Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday termed the proposed delimitation of Lok Sabha constituencies a “contentious” issue, warning that carrying out the exercise without a fresh Census could trigger strong political opposition, particularly from southern states, reported PTI. Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, the Rajya Sabha MP clarified that his party does not oppose the implementation of the women’s reservation law but raised serious concerns over the process being linked with delimitation, reported PTI. No Objection to Women’s Reservation Raut said there is no reason for the Shiv Sena (UBT) to oppose the proposed implementation of the Women’s Reservation Act, which seeks to reserve 33 per cent of seats for women in Parliament and state assemblies. He emphasised that the party has consistently supported women’s political participation, noting that Maharashtra was among the first states to provide significant reservation for women in local self-government institutions, reported PTI. Delimitation Without Census Raises Concerns However, Raut strongly objected to the delimitation process being undertaken without conducting a nationwide Census. He said such a move could create a “serious situation” across the country and undermine the fairness of representation, reported PTI. “The issue of delimitation is contentious and is being done without conducting the Census,” he said, warning that the absence of updated population data could lead to disputes over seat allocation, reported PTI. Southern States Likely to Oppose Move Raut also pointed out that several southern states have already expressed opposition to the proposed exercise. He cited leaders such as M K Stalin and Revanth Reddy, who have raised concerns about the potential impact of delimitation on their states’ political representation, reported PTI. According to Raut, if population becomes the sole criterion for redrawing constituencies, states that have successfully controlled population growth may face reduced representation in Parliament. Special Parliament Session and Seat Expansion Plan The Centre has convened a special three-day session of Parliament from April 16 to 18 to discuss amendments related to the implementation of the women’s reservation framework. The plan includes a significant expansion of the Lok Sabha, increasing the number of seats from 543 to as many as 850. The proposed changes are aimed at operationalising the reservation for women ahead of the 2029 general elections. Additionally, the draft amendment bill provides for an increase in seats in state assemblies and Union Territory legislatures to accommodate the quota. Maharashtra Seat Numbers Set to Rise Raut noted that under the proposal, Maharashtra’s representation in the Lok Sabha could increase from 48 to 72 seats. Similarly, the strength of the state legislative assembly may rise from 288 to 400 members, reported PTI. However, he raised practical concerns about infrastructure, pointing out that the current Vidhan Bhavan may not have the capacity to accommodate such a large number of legislators. Questions Over Political Intent The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also questioned whether logistical challenges were being used to justify broader political changes. He hinted at concerns that such developments could have wider implications for the state’s political structure, reported PTI. (With inputs from PTI)
15 April,2026 06:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra (CIDCO) has appointed a joint venture (JV) of RITES Limited and Creative Group LLP to conduct a techno-commercial feasibility study for a proposed third runway at the Navi Mumbai International Airport, according to an official statement. The study, which is expected to be completed within six months, comes amid projections of sustained growth in air traffic demand across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). CIDCO said the exercise will evaluate whether additional runway capacity will be required in the long term. Meeting reviews scope of feasibility study CIDCO stated that a review meeting on April 15, chaired by its Vice Chairman and Managing Director Vijay Singhal, discussed key aspects of the proposed study. Senior officials from CIDCO, along with representatives from RITES and Creative Group, were present. According to CIDCO, the study will examine multiple parameters, including technical feasibility, operational efficiency, environmental impact, and financial viability. The findings are expected to inform future infrastructure planning decisions at the airport. Capacity planning amid rising passenger projections The Navi Mumbai airport is being developed as part of a dual-airport system with the existing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport to cater to the region’s aviation demand. CIDCO noted that NMIA is designed as a greenfield facility with an ultimate capacity of 90 million passengers per annum (MPPA) and 3.2 million tonnes of cargo. Spread over about 1,160 hectares, the airport is planned with two parallel runways and multiple terminals to be developed in phases over the next decade. However, CIDCO cited projections indicating that combined passenger traffic demand in the MMR could reach around 150 MPPA by 2040, and potentially rise to 240 MPPA between 2047 and 2050. While a third airport has been proposed at Vadhavan Airport, the agency said it is also examining expansion options at NMIA to address future demand. Consultant’s role and expertise CIDCO said the appointed joint venture brings prior experience in transport and airport infrastructure planning. RITES, a public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, has worked on several infrastructure consultancy projects, including airport planning and design. Creative Group LLP has also been involved in aviation and infrastructure consultancy assignments. The feasibility study will assess whether a third runway at NMIA is technically and economically viable, and how it could enhance operational capacity if implemented. CIDCO added that the move is part of broader planning efforts to strengthen aviation infrastructure in the Mumbai region over the coming decades.
