Police in Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow have arrested two men in connection with a drug trafficking case in Palghar district of Maharashtra, reported the PTI. The accused had been allegedly involved in supplying narcotics to pubs, hotels, and private parties in Maharashtra, officials said, adding that the duo were caught on Monday near the Charbagh railway station in Uttar Pradesh. They were held from a tempo stand, according to the PTI. The suspects have been identified as Bhavesh Chauhan, also known as Lalu, originally from Hardoi in Uttar Pradesh and residing in Nalasopara, Palghar district, and Shoaib Ashraf Pathan, alias Batla, also a resident of Nalasopara. Both were wanted in connection with a case registered at Naigaon police station in Palghar under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, the news agency reported. According to police, Chauhan has multiple criminal cases registered against him, including violations under the NDPS Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), at various police stations in the Vasai-Virar area in Maharashtra. How was the arrest made? According to the police, the UP Special Task Force (STF), Lucknow, carried out the arrest based on specific intelligence. “Acting on inputs, the STF team arrested both accused from Charbagh while they were trying to flee,” a police release said as per PTI report. The operation was conducted in coordination with the Naigaon police, who had sought assistance after learning that the accused were hiding in Lucknow. Police said the duo had planned to escape from Mumbai to Nepal following the seizure of a drug consignment linked to them in the Vasai-Virar-Mira Bhayander area on February 5. Confessions during interrogation During questioning, the accused reportedly admitted to interstate drug trafficking for the past four to five years. They revealed that they, along with associates, manufactured brown sugar using readily available chemicals and supplied it to pubs, hotels, and private parties in Maharashtra. The STF noted that the arrests were crucial to dismantling this trafficking network and preventing further distribution of narcotics in the region. Investigations are ongoing to identify other members of the group and track their operations. (With PTI Inputs)
25 March,2026 04:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held a telephonic conversation on Tuesday to discuss the ongoing situation in West Asia and the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, the BJP on Wednesday termed the move a 'positive step' and expressed hope that peace would prevail soon. Opposition leaders demanded that the details of the conversation be shared in Parliament. Speaking to IANS, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale said he believes the discussion between the two leaders focussed on the prevailing conflict and the need to de-escalate tensions. He noted that there are indications the war could be paused and may come to an end soon. “The role of Prime Minister Modi has always been to ensure peace and prevent war. The ongoing conflict has led to global challenges, including rising diesel and petrol prices. The entire world is suffering losses because of this situation. India’s position is clear — the war should stop,” Athawale said. He added that the dialogue between the two leaders was a constructive development. “A solution must be found. President Trump speaking with Prime Minister Modi is a good step, and there will be peace soon,” he told IANS. Tripathi backs Modi’s diplomatic push, says efforts underway to ease West Asia tensions BJP MP Shashank Mani Tripathi also expressed optimism, stating that there is hope for a pause in the conflict. He said that Prime Minister Modi has been actively engaging with leaders from West Asian countries and exploring ways to facilitate peace. “Prime Minister Modi has spoken with several heads of state in the Middle East to understand how India can contribute to peace efforts and use its influence constructively,” Tripathi said. Meanwhile, Opposition parties questioned the government’s approach and called for greater transparency, reported IANS. Ram Gopal Yadav urges India to take proactive role in West Asia mediation According to IANS, Samajwadi Party MP, Ram Gopal Yadav, said that countries like Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are already playing mediating roles, and India should have taken a more proactive position. “As the world’s largest democracy, India could have played a significant mediating role. The Prime Minister shares strong relations with global leaders, and his intervention could have carried weight. The details of his conversation with President Trump should be shared with Parliament and the people,” Yadav said. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP, Sanjay Raut took a critical stance, saying, “If President Trump had understood diplomacy, the situation would not have escalated into war. The United States appears to be facing setbacks, which is why there is now urgency in its response.” The conversation between the two leaders came amid escalating tensions in West Asia following the February 28 strikes by the US and Israel on Iran, reported IANS. The strikes reportedly resulted in the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran launched drone and missile attacks targeting US and Israeli facilities, regional capitals, and allied forces, intensifying the conflict across the region. (Inputs from IANS)
25 March,2026 04:00 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra is witnessing varied weather conditions across the state, with some districts experiencing hot and humid conditions while others facing thunderstorms and gusty winds. While major parts of the state are reeling in hot weather conditions, India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday predicted light rains, thunderstorm and gusty winds in some parts of Maharashtra. Regions in Sindhudurg, Marathwada, and parts of Western Maharashtra are likely to witness thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, light to moderate rainfall, and gusty winds of 30-50 kmph at isolated places, a weather bulletin stated. The weather department also issued a yellow alert for hot and humid conditions in isolated pockets of Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad for March 25 and March 26. Mumbai and Konkan Mumbai and its suburbs, along with Thane, Palghar, Raigad, and Ratnagiri, are expected to remain dry but uncomfortably hot and humid on Wednesday and Thursday. Sindhudurg, however, may experience thunderstorms with lightning, rainfall, and winds at isolated locations. Conditions in Mumbai are expected to turn completely dry from March 27 onwards. Western Maharashtra and Ghats Light rain or thundershowers are forecast for Dhule, Nandurbar, Nashik, Ahilyanagar, and Pune on Wednesday. The ghats of Pune, Kolhapur, Satara, and Sangli may witness thunderstorms with moderate rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds at isolated places over the next two days. Marathwada under thunderstorm watch Several districts in Marathwada are on alert: Parbhani, Beed, Hingoli- light rain and thundershowers on Wednesday; thunderstorms with lightning, light to moderate rain, and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) on Thursday. Nanded, Latur, Dharashiv- thunderstorms with lightning, moderate rainfall, and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) at isolated places today and tomorrow. Vidarbha Thunderstorm activity with lightning and gusty winds is expected to intensify from Thursday onwards in Chandrapur, Gadchiroli, Gondia, Nagpur, Wardha, Yavatmal, Buldhana, and Amravati. The IMD’s forecast and warnings are valid from 8:30 am on Wednesday until 8:30 am the following day. Temperature across Maharashtra Among the hottest locations, Malegaon recorded the highest maximum temperature at 38 degrees Celsius, followed by Sholapur at 38.6 degrees Celsius, Jalgaon at 37.7 degrees Celsius, and Jeur at 37.5 degrees Celsius, as per IMD's weather report. Other cities such as Satara (37.2 degrees Celsius), Sangli (36.9 degrees Celsius), and Osmanabad (36.9 degrees Celsius) also reported high temperatures, indicating widespread heat across interior regions. Mumbai and coastal belt see moderate conditions In the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Santacruz recorded 36.6 degrees Celsius, significantly above normal by 3.4 degrees, while Colaba reported a comparatively lower 34.2 degrees Celsius. Coastal areas such as Ratnagiri (33.3 degrees Celsius) and Alibag (32.7 degrees Celsius) experienced relatively moderate temperatures. Night temperatures remain stable Minimum temperatures remained stable across the state, generally ranging between 18 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius, with Harnai (25 degrees Celsius) and Mumbai-Colaba (25 degrees Celsius) recording the highest night temperatures. Coastal humidity high, interiors relatively dry Humidity levels were notably higher in coastal regions, with Mumbai-Colaba (83 per cent), Ratnagiri (84 per cent), and Dahanu (80 per cent) reporting elevated morning humidity. In contrast, interior regions such as Beed (54 per cent) and Parbhani (50 per cent) saw relatively drier conditions.
