Deshmukh said, the chances of any major split or political upheaval appear minimal at present. Background: 2022 Split Still Shapes State Politics The political backdrop of Maharashtra continues to be influenced by the 2022 rebellion led by Eknath Shinde, which resulted in a split within the Shiv Sena. Shinde, along with a group of MLAs, broke away from Uddhav Thackeray’s leadership and later secured control over the party name and its iconic bow-and-arrow symbol. Currently, the Shiv Sena (UBT) holds 10 Members of Parliament, including nine in the Lok Sabha and one in the Rajya Sabha. Despite ongoing speculation, Opposition leaders maintain that the political situation remains stable for now, with no immediate signs of large-scale defections or realignments. (With inputs from PTI)
10 April,2026 04:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Deputy Chief Minister (CM) Eknath Shinde on Friday dismissed reports that Members of Parliament (MPs) of Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) would join his party, calling the speculation baseless. In a statement, Shinde, who heads the Shiv Sena, said reports about a purported meeting between him and Sena (UBT) MPs were “mischievous”, reported news agency PTI. Rumours meant to create sensation: Deputy CM Shinde “Rumours are being spread that Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs will split and join the Shiv Sena. These rumours are baseless. The only purpose is to create sensation,” Shinde said. Speculation over ‘secret meeting’ in Thane His statement came amid reports that he had held a secret meeting with Sena (UBT) MPs in Thane. There has been speculation that a section of Sena (UBT) may split and join the Shinde-led faction. Current strength of Sena (UBT) in Parliament The Sena (UBT) currently has 10 Members of Parliament (MPs), including nine in the Lok Sabha and one in the Rajya Sabha. Background: 2022 Shiv Sena split In 2022, Shinde led a rebellion within the Bal Thackeray-founded Shiv Sena, breaking away from the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray along with a group of MLAs. He subsequently secured control of the party name and its bow-and-arrow symbol. Rival alliances in Maharashtra politics While Shinde’s Shiv Sena is a part of the ruling Mahayuti alliance in the state, Uddhav Thackeray’s Sena (UBT) is a constituent of the opposition bloc Maha Vikas Aghadi. Shiv Sena kicks off early Lok Sabha poll strategy, names 48 constituency heads With a clear focus on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Shiv Sena has initiated early groundwork by announcing a comprehensive organisational strategy across Maharashtra. Acting on the directives of party chief and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the party has appointed contact heads for all 48 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state. Strategic push in Mumbai and Thane In a significant move, the party has entrusted major responsibility to Shiv Sena Parliamentary Party leader Dr Shrikant Shinde. He has been appointed as the contact head for all six Lok Sabha constituencies in Mumbai —Mumbai North, Mumbai North West, Mumbai North Central, Mumbai South Central, North East Mumbai, and South Mumbai —along with the crucial Thane constituency. To strengthen coordination and grassroots outreach, Dr Shinde will be supported by Minister Yogesh Kadam, Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Nilesh Rane, and former MP Rahul Shewale. This team is expected to streamline campaign efforts and enhance voter engagement in these politically significant regions. (With PTI inputs)
10 April,2026 04:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe University of Mumbai on Friday announced a major international opportunity for its students. As per the official statement, they will offer fully funded training in fine arts and dance through a collaboration with Russia’s Innopraktika School. The initiative comes under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions and will enable selected students to participate in a prestigious training programme titled the 'Fine Arts and Choreography Session.' The programme is scheduled to be held at the Boris Eifman Dance Academy in St Petersburg from June 29 to July 19, 2026. According to the officials, the programme is entirely funded by the organisers, covering travel, visa, accommodation, meals, and training expenses, making it a rare global exposure opportunity for students. The Innopraktika School, affiliated with Moscow University, aims to promote cultural exchange and introduce international students to Russian art, traditions, and heritage. The programme will feature lectures, workshops, seminars, and creative sessions, along with educational excursions to museums, theatres, and historical landmarks across St Petersburg. Participants will first be introduced to Russian cultural history, regional diversity, and the works of renowned artists. In the later phase, students will engage in hands-on creative projects, culminating in a final presentation of their work. Eligibility criteria The eligibility criteria specify that applicants for Fine Arts must be between 18 and 35 years of age, while dance applicants must be between 21 and 35 years of age. Candidates are also required to have proficiency in English and a valid passport. The University of Mumbai further highlighted that the selection process will begin with a preliminary screening by the Department of Student Development at the University of Mumbai. Shortlisted candidates will then be recommended to the Innopraktika School, which will make the final selection.