15 April,2026 06:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Wednesday said that drain desilting works across the western suburbs are progressing steadily as part of its pre-monsoon preparedness plan, following an inspection by senior civic officials. Inspection Across Key Wards According to the BMC, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Western Suburbs) Dr. Vipin Sharma conducted a comprehensive review of ongoing drain cleaning works in H East, H West, K North, and K South wards. The inspection covered both major and minor drains, reflecting the civic body’s push to ensure efficient stormwater management ahead of the monsoon season. During the visit, Dr. Sharma inspected prominent drainage channels including Mogra Nala, Vakola Nala, Krishna Nagar Nala, Andheri Subway drain, and SNDT Nala. Smaller yet critical drains such as Bazaar Nala in Bandra, Garware Nala, and Apex Nala were also reviewed to assess on-ground progress, the BMC stated. Focus on Timely Completion The civic body said that Dr. Sharma directed officials to expedite the removal of floating debris and accumulated silt to prevent waterlogging during heavy rains. He emphasised that all desilting works must be completed 100 per cent by May 31, 2026, without exception. Officials were also instructed to ensure strict monitoring of the desilting process and maintain quality standards throughout the operation. The BMC noted that timely completion of these works is crucial to minimise flooding risks in low-lying areas of the city. Coordination with Public Representatives Highlighting the importance of coordination, the BMC said Dr. Sharma advised officials to stay in regular communication with local public representatives and keep them informed about the progress of desilting works. This, the civic body said, would help address civic concerns more efficiently and ensure transparency in execution. Officials Present During Inspection The inspection was attended by several public representatives and civic officials. Among those present were local corporator and Chairperson of the Market and Garden Committee Hetal Gala, along with corporators Chintamani Nivate, Raja Rehbar Khan, Ritesh Rai, Rohini Kamble, and Anjali Sawant. Senior administrative officials, including Assistant Commissioners Dinesh Pallewad, Mahesh Patil, Nitin Shukla, and Mridula Ande, were also present, along with other concerned personnel overseeing the desilting operations, the BMC said. Strengthening Monsoon Preparedness The BMC reiterated that desilting of major and minor drains across Mumbai has been undertaken on priority to strengthen the city’s monsoon preparedness. Regular inspections and on-site reviews by senior officials are being carried out to ensure that the work progresses as per schedule and meets required standards. With the monsoon season approaching, the civic body said it remains focused on completing all preventive measures in a time-bound manner to mitigate flooding and ensure smoother drainage across the city.
15 April,2026 06:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil on Wednesday raised alarm over the sharp fall in onion prices, stating that farmers across Maharashtra are facing severe financial distress due to declining market rates and rising production costs. He urged the government to step in with immediate measures, even as a key farmers’ body held both the ruling dispensation and the Opposition responsible for the ongoing crisis, reported PTI. Farmers Hit by Price Crash and Rising Costs In a statement, Patil highlighted the widening gap between production costs and market returns. He said that the average cost of producing onions stands at around Rs 2,200 per quintal, while farmers are currently receiving between Rs 900 and Rs 1,300 per quintal, reported PTI. He described the situation as unsustainable, noting that farmers are unable to recover even basic input costs. The crisis, he added, has deepened due to a combination of external and domestic factors affecting both supply and demand. Export Disruptions and Weather Add to Crisis Patil pointed to disruptions in onion exports as a major factor behind the price crash, linking it to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. He also flagged unseasonal rains that have damaged crops ready for harvest, compounding the financial strain on farmers, reported PTI. Calling it a “double blow,” he said that farmers are grappling simultaneously with reduced export opportunities and crop losses, pushing them into deeper economic uncertainty. Demand for Government Intervention The NCP (SP) leader urged the state government to take urgent corrective steps, including efforts to resume onion exports and the announcement of a fair minimum support price. He stressed that timely intervention is critical to stabilise prices and prevent further distress in the farming community, reported PTI. Patil also called on the chief minister to