25 March,2026 03:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWest Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday accused the BJP and the Election Commission of India (ECI) of allegedly 'undermining democracy' in the country. She alleged that the next move of Centre could be attempts to revoke citizens’ rights through the NRC. CM Banerjee made the remarks while launching her campaign for the upcoming West Bengal assembly elections from politically crucial North Bengal, a region that has emerged as a BJP stronghold since the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, reported PTI. Addressing a rally in Maynaguri, Jalpaiguri district, the TMC supremo alleged that constitutional institutions were being used to "snatch away people's voting rights" through the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Banerjee accuses BJP, Centre, and EC of undermining democracy "The EC, BJP, and the Centre are not following the Constitution. They are trying to snatch away voting rights," Banerjee said at her first major campaign rally for the polls, reported PTI. Drawing a sharp political contrast with the hour of India's Independence, she claimed that the release of the supplementary electoral list had triggered a “midnight rampage.” "We got Independence at midnight, and we feel proud of it. But today, they have forgotten Independence. They are not following the Constitution or democracy. They are snatching away people's voting rights," she said, the news agency reported. Banerjee warns BJP may target citizenship next through NRC "Today, they are snatching away voting rights; tomorrow, they will snatch away citizenship by bringing the NRC," she warned. Banerjee alleged that several communities, including Rajbanshis and women, were being affected by the revision of electoral rolls. "Rajbanshi names have been removed through SIR. Women's names are also being removed. Removing the name of one woman means removing the name of the entire womenfolk," she said, seeking to mobilise women voters, who form a crucial support base for the ruling party. In a dramatic escalation of rhetoric, Banerjee claimed that the electoral roll exercise had already caused distress among people. Banerjee claims 220 deaths in Bengal linked to SIR exercise "Due to SIR, 220 people have died in Bengal since the exercise began in November. Their souls are crying today. BJP must remember, they will have to answer," Banerjee claimed. Accusing the BJP of branding long-time residents as foreigners, Banerjee said, "After living on this soil for so long, you are calling us foreigners and asking us to prove our citizenship. First, you prove whether you are a citizen of this country, then challenge the people." Without naming Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, or Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Banerjee told the crowd to bid farewell to "this gentleman here and the two gentlemen in Delhi." North Bengal, particularly Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar, has been a key battleground between the TMC and the BJP since the saffron party's surge in the region in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, when it swept most seats and built a formidable organisational base among communities such as the Rajbanshis. Against that backdrop, Banerjee combined sharp political attacks with welfare messaging aimed at consolidating the TMC's core support groups. "If you want tea gardens to remain open, vote for Trinamool Congress," she said. “We do not merely make promises, we implement them,” says West Bengal CM The TMC supremo also highlighted schemes such as Lakshmir Bhandar, Swasthya Sathi, and free ration, presenting them as examples of the TMC government's welfare model. "We do not merely make promises, we implement them," she said. Banerjee said the state government had arranged crop insurance for potato farmers who suffered losses due to unseasonal rains in Jalpaiguri and neighbouring districts. The chief minister also criticised the BJP-led Centre over rising fuel prices and alleged restrictions on LPG cylinder bookings. Banerjee questions Centre over soaring petrol, cooking gas shortages "The price of petrol is rising. Now they say that after booking a gas cylinder, it may take 35 days. How will people cook?" she asked. Banerjee also urged her party candidates to take lawyers with them while filing nomination papers, alleging that nominations had been cancelled in BJP-ruled Assam. "I do not have faith in the BJP and the Election Commission. Our candidates should take lawyers with them and check every document carefully," she said. In a pitch aimed directly at women voters, Banerjee invoked the role of women in resisting political pressure. "Mothers and sisters should come forward if anyone tries to capture booths," she said. Chief Minister highlights attacks on cultural and linguistic freedoms Taking a swipe at the BJP, Banerjee accused the party of trying to dictate food habits and language. "In some states, people are beaten for eating fish or meat. They even beat up people for speaking Bengali. We respect every religion, language, and community," she said, the news agency reported. Seeking to strike an emotive note with voters, the chief minister asserted that the people of Bengal remain her biggest strength. "They have taken everything away from me. Now I have only one thing, the people," she said. Elections for the 294-member West Bengal Assembly will be held in two phases, on April 23 and April 29. The results will be declared on May 4. (With PTI inputs)
25 March,2026 03:44 PM IST | Maynaguri | mid-day online correspondentThe municipal corporations of Nashik and Malegaon have ordered the closure of slaughterhouses on the occasion of Ram Navami 2026, which falls on Thursday, reported the PTI. The Nashik Municipal Corporation stated that all slaughterhouses within its jurisdiction will remain shut on March 26 to mark Shri Ram Navami. The civic body also directed that no animal slaughter should take place on the day, according to the PTI. Officials warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone found violating the order. Restrictions in Malegaon Similarly, the Malegaon Municipal Corporation has ordered the closure of slaughterhouses, meat shops, and hotels serving meat from 5 a.m. until midnight on Thursday, the news agency reported. The move is aimed at ensuring public order and maintaining communal harmony during the festival. Focus on peace and harmony The officials said that the decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to avoid any tensions and to ensure peaceful observance of the religious occasion. List of ‘no slaughter’ days The Malegaon civic body has also announced a list of 12 ‘no slaughter’ days for the year. These include Mahavir Jayanti on March 31 and Buddha Purnima on May 1, among other significant religious occasions, as per the PTI. Ram Navami celebrations Ram Navami is a significant festival which commemorates the birth of Lord Ram, who is revered as the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It will be celebrated across India on Thursday, March 26, 2026. In Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya, the main celebrations will take place on March 27 with grandeur and multiple religious ceremonies including abhishek, surya tilak, ceremonial offerings, 'phool bangala' decoration and much more. Doordarshan will telecast the entire Ram Navami program live from Ayodhya, allowing devotees across the country and abroad to witness the sacred rituals of Lord Ram. The live broadcast aims to make the festival accessible to millions, including those unable to visit the temple in person. The temple will remain open for darshan from early morning till late at night to accommodate the large influx of pilgrims. Prasad distribution has also been arranged, the ANI reported. (with PTI and ANI inputs)
25 March,2026 03:29 PM IST | Nashik | mid-day online correspondentThe Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Finance Bill 2026, incorporating 32 government amendments, marking a key milestone in the approval of the Union Budget for the financial year 2026-27, reported news agency PTI. With this, the Lower House has completed its part of the budgetary process, and the Bill will now be taken up by the Rajya Sabha for consideration and approval. Budget Approval Process Moves to Rajya Sabha The passage of the Finance Bill in the Lok Sabha is a crucial step in finalising the Union Budget. Once cleared by the Rajya Sabha, the budgetary process for 2026-27 will be formally completed, reported PTI. The Bill is aimed at implementing the government’s financial proposals, including taxation measures and fiscal policies for the upcoming financial year. Total Expenditure Pegged at Rs 53.47 Lakh Crore The Union Budget 2026-27 proposes a total expenditure of Rs 53.47 lakh crore, reflecting an increase of 7.7 per cent over the current financial year ending March 31, reported PTI. The budget outlines the government’s spending priorities across sectors, with a continued focus on infrastructure, welfare, and economic growth. Capital Expenditure Set at Rs 12.2 Lakh Crore A significant portion of the budget has been allocated for capital expenditure, estimated at Rs 12.2 lakh crore for the next fiscal year, reported PTI. This investment is expected to support infrastructure development, boost economic activity, and create employment opportunities. Revenue and Borrowing Projections The government has projected gross tax revenue at Rs 44.04 lakh crore for FY27. To meet expenditure requirements, gross borrowing is estimated at Rs 17.2 lakh crore, reported PTI. These figures reflect the government’s strategy to balance growth-oriented spending with fiscal discipline. Fiscal Deficit Target Reduced to 4.3 per cent The fiscal deficit for the upcoming financial year has been pegged at 4.3 per cent of GDP, slightly lower than the revised estimate of 4.4 per cent for the current fiscal, reported PTI. This indicates the government’s continued commitment to fiscal consolidation while maintaining investment momentum. Key Legislation Also on Agenda In addition to the Finance Bill, the government is expected to introduce the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code Amendment Bill 2025 in the Lok Sabha for consideration and passage. The proposed amendments aim to strengthen the insolvency resolution framework and improve ease of doing business in the country. Parliament Continues Legislative Business The Lok Sabha proceedings also included Question Hour, tabling of official documents, and presentation of committee reports. Pending government business from previous sittings is expected to be taken up in subsequent discussions. (With inputs from PTI)
25 March,2026 03:15 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentRailway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday informed the Lok Sabha that more than three crore fake user accounts have been removed from the IRCTC portal as part of a major crackdown on ticket touts and fraudulent bookings, reported news agency PTI. The move is aimed at ensuring fair access to railway tickets for genuine passengers and curbing illegal practices that often lead to artificial scarcity. Crackdown on Touts to Ensure Fair Ticket Access Responding to questions during the Question Hour, Vaishnaw said the removal of fake accounts has significantly helped in reducing the influence of touts who exploit the system to block tickets and resell them at higher prices, reported PTI. He emphasised that these measures are ensuring that genuine passengers now have better access to tickets, particularly during high-demand periods. Majority of Seats in Non-AC Categories Highlighting affordability, the minister noted that a large portion of railway capacity is focused on non-AC travel. Around 78 per cent of seats are in non-air-conditioned categories, while nearly 70 per cent of coaches are general and sleeper class, reported PTI. This, he said, reflects the government’s priority of providing economical travel options for the majority of passengers. Over 75,000 Special Trains Operated To address overcrowding, especially on long-distance routes, the Railways has operated more than 75,000 special trains in the current financial year. Vaishnaw added that the number of special trains introduced has increased compared to previous administrations, helping manage peak-season demand and improve passenger convenience, reported PTI. Focus on Safety Leads to Sharp Drop in Accidents The minister also highlighted improvements in railway safety, stating that consequential accidents have reduced by nearly 90 per cent due to sustained efforts and investments in infrastructure and monitoring systems, reported PTI. This marks a significant improvement in operational safety across the railway network. Govt Focus on Affordable and Comfortable Travel Vaishnaw reiterated that the government’s focus remains on delivering safe, affordable, and comfortable travel experiences. The combined approach of increasing capacity, cracking down on illegal practices, and enhancing safety is aimed at improving overall passenger satisfaction, reported PTI. Lok Sabha Pays Tribute to Former Members Earlier in the day, the Lok Sabha paid tributes to former members Visnu Modi and Datta Meghe, who passed away recently. Speaker Om Birla and members observed a moment of silence in their memory. The Speaker also urged members to maintain decorum and come prepared with the day’s agenda, following disruptions caused by sloganeering in the House. (With inputs from PTI)
25 March,2026 02:57 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentIndia's oil companies on Wednesday reassured the public that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG across the country, urging citizens not to be misled by rumours circulating on social media or engage in panic buying, reported the PTI. Indian Oil Corporation, the nation’s largest oil firm, stated that “there is no shortage of petrol or diesel,” emphasising that its outlets are “well-stocked and fully operational.” The company warned that rumours “can create unnecessary concern and disrupt normal supply patterns” and urged citizens to “avoid panic buying and rely only on verified information.” BPCL denies localised sshortages Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd described reports of fuel shortages in certain areas as “completely unfounded,” asserting that there is “no shortage of fuel across the nation.” BPCL added that India is a net exporter of petrol and diesel and maintains “adequate stocks of crude oil, petrol, diesel and ATF,” with supply chains operating “smoothly without any disruption.” The company emphasised that it is “fully operational and committed to ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply”, according to the PTI. HPCL affirms stable supplies, adequate stocks The news agency reported, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd stated that there is “no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG across the country.” It advised customers not to be influenced by rumours or resort to panic buying and to “continue with normal consumption patterns.” HPCL reiterated its commitment to providing “an uninterrupted and seamless fuel supply” throughout its network. Impact of West Asia war on energy imports The ongoing conflict in West Asia has disrupted crude oil, LNG, and LPG supply chains. However, India’s diversified sourcing strategy has ensured sufficient supplies of crude oil from regions including West Africa, Latin America, and the United States, according to the PTI. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies have been affected due to damage to facilities in Qatar, India’s largest supplier, leading to prioritisation for domestic users and CNG, while some curtailment has been applied to industrial users, such as fertiliser plants. LPG has been the most affected, as India imports around 60 per cent of its requirements, mostly from Gulf countries. The government has prioritised supply to domestic households while restricting usage by commercial establishments, including hotels and restaurants, by at least 50 per cent. (with PTI inputs)
25 March,2026 02:37 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentPunjab Police have arrested Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra from Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, more than six months after he escaped police custody in an alleged rape case, reported the PTI. According to the news agency, the officials said the arrest took place late Tuesday night. The MLA, who represents Sanour in Patiala district, has been brought back to Punjab and will be produced before a court in Patiala. Senior Superintendent of Police Varun Sharma confirmed the development. Case background The case against Pathanmajra was registered on September 1, 2025, at a police station in Patiala. A woman from Zirakpur accused him of rape, cheating and criminal intimidation. According to the complaint, the MLA allegedly misrepresented himself as a divorcee and entered into a relationship with the woman. She claimed that he later married her in 2021 while already being married. The complainant also accused him of continued sexual exploitation, threats and sending obscene material. Escape and time on the run Pathanmajra had been absconding since September 2, 2025, when he escaped from police custody. The incident took place in Karnal, Haryana, where police had gone to arrest him. At the time, police alleged that his supporters created chaos by pelting stones and firing gunshots, allowing him to flee. However, Pathanmajra denied these claims and said he ran away because he feared a “fake encounter,” as reported by PTI. After his escape, he was declared a proclaimed offender, and a look-out notice was issued against him. Public statements during absconding period While on the run, Pathanmajra appeared in video interviews and denied all allegations. He described the case as a “political conspiracy” and claimed he would return only after securing bail. He also criticised the party leadership, alleging that important decisions were being taken without consulting ministers and MLAs. In another video, he claimed he was being targeted for raising issues related to governance and administrative decisions. Police efforts and investigation Punjab Police formed multiple teams, including members from the Anti-Gangster Task Force, to track him down. Raids were conducted across several states, including Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi. After months of search operations, the police finally located and arrested him in Gwalior. Further investigation in the case is ongoing. (With PTI Inputs)
25 March,2026 02:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a major policy shift aimed at strengthening energy security and accelerating gas infrastructure, the Centre has mandated that LPG supply to households may be discontinued if consumers do not switch to piped natural gas (PNG) where such connectivity is available, reported news agency PTI. The move comes amid global supply disruptions linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict, which has impacted LPG availability and prompted the government to push for alternative fuel adoption. LPG Supply to Stop After Three Months of Non-Compliance According to the new order issued by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, LPG supply to a household will cease after three months if the consumer fails to opt for PNG despite availability, reported PTI. However, the provision includes an exception. LPG supply will continue in cases where PNG connectivity is “technically infeasible,” subject to a no-objection certificate issued by the authorised entity. Push for PNG to Reduce Dependence on LPG The directive is part of the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026, which aims to promote a shift from LPG to PNG — a fuel that is continuously supplied through pipelines and eliminates the need for refill bookings, reported PTI. The government is encouraging households and commercial users to adopt PNG as a more reliable and efficient alternative, particularly during times of global supply uncertainty, reported PTI. Measure Aimed at Optimising LPG Distribution Officials said the move is intended to free up LPG supplies in areas where PNG networks already exist and redirect those supplies to regions that lack pipeline infrastructure, reported PTI. The policy also aligns with broader efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on a single fuel, especially as disruptions in global trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz continue to affect imports. Faster Approvals to Boost Pipeline Expansion The new order introduces several measures to speed up the rollout of PNG infrastructure. Authorities have been directed to grant permissions and right-of-way approvals within fixed timelines, failing which approvals will be deemed granted, reported PTI. In residential areas, housing authorities must provide access for pipeline installation within three working days, while last-mile PNG connectivity is to be ensured within 48 hours wherever feasible. Strict Compliance and Monitoring Framework The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has been designated as the nodal agency to monitor implementation, including tracking approvals, compliance, and progress of pipeline projects, reported PTI. Entities authorised to lay pipelines must begin work within four months of receiving approval or face penalties, including potential loss of exclusivity. Legal Backing Under Essential Commodities Act The order has been issued under the Essential Commodities Act, giving it strong legal backing. It also empowers designated officers with authority similar to civil courts to resolve disputes related to land access and pipeline installation. Govt Calls Move ‘Opportunity Amid Crisis’ Commenting on the development, Oil Secretary Neeraj Mittal described the initiative as turning a crisis into an opportunity through reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business and strengthening energy resilience, reported PTI. (With inputs from PTI)
25 March,2026 02:20 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentChaos prevailed at petrol bunks across Hyderabad on Wednesday as rumours of fuel shortage due to the ongoing war in West Asia triggered panic buying by customers. Long queues of motorists were seen at almost all retail outlets in the twin cities of Hyderabad, Secunderabad and the outskirts, even as authorities assured people that adequate stocks are available, reported ANI. Hundreds of vehicles, including trucks, buses, vans and cars, were seen at major filling stations, leading to traffic jams. Motorists were seen waiting in queues for several hours to fill petrol and diesel. Chaotic scenes were witnessed at fuel stations in the busy areas of Ameerpet, Khairatabad, Lakdi Ka Pul, Begumpet, Secunderabad, Nampally, Abids, Mehdipatnam, Koti, Attapur, Kukatpally, Erragadda, LB Nagar and Vanasthalipuram. ‘No stock’ boards at fuel stations amid panic buying; dealers say supply stable According to IANS, ‘no stock’ boards were put up at several bunks as panic buying led to exhaustion of stocks in no time. A similar situation prevailed in Medak, Mahabubnagar, Karimnagar, Warangal, Nirmal and other towns in Telangana. Meanwhile, the Telangana Petroleum Dealers Association has assured people that there is no shortage of fuel, and adequate stock is available with HPCL, IOCL and BPCL “Due to the circulation of false and misleading news regarding fuel shortage, many people are rushing to fuel stations and filling their tanks unnecessarily. This panic buying has led to an abnormal surge in sales -- nearly 2.5 to 3 times the normal levels -- resulting in temporary stock exhaustion at several retail outlets,” said Marri Amarender Reddy, president of Telangana Petroleum Dealers Association, reported IANS. He assured citizens that there is no shortage of fuel and that supply chains are functioning normally. Supply of oil is fully operational and sufficient; urges to not create panic among citizens The association also cautioned citizens that carrying petrol or diesel in cans for storage is against Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) norms and poses a serious safety risk. According to IANS, the Consumer Affairs, Food and Civil Supplies Department, Government of Telangana, categorically clarified that there is ‘absolutely no shortage of petrol, diesel, or domestic LPG anywhere in the state. The department said the supply chain from oil refineries to local depots is fully operational, and self-sufficient stock is available to meet the regular daily requirements of all citizens across all districts. Recent reports of long queues and temporary "No Stock" boards at certain retail petrol outlets are strictly the result of sudden, unwarranted panic buying fuelled by false rumours. When citizens unnecessarily rush to fill their tanks to full capacity, it creates an artificial scarcity, despite adequate fuel being available at the depots, reported IANS. The department also stated that recent administrative changes regarding advance-payment models by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have caused minor, temporary logistical adjustments for some local dealers. This is solely an internal administrative measure and has nothing to do with a lack of supplies. Meanwhile, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy will be holding a meeting with top officials later in the day to review the availability of petrol, diesel and LPG. (Inputs from IANS)
25 March,2026 02:11 PM IST | Hyderabad | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1774430998447_d.png "Ramdas Athawale said he believes the discussion between the two leaders focussed on the prevailing conflict. File Pic")
-1774428231161_d.png "AAP MLA Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra. File Pic")
-1774425004064_d.png "Representational image")