10 April,2026 03:59 PM IST | Mumbai | Aditi AlurkarWestern Railway will undertake a five-hour jumbo block between Mumbai’s Santacruz and Goregaon stations on Sunday, April 12, to carry out maintenance work of tracks, signalling, and overhead equipment. According to a press release issued by the Western Railway, the block will be operated on the UP and DOWN Fast lines from 10 am to 3 pm. During this period, all the Fast line suburban services will be diverted onto the Slow line between Santacruz and Goregaon. Due to the block, some suburban services will remain cancelled, while a few Borivali and Andheri services will run up to Goregaon on the Harbour Line. The detailed list of affected trains will be available with station masters at all stations on the suburban section. Western Railway has appealed to passengers to take note of the changes and plan their journeys accordingly. Mumbai: Western Railway sees lower ridership but higher revenue, thanks to AC local trains Mumbai’s suburban railway network on Western Railway (WR) is witnessing a curious post-pandemic trend: while daily ridership remains below pre-COVID levels, revenue has not only recovered but surpassed earlier figures — all this because of AC local trains. WR runs as many as 133 AC local trains on its suburban section. Addressing a press conference, WR Mumbai Divisional Manager Pankaj Singh said the increase in earnings is due to a change in passenger mix, as more people are now opting for AC Electric Multiple Units (EMUs). Another factor is the post-pandemic travel behaviour. With hybrid work models still in place, the number of daily office commuters — once the bulk of suburban traffic — has not fully rebounded. At the same time, occasional and non-regular travellers are more likely to purchase single tickets instead of heavily subsidised monthly passes, improving per-passenger revenue. Singh also pointed to growth of the Mumbai Metro system and expansion of the road network, which is gradually offloading the dense crush load from the Mumbai suburban network — particularly those willing to pay for more comfortable journeys. Despite the dip in ridership, WR’s suburban system appears to be moving toward a more revenue-efficient as well as a more comfortable system, where higher yields per passenger offset lower volumes.
10 April,2026 03:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra has officially resolved a long-standing issue related to penalties imposed on Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) for carrying cleaners on board. An official notification was issued in the connection with the move, bringing relief to the transporters in state. The state transport fraternity on Friday welcomed Maharashtra government's decision. The decision marks the end of a prolonged dispute that had affected commercial vehicle operators for several years, an official statement by the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) said. Transporters faced repeated fines Earlier, HMV and commercial transport operators were being fined Rs 1,500 per day in several cases for carrying cleaners in vehicles. Industry stakeholders said that the presence of cleaners is essential for long-distance transport operations. The repeated traffic challans had led to financial stress and widespread concern within the transport sector, the AIMTC stated. Stakeholder engagement and representations The issue was taken up through multiple representations and meetings with senior government officials. Discussions were held with key authorities in the Maharashtra Transport Department, along with inputs from the Law and Judiciary and Home Departments due to legal interpretations involved, it said, adding that sustained engagement from transport associations played a key role in resolving the matter. Key government officials involved The resolution followed consultations with several senior officials, including representatives from the transport department and state leadership. Continuous follow-ups by stakeholders helped move the matter forward through different administrative levels, the statement said. Transport leaders have welcomed the move, calling it a major relief for the industry. According to representatives, the decision will help reduce unnecessary penalties and improve operational efficiency for truck operators. A welcome move Bal Malkit Singh, a transport representative, said the resolution was a collective victory for the industry. He added that it would save significant costs annually and reduce mental stress for drivers and operators.
10 April,2026 03:32 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarNCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar has raised serious concerns over the alleged nexus between a private aviation company and influential political figures, while questioning the expanding role of VSR Ventures Private Limited in government-linked projects. He alleged that the firm’s director VK Singh is now acting as an intermediary in high-value infrastructure deals, leveraging political proximity. Questions Raised Over Leader’s Travel and Airport Interaction Pawar’s remarks follow scrutiny over a prominent Maharashtra leader’s recent journey on a VSR-operated private flight after attending an event in Delhi. He claimed that VK Singh personally received the leader at a private terminal and handed over documents to the leader’s personal assistant, raising questions about the nature and purpose of the exchange. Link to Deceased Pilot’s Family Raises Eyebrows The MLA also expressed surprise over the reported involvement of the son of Captain Sumit Kapoor—one of the pilots who died in the Baramati crash—who is now flying aircraft linked to influential figures. Pawar termed the development “astonishing” and said it adds to the need for a deeper investigation. Renewed Call for CBI Probe into Baramati Plane Crash Reiterating his demand for a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation, Pawar criticised the Maharashtra government for its silence and reliance on the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau report. He stressed that the death of Ajit Pawar should not be treated lightly and called for an independent and comprehensive inquiry. Zero FIR Transferred, Investigation Yet to Gain Clarity In March, the Karnataka Police registered a Zero FIR based on Pawar’s complaint in Bengaluru, which was later transferred to Baramati Rural Police Station in Pune district due to jurisdiction. Authorities in Maharashtra now bear responsibility for further investigation, though progress remains under scrutiny. Political Demands Intensify Amid Growing Questions Pawar has repeatedly alleged a possible larger conspiracy behind the crash, suggesting that powerful interests may be shielding the aviation company involved. He also met Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi to press for a fair probe. The Baramati crash, which occurred on January 28, involved a Learjet 45 aircraft that went down while attempting to land, killing all five people on board. The incident continues to fuel political debate amid the absence of a detailed response from the state government.
10 April,2026 03:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMultiple civic authorities in Maharashtra have begun preparations for upcoming Ambedkar Jayanti 2026 with officials saying that extensive security and other arrangements were being made in Mumbai. The officials said that the authorities across Maharashtra’s Konkan division have been instructed to ensure strict security measures and proper infrastructure for the 135th birth anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar on April 14, reported the PTI. The directions were issued during a review meeting led by the Konkan Divisional Commissioner, who stressed the need for coordinated efforts among all government agencies. Lakhs expected at Dadar's Chaityabhoomi Every year a large number of followers are expected to gather at Chaityabhoomi in Dadar in central Mumbai, to pay tribute to Dr Ambedkar. This year too huge crowds are expected at Chaityabhoomi and the Mumbai Police have planned special traffic and security arrangements around Dadar. Officials have highlighted the importance of maintaining law and order during the event. Police, municipal corporations and district administrations have been asked to work closely together to manage the crowd and ensure public safety, according to the PTI. Focus on hygiene and public facilities Municipal authorities have been directed to give priority to cleanliness and public health. Arrangements will include sanitation services, safe drinking water, temporary toilets and medical facilities in and around the Chaityabhoomi area. Transport and emergency services in place Special transport arrangements are being planned to manage the large influx of visitors. Railways and local bus services will coordinate to ensure smooth travel, the news agency reported. Ambulances will be stationed at key locations, while a central control room will be set up. Authorities will also deploy CCTV surveillance and increase police presence across the area. ‘Social Equality Week’ to be observed As part of the celebrations, a division-wide “Social Equality Week” will be organised. Activities will include lectures, public awareness programmes and the distribution of copies of the Indian Constitution, as per the PTI. In addition, statues of Dr Ambedkar across the region will be illuminated to mark the occasion. Aerial tribute planned An aerial floral tribute by helicopter is also planned as part of this year’s commemorations, adding a special highlight to the celebrations, sources said. (with PTI inputs)
10 April,2026 02:51 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA 64-year-old man from Maharashtra's Thane district was allegedly duped of nearly Rs 28 lakh in a 'digital arrest' scam, news agency PTI reported, quoting the police on Friday. The complainant, a resident of Kalyan West, alleged that between April 1 and April 7, he received multiple WhatsApp video and audio calls from unknown persons, including some from international numbers. “The callers introduced themselves as police officials and claimed that the complainant’s bank accounts were linked to a money laundering case and terrorist activities,” an officer from Khadakpada Police Station told PTI. The accused allegedly threatened to “arrest” the senior citizen and coerced him into transferring money for “verification and investigation purposes,” the officer said. Under pressure and fear, the man transferred Rs 27.9 lakh to bank accounts provided by the accused during the calls, police said. He later realised that he had been defrauded. Based on his complaint, the police registered a case on Wednesday. “An investigation is underway to trace the accused and identify the bank accounts used in the fraud. We are also analysing call data records and digital evidence,” the investigating officer said. Mumbai retired teacher duped of Rs 32 lakh in ‘digital arrest’ scam A 63-year-old retired teacher from Mumbai was put under a fake “digital arrest” and cheated of Rs 32.69 lakh by fraudsters posing as officers of the anti-terrorism squad (ATS). The complainant, a resident of Goregaon East, was thrown into a state of fear when she received a call from men claiming to be officers from ATS. The callers alleged that her bank account was linked to funding the infamous ‘Pulwama Terror Attack’, a claim designed to shock and intimidate the receiver. Callers switch roles easily >> ATS inspector >> DCP>> They name-dropped institutions like the Reserve Bank of India and the National Investigation Agency to sound legitimate. Then came the documents >> Fake FIRs and arrest warrants>> Stamped letters >> Even a so-called “immunity certificate”>> By then, she was fully under their control. Not a one-off >> Police say this was part of a larger setup>> Bank accounts rented out>> About 3 per cent commission per layer>> Money moved through a chain of handlers How they took Rs 32.69 lakh The ask was framed as a procedure. They told her her money needed to be checked for legality. So she transferred it.>> Multiple transactions>> UPI and NEFT >> Over several days>> By the end: Rs 32,69,997 gone Arrests and the trail >> Four men have been arrested from Nanded:>> Nilesh Pasamvar, 25>> Shubham Jogdand, 25>> Ajay Bhosle, 25>> Siddharth Jondhale, 19.
10 April,2026 02:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA parked motorcycle was completely destroyed after a fire broke out in Maharashtra's Thane district, officials said on Friday, adding that no injuries were reported in the incident. According to the Regional Disaster Management Cell (RDMC) of the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), the incident took place on April 10, 2026 at around 11:51 am. The blaze was reported at the bike that was parked near Swastik Plaza on Pokhran Road No. 2 in Subhash Nagar, Thane (West). The alert was reported by a local resident who spotted flames in the bike. The officials said that the personnel from Vartak Nagar Police, the Disaster Management Cell, and the Fire Brigade rushed to the scene. One fire engine and a disaster response vehicle were deployed to control the situation. Following the information regarding the blaze, the firefighters acted quickly and managed to extinguish the blaze completely. Officials said that no one was injured in the incident. Fire at Mumbai airport A fire broke out at Terminal 1 of Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Santacruz East on Thursday, April 9. The incident at the airport triggered a swift response from emergency services. Soon after receiving information about the fire, teams from the Mumbai Fire Brigade, along with airport police, rushed to the spot and began firefighting operations. The situation was brought under control, and no injuries have been reported so far. While briefing about the fire incident at T1, the CSMIA spokesperson said, "On Thursday, 09 April 2026, a minor fire was reported at Terminal 1 due to a short circuit at 18:10 hrs. The fire was immediately brought under control by the emergency response teams within minutes. Airport operations remain unaffected." A source at Mumbai Airport further said that due to the fire, electronic systems at the airport temporarily stopped working, leaving the security doors open. However, everything as of now seems to have been brought back to normal. " The fire had started at Aerobridge 3 (alpha 3) with a short circuit and led to the system going down at the airport," the sources further confirmed. Short circuit initiated the blaze at CSIA Furthermore, the officials indicated that a short circuit is suspected to be the likely cause of the incident. As per the official statement from BMC, the blaze was reported at around 6:35 pm. The incident occurred at the 1B Circle area of the airport, where the fire was confined to the ground floor of a ground-plus-three-storey structure. The Mumbai Fire Brigade classified the situation as a Level I (minor) fire at 7:05 pm. Firefighters, along with airport police and civic ward staff, were immediately mobilised to contain the blaze. Initial assessments suggest a short circuit may have caused the fire, though a detailed investigation is underway.
10 April,2026 02:15 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentThe Metro Line 9 rail service between Dahisar East and Mira Bhayandar will be inaugurated on April 6, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said on Friday. Speaking to reporters, he said the inauguration of the service got delayed over certain factors. “We were waiting for the safety nod first, which we have received...Now the inauguration date is set for April 6 for the inauguration of the route,” Sarnaik said. Once this starts, people in the region will be relieved as this was a long-pending demand, he said. The schedules will come into effect from April 8, 2026, aiming to make metro travel faster, smoother and more predictable, an official statement said. Two new lines—Mumbai Metro Line 9 and Mumbai Metro Line 2B—will start operations from the same date. Line 9 marks the first metro corridor in Thane district, while Line 2B improves connectivity in Harbour Line areas such as Chembur. Network expansion With the new additions, Mumbai Metro Line 7 will be integrated with Line 9, providing direct connectivity from Andheri East to Kashigaon in Mira-Bhayandar. Meanwhile, Mumbai Metro Line 2A and Line 7 will now operate as separate corridors, improving operational efficiency. The timetable The revised timetable focuses on reducing waiting time and enhancing commuter convenience. - Peak hour frequency will range from around 5.5 to 6 minutes - Non-peak frequency will range from 8 to 10 minutes - More trips will be operated across all corridors Officials said this will help manage increasing passenger demand and reduce crowding. Key changes - Metro Line 9 & Line 2B begin operations from April 8 - Line 7 extended up to Kashigaon through Line 9 integration - Line 2A and Line 7 now operate as separate corridors - Improved train frequency across all corridors - Simplified schedules aligned with passenger travel patterns Corridor-wise plans for services Line 2A (Andheri West-Dahisar East) Line 2A will operate as a standalone corridor with improved reliability. Services will begin early in the morning and run till late evening, with frequent trains during peak hours. - First Train: 5:50 AM - Last Train: 10:35 PM - 11:00 PM - Peak Hours: 6 minutes - Non-Peak: 8-10 minutes -Total Trips: 289 (Weekdays), 231 (Saturdays), 213 (Sundays) Line 7 and Line 9 (Integrated Corridor) The integration of Line 7 with Line 9 will create a longer corridor from Gundavali to Kashigaon, significantly improving suburban connectivity and reducing travel time. - Route Length: 19.79 km - First Train: 5:50 AM - Last Train: 11:00 PM - Peak Hours: 5:50 minutes - Non-Peak: 8–10 minutes - Total Trips: 276 (Weekdays), 223 (Saturdays), 205 (Sundays). Line 2B (Phase 1) Line 2B will connect Mandale to Diamond Garden, covering key areas in eastern Mumbai and providing better east-west connectivity. - Corridor Length: 5.38 km - First Train: 6:00 AM - Last Train: 10:15 PM – 10:30 PM - Frequency: Every ~9 minutes 30 seconds - Total Trips: 209 Seamless interchange service Passengers can continue to interchange easily at Dahisar station between Line 2A and Line 7 without exiting the paid area, ensuring smooth transfers. According to MMRDA, the changes are designed to improve reliability of services, offer predictable and easy-to-follow schedules, enhance connectivity across suburbs and support balanced passenger distribution. Metropolitan Commissioner and Chairman, Maha Mumbai Metro, Dr Sanjay Mukherjee said that the move is a major step towards building a fully integrated metro network and improving daily travel for citizens.
10 April,2026 01:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