prioritise the issue, warning that continued inaction could worsen the situation for thousands of onion growers across the state. Growers’ Body Blames Political Class Meanwhile, the Maharashtra State Onion Growers Association criticised both the Centre and the Opposition for the ongoing crisis. The association’s founder-president Bharat Dighole said policy decisions taken over the past few years have directly contributed to the price slump, reported PTI. He pointed to the Centre’s 2023 export restrictions, including a ban, export duty, and minimum export price conditions, as key reasons for the sharp fall in onion prices. According to him, these measures severely impacted farmers’ earnings and market stability. Opposition Accused of Inaction Dighole also criticised Opposition leaders, particularly MPs from the Maha Vikas Aghadi, for failing to take a strong and united stand on the issue. He said that despite receiving support from farmers during elections, Opposition representatives have not effectively raised the crisis at the national level, reported PTI. While acknowledging statements made by leaders such as Patil, he said these alone are insufficient to address the scale of the problem. Falling Prices and Declining Exports The farmers’ body noted that onion prices in Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMCs) have dropped significantly. Kharif crop prices are currently ranging between Rs 300 and Rs 700 per quintal, while Rabi crop prices are between Rs 500 and Rs 1,100 per quintal - well below production costs estimated at Rs 1,800 to Rs 2,000 per quintal, reported PTI. Additionally, onion exports have declined by around 30 per cent overall, with shipments to Gulf countries reportedly falling by 55 to 60 per cent. Call for Unified Political Action Dighole urged all MPs and MLAs from Maharashtra to rise above political differences and jointly raise the issue in Delhi. He warned that if urgent corrective measures are not taken, farmers will hold political leaders accountable in the future. (With inputs from PTI)
15 April,2026 05:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai University has started the pre-registration process for first-year undergraduate degree admissions for the academic year 2026-27, an official statement said on Wednesday. The students can begin registering through the official online admission portal which has been excepting the applications from April 13, it said. Two-step admission process The university has introduced a two-part pre-admission system: - Part 1: Pre-Registration: To be completed before the Class 12 results are declared - Part 2: Application: To be completed after the Class 12 results are announced Students must first register themselves on the portal before proceeding with the full application process. Profile creation and required details After registration, students will receive login credentials to create their profile. They will need to provide- - Personal details (name, address, contact number) - Educational qualifications - Reservation category (if applicable) - Photograph and signature - Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) ID - ABC ID Mandatory for Registration What is ABC ID The university has made it compulsory for students to have an Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) ID for pre-admission registration, the official statement said. Students who do not have an ABC ID must create one through the official government portal before applying, it said. The Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) is a revolutionary digital platform by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, built to support every learner’s journey—from early childhood to lifelong learning. In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and powered by the National Credit Framework (NCrF), ABC acts as a dynamic academic portfolio that captures, stores, and showcases a learner's achievements across the entire education spectrum. Whether a student is a 3-year-old beginning your foundational stage, a teenager exploring subjects, a college student pursuing your passion, a professional upskilling mid-career, or a senior citizen learning out of curiosity—ABC belongs to the applicant for entire education of a student. Courses and colleges covered The registration process applies to admissions in - - Arts, Commerce and Science streams - Affiliated, autonomous, aided and unaided colleges - Recognised institutions and university departments - Sub-campuses in Thane, Kalyan and Ratnagiri district in Maharashtra All principals, directors and department heads have been instructed to ensure smooth implementation of the process, the statement said. How to apply? Students can access the pre-registration link under the “Admissions” section on the university’s official website. They must complete registration and profile creation to be eligible for admission once results are declared.
