A massive fire broke out at temporary godowns storing scrap and paper rolls in Bhiwandi town of Maharashtra’s Thane district, gutting the structures and the materials stored inside. Firefighting efforts continued overnight to contain the blaze, officials reported on Saturday. The fire erupted around 4 pm on Friday at Walpada in Bhiwandi, where the scrap materials were housed in tin sheds, according to a fire department official. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident. Three fire engines from the Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation were immediately dispatched to the site to tackle the flames. However, the fire rapidly spread, fuelled by the large quantity of scrap and paper rolls stored in the temporary godowns, making the firefighting operation particularly challenging. “Firefighting operations continued throughout the night as the blaze engulfed the stored scrap materials. The extent of the damage is significant, but no casualties have been reported,” the official stated. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and investigations are underway. Authorities are examining whether any lapses in safety measures might have contributed to the incident. The incident has raised concerns about the safety standards in such temporary storage facilities. Local authorities are urging businesses operating in similar setups to prioritise fire safety by installing fire-fighting equipment and conducting regular inspections to prevent such mishaps in the future. Residents in the vicinity of Walpada expressed concern over the thick plumes of smoke emanating from the site, which were visible from a distance. The fire department assured that the flames were under control by Saturday morning and that efforts were on to ensure the site was completely safe.
11 January,2025 02:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the Tribal Development Department to ensure the effective implementation of welfare schemes, reported news agency PTI Vivek Pandit, who chairs the state committee for reviewing tribal welfare efforts, noted on Saturday that many tribal groups are missing out on benefits due to the lack of a coordinating body. "The chief minister has directed the Tribal Development Department to ensure these schemes are implemented efficiently and reach the tribal population," said Pandit. To support this initiative, the state government has released a Government Resolution (GR) outlining a comprehensive 24-point action plan for the implementation of tribal welfare programs. "Tribals in Maharashtra, such as the Katkari and other groups, must receive the full benefits of these schemes," Pandit said. Sharad Pawar praised RSS for countering opposition's fake narrative in 2024 polls: Fadnavis Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) chief Sharad Pawar praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) after observing how the organisation successfully countered the opposition’s fake narrative during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The opposition had earlier alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) aimed to secure 400 seats to amend the Constitution and eliminate reservations, a claim that saffron party leaders acknowledged had negatively impacted their campaign. Commenting on Pawar’s recent remarks appreciating the RSS, Fadnavis said on Friday that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance managed to construct a misleading narrative during the general elections. However, he credited the RSS for its role in exposing the truth. “When the Assembly elections drew closer, individuals from various walks of life, inspired by the RSS, played a critical role in dismantling this fake narrative. Sharad Pawar Saheb is an astute leader; he must have studied the RSS’s efforts and realised that it is not merely a political entity but a nationalist force. In any competition, it is wise to recognise others’ strengths,” Fadnavis remarked during an interaction with senior editor Vivek Ghalsasi at the Late Vilasji Fadnis Jivhala programme in Nagpur. The Chief Minister further revealed that when Eknath Shinde was appointed Chief Minister in June 2022, he had requested to be assigned organisational work. However, senior party leaders insisted that he join the government. (With inputs from PTI)
11 January,2025 02:25 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a significant milestone for Mumbai's metro network, the Chief Commissioner of Rail Safety (CCRS), New Delhi, has granted safety certification for the regular operation of Mumbai Metro Line 7 (Red Line) and Metro Line 2A (Yellow Line). This certification marks the successful compliance with all conditions set during the provisional authorization, enabling unrestricted operations at a full capacity speed of 80 kmph—an increase from the previous temporary speed limits of 50 to 60 kmph at certain locations. Both lines, operated by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), play a crucial role in reducing congestion on Mumbai’s busiest routes. Metro Line 2A stretches 18.6 km from Dahisar to DN Nagar, with 17 stations, while Metro Line 7 spans 16.5 km from Andheri (East) to Dahisar (East), with 13 stations. Together, they cater to over 2.5 lakh daily passengers, with cumulative ridership exceeding 15 crore since the start of operations. MMRDA has implemented cutting-edge technology on these lines, including driverless-capable trainsets, CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control) signalling, platform screen doors, and advanced ticketing systems. These initiatives demonstrate MMRDA's commitment to creating a safe, eco-friendly, and efficient metro network, aligning with the Hon. Chief Minister’s vision of “Mumbai in Minutes.” Hon. Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis remarked, “The regular authorization for Metro Lines 7 and 2A is a step closer to transforming Mumbai into a world-class city with an efficient transport network. This achievement reflects our government’s commitment to providing sustainable, time-saving, and eco-friendly mobility options for Mumbaikars. With this development, we are delivering on our promise to make Mumbai’s public transport system the backbone of its progress.” Deputy Chief Minister and Chairman of MMRDA, Shri Eknath Shinde, added, “Mumbai’s metro expansion is a game-changer for the city, and the regular authorization of Metro Lines 7 and 2A is a testament to MMRDA’s dedication to its vision. This development will significantly reduce congestion on key routes and improve the quality of life for commuters. We remain committed to further developing Mumbai’s metro network to meet the demands of our ever-growing city.” Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee stated, “This milestone reflects MMRDA’s relentless efforts to adhere to the highest safety standards and operational excellence. The removal of speed restrictions and the safety certification by CCRS will enhance the metro experience and help achieve our goal of ‘Mumbai in Minutes.’” The regular authorisation of Metro Lines 7 and 2A underlines MMRDA's focus on transforming urban mobility, offering Mumbaikars a faster, safer, and more sustainable commute.
11 January,2025 02:15 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarFive distinguished individuals from the Mumbai region are among the 10,000 special guests invited from across India to witness this year’s Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, on 26 January. A total of 23 individuals from Maharashtra have been selected to attend the grand celebration, representing diverse categories and achievements. The five invitees from the Mumbai region include Mr Atul Hanumant Jadhav from Antop Hill and Mr Vaibhav Nitin Patil from Vasai West, both chosen under the PM Yashasvi Scheme. The category celebrates individuals who have utilised government schemes effectively to achieve outstanding success. Shri Brahmdeo Pandit, a Padma Shri awardee and Shilpguru, along with Shri Abhay Brahmdeo Pandit, a National Award recipient, both from Kalakar Niwas in Bhayander East, have been selected under the Maharashtra Textile (Handicrafts) category. Their contributions to the field of handicrafts, particularly in textiles, have been widely recognised. Additionally, Smt Ujwala Sadashivrao Patil, Assistant Commissioner of Anganwadi from Badlapur West, has been invited under the Maharashtra Women and Child Development (WCD) Handicrafts category. Her significant work in empowering women and enhancing the Anganwadi sector has earned her a place among the esteemed guests. The Republic Day Parade is one of India’s most anticipated annual events, celebrating the nation’s cultural diversity, military strength, and achievements. Each year, the government invites a select group of special guests who have excelled in their respective fields or contributed significantly to society. These individuals represent the spirit of innovation, hard work, and dedication to nation-building. The 23 special guests from Maharashtra are among thousands invited to attend the parade from various walks of life. This year’s invitees include top performers in their fields and those who have made exemplary use of government initiatives to improve their lives and communities. The Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path is a fitting platform to honour these individuals, who serve as role models and inspire others to make a meaningful impact in society. Their presence at the event underscores the government’s commitment to recognising grassroots-level achievements and contributions to the nation’s progress.
11 January,2025 02:09 PM IST | MumbaiA man driving under the influence of alcohol allegedly crashed his car into several two-wheelers parked along the roadside in Kalyan, Maharashtra, late on Friday evening. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident, according to police reports. The accident occurred around 9 p.m. when the driver, identified as Anil Tiwari, lost control of his vehicle while speeding through the area. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the car collide with at least 10 two-wheelers, which were parked along the road. The impact caused significant damage to the vehicles, though no riders were present at the time of the crash. The police confirmed that Tiwari, who was visibly intoxicated, was promptly arrested following the incident. He was taken into custody and later transported to a civic hospital where a medical examination was conducted to confirm his blood alcohol content. As per PTI reports, the driver’s reckless behaviour led to the widespread damage of the two-wheelers, but fortunately, no individuals were injured. Angry bystanders quickly intervened, attempting to stop the car before alerting the authorities. According to eyewitnesses, Tiwari’s car was moving at a high speed, making it difficult for anyone to react in time. The police have since initiated an investigation to determine whether any riders, who may have been close to their vehicles at the time, suffered any injuries. Initial reports do not indicate any serious harm. (With inputs from PTI)
11 January,2025 01:31 PM IST | MumbaiTwo individuals wanted in connection with the murder of a man in Palghar district last year were apprehended by the police on Friday, authorities confirmed on Saturday. Rohan Vishwanath Singh (28) and Akhilesh Yadav (24) were arrested in Virar, a suburb of Mumbai, after being on the run for nearly a year. Deputy Commissioner of Police Jayant Bajbale stated that the two were part of a larger gang of 12 members accused of abducting and murdering Sudhir Kunjbihari Singh (27) on January 12, 2024. The victim was reportedly abducted by the group and transported in an autorickshaw to Goraipada, where he was then attacked with sharp weapons and subsequently killed. The police investigation revealed that the two accused, along with others in the gang, had planned and executed the brutal crime. Following their arrest, Singh and Yadav have been booked under Sections 302 (murder), 364 (kidnapping or abduction for murder), and other relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The police had already arrested seven members of the gang prior to this latest development, with the remaining five suspects still at large. The arrests of Singh and Yadav followed a tip-off that led law enforcement officers to the Bhatpada area of Virar. Following their apprehension, the authorities are now focusing their efforts on tracking down the other three individuals involved in the murder. (With inputs from PTI)
11 January,2025 01:26 PM IST | MumbaiA 26-year-old man was arrested by the police on Friday night for allegedly possessing mephedrone worth Rs 1.08 lakh in Maharashtra's Thane district, police officials said on Saturday. The arrest was made during a routine patrolling operation in Dombivili town, located in the district. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Atul Zende, of Zone III, Kalyan, the police team intercepted the suspect, identified as Vinay Iyer, on the MIDC road in Dombivili late on Friday evening. Upon searching him, the officers recovered 34 grams of mephedrone, a banned narcotic substance, from his possession. The contraband seized from the accused was valued at an estimated Rs 1.08 lakh, said the police official. In line with the investigation, a case has been registered against the arrested individual under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, which governs the control and regulation of narcotic substances in India. The authorities have confirmed that Iyer was taken into police custody after the arrest and further investigation into his activities is underway. As per PTI, this arrest comes shortly after a series of drug seizures conducted by the police earlier in the week. On separate occasions, police officials successfully confiscated 1,123 grams of ganja, valued at Rs 25,500, along with 40 bottles of cough syrup worth Rs 9,000. These seizures were part of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb the rise of drug trafficking and illegal narcotic-related activities in the region. DCP Atul Zende stated that the police department’s anti-drug initiative would continue and that special teams have been established to monitor and control drug-related activities in and around the region. He further urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities in order to ensure that these illegal trades are curbed effectively. (With inputs from PTI)
11 January,2025 01:22 PM IST | MumbaiShiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut announced on Saturday that his party plans to contest the upcoming elections for local bodies independently, reported news agency PTI. Speaking to reporters, the Rajya Sabha MP emphasised that the INDIA bloc and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliances are primarily focused on Lok Sabha and assembly elections. "In an alliance, workers of individual parties don't get opportunities, and it hampers organisational growth. We will contest polls to the Mumbai, Thane, Nagpur and other municipal corporations, zilla parishads and panchayats on our strength," he said. He mentioned that party chief Uddhav Thackeray has indicated for the party to go solo in these elections. The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also criticised Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar for engaging in a blame game regarding the MVA's defeat in the state assembly elections. He asserted that those who don't believe in consensus and compromise have no right to be in an alliance. Raut further highlighted the lack of activity within the INDIA bloc post the Lok Sabha elections, noting that no meetings have taken place since then. He remarked, "We were not able to appoint even a convenor for INDIA bloc. It isn't good. As the largest party of the alliance, it was the Congress's responsibility to convene a meeting." When addressing Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's claims about not mentioning farm loan waivers in his speeches, Raut insisted that these issues must be addressed. "Even if he hasn't spoken about it. Farm loan waiver and Rs 2,100 for Laadki Bahin beneficiaries are mentioned in the BJP's poll manifesto. These two promises have to be implemented. He is the finance minister in the BJP government, and he will have to do it," he said. Finally, in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comments during his first podcast about being human, Raut said, "He (Modi) is god. I don't consider him a human. God is god. If someone declares him an incarnation of god, how can he be a human? He is the 13th avatar of Vishnu. If someone who has been considered god says he is human, something is wrong. There is chemical 'locha'." (With inputs from PTI)
