Do you know what the stars hold for you in terms of love life, career, business and personal wellness today? Well, read on to know your astrological predictions as per your zodiac sign for December 4. Aries March 21 – April 20Make the first move to heal a relationship which is no longer as it was earlier. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Make well thought out choices instead of having to deal with repercussions later. Taurus April 21 – May 20Let go of worries as God/the universe is on your side. A positive experience in life helps realise how lucky you are. Cosmic tip: Aim to be the best in your field of work. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Relationships continue to be good as you’ve made sure to keep communication loving and mutually respectful. Cosmic tip: Consciously make positive karmas. Cancer June 22 – July 23Those just stepping into the workforce need to give themselves at least three months to learn how the organisation works. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Be prepared to deal with a busy day. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Treating yourself to a trinket you’ve yearned for makes this a feel-good day. Look beyond the obvious in a discussion at work to guess the truth.Cosmic tip: Enjoy this spiritual realisation you’ve worked towards. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23Students are happy with some test results. A busy day has you on your toes. Get enough sleep at night. Cosmic tip: Try to understand why certain situations are not working out quicker. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Life settles down to a good balance as two troublesome areas become calmer with vibes being peaceful once again. Learning from life is an invaluable experience.Cosmic tip: Be aware of wants and needs. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22This is an auspicious time for business/signing new contracts/ deals. Delegate work if possible. Cosmic tip: Be diplomatic when speaking to your boss about some changes needed in approach to an assignment. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Income increases for some, creating a much needed breath of fresh air as now you are able to follow your dreams. Do get enough sleep.Cosmic tip: Drive carefully, following all traffic safety rules. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20A karmic cycle that favours enjoying good health begins. There is a change of residence for some. Relatives come over in the evening.Cosmic tip: Enjoy this good balance of mind, body and soul. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19You love challenging outdated ideas, encouraging people to move with the times, which is also a big learning lesson in itself. Cosmic tip: Enjoy this love and unconditional acceptance. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Try to follow a daily routine: waking up and sleeping at set times; having meals at pre-decided times; being regularly involved in a hobby. Cosmic tip: Continue being a source of strength for loved ones.
04 December,2024 02:01 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseAfter the reinstatement of IPS officer Rashmi Shukla as Maharashtra’s director general of police (DGP) following the declaration of the state Assembly poll results, hundreds of police inspectors (PIs) and senior PIs whose postings were reshuffled 20 days ahead of the election are optimistic that their transfers will be rolled back. This expectation has led many officers to retain their accommodations at the police commissionerates where they were stationed before the transfer orders were issued. But this has increased their commute time, consequently cutting short their working hours and hampering their productivity level. Exactly 263 officers from Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Mira Bhayandar Vasai Virar, Thane and police training centres in Khandala, Nagpur, Solapur, Akola, Turchi, Dhule, Latur, Jalna and other districts were transferred by the DGP’s office to conduct fair Assembly polls, which were held on November 20. These transfer orders, issued by the DGP’s office, follow strict Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines mandating the reassignment of officers who have served more than three years in a particular city. Adhering to the order, the officers took charge of the new postings but, simultaneously, they also approached the Maharashtra Administrative Tribunal (MAT) court and requested the DGP’s office to roll back their transfers. The matter is sub judice. ‘I hardly sleep for four hours daily’ “If a DGP can be reinstated, then why can’t our transfers be rolled back?” asked a senior inspector, requesting anonymity. “I have retained the accommodation where I’ve been staying, hoping that I will be transferred back to the police station where I was serving before the election,” the officer added. “Today, I have to travel a lot and get stuck in traffic frequently. It takes me nearly three and a half hours to reach Mumbai and return home. I hardly sleep for four hours a day and this is costing me my health. I am unable to give time to my family members. Above all, my work is equally affected because, after 7 pm, I am mostly in a rush to go back to my family,” said the officer. The decision to roll back their transfers has been impacted by the delay in the formation of government in Maharashtra as the DGP’s office will not decide on the matter without taking the home minister into confidence, according to sources. Inspector-rank personnel, who have been transferred out of the Mumbai police, are happy because a few have received an opportunity to take charge of police stations in the Maharashtra police, said officers. “But the officers, who have been transferred to the Mumbai police from the Mira Bhayandar Vasai Virar (MBVV) and Navi Mumbai police commissionerates, are worried about returning to their previous postings,” said an officer. A senior police officer explained, “If I am posted with the Mumbai police but want to return to serving with the MBVV police, a vacancy should be there; because a PI, who has served for 12 or 13 years in Maharashtra police, has been given a responsibility to head a police station. If the PI is unwilling to vacate the post, I won't be able to occupy my previous post. If the government is formed and the DGP’s office reconsiders its decision, the transfer orders can be rolled back.” ‘Reshuffling was an eyewash’ A senior inspector said, “If Shukla can be reinstated without the government being formed in Maharashtra, why has the decision to roll back our transfers been stonewalled?” Another officer said that the reshuffling of PIs and senior PIs before an election was just an eyewash because many DCPs and additional CPs were also supposed to be transferred ahead of Assembly polls, “but their transfers were stonewalled due to political intervention”. “Many DCPs and additional CPs are still holding on to their positions, despite having completed their tenure in a particular zone or region. Since we are low-ranking police personnel, we were transferred to conduct fair polls in the state,” said a senior PI, requesting anonymity. mid-day reached out to the Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik and Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Iqbal Singh Chahal, but they did not respond to messages and calls by press time. A highly-placed official in the home department, meanwhile, said that at present there was no competent authority to decide/approve the transfers of police officers. “Currently, we have a caretaker government, in which the home minister or other ministers don’t exist. In case of the DGP’s reinstatement, the official government existed. So, the new home minister will take a call on the transfers/reinstatement in consultation with the administrative and police department officials,” he said. Mumbai police’s concerns The Mumbai police had requested that the ECI and DGP consider adopting the guidelines followed during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, arguing that the large number of newly assigned officers could face challenges adapting to Mumbai’s unique social and geographical dynamics. Despite the request, the ECI upheld its stringent guidelines, insisting on the transfer of officers who have completed three years in any district within the last four years, or those serving in their home districts. The Mumbai police, in a letter to the DGP’s office in September, raised concerns about the lack of staff shortages, stating that as of September 27, there were already 213 vacancies at the PI level in Mumbai. The department noted that 50 officers previously transferred to Mumbai had not yet reported for duty. With an additional 132 inspectors affected by election-related transfers, the total shortage could exceed 330 officers. The Mumbai police emphasised that the transfer of such a large number of key officers could pose significant challenges to election-related duties, maintaining law and order and ensuring a smooth electoral process. The letter also highlighted past instances, such as the 2014, 2019, and 2024 general elections, where the transfer criteria in Mumbai accounted for territorial divisions at the zonal level rather than treating the entire city as a single unit. However, the EC declined this request, resulting in substantial reshuffling with just 20 days remaining before the election. Of the 263 officers transferred, 161 are from Mumbai, 38 from the MBVV commissionerate and 22 from Navi Mumbai; 42 officers from other Maharashtra districts were reassigned to Mumbai. No senior PIs at key stations A senior inspector, posted with the Mumbai police, said, “A few officers, who were transferred out of Mumbai on October 30, have been on sick leave since election day. Also, a few key police stations in Mumbai do not have designated senior police inspectors, and hence, the seniormost police inspectors of some police stations have been given additional charge, reflecting the crisis in the state’s police force.” The role of a senior inspector at a police station is crucial, as the officer is responsible for maintaining law and order, preventing and detecting crime and ensuring effective coordination with local resources. Additionally, the senior inspector oversees the overall performance and work of police personnel at the station, ensuring efficiency and adherence to procedures. This position requires strong leadership, organisational skills and the ability to make critical decisions. According to the Mumbai Police website, key stations across the city, including Colaba, Cuffe Parade, Marine Drive, Airport, Azad Maidan, BKC, DN Nagar, Goregaon, Kalachowkie, Kandivli, Kanjurmarg, MIDC, MRA Marg, Mahim, Malwani, Mulund, Navghar, Oshiwara, Pant Nagar, Sahar, Shivaji Park, Sion, JJ Marg, Trombay, Worli, Yellow Gate, Juhu and Tilak Nagar, are being managed by inspectors holding additional charge, who are overburdened. “This was apparently for the first time in the history of Mumbai police that most senior PIs and PIs were transferred out of Mumbai overnight only to ensure fair Assembly elections. Since most of their replacements are new to Mumbai, we will take time to establish coordination to maintain law and order in the city,” said an officer. Queries related to the vacant posts sent to Deven Bharati, special commissioner of Mumbai police, went unanswered. “On behalf of my colleagues, I request the DG office to please roll back our transfers because we are unable to discharge our duties peacefully. We lack zeal and enthusiasm and this will have a direct impact on law and order,” the officer requested. mid-day sought comments from K M M Prasanna, special inspector general of establishment at the DGP office, as well as DGP Shukla but messages and calls went unanswered by press time.