15 April,2026 05:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has called on Members of Parliament from Maharashtra to support the proposed women’s reservation legislation during the upcoming special session of Parliament, while the Congress has raised concerns over the timing and intent of the move, calling it politically motivated, reported PTI. Push for Women’s Reservation Gains Momentum In a letter addressed to MPs from both Houses of Parliament and leaders of political parties in the state, Fadnavis urged them to ensure their presence during the special session scheduled between April 16 and 18. The session is expected to focus on clearing the proposed legislation aimed at operationalising the women’s reservation framework, reported PTI. According to PTI, the Chief Minister described the passage of the bill as a historic step toward strengthening women’s participation in governance. He emphasised Maharashtra’s legacy of promoting gender equality, highlighting that the state already provides 50 per cent reservation for women in local self-government bodies, reported PTI. Special Parliament Session and Legislative Roadmap The Centre is preparing to fast-track the implementation of the women’s reservation law through the introduction of a draft Constitution amendment bill. The proposal includes provisions to expand the strength of the Lok Sabha from the current 543 seats to as many as 850 seats. This expansion is intended to facilitate the implementation of a 33 per cent reservation for women ahead of the 2029 general elections. Additionally, the proposed changes would extend to state legislative assemblies and Union territory legislatures, ensuring similar reservation for women representatives. The process is expected to be linked to a fresh delimitation exercise based on the most recent census data. Congress Calls Move a ‘Calculated Strategy’ Reacting sharply, Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe accused the ruling party of using the women’s reservation bill as a political tool. He argued that the timing of the special session—coinciding with ongoing elections in several states—raises questions about the government’s intentions, reported PTI. Londhe said that if the Centre was genuinely committed to women’s empowerment, the law could have been implemented earlier, soon after its passage. Instead, he alleged that the government is now linking the issue with delimitation to gain electoral advantage, reported PTI. Concerns Over Delimitation and Representation The Congress leader further expressed apprehension about the implications of the delimitation process. Referring to the Delimitation Act, 2002, he noted that the law mandates the formation of an independent Delimitation Commission led by a retired Supreme Court judge. However, he claimed that the involvement of the Election Commission in the current process could raise questions about neutrality, reported PTI. Londhe also warned that the proposed changes might affect the political representation of Other Backward Classes, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes. He pointed out concerns raised by southern states, arguing that if population becomes the sole criterion for delimitation, it could reduce their representation in Parliament. (With inputs from PTI)
15 April,2026 05:08 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActivist Anjali Damania on Wednesday demanded that Rupali Chakankar be summoned for questioning by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing allegations against self-styled godman Ashok Kharat. The SIT was constituted by the Maharashtra government to investigate multiple cases against Kharat, including sexual assault and cheating. Damania cites call records, seeks SIT action Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Damania claimed she possesses call data records indicating repeated communication between Chakankar and Kharat. She alleged that 177 calls were exchanged between the two, including one conversation lasting over 20 minutes in a single day. Based on these claims, Damania said it was necessary for investigators to formally question Chakankar. “Even after a month, she has not been summoned. I will demand before the SIT that she be called for questioning,” Damania said. Claims of wider political and official links Damania also released a list of alleged phone interactions involving Kharat and several politicians and government officials, suggesting that his influence extended across multiple circles. She claimed that while some individuals may have approached Kharat for personal or spiritual reasons, others may have had more specific motives. According to Damania, the circumstances surrounding Kharat’s rise warrant a deeper probe into possible connections and support systems. Questions raised over handling of investigation The activist further alleged lapses in police action, particularly regarding Kharat’s wife, Kalpana Kharat, who is currently absconding. She questioned why surveillance measures were not adequately enforced, suggesting the possibility of negligence or deliberate inaction that may have aided individuals linked to the case. Damania also criticised Chakankar’s earlier remarks describing the issue as a “media trial,” asserting that the call data in her possession justified a thorough and impartial investigation. Financial links under scanner In a related development, police earlier questioned Pratibha Chakankar, sister of Rupali Chakankar, in connection with alleged use of her bank account by Kharat. Investigators are examining financial transactions as part of the broader probe, alongside criminal allegations against the accused. Multiple agencies probing the case Kharat, who remains in police custody, is facing multiple criminal cases, including sexual assault and cheating. The Enforcement Directorate is also probing a suspected money laundering angle and has conducted raids at locations linked to him. Probe intensifies amid growing controversy The case has triggered a political and legal controversy in Maharashtra, with allegations, counter-allegations, and demands for accountability continuing to emerge. Authorities have maintained that the investigation is ongoing, with the SIT expected to examine all relevant evidence, including call records and financial transactions, before drawing conclusions. (With inputs from Agencies)
15 April,2026 04:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPratap Sarnaik, State Transport Minister and Chairman of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), has directed officials to take concrete and comprehensive steps to reduce the corporation’s mounting financial losses in the 2025–26 financial year. Emphasising the need for immediate corrective action, Sarnaik outlined a clear roadmap aimed at strengthening the financial health of the state-run transport body. The directions were issued during a high-level review meeting at the MSRTC headquarters, attended by Vice Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Madhav Kusekar along with senior departmental officials. Revenue-Expenditure Gap Raises Concerns According to official data presented at the meeting, MSRTC generated an operational revenue of Rs 11,475 crore during the financial year, while total expenditure stood at Rs 12,066 crore. This resulted in a significant loss of Rs 591 crore. Breaking down the figures further, the corporation earns an average of Rs 31.4 crore daily, whereas daily expenditure reaches approximately Rs 33 crore—leading to a recurring daily loss of around Rs 1.6 crore. Sarnaik stressed that narrowing this daily deficit of Rs 1.5 to Rs 2 crore must be treated as a top priority for the administration. Only 8 Divisions Profitable, Majority Continue to Struggle The financial strain is further highlighted by the performance of MSRTC’s 31 divisions across Maharashtra. Only eight divisions—Jalna, Parbhani, Buldhana, Bhandara, Gadchiroli, Akola, Dhule, and Wardha—are currently operating in profit, while the remaining 23 divisions continue to incur losses. The minister expressed serious concern over the deteriorating financial performance of major divisions such as Nashik, Kolhapur, Nagpur, Ratnagiri, Satara, and Thane, which have consistently reported deficits despite their operational importance. Call for Strategic Planning and Accountability Sarnaik underscored the importance of scientific transport planning and optimal utilisation of buses and manpower to improve efficiency. He instructed officials to conduct a thorough analysis of loss-making divisions, identify underlying issues, and implement targeted corrective measures. He also emphasised the need to appoint capable and efficient officers in key divisions that have been persistently underperforming, noting that leadership plays a critical role in turning around financial performance. Nagpur Division Under Scanner Expressing dissatisfaction over continued losses in the Nagpur division for the past two years, Sarnaik flagged administrative lapses, particularly the appointment of non-executive divisional controllers. “Officers without financial and statutory authority cannot effectively manage operations. Such appointments weaken administrative control and must be reviewed,” he said, adding that strong and empowered leadership is essential for operational stability. Comprehensive Reform Plan on the Anvil The minister indicated that a broader reform strategy will soon be rolled out, focusing on administrative discipline, resource optimisation, and enhanced accountability mechanisms. The plan aims to ensure long-term financial sustainability and improved service delivery across MSRTC’s network.
15 April,2026 04:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentShiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday dismissed reports suggesting that he is set to take over as the party president, calling the claims baseless and denied leadership change in party. Taking to the social media platform X, Aaditya Thackeray clarified that there has been no discussion within the party regarding him assuming any new position. The Worli MLA, in a post on X, wrote, “From this morning, there has been news on some TV channels that I am going to be given some position in the party. There is no truth to this news, and there is no such discussion in the party.” Dismissing all the media reports from the last few hours, Thackeray slams the media for carrying news that has no basis. “There is no truth to this news, and there is no such discussion in the party. Please take note of this by all media,” he added. The clarification comes amid speculation in certain media reports about a possible leadership reshuffle within the Shiv Sena (UBT) being on the cards. However, Aaditya’s statement firmly denied any such development, putting an end to the rumours. Aaditya Thackeray urges the government to open Gorai Mangrove Park for the public In a different scenario, the Worli MLA earlier last month wrote to Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, urging him to inaugurate and open the Gorai mangrove park for the public at the earliest. While taking it to social media, Aaditya said that the project was initiated during his tenure as Maharashtra’s environment minister between 2019 and 2022 and was completed last year. However, despite several dates being announced for its inauguration, the facility has not yet been opened to citizens. The Shiv Sena leader further added that the mangrove park and interpretation centre would help people better understand the ecological importance of mangroves and encourage greater public engagement with coastal ecosystems. Aaditya Thackeray also pointed out that he had written to the minister earlier in May last year requesting the opening of the facility, but the park continues to remain closed. He said opening the park would bring citizens closer to mangroves and highlight their importance in protecting coastal biodiversity.