11 January,2025 01:20 PM IST | Nagpur | mid-day online correspondentMumbai woke up to a foggy morning on January 11, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting partly cloudy skies accompanied by haze. While the temperatures remain mild, the cooler mornings and reduced humidity have brought a pleasant, wintry feel to the city. Today's weather The temperature in Mumbai today stands at 28°C, with a forecasted high of 31°C and a low of 21°C. Winds are blowing at a speed of 10 km/h, and the relative humidity is currently at 46%. Sunrise was observed at 7:13 AM, and sunset is expected at 6:17 PM. The IMD has provided further weather predictions for the week ahead: Saturday, January 12: Temperatures are expected to range between 19°C and 32°C, with humidity rising to 50%.Monday, January 13: The mercury will fluctuate between 22°C and 32°C under mostly clear skies.Tuesday, January 14: A low of 22°C and a high of 33°C are forecast, with clear skies anticipated.Wednesday, January 15: Temperatures will remain steady at 22°C for the low and 33°C for the high, with predominantly clear skies.These forecasts suggest that while mornings may feel cooler, Mumbai’s afternoons will remain warm and pleasant. Air quality concerns The city’s air quality index (AQI) today stands at 164, placing it in the "moderate" category. This is a significant dip compared to the improved conditions seen in recent days. Health authorities have advised caution, especially for children and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma, as the air quality nears unhealthy levels. Residents are encouraged to limit outdoor activities, particularly during peak traffic hours. The use of masks and air purifiers is recommended to mitigate the impact of poor air quality. Understanding the AQI can help Mumbaikars plan their day responsibly and take necessary precautions to safeguard their health. As the week progresses, the city is likely to enjoy clearer skies and steady temperatures, making it an ideal time to step out—provided the air quality improves.
11 January,2025 01:18 PM IST | MumbaiThe young male dispersing tiger from Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in Yavatmal (southwest of Nagpur), which walked approximately 500 kilometres to reach Solapur district, will be captured and released back at the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve—300 kilometres from Mumbai and spread across the districts of Satara, Sangli, Kolhapur, and Ratnagiri. A senior forest department official said, "The decision to capture the tiger that walked from Yavatmal to Dharashiv in Solapur district has been taken. The team from Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) will be reaching Dharashiv soon, after which the process to capture the tiger will begin. The tiger will be captured and radio-collared before being released at the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve." Sources from the Maharashtra Forest Department told this newspaper that permissions have been obtained from higher authorities, and the tiger will be radio-collared before being released back at Sahyadri Tiger Reserve. The Maharashtra Forest Department teams, along with the Pune-based RESQ Charitable Trust, have been closely monitoring the tiger's movements. Camera traps have been installed in the area to track its further movements. At present, the young male tiger is said to be in the Barshi taluka of Solapur district. According to researchers, the male tiger is the cub of tigress T22 from Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary and was born there in 2022. In Solapur district, some farmers had brought to the notice of forest department officials that there had been an increase in cattle attacks in recent weeks. This prompted the department to install camera traps, which revealed the surprising presence of the male tiger. This marks the first recorded sighting of a tiger in Yedshi Ramalinga Wildlife Sanctuary in Dharashiv district, Marathwada. The male tiger, approximately 2.5 years old, is believed by researchers to have travelled in search of new territory. The tiger has been moving between Solapur district and Dharashiv. In June 2019, a tiger named Walker, fitted with a radio collar, started its journey from Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in Yavatmal district, where it was born. By December 2019, it had reached Dnyanganga Sanctuary, having travelled through eight districts of Maharashtra and Telangana. Forest department officials were able to track the tiger's movements until February 2020, after which the radio collar was removed. Walker is said to have walked close to 3,000 kilometres, making him the longest-walking tiger ever tracked with a radio collar. Since the removal of the collar, there has been no information about Walker's whereabouts. In 2021, a young male tiger, T3C1, walked from Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in Vidarbha to Gautala Autram Sanctuary in Aurangabad, covering 330 kilometres. The most interesting part of this journey was that the tiger managed to travel from Pandharkawda to Gautala without being spotted by anyone and without any human-animal conflict incidents. The tiger was first captured on a camera trap on 15th March 2021. Forest department officials confirmed that it was the first tiger sighting in Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary since 1940. The image was matched with the tiger database, which identified it as T3C1 (also known as Walker 2), over two years old and originating from Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in Yavatmal district, Vidarbha. Experts believe that this tiger walked from Pandharkawda, Umarkhed, and some parts of Telangana, before passing through Akola, Dnyanganga (Buldhana), Hingoli, and Ajanta mountain ranges to finally reach Gautala—a journey of close to 2,000 kilometres.
11 January,2025 01:07 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavThe Forum for People’s Collective Efforts (FPCE), a consumer rights body, has raised serious concerns about misleading real estate advertisements in Maharashtra. In a letter to the Secretary of Consumer Affairs, Union Government, the forum criticised MahaRERA’s detterent action against errant developers who deceive flat buyers through false advertising. The forum relied on the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI)’s half-yearly report (April–September 2024) to highlight the issue. Of 2115 real estate ads screened in Maharashtra, 1027 were found misleading and in violation of the RERA Act. MahaRERA signed an MoU with ASCI in February 2024 to monitor misleading ads and protect flat buyers, but its lack of substantial penalties has raised concerns. ASCI’s report stated, “From 2115 real estate ads screened, 1027 were flagged for potential violations of MahaRERA regulations. While 59 per cent of advertisers complied by modifying or withdrawing ads, 628 developers were penalised, with fines totalling Rs 88.90 lakh.” ‘Reprimand errant builders’ Advocate Anil Dsouza, hon. secretary, MahaRERA Bar AssociationDespite clear guidelines, promoters continue to flout rules on advertising and marketing, leading to confusion and misrepresentation. Advocate Anil Dsouza, Hon. Secretary of the MahaRERA Bar Association, said, “ASCI and MahaRERA are doing their best, but stricter penalties are needed for misleading advertisements.” The first suo-motu case by MahaRERA involved an unregistered agent from Chembur advertising unregistered projects. “Honest advertisements reduce litigation and foster trust between promoters and buyers. MahaRERA and ASCI must be more vigilant to ensure clean practices,” said Dsouza. He also called for tougher interactions with CREDAI-MCHI, NAREDCO, and industry SROs to ensure compliance and establish stricter regulations, stressing, “Honest advertisements are not optional but an obligation.” ‘Meagre fines exploited’ Abhay Upadhyay, president, FPCEAbhay Upadhyay, president (FPCE), said, “ASCI has reviewed advertisements based only on MahaRERA’s limited instructions. However, from a consumer’s perspective, these ads often mislead. Images rarely match the actual project, QR codes often fail to provide accurate details of facilities and amenities, and there’s typically a disclaimer allowing management to change project details, violating RERA Act that prohibit such changes after sales begin. “Builders exploit this situation as penalties are negligible,” said Upadhyay. “With a fine of R15,000-20,000 on average (MahaRERA collected R88.90 lakh from 628 developers, averaging R14,156 per project), they trap hundreds of buyers with misleading ads. Homebuyers suffer, while MahaRERA indirectly supports this by imposing token penalties.” Upadhyay confirmed he received no response to his concerns. 1027Total no. of ads found to be misleading ‘Making a mockery’ Ramesh Prabhu, founder chairman, MahaSEWARamesh Prabhu, founder chairman of Maharashtra Societies Welfare Association (MahaSEWA) said, “Once ASCI, being a regulator, refers a particular real estate advertisement with discrepancies to MahaRERA, it becomes MahaRERA’s responsibility to issue show-cause notices to such promoters under Section 12 of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. MahaRERA should initiate legal proceedings against promoters engaging in unfair trade practices and consider cancelling project registrations instead of merely imposing negligible fines of R14,000 to R15,000, which makes a mockery of customer protection.” He further suggested MahaRERA should publish details of such misleading advertisements on its official website to help flat buyers make informed decisions. Highlights of ASCI Report (Apr-Sept 2024) 4016 complaints addressed 3031 ads reviewed for potential code violations 98% required modifications 53% withdrawn/modified without contest 90% cases flagged via proactive monitoring 18 days average case resolution time 2087 digital media ads violated laws 1027 breached MahaRERA Act 890 promoted illegal betting/gambling 156 violated Drugs & Magic Remedies Act
11 January,2025 10:56 AM IST | Mumbai | Vinod Kumar MenonADVERTISEMENT