03 December,2024 11:01 PM IST | Mumbai | Diwakar SharmaSenior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday evening met Maharashtra's caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde at his official residence, Varsha, in south Mumbai, two days ahead of the swearing-in of the new Mahayuti government, reported the PTI. The visit came in hours after Eknath Shinde returned from a private hospital after health check-up on Tuesday. According to the PTI, it was the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders after the duo, along with NCP chief Ajit Pawar, met the top BJP leadership in Delhi last week. Devendra Fadnavis, seen as the frontrunner for the top post in the new Mahayuti government comprising of the BJP, Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar-led NCP government, met Eknath Shinde at the latter's official residence 'Varsha'. Eknath Shinde, who had been staying at his private residence in Thane for the last few days, visited the hospital in the morning. "I came for a check-up. My health is in good condition," he told reporters while leaving the hospital for 'Varsha'. Preparations for the oath-taking ceremony scheduled to be held at Azad Maidan on the evening of December 5 are in full swing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, about 2,000 VVIPs and some 40,000 supporters will attend the event. On the meeting between Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis, Shiv Sena leader Bharatshet Gogawale said, "Devendra Fadnavis had come to meet him Eknath Shinde to inquire about his ill health," the ANI reported. On being asked if Eknath Shinde will take oath (during gvot formation), he says, "After a decision is taken, Eknath Shinde will take the oath." #WATCH | On the meeting between caretaker CM of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis, Shiv Sena leader Bharatshet Gogawale says, "Devendra Fadnavis had come to meet him Eknath Shinde to inquire about his ill health..."On being asked if Eknath Shinde will take oath… pic.twitter.com/ejo8JxFlw7 — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2024 Earlier, Eknath Shinde's decision to head to his village in Satara district last Friday had sparked speculation that he was unhappy over the way the new government was shaping up. Following the BJP-led Mahayuti's landslide victory in the November 20 elections, the new Maharashtra government will be sworn in on Thursday. The legislature party of the state BJP will meet at Vidhan Bhawan on Wednesday morning to elect its leader. However, there were indications that the distribution of portfolios among the three allies might not be a smooth process. Sena leaders on Monday said that as per the "convention" of alliance politics, their party should get the home portfolio if the CM post went to the BJP. (with PTI inputs)
03 December,2024 09:32 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA massive fire broke out at a furniture godown in Maharashtra's Thane district, the officials said on Tuesday, adding that nobody was injured in the incident. In the fire, the furniture godown in Shilphata area of Thane city was gutted in the fire, the civic officials said. The fire was reported at the godown located opposite Unique Apartment, on the Mumbra-Shil Road in Shilphata area of Thane district. The blaze was reported at around 4:11 pm on Tuesday and following the information regarding the fire, the civic authorities rushed to the spot and launched a fire-fighting operation. The godown covers an area of 1,200 square feet, said an official. He said that upon receiving the information, local police from the Dighar Police Station, along with fire department personnel, quickly arrived at the scene. Two fire trucks, one rescue vehicle, one water tanker, and Torrent Power electricity workers were deployed to control the blaze, he said. The official said that fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident. However, the fire caused significant damage to the godown, destroying furniture such as sofas, cupboards, beds, and other items inside. He added that the fire was fully extinguished by fire brigade personnel by 5:48 pm, and the situation was brought completely under control following a cooling operation. The civic authorities were further investigating the cause of the fire. Meanwhile, in an another incident, a fire had erupted early on Monday morning at a private cooperative bank housed on the ground floor of a multi-storey building in Kausa, Mumbra, in Maharashtra's Thane district, officials said. No casualties were reported, though two floors of the building were evacuated as a precautionary measure, according to Yasin Tadvi, Chief of the Thane Municipal Corporation's Disaster Management Cell. The disaster management cell was alerted to the incident at 6:47 am, reporting a blaze at the bank located on the ground floor of the five-storey building. The firefighters from the Mumbra fire station, along with personnel from a private power supply company, promptly reached the scene and managed to douse the flames within an hour, Tadvi stated.
03 December,2024 08:19 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndian Navy's frontline warship INS Brahmaputra, which turned to a side and was damaged following a fire onboard more than four months ago, has been set "upright" and will be back at sea, a top official said on Tuesday, reported the PTI. In July this year, a major fire had broke out onboard INS Brahmaputra at the naval dockyard in Mumbai. The warship was severely damaged in the fire and tilted heavily to one side following the blaze. Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi had then visited the naval dockyard and reviewed the sequence of events leading to the accident. According to the PTI, Vice-Admiral Sanjay J Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, said the restoration plan of the warship will be chalked out after the Navy completes a full survey on the extent of damage caused to the vessel. "The raging rhino (INS Brahmaputra) will rise again and will lead the charge for years to come. The first part of getting raging back on its feet has been achieved. She was 'uprighted' on November 2. On November 8, she was placed in the dry dock. They (Navy officials) have been carrying out damage assessment and initial repairs," he said in response to a question, as per the PTI. Vice-Admiral Singh was addressing the media on the eve of Navy Day (December 4). Asked about the recent collision between Indian Navy submarine INS Karanj and fishing boat FV Marthoma off the Goa coast, Vice-Admiral Singh said the vessel suffered damage in the accident but it is operational. "Obviously, where there is a collision between two vessels there will be an amount of damage. We have taken an assessment of the damage that has occurred and the repairs are in progress and the submarine remains operational," Vice-Admiral Singh emphasised, the news agency reported. On Monday, the Mumbai Police said the 'tandel' (captain) of FV Marthoma was booked in connection with the death of two persons following its collision with INS Karanj in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Goa on November 21. The submarine suffered damage of more than Rs 10 crore, while the fishing boat sank due to the impact of the collision. Fishing boat Marthoma had 13 crew members and 11 of them were rescued in the search operation. Vice-Admiral Singh said the Navy will continue with its internal inquiry into the collision and on completion of the probe, it will take corrective measures if and where required. (with PTI inputs)
03 December,2024 08:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Central Railway on Tuesday said that it has made elaborate arrangements for Mahaparinirvan Diwas 2024 with special trains, passenger guidance, help desks and more facilities being put in place for the passengers visiting Mumbai. In an official statement, the Central Railway said, elaborate arrangements has been made to facilitate followers of Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar coming to Mumbai from different parts of the county for the occasion. Mahaparinirvan Diwas which falls on 6th December, witnesses a large number of Babasaheb’s followers coming to Chaitya Bhoomi, Dadar from all over the state and country to pay their respects. The Central Railway also shared the details of the arrangements made by the railways- Special Trains: CR is running 16 Special Mail/Exp trains from 4.12.2024 to 8.12.2024, which includes 8 trips between Nagpur and CSMT, 2 trips from Dadar to Nagpur, 2 trips between Kalaburagi and CSMT, 2 trips between Adilabad and Dadar & 2 trips between Amravati and CSMT. CR Mumbai Division will also run 12 additional suburban trains on the mid-night of 5/6.12.2024 which includes trains between Parel to Kurla / Thane & Kalyan on the Main line and trains between Kurla to Vashi / Panvel on the Harbour line. Help Desks and SpecialTicket Booking Counters Help desks manned round the clock by Ticket Checking Staff, RPF & GRP have been opened at Dadar, CSMT and Kalyan. Two UTS-Cum-Enquiry counters have been opened at Chaitya Bhoomi for issuing Unreserved tickets and for train enquiry from 05.12.24 to 07.12.24. Additional UTS counters have been opened at Dadar, CSMT and Kalyan. Passenger guidance and Security: A total of 675 ticket checking staff have been deployed which includes 223 at Dadar, 166 at CSMT, 105 at LTT, 103 at Thane and 78 at Kalyan to ensure proper guidance to the passengers at these stations and also to control the crowd to avoid any untoward incidents. Additional RPF personnel to work in 2 shifts have been deployed as follows, 120 at Dadar, 40 at CSMT and 30 at Kalyan in addition to the regular deployment of staff. More than 250 GRP personnel at Dadar and more than 80 at CSMT have been deployed as an additional security measure. Special ticket checking squad/staff along with RPF/GRP personnel have been deployed at the train originating stations in front of the reserved coaches to ensure entry of only bona-fide passengers. Crowd Management Holding area has been created at Dadar near the space available between Central & Western line and at CSMT between PF no 7 & PF no-8. Separate entry/exit will be planned at Dadar for proper crowd management. Barricading has been done on Middle bridge & BMC bridge for smooth movement of crowd at Dadar. 214 banners have been displayed at prominent locations of Dadar station regarding "Way to Chaitya Bhoomi", "Way to Rajgruh" etc for guidance of passengers. Banners/ standees with Train numbers and timings of the special trains will be displayed near Enquiry office at CSMT, Dadar, Thane and Kalyan stations. Frequent announcements regarding special trains are being done through the Central Announcement System and station announcement. Special Facilities: Provision of drinking water, water coolers and clean toilets have been made at relevant locations. Emergency Medical arrangement, Provision of wheel chairs, stretchers and adequate catering facilities has been made available.. Temporary suspension of issue of platform tickets To avoid overcrowding, platform tickets are being issued to Senior citizens, Divyangjans and those in need till 9.12.2024. These include stations like CSMT, Dadar, Thane, Kalyan on Mumbai Division, Nagpur and Wardha on Nagpur Division, Pune station, Solapur station and Bhusaval, Badnera, Akola, Nandura, Murtijapur, Shegaon, Malkapur, Jalgaon, Pachora, Chalisgaon, Manmad and Nashik Road stations on Bhusaval Division. Over all supervision and management Commercial Inspectors will be deployed round the clock from 16.00 hrs of 05.12.24 to 08.00 hrs of 09.12.24 at Dadar, CSMT, LTT & Kalyan Officers will be deployed at stations to supervise crowd management. Intelligence Officers will be on the field monitoring the crowd to ascertain their requirements like additional trains in case of increased crowd and to deal with other emergencies. Central Railway authorities will work in close co-ordination with State Government and Municipal Authorities to identify any emergencies and deal with them.
03 December,2024 06:44 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarAhead of the Mahaparinirvan Diwas 2024, Maharashtra's caretaker CM Eknath Shinde on Tuesday held a meeting with concerned officials to take stock of the preparations for the event to be held at Chaityabhoomi on the death anniversary of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar on December 6. BJP leader and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadanvis attended the meeting online. State Minister Deepak Kesarkar and Chief Secretary Sujata Sounik were among others who attended the meeting. In an official statement, CM Shinde's office said, in view of the upcoming Mahaparinirvan Diwas on December 6, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde conducted a review meeting to assess the arrangements for the thousands of followers who will visit Chaityabhoomi to pay tribute to Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. During the meeting, the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts by all concerned authorities to ensure the convenience of visitors. Dr. Ambedkar’s Mahaparinirvan Diwas sees lakhs of followers from across the country flocking to Chaityabhoomi in Dadar, Mumbai. The statement said, CM Shinde directed all concerned departments to ensure there are no difficulties for the visitors, and that necessary facilities, including food, medical assistance, clean restrooms, and proper transportation, are provided. He also announced that December 6 would be a local holiday in Mumbai on the occasion of Mahaparinirvan Diwas. Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis attend meeting held to review the preparations for the upcoming Mahaparinirvan Diwas at Shivaji Park in Dadar on December 6. Videos-Eknath Shinde's team pic.twitter.com/oh4zZq13hr — Mid Day (@mid_day) December 3, 2024 The meeting, which was held via video conference, was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department Rajesh Kumar, Director General of Police Rashmi Shukla, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Commissioner Bhushan Gaggarani, along with senior officials from various departments including the Home, Public Works, Social Justice, and Municipal Development sectors, the statement said. CM Shinde noted that the number of visitors has been steadily increasing every year, and ensuring their comfort and safety is paramount. "We must ensure that every visitor has access to food, clean toilets, medical facilities, safe accommodation, and proper security. It is essential that no follower faces any inconvenience. All departments must work in coordination," he said. The Chief Minister also instructed authorities to complete all arrangements promptly, taking into account the suggestions and feedback from the various committees that have consistently supported the event. Plans for a flower shower over Chaityabhoomi via helicopter were also discussed. He stated that the authorities must maintain cleanliness in the area and should set up help desks at key railway stations for better assistance to the devotees. The statement further said that Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reiterated the need for high-quality services. "We make an effort every year to ensure better facilities, and this year too, we must ensure that there are no shortcomings. All departments should work together to provide excellent services, including food, water, health, cleanliness, and security. Local committees always offer great support, and their suggestions should be incorporated into the plans," he said. Fadnavis also emphasized the importance of sensitivity and careful planning to meet the emotional needs of the devotees who come to express their reverence. Both, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis have expressed their commitment to ensuring that this year's Mahaparinirvan Diwas will be marked with the highest level of organisation, comfort, and safety for all those attending, the statement said.
03 December,2024 06:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Tuesday claimed that Maharashtra caretaker CM Eknath Shinde is displaying dissatisfaction toward BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, suggesting that Shinde's behavior was influenced by a "superpower in Delhi," likely referring to BJP's top brass, reported news agency PTI. Sanjay Raut criticised the delay in forming a new government in Maharashtra, noting that it has been over ten days since the assembly election results were announced. He described the situation as "anarchic," highlighting that no party or alliance which has got a complete majority, has either staked claim to form the government or has given a list of MLAs which back it, stated PTI. Raut pointed out that the governor has not invited any party to form the government, despite the BJP's state president publicly announcing a swearing-in ceremony scheduled for December 5 at Azad Maidan, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance. Raut specifically remarked on Shinde's "tantrums" and "sulking," implying that without support from the BJP's central leadership, Shinde would not have the audacity to act in such a manner. "I feel some superpower in Delhi is behind Eknath Shinde's tantrums and sulking against Devendra Fadnavis. Without the backing of 'Mahashakti', Eknath Shinde cannot dare to do anything like this. No one has the courage to throw tantrums behind those in power in Delhi," the Rajya Sabha member said. The Maharashtra election results showed the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, which includes Shinde's faction of Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), winning a significant majority with 230 out of 288 assembly seats. The BJP secured 132 seats, positioning Fadnavis as a likely candidate for the chief minister role. Raut labeled Shinde's faction as the "duplicate Shiv Sena," reinforcing his stance that Shinde and his leadership lack authenticity in representing the party's original values. Sanjay Raut mocks PM Modi for watching film, slams him for ignoring farmers & Manipur issues, watch video: Shinde has been unwell for the last few days. His decision to head to his village Dare in Satara district last Friday sparked speculation that he was unhappy over the way the new Mahayuti government was shaping up, stated PTI. Amidst speculation about Shinde's mood and health, his aides, however, clarified that he was feeling unwell and attributed his recent absence from political events to fatigue from the election campaign. (With inputs from PTI)