15 April,2026 03:30 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday issued a yellow alert for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and parts of Maharashtra;, predicting hot weather and heatwave conditions in parts of state. According to a weather bulletin, the IMD stated that hot and humid conditions were very likely at isolated pockets in Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg. The weather department predicted that parts of Maharashtra including Sangli, Solapur and Akola were very likely to witness heatwave conditions. "Heatwave conditions likely at isolated places," the weather alert for April 15 stated. A similar alert has been issued for Thursday, April 16. Heatwave conditions in Maharashtra In a post on X, former IMD climate research head, KS Hosalikar wrote, "According to the IMD model, the maximum temperature in the state is likely to remain above normal for the next one week+, and also, there is a possibility of heatwave-like conditions in some districts within Maharashtra." He further wrote, "In Vidarbha (42+), Marathwada, Central Maharashtra (38-40), Konkan region with hot and humid (34-36) temperatures." 15/4,IMD मॉडेलनुसार, राज्यात कमाल तापमान पुढील एक आठवडा+ सामान्यपेक्षा जास्त राहण्याची शक्यता,तसेच महाराष्ट्राच्या अंतर्गत भागातील काही जिल्ह्यांत उष्णतेच्या लाटेसारखी परिस्थितीची शक्यता.विदर्भात (४२+),मराठवाडा,मध्य महाराष्ट्र (३८-४०),कोकण प्रदेशात उष्ण दमट (३४-३६) तापमान.TC PL pic.twitter.com/ZmWI28PYOE — K S Hosalikar (@Hosalikar_KS) April 15, 2026 Weather in Mumbai Mumbai have been reeling in hot weather conditions from past several weeks. The weather department on Wednesday stated that the city was likely to experience mainly clear skies, with hot and humid conditions prevailing, and maximum and minimum temperatures expected to be around 36 degrees Celsius and 24 degrees Celsius, respectively. At the Colaba Observatory, the minimum temperature was recorded at 25.0 degrees Celsius. Similarly, the Santacruz Observatory also reported a slightly lower minimum temperature of 24.6 degrees Celsius. AQI 'satisfactory' in Mumbai Meanwhile, sccording to the Sameer app, Mumbai recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 87 at 8 am, which falls under the ‘satisfactory’ category. At this level, minor breathing discomfort may be experienced by sensitive individuals, while air quality remains acceptable for the general population. Among various locations, Chakala recorded the highest pollution level with an AQI of 115, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category. Other areas such as Ghatkopar (112), Mazgaon (103), and Worli (109) also indicated moderate air quality levels. Areas including Bandra-Kurla Complex (93), Borivali East (82), Chembur (89), Bandra East (93), Colaba (97), Sewri (61), and Powai (70) remained within the satisfactory range. Malad West recorded relatively cleaner air with an AQI of 60, also falling under the satisfactory category.
15 April,2026 03:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde said that the upcoming 900-bed Thane civil hospital will also have a helipad and it will be well-equipped with modern technology. The hospital is set to provide modern healthcare facilities and significantly improve access to medical services, said Shinde on Tuesday. He described the project as a major benefit for ordinary citizens seeking quality treatment. 900-bed facility with advanced infra The hospital, located in the Tembhi Naka area, will have a capacity of 900 beds and feature a 10-storey building equipped with modern infrastructure, reported the PTI. A key highlight of the facility is a rooftop helipad, which will enable air ambulance services for emergency cases, officials said. Modern equipment and facilities According to officials, the hospital will be fitted with advanced medical equipment, including MRI, CT scan machines, chemotherapy and radiotherapy units Electrification work and installation of equipment are currently in progress, while the main construction has already been completed. Thane District Civil Surgeon Dr Kailas Pawar said the hospital will include parking for around 450 cars and 1,200 two-wheelers, as pper the PTI. The facility is expected to serve not only Thane but also patients from nearby Palghar district in Maharashtra. Expected launch soon Officials have indicated that the hospital is likely to become operational within the next three to four months, with an inauguration expected shortly after final preparations are completed. Shinde writes to PM Modi, backs Nari Shakti Vandan Act Amendment Meanwhile, Eknath Shinde has written to PM Modi expressing strong support for the proposed amendments to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, describing the move as a “historic step” towards strengthening women’s representation in governance. In his letter, Shinde congratulated the Prime Minister for introducing the proposed amendments during the special session of Parliament scheduled on April 16, 2026. He said the reform would pave the way for the effective implementation of women’s reservation in legislatures and the Lok Sabha, calling it a “golden chapter” in India’s democratic journey. Shinde emphasised that the initiative goes beyond legislative reform, describing it as a transformative step to ensure women’s decisive participation in governance and nation-building. He noted that the move reflects the Centre’s commitment to justice, equality, and women’s empowerment. (with PTI inputs)
15 April,2026 01:36 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
