The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has launched a special Amnesty Scheme to help housing societies in Mumbai and its neighbouring areas in obtaining long-pending Occupancy Certificates (OCs) for redeveloped buildings. The scheme is expected to benefit around 80 housing societies and will remain in effect until April 10. Many housing societies faced delays in obtaining OCs due to their inability to pay the premium differential amount for redevelopment. Under the new scheme, MHADA has waived the interest on this amount, requiring societies to pay only the principal sum. Furthermore, buildings redeveloped under the 1991 Development Control Regulations will receive a 75% waiver on penalties related to unauthorised construction or usage. MHADA’s Mumbai Board oversees 114 layouts, comprising approximately 2.25 lakh housing units. Of these, 56 are older layouts undergoing redevelopment. Societies that received redevelopment approvals between July 29, 2004, and June 4, 2007, were previously issued notices to pay the premium differential. However, non-payment led to delays in the issuance of OCs, causing significant issues for members, such as higher property taxes, water charges, and difficulties in buying or selling flats. The Amnesty Scheme also covers housing societies that received redevelopment permissions between January 7, 1912, and November 12, 2018, under the 1991 Development Control Regulations. OCs will now be issued based on the allotted plot areas as approved by MHADA, with covered balconies, flower beds, and similar extensions considered in the certificate issuance process. Societies with unauthorised constructions beyond the approved plans will receive a 75% penalty waiver, though the remaining charges must be paid according to MHADA’s rules. For cases involving construction outside the approved building plans or changes to maps, correction charges will apply, but the 75% penalty waiver will still be granted. This scheme is expected to provide significant relief to housing societies and their members, who have faced financial hardships due to delays in obtaining OCs. Developers who have completed redevelopment and handed over buildings to societies will also benefit, as the scheme reduces the financial burden on both societies and their members. Further details on the Amnesty Scheme will be available on MHADA’s official website: [https://mhada.gov.in](https://mhada.gov.in). Milind Borikar, the Chief Officer of the Mumbai Board, has urged all housing societies with pending OCs to take advantage of this opportunity before the scheme’s expiry date.
07 January,2025 12:39 AM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarA fire was reported in the Skypan building at Laxmi Industrial Estate in Link Road, Andheri West, on Monday around 10 pm. No injuries have been reported so far. Major fire breaks out in a high-rise tower in Andheri. More details awaited.Via @vinodkumarmenon #Fire #Mumbai #MumbaiNews pic.twitter.com/I3HnugJofM — Mid Day (@mid_day) January 6, 2025 Five vehicles of the Mumbai Fire Brigade have been deployed at the spot to douse the blaze which occurred on the 10th floor of the 12-storey building. More details are awaited.
06 January,2025 11:25 PM IST | Mumbai | Sameer Surve | Vinod Kumar MenonIn a significant move aimed at alleviating financial pressures on beneficiaries of its housing schemes, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has announced a policy reform. Going forward, maintenance charges