03 December,2024 05:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra's Caretaker Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, has been rushed to Jupiter Hospital in Thane after his health condition showed no signs of improvement. Shinde's PRO told Mid-day that he is currently undergoing diagnostic tests, and doctors will decide on his admission if necessary. When asked about his health, Shinde reassured, "Badhiya hai" (I am fine). #WATCH | Thane: On being asked about his health condition, Maharashtra Caretaker CM Eknath Shinde says "Badhiya hai." pic.twitter.com/EvejRPRkbP — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2024 Swearing-In ceremony preparations for Mahayuti government underway Preparations are in full swing at Azad Maidan, Mumbai, for the swearing-in ceremony of Maharashtra’s new Mahayuti government, set for December 5. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the event. BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis is widely believed to be the frontrunner for the Chief Minister’s post. However, the Mahayuti alliance has not yet officially announced any candidate, with the state BJP legislature party’s meeting scheduled for December 4. Maharashtra BJP president, Chandrashekhar Bawankule, has been overseeing the arrangements and visited the ceremony site in South Mumbai on Monday. Bawankule previously confirmed that Modi would attend the event, with invitations also extended to the Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers of NDA-ruled states. Additionally, central ministers, governors, and key BJP office-bearers are expected to be present, according to party sources. A preparatory meeting took place at the state BJP office on Tuesday, attended by Mumbai unit chief Ashish Shelar, Maharashtra Legislative Council leader Pravin Darekar, Prasad Lad, and others. The BJP has also invited religious leaders, artists, and writers from across the state. A senior party leader stated that the swearing-in ceremony will reflect the unity and spirit of the Mahayuti alliance while celebrating Maharashtra's cultural diversity. Fadnavis favoured for Chief Minister post Devendra Fadnavis, a two-time former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, remains the most likely candidate for the top post. The BJP has named Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani as central observers for the December 5 meeting, where the state legislature party leader will be elected. The BJP secured its best-ever electoral result in the November 20 elections, winning 132 seats in the 288-member Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. The Mahayuti coalition, which includes the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), won a combined total of 230 seats. Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena has stated that if the BJP takes the CM post, the Home portfolio should be allocated to them. There were reports that Caretaker CM Eknath Shinde expressed dissatisfaction at not being given a second term as Chief Minister by retreating to his village, Dare, in Satara district. However, he clarified that the visit was due to a need for rest after a strenuous election campaign. (With inputs from Agencies)
03 December,2024 05:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Ajit Pawar is likely to meet Union Minister Amit Shah in Delhi, his party leader said on Tuesday, reported news agency PTI The development was announced by senior NCP leader and state chief Sunil Tatkare in response to inquiries regarding Pawar's request for a meeting, which had reportedly been placed on a "waiting list." "Amit Shah is currently in Chandigarh. We may hold political discussions tonight. We will talk about what is happening," said Tatkare. "There is no question of waiting (for appointment)," he added. Tatkare clarified that no formal appointment had been made and emphasised that discussions regarding the political landscape in Maharashtra would take place. As the new Maharashtra government is set to be sworn in on Thursday, discussions about the allocation of ministerial portfolios among the coalition partners the BJP and Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena are expected to occur. Tatkare mentioned that these decisions would be finalised in a meeting among the Mahayuti allies. "When all leaders sit together, we will discuss the allocation of ministerial positions," he said. The Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party is part of the coalition along with the BJP and Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. Tatkare also addressed concerns raised by Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar, who expressed dissatisfaction that state BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule did not inform allies about his visit to Azad Maidan for the swearing-in ceremony preparations. Tatkare acknowledged this as a valid grievance, and said, "Today, all alliance leaders will conduct an inspection together. From our party, Dhananjay Munde, Anil Bhaidas Patil and Hasan Mushrif will be present," he said. Need to work harder to reclaim national party status for NCP: Ajit Pawar NCP Chief Ajit Pawar on Thursday stressed the need to expand the party at the national level following its significant success in the Maharashtra Assembly elections. Speaking at an NCP meeting in the national capital, Pawar highlighted the importance of working towards restoring the party's status as a national political force. "Our party was once a national party. To reclaim that status, we need to work harder now. We will fight, and we will achieve success," he said. Pawar also announced plans for a national convention to be held after December, during which responsibilities within the party will be assigned, stated ANI. (With inputs from PTI, ANI)
03 December,2024 04:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn response to increasing concerns over deteriorating air quality in Mumbai and its surrounding areas, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has implemented stricter guidelines for Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) Plants in Mumbai to combat air pollution. The Bombay High Court has registered a Suo-Motu Public Interest Litigation. The case was initiated following alarming articles published in local newspapers highlighting the issue. The court has since directed the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to implement robust measures to combat pollution. The board acting on the directions of MPCB Chairman Siddhesh Kadam and MPCB Member Secretary Dr. Avinash Dhakne, the board has issued new guidelines for Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) plants, a significant source of urban air pollution. The updated notification, dated November 27, 2024, introduces stricter siting criteria and pollution control measures specifically for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The previous notification from 2016 remains applicable to the rest of Maharashtra. Kadam emphasized the importance of collaborative action to address the city’s air pollution. “Urbanization is progressing rapidly in Maharashtra, with construction playing a significant role in this transformation. Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC) plants, essential for construction activities, are also a notable source of air pollution, especially in urban areas. We are working closely with Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and taking immediate actions against polluters to ensure satisfactory air quality in the region,” he said. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) issued guidelines on November 7, 2016, establishing siting criteria for RMC plants applicable across the state. Recently, a new notification dated November 27, 2024, was released, introducing updated guidelines specifically for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region while retaining the 2016 guidelines for the rest of Maharashtra. This initiative aims to reduce air pollution in Mumbai through proactive measures, including consultations with the RMC industry and clear instructions for pollution mitigation. Member Secretary Dr. Avinash Dhakne played a key role in these efforts. Regional and Sub-Regional Officers have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the 2024 notification and communicate it to all RMC plants and relevant associations within their jurisdictions for necessary compliance. Dhakne highlighted the board’s proactive steps. “We are issuing necessary instructions to construction and infrastructure stakeholders to reduce emissions and ensure compliance with air quality standards,” he said. The notification marks a significant step in balancing urban development with environmental sustainability. The comprehensive measures aim to mitigate pollution caused by large-scale construction activities and infrastructure projects in Mumbai, setting a precedent for other metropolitan regions. The guidelines are effective immediately, with MPCB regional officers tasked with ensuring compliance across all jurisdictions. The board has urged all stakeholders to cooperate in this critical initiative to protect public health and the environment. Key Measures for RMC Plants Captive Plants: New plants require a minimum project area of 20,000 square meters, with 2,000 square meters designated for the RMC plant. Existing plants must be fully enclosed within three months of the notification and provide a Rs. 10 lakh bank guarantee for compliance. Plants must be dismantled within a month after 70% of project completion. Compliance with statutory locational rules is mandatory. Commercial Plants: New plants within municipal areas require MPCB HQ committee approval. Plants outside urban areas must maintain a 500-meter buffer from residential zones, schools, hospitals, and major roads. Expansion of existing plants is prohibited, and non-compliance will result in treating expansions as new units. New plants outside urban areas require a minimum land area of 4,000 square meters. Pollution Control Measures RMC plants must adopt stringent air pollution control measures, including: Dust containment systems for all transfer points and storage silos. Enclosure of conveyor belts and storage areas to prevent emissions. Continuous water sprinkling, fogging systems, and tree plantations for dust suppression. Installation of Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) for PM10 and PM2.5, integrated with MPCB servers. Mandatory vehicle cleaning and GPS tracking for transit vehicles. Bank guarantees up to Rs 25 lakh to ensure compliance. Ambient Air Quality Standards Plants must monitor and maintain air quality within prescribed limits: PM10: Not to exceed 100 µg/m³. PM2.5: Not to exceed 60 µg/m³. share a headline
03 December,2024 03:50 PM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghADVERTISEMENT
