The country’s longest sea bridge, Atal Setu, also known as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, connecting the island city to Raigad district, has collected toll amounting to over Rs 22.57 crore in around three and a half months since its inauguration. This was revealed in a response by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to an RTI query. Immediately after the inauguration of the bridge by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a Right to Information (RTI) activist Ajay Bose filed an application on January 18 requesting the MMRDA to share details like the number of vehicles that pass on the stretch after January 12 to April 23, and the total toll amount collected from these vehicles. “The MMRDA took a long time to respond to me. I had to approach the appellate authority to seek the details which were shared with me a few days ago,” Bose told mid-day. According to Bose, the MMRDA revealed that a total of 11,07,606 vehicles passed through the Atal Setu between January 12 and April 23, with Rs 22.57 crore collected as toll during the period. The sea link can accommodate all types of vehicles, including LMVs, buses, and multi-axle vehicles. The RTI response revealed that more than 10 lakh vehicles that passed were cars/jeeps/vans, while the rest were mini-buses and multi-axle vehicles. “Cars, jeeps, and vans using the bridge generated the highest revenue, amounting to more than Rs 20 crore,” Bose said. The 21.8-km-long Atal Setu is a R17,500 crore engineering marvel comprising a 16.5-km marine section and a 5.5-km elevated road on land. It was believed that the sea link would alleviate the traffic congestion that Mumbaikars experience during morning and evening peak hours. However, this hasn’t been the case. Over three months after its inauguration, motorists still find themselves stuck in traffic jams within the city due to bottlenecks at the entry point to the sea link near Sewri.
08 May,2024 06:55 AM IST | Mumbai | Diwakar SharmaFollowing a Marathi vs Gujarati controversy in Mumbai this week, the BJP candidate from the North Central constituency addressed its potential impact on votes. He also voiced disappointment regarding Opposition remarks branding him anti-national. mid-day interviewed Ujjwal Nikam, a former public prosecutor, who has garnered national attention since his nomination. Recently, there has been a controversy regarding Marathi vs. Gujarati sentiments in Ghatkopar. As a Marathi candidate, do you think this will affect you, given that Gujaratis are traditional BJP voters?This is a minor issue that should not be blown out of proportion. I don’t believe it will affect me. Voters who love our country and appreciate Modi ji’s work will surely vote for me. This is not about one community; everyone voting should think about our nation. You’ve embarked on a new phase as a politician. What has been your initial experience?They say a wise person should avoid politics, and I’ve realised the truth in this adage, especially after being unexpectedly attacked by the opposition. Wadettiwar, the leader of the opposition, labelled me a traitor. I’ve spent my life fighting against terrorists and criminals, so I was shocked and disheartened. It was a harsh lesson in politics. However, the support I received from across Maharashtra gave me the courage to kickstart my campaign. Ujjwal Nikam, BJP candidate from North Central. Pic/Kirti Surve Parade How do you respond to the allegations against you?They are all false and baseless. Wadettiwar’s allegations are unfounded. The case related to the 26/11 attacks was ongoing during the Congress regime, so why wasn’t an inquiry initiated then? Furthermore, Samshuddin Mushrif was never involved in the investigation; his book on Karkare was based on observations and existing information. These allegations disrespect the memories of the 166 victims and echo Pakistan’s claims. Returning to your constituency, how do you plan to conduct your campaign with only 10 days left?I thank the opposition for raising false allegations, which inadvertently garnered national media attention during my campaign. On a serious note, Lok Sabha polls don’t necessitate door-to-door campaigning. The BJP has a robust worker network and a solid plan in place. Since my candidacy was announced, we’ve been holding rallies across the constituency, with support from workers and leaders of other parties in the coalition. Your candidacy was announced at the last minute. Do you think more time would have increased your chances of winning?Even the opposition announced their candidate one day before me, despite having a fixed candidate. Such things happen. Besides, voters are mature and consider various issues before voting. According to you, what are the key issues in your constituency?The issues are consistent across the city. In my ward, resettlement and development issues in areas like Airport Colony, Railway properties, Government colony, and Defence Colony require urgent attention. My manifesto aligns with my party’s, and we’ll adhere to it. How have people responded to your rallies, especially in slum-dominated areas?We don’t focus on any specific community. Our constituency comprises skyscrapers, chawls, and slums, and we approach every voter equally. We’ve received positive responses during rallies in various areas like Vile Parle, Bandra West, Golibar Nagar, Saibaba Nagar, and Tilak Nagar. People in chawls have shown faith in Modi ji. As an advocate, how will your expertise help in parliament?The extradition law requires some amendments to streamline the process of handing over criminals from one country to another. While we conduct arrests and prosecutions based on evidence, foreign countries have different laws and standards. Alignment is necessary to ensure smooth extradition proceedings. Following a Marathi vs Gujarati controversy in Mumbai this week, the BJP candidate from the North Central constituency addressed its potential impact on votes. He also voiced disappointment regarding Opposition remarks branding him anti-national. mid-day interviewed Ujjwal Nikam, a former public prosecutor, who has garnered national attention since his nomination. Recently, there has been a controversy regarding Marathi vs. Gujarati sentiments in Ghatkopar. As a Marathi candidate, do you think this will affect you, given that Gujaratis are traditional BJP voters?This is a minor issue that should not be blown out of proportion. I don’t believe it will affect me. Voters who love our country and appreciate Modi ji’s work will surely vote for me. This is not about one community; everyone voting should think about our nation. You’ve embarked on a new phase as a politician. What has been your initial experience?They say a wise person should avoid politics, and I’ve realised the truth in this adage, especially after being unexpectedly attacked by the opposition. Wadettiwar, the leader of the opposition, labelled me a traitor. I’ve spent my life fighting against terrorists and criminals, so I was shocked and disheartened. It was a harsh lesson in politics. However, the support I received from across Maharashtra gave me the courage to kickstart my campaign. How do you respond to the allegations against you?They are all false and baseless. Wadettiwar’s allegations are unfounded. The case related to the 26/11 attacks was ongoing during the Congress regime, so why wasn’t an inquiry initiated then? Furthermore, Samshuddin Mushrif was never involved in the investigation; his book on Karkare was based on observations and existing information. These allegations disrespect the memories of the 166 victims and echo Pakistan’s claims. Returning to your constituency, how do you plan to conduct your campaign with only 10 days left?I thank the opposition for raising false allegations, which inadvertently garnered national media attention during my campaign. On a serious note, Lok Sabha polls don’t necessitate door-to-door campaigning. The BJP has a robust worker network and a solid plan in place. Since my candidacy was announced, we’ve been holding rallies across the constituency, with support from workers and leaders of other parties in the coalition. Your candidacy was announced at the last minute. Do you think more time would have increased your chances of winning?Even the opposition announced their candidate one day before me, despite having a fixed candidate. Such things happen. Besides, voters are mature and consider various issues before voting. According to you, what are the key issues in your constituency?The issues are consistent across the city. In my ward, resettlement and development issues in areas like Airport Colony, Railway properties, Government colony, and Defence Colony require urgent attention. My manifesto aligns with my party’s, and we’ll adhere to it. How have people responded to your rallies, especially in slum-dominated areas?We don’t focus on any specific community. Our constituency comprises skyscrapers, chawls, and slums, and we approach every voter equally. We’ve received positive responses during rallies in various areas like Vile Parle, Bandra West, Golibar Nagar, Saibaba Nagar, and Tilak Nagar. People in chawls have shown faith in Modi ji. As an advocate, how will your expertise help in parliament?The extradition law requires some amendments to streamline the process of handing over criminals from one country to another. While we conduct arrests and prosecutions based on evidence, foreign countries have different laws and standards. Alignment is necessary to ensure smooth extradition proceedings. May 20Day of polls Day of polls
08 May,2024 06:53 AM IST | Mumbai | Prajakta KasaleA shade better Vibrant pinwheels for sale at Juhu Chowpatty form a protective arch over the seller and his customers. Spanish conquest Viveick Rajagopalan (centre) with members of the project Composer Viveick Rajagopalan is heading to Spain this summer with the Ta Dhom Project tomorrow. The music group has been invited to the Womad Music Festival organised by Peter Gabriel in Caceres, Spain this week. “It is a wonderful event that is all about discovering different ethnicities, cultures and their music,” he shared. While it is an honour, the younger members of the team — MC Dehaati, MC Artslord and MC Khoj — are most excited at this opportunity to be on a global stage on May 11, he shared. “We will be performing tracks from our albums, as well as a few unreleased ones,” he added. But it is not all work for the composer. “I hope to catch some performances myself, and I am really looking forward to the Asian Dub Foundation’s act,” he signed off. Cartoon mania in Vashi A cartoon that featured in the showcase A visit to Cartoon Mahotsav 2024 in Vashi last weekend would have come as a reality check to anyone who thought cartoons were an interest reserved for younger enthusiasts. Organised by Cartoonists Combine and Sahitya Mandir, the celebration of Marathi cartoonists witnessed more than 200 adults and children flock to various booths at the venue. A visitor at the exhibition “The aim was to introduce visitors and budding artists to the techniques of sketching cartoons, deciphering and analysing them, and ways to ideate and turn thoughts into art,” Sanjay Mistry (inset), cartoonist, and president, Cartoonists Combine, revealed to this diarist. The centre of attraction, Mistry shared, was an exhibition of more than 100 works that were presented without any captions. “That’s the exciting part about cartoons. Even at a celebration of Marathi cartoonists, anyone with an interest in the art form had so much to explore,” he added. Ode to the classic A restored 1961 Fiat Select will be exhibited at a meet this weekend You don’t have to be an expert in everything automobile to be a part of the Bombay Fiat Club. Founded by city-based colorectal surgeon Dr Sambit Patnaik (inset), the new club is all about the stories and emotions attached to the classic Fiat cars in and around the city. Over a call in between his hospital duties, Patnaik shared, “Fiats have been a part of core childhood memories for my generation. The club is a space for owners to meet and discuss these experiences. We have already registered 120 members, each with a unique story to tell.” Owners of classic Fiats who wish to join the club, may reach out to @bombayfiatclub. Striking a chord with AI After taking the Internet by storm with his creative AI assisted experiments including turning his own voice into musical instruments and reimagining the popular tune, Zingaat in Rihanna’s voice, city-based musician Mayur Jumani (right) is now turning instructor. Through his new venture, Aux Academy, Jumani will share instructional videos to guide novices in the art of AI music. “I will introduce participants to the tools that I use. They might realise using AI isn’t as easy as it looks,” Jumani laughed, adding that while the academy is starting off as a video channel on Instagram, a new paid course will be launched by July for those looking for curated sessions. Taking charge Volunteers at a previous e-waste collection drive. PIC COURTESY/INSTAGRAM City-based organisation The Recycling Company (TRC) is shedding light on a vital, yet often neglected part of e-waste management — batteries. Bin Your Battery, its new initiative, will witness schools and colleges collect and submit used non-reusable batteries to win the title of the best recycler. “Incorrect disposal of batteries can lead to fires and injuries at dumping grounds and collection centres,” Ashwini Jadhav, head of the social change division, TRC, noted. The team also plans to visit schools to present seminars and conduct workshops later this year. Institutions keen to register can log on to threco.com.
08 May,2024 06:49 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayTwo of the 16 activists charged under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) in the Bhima-Koregaon case cleared their Common Entrance Test (CET) for law college admission while in jail, clinging to hope for bail and an eventual declaration of innocence by the court. For the past six years, Mahesh Raut and Sagar Gorkhe, both 36, have spent their days in Taloja jail surrounded by undertrials. Their families and friends said this experience motivated them to become lawyers, providing legal aid to those in need. Mahesh Raut scored 99.79 percentile while Sagar Gorkhe scored 57.70 percentile. According to the NCRB's Prison Statistics India (PSI) report, of the total 5,73,220 prisoners across India, 4,34,302 were undertrials as of December 2022. Maharashtra had 41,070 people inside its 64 prisons awaiting the courts to seal their fates. “Most of them are likely innocent, but have no money for bail or any legal representation,” said a relative of Mahesh. The violence broke out on January 1, 2018. File Pic/X Up until now, Sagar had been working as an artist for political and social change with the Kabir Kala Manch (KKM)—a Marathi-Hindi performance group that highlights the struggles of deprived communities. Mahesh, on the other hand, who was the youngest activist until Sagar's arrest in 2020, is a Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) graduate in social work and has focused his work towards the land rights of Adivasi communities. Mahesh was granted bail last September by the Bombay High Court, which was stayed later on by the Supreme Court. According to Mahesh's relative, he prepared for the exams using old books he found in the library one month prior to the exams. “As soon as he received the admit card, he had to submit an application in the court seeking permission to appear for the exam,” the relative said. In Sagar's case, he has been preparing for CET since late last year. “He wants to represent those coming from poor families and marginalised communities like himself. We provided him with some books last year,” said Ramdas, a member of KKM and Sagar's friend since 2008. “Across the world, researchers, activists and experts have called this a fake case and yet everybody is still behind bars,” Ramdas said. It was the first time in all these years that Sagar made bail which was granted for his brother's wedding. “The session’s court had rejected it and then the HC granted it,” Ramdas said. “He was in Pune. We met him after so many years. We sang together and shared a meal together. It was an emotional moment.” Meanwhile, Mahesh's relative said this was the first time in six years that he used a computer. The 2018 protests On January 1, 2018, protests and violence spread across Maharashtra following an attack on a gathering of Dalit people at Bhima-Koregaon. The initial investigation was focused on pro-Hindutva leaders as suspects, but then took a surprising turn when known activists, lawyers, and academicians were accused of instigating violence through speeches and subsequently arrested arrested by the NIA under the Centre. The last round of arrests was in 2020, with Sagar Gorkhe, Delhi University Prof. Hany Babu, and Jyoti Jagtap and Ramesh Gaichor from Kabir Kala Mach being jailed. Another prominent public intellectual to be arrested was Anand Teltumbde, grandson-in-law of Dr B R Ambedkar. Of those arrested, six were released on bail recently, including Teltumbde.
08 May,2024 06:48 AM IST | Mumbai | Eshan KalyanikarDays after the principal of The Somaiya School revealed that she was asked to resign by the institute’s management over a series of tweets, the Somaiya Trust announced that it had “discontinued association” with her as her social media activities were “misaligned with the values and ethos promoted by the Vidyavihar school”. On May 4, the trust issued a statement, saying it had sought a written explanation from Shaikh about the social media controversy and a few other things. A spokesperson from the management told mid-day, “Indeed, the primary concern revolves around the allegations featured on a news website. We’ve sought an explanation on several other matters as well. However, we prefer to maintain confidentiality and refrain from discussing these issues with the media, in order to uphold the dignity and integrity of both the employee and the organisation’s relationship.” Shaikh, however, alleged that it was not just a letter seeking explanation, as the management claimed, but a show-cause notice. TrustSpeak The statement issued on Tuesday evening by the Somaiya Trust, which was also posted on X, formerly Twitter, read, “Somaiya Vidyavihar, with a legacy of over 80 years, has always upheld the principles of knowledge, inclusivity, and service as the cornerstone of our educational philosophy. Our motto, ‘Jnanadeva tu kaivalyam [Only through knowledge one attains liberation]’, reflects our commitment to liberating minds through education, fostering understanding and serving humanity. Recently, it has come to our attention that the personal social media activities of Parveen Shaikh, who holds a leadership position at The Somaiya School, have been starkly misaligned with the values we cherish. At Somaiya Vidyavihar, we strive to cultivate an environment where knowledge leads to wisdom and uplifts all members of the community, transcending small-mindedness and personal biases.” The Somaiya School in Vidyavihar East Asserting that it strongly supports the right to freedom of expression, the management further stated, “We recognise that it is not absolute and must be exercised with responsibility and respect for others. Given the gravity of these concerns, and after careful consideration, the management has discontinued Parveen Shaikh’s association with Somaiya Vidyavihar to ensure that our ethos of unity and inclusivity is not compromised. We appreciate your patience and support as we work through this review. Somaiya Vidyavihar remains dedicated to providing a nurturing educational environment that honours and respects all cultures and beliefs, contributing positively to society and our nation. We believe it is crucial to safeguard the impressionable minds of our youth and ensure that they are nurtured in an environment that upholds the highest standards of integrity and inclusivity.” Case background As per reports, Shaikh, via her X handle @ParveenShaikh1, liked and made comments on pro-Palestine, pro-Hamas, anti-Hindu and anti-Modi regime tweets. To one of the posts by a handle, Rants&Roast, asking followers to caption a picture where PM Modi is seen bending a little while standing next to Chinese President Xi Jinping, Shaikh replied, “Tommy fetch”. In a post dated June 2022, with a link to an article wherein Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan stated that Qatar’s demand for a public apology over remarks on the prophet Mohammed is not important. Shaikh replied, “They have sold their soul to the devil.” She has also been accused of sympathising with Umar Khalid, an accused in the 2020 Northeast Delhi riots ‘larger conspiracy’ case. In the wake of allegations against Shaikh, the Somaiya Trust’s management issued a statement that was posted on social media platforms, stating, “We were unaware of the sentiments expressed until it was brought to our notice. We do not agree with such sentiments. It is certainly concerning. We are looking into the matter.” Shaikh was reportedly asked to resign on April 26 following an article published on a website. The management, however at that time, stated that the investigation into the matter was still ongoing, neither confirming nor denying any request for resignation. This marks the management’s first public statement regarding the dismissal of Shaikh, and acknowledging her “personal social media activities” as the reason for the same. Principal’s reaction Shaikh told mid-day on Tuesday evening, “I was shocked to know the news of my termination from social media even before receiving an official termination notice from the management. The notice is completely illegal and based on defamatory lies peddled against me by OpIndia and Nupur Sharma. My work as a school principal has been exceptional, and my termination for such reasons is wrongful and unjust.” Expressing her disappointment and shock, she added, “I am disappointed that despite my hard work, dedication and sincere contribution to the school’s growth over 12 years, the management chose not to stand by me in the face of this vitriolic public vilification campaign run against me, and instead fell prey to it and took this drastic and unwarranted action. This action appears to be politically motivated. I hold firm belief in our legal system and the Indian Constitution and I am currently considering my legal options.”
08 May,2024 06:45 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghDo 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 May 8. Aries March 21 – April 20Upgrading technology skills/ upgrading the computer are revealed by the Tarot. Having realized who is being friendly for selfish reasons is a wonderful insight.Cosmic tip: Clear energy in personal spaces to banish negativity. Taurus April 21 – May 20Travel is revealed for some. Taureans enter a karmic cycle of being even happier in life and a dearly wished desire manifesting.Cosmic tip: Surround yourself with like-minded people who have no ego issues. GeminiMay 21 – June 21Be aware of thoughts floating in and out of the conscious mind as they may be the answers you seek. Some singles find true love.Cosmic tip: Take this possessive attitude in your stride. Cancer June 22 – July 23A legal case can end with an out-of-court settlement. A karmic cycle of unexpected expenses begins, so maintain daily accounts if possible.Cosmic tip: Be pleasant yet sure of what’s fine and what’s not. Leo July 24 - Aug 23Think many times before applying for a loan (keep interest rates in mind). Health is good.Cosmic tip: Be grateful that a responsibility which was not yours to begin with comes to an end. Virgo Aug 24 – Sept 23An exciting assignment is given to work on. Don’t overthink a slightly sticky situation. Be honestly outspoken. Do get enough sleep.Cosmic tip: Maintain a journal to keep track of how you evolve spiritually. Libra Sept 24 – Oct 22Some family issues that have been giving sleepless nights end with a compromise being reached (not that you are happy about it).Cosmic tip: Don’t over react. The client only wants a point clarified. Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22Some dreams could manifest if the mind is kept happy, the thinking logical. Health is good.Cosmic tip: Don’t try to have the last word. This issue isn’t even important in the long run. Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 22Newer points of view come in handy later on when the assignment enters the final stage. Stay away from ego games.Cosmic tip: Look at practicalities even if you trust the person advising you. Capricorn Dec 23 – Jan 20Keep larger picture in mind about the career graph, making decisions which take it upwards. Be alert; don’t over exert when exercising.Cosmic tip: Recognize true love when it comes knocking at your door. Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19Completing an assignment on time and perfectly brings a feeling of well-being. Deal calmly with a rude person. Do consult the doctor if feeling slightly unwell.Cosmic tip: Don’t get irritated with travel delays. Pisces Feb 20 – March 20Sometimes it’s best to be on good terms with someone you don’t like. Some changes manifest because of this person. Make dietary changes as advised. Cosmic tip: Don’t give unasked-for advice.
08 May,2024 01:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Shirley BoseMaharashtra recorded a voter turnout of 54.09 per cent on Tuesday in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections 2024, the officials said, reported the PTI. Voting was held in 11 out of the 48 Lok Sabha constituencies in Maharashtra May 7 in the third phase of the general elections. The first two phases of polling in the state saw more than 62 per cent voter turnout. As per the data shared by the election authorities, the Kolhapur seat saw the highest turnout of 63.71 per cent, while the Baramati seat, where two members of the politically influential Pawar family were locked in a bitter tussle, recorded the lowest turnout of 47.84 per cent, according to the PTI. In Maharashtra's Baramati, NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar's daughter Supriya Sule was pitted against Sunetra Pawar, wife of the veteran leader's estranged nephew and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Meanwhile, Hatkanangale recorded a voter turnout of 62.18 per cent, Osmanabad 56.84 per cent, Latur 55.38 per cent, Satara 54.74 per cent, Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg 53.75 per cent, Sangli 52.56 per cent, Raigad 50.31 per cent, Madha 50.00 per cent and Solapur 49.17 per cent, as per the PTI. Voting was held between 7 am and 6 pm. Prominent contestants in this phase of polling in the state included royal scions Shahu Chhatrapati of the Congress in Kolhapur and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s Udayanraje Bhosale in Satara as well Union minister Narayan Rane in Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, his wife Sunetra Pawar and his mother Asha Pawar were among the early voters. They cast their votes at a polling booth in Baramati, where Sunetra is pitted against her sister-in-law Supriya Sule, the sitting MP from there. NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, his wife Pratibha Pawar, daughter Supriya Sule and her family, MLA Rohit Pawar and his family also voted in Baramati. Actor couple Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D'souza cast their votes in Latur, while Union minister Rane voted in Sindhudurg. Riteish Deshmukh is the son of Congress leader and former state chief minister late Vilasrao Deshmukh, whose home turf was Latur. A total of 2.09 crore persons were eligible to vote for 258 candidates in the third phase, for which 23,036 polling centres were set up, an election official said.There were 1,07,64,741 male voters, 1,02,26,946 female voters and 929 from the third gender, the news agency reported on Tuesday. (with PTI inputs)
07 May,2024 08:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn view of the upcoming monsoon season, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Tuesday released a list of 188 dangerous, dilapidated buildings. The BMC released the list of 188 residential buildings that are in a "very dangerous" and "dilapidated" state, as per the PTI. The Mumbai civic body has appealed to people living in such structures to move to safer places as a precautionary measure. According to the PTI, of the 188 buildings on the list, the highest 114 structures are in the western suburbs, followed by the eastern suburbs with 47 and 27 in the island city, the release said. The buildings have been declared 'very dangerous and dilapidated' under section 354 of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888, it said. While appealing to people to vacate these dilapidated buildings, the civic body has also asked concerned authorities who own these buildings to take necessary steps before monsoon. The civic body has released the list on its portal, www.mcgm.gov.in As per section 353B of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888, the owner and occupier of every private building, existing and in use for more than 30 years should carry out a structural audit of their buildings and submit structural stability certificate to the civic body within 30 days, the release said, the PTI reported. The civic body has also warned of action if owners, occupiers and cooperative societies ignore its directives, the news agency reported on Tuesday. BMC prunes branches of 22,334 trees ahead of monsoon season Meanwhile, ahead of the monsoon season in Mumbai, the BMC has pruned 22,334 large and potentially hazardous tree branches, the PTI had reported last month. The Mumbai civic body has also issued tree-trimming notices to 4,909 establishments situated in private and government-owned areas, as per a release. According to the PTI, the Garden Department has commenced the systematic and scientific pruning of branches from large and dangerous trees as a precautionary measure ahead of monsoon, according to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. Mumbai has approximately 29.75 lakh trees under the BMC's jurisdiction and 15, 51,132 of them are located on private properties, while 10, 67,641 are on the government premises. "Of the 1,862,246 trees lining the roadside, 1,13,534 required trimming and a total of 22,334 trees had already been pruned by April 19, while the pruning of the remaining trees will be completed by June 7," as per the release, as per the PTI. The Mumbai civic body has also removed 386 of the 433 dead, infested or bent trees to address safety hazards. It said the progress of tree trimming has been impeded by vehicles parked along roadsides and also urged citizens to cooperate by relocating parked vehicles. (with PTI inputs)
07 May,2024 08:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVoter turnout reached 42.63 per cent by 3 pm in 11 of Maharashtra's 48 Lok Sabha constituencies, where polling is ongoing in the third phase of the general elections, according to election authorities. According to data published by the authorities, Kolhapur had the highest turnout (51.51 per cent), followed by Hatkanangale (49.94 per cent) and Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg (44.73 per cent). Latur had a turnout of 44.48 per cent, and Satara had 42.83 per cent. As per the data, Raigad saw a voter turnout of 41.43 per cent, Sangli 41.30 per cent, Osmanabad 40.92 per cent, Solapur 39.54 per cent, Madha 39.11 per cent and Baramati 34.96 per cent, stated an ANI report. According to the report, Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Ajit Pawar, along with his wife Sunetra Pawar, who is running for Baramati, and his mother Asha Pawar, were among the early voters. They voted at a voting station in Baramati, where Sunetra is running against her sister-in-law Supriya Sule, the current MP. NCP supremo Sharad Pawar, his wife Pratibha Pawar, daughter Supriya Sule, and her family, along with MLA Rohit Pawar and his family, also exercised their franchise in Baramati. #WATCH | Pune: Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, his mother Asha Pawar, and his wife-NCP candidate from Baramati Lok Sabha Constituency Sunetra Pawar cast their votes at a polling booth in the constituency, earlier this morning.NCP-SCP leader Supriya Sule is the sitting MP and… https://t.co/3RlTWyJ7IB pic.twitter.com/8gPf71G4pc — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2024 After Sule cast her vote, she spoke to the media and said, "In a strong democracy, the Constitution should be kept at the centre and the third phase of voting is taking place, it should be done peacefully." #WATCH | Baramati, Maharashtra: After casting her vote, NCP-SCP MP and candidate from Baramati Lok Sabha seat, Supriya Sule says, "In a strong democracy, the Constitution should be kept at the centre and third phase of voting is taking place, it should be done peacefully."… pic.twitter.com/bMxvrDaOVM — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2024 Actor-couple Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh voted in Latur, while Union Minister Narayan Rane cast his vote in Sindhudurg. Riteish Deshmukh is the son of late Congress leader and former state chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, who hailed from Latur. Narayan Rane is the BJP candidate from Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg, the report added The third phase saw 2.09 crore eligible voters choosing from 258 candidates, with 23,036 polling centres set up across the constituencies. Male voters numbered 1,07,64,741, female voters 1,02,26,946, and there were 929 third-gender voters.
07 May,2024 06:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde unleashed a harsh attack on his former party chief and political adversary, Uddhav Thackeray, accusing him of participating in "double-faced politics" and deviating from Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray's beliefs. In an exclusive interview with PTI on Tuesday at his Thane residence, Shinde claimed that Uddhav Thackeray's conduct was opposed to Balasaheb Thackeray's beliefs, painting him as self-serving and unsympathetic to party workers. Per the PTI report, Shinde slammed Uddhav Thackeray's claimed attempts to entice him back to the Shiv Sena while also coordinating attacks on his home, calling it "double-faced politics". "We are the real Shiv Sena and taking forward Balasaheb's vision of Hindutva and the state's development. Uddhav Tkacheray's outfit cannot be called a 'Hindutva' party as they joined hands with the Congress which insults Savarkar and they cannot even refer to Balasaheb as 'Hindu Hriday Samrat' anymore," he told PTI. Speaking about whether Thackeray asked him to return, CM Shinde said, "He (Uddhav Thackeray) sent an emissary to me and while that person was talking to me, he announced he was throwing me out of the party. He was holding a meeting where they called for burning my effigy, attacking my house, those sorts of things were happening. These meetings were happening when they had supposedly sent people to talk to me. 'Dogli rajneeti, chehre pe alag, pet mein alag, honthon pe alag (This is double-faced politics, something on the face and something totally opposite behind it)'." Shinde expressed his dismay by highlighting the obvious contrast between Uddhav Thackeray and Balasaheb Thackeray, claiming that the latter always prioritised the welfare of party workers and stood firm in his convictions, the news agency report stated. "Balasaheb was something else. He will say whatever he has to say and he will never go back on his words. Whatever he would say once, will become cast in iron. There can't be another Balasaheb Thackeray," he added. He accused Uddhav Thackeray of abandoning Balasaheb's Hindutva doctrine by forming partnerships with the Congress, which he claimed disrespected Hindutva icons such as Savarkar. Shinde emphasised that the current Shiv Sena leadership has abandoned the party's essential values. "But he (Uddhav) abandoned the ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray for the greed of the chief minister's chair. We are now taking forward Balasaheb's ideology and that forms the foundation of this government. The work we are doing, so many major schemes we have launched, development is the main agenda for all of that and that is the real agenda of the Shiv Sena and that is what Balasaheb had dreamed of," he said. "They have abandoned Balasaheb's ideology, they have joined hands with the Congress which insults Savarkar. They can't speak a single word for Savarkar now as their lips have been sealed by their partners. They have forgotten to speak about Hindutva now. They have forgotten Balasaheb's slogan, 'Garv se kaho, hum Hindu Hain'. They don't even refer to Balasaheb as 'Hindu Hriday Samrat' anymore. They have abandoned Hindutva as well as the ideology of Balasaheb," he said. Referring to previous instances, per the PTI report, Shinde rejected Uddhav Thackeray's assertions about BJP leaders' promises, dismissing them as mere bluster. He suggested that Uddhav Thackeray's decision to side with the Congress and NCP was motivated by personal ambition rather than ideological compatibility. Reflecting on his interactions with both Balasaheb and Uddhav Thackeray, Shinde lauded Balasaheb's visionary leadership and dedication to Hindutva ideas, while criticising Uddhav Thackeray's apparent self-interest and disrespect for party welfare. "Balasaheb was a great person with great thinking and ideology. He was the one who would stand behind his party workers. He had a great vision for the development of the country and of the state, as well as for taking forward Hindutva. Udhhav is completely the opposite. He is only interested in furthering his own self-interest, he has nothing to do with the party or party workers. Despite having a chief minister of Shiv Sena, Shiv Sena was going downhill, and MLAs were not getting funds. What face they will show to the people," Shinde stated. According to the report, he further added, "Everyone was worried. Party workers were going to jail despite him being chief minister. What does all this mean? Shiv Sena was totally going down. His ideas are totally different from that of Balasaheb."
07 May,2024 05:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNarayan Rane, the BJP candidate from Maharashtra's Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg Lok Sabha constituency, expressed confidence in the party's performance, stating that he expects to win 40-42 seats. Speaking to ANI on Tuesday, Rane emphasised his commitment to creating job opportunities in the region, proposing the construction of engineering and food processing companies over the next two years. "I am working to bring employment here. In the coming 2 years, we will get engineering and food processing industries here. We will win 40-42 seats in Maharashtra," Rane told ANI. #WATCH | Sindhudurg, Maharashtra: Union Minister and BJP candidate from Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg Lok Sabha constituency Narayan Rane says, "I am working to bring employment here. In the coming 2 years, we will get engineering and food processing industries here... We will win 40-42… pic.twitter.com/VIwKnl24jU — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2024 Voting has begun in the Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg constituency, with Rane casting his ballot after praying at a local temple in Sindhudurg district. Rane will compete against the incumbent MP, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Vinayak Raut, the news agency further reported. According to the report, Rane, the BJP-led Central Government's Minister of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), is determined to win despite the challenge provided by Raut, who won the 2019 general elections. #WATCH | Sindhudurg, Maharashtra: Union Minister and BJP candidate from Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg Lok Sabha constituency Narayan Rane arrives at a polling station in Kankavali to cast his vote with the family.Shiv Sena-UBT has fielded Vinayak Bhaurao Raut from the… pic.twitter.com/QGyY1DVAIX — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2024 In earlier polls, Raut received approximately 50.8 per cent of the votes, while Rane, representing his own party Maharashtra Swabhimaan Paksh, received 31 per cent, the report added. Maharashtra has 48 Lok Sabha seats and elections are held in five phases. The BJP hopes to repeat its performance from the 2019 elections when it won 23 out of 25 contested seats and the Shiv Sena won 18 out of 23. 42.63 per cent in Maharashtra Voter turnout was 42.63 per cent as of 3 p.m. in 11 of Maharashtra's 48 Lok Sabha constituencies, where polling is taking place in the third round of the general elections on Tuesday, election officials said. According to the data shared by the authorities, Kolhapur polled 51.51 per cent, followed by Hatkanangale at 49.94 per cent, Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg at 44.73 per cent, Latur at 44.48 per cent, Satara at 42.83 per cent, Raigad 41.43 per cent, Sangli 41.30 per cent, Osmanabad 40.92 per cent, Solapur 39.54 per cent, Madha 39.11 per cent, and Baramati 34.96 per cent.
07 May,2024 05:27 PM IST | Sindhudurg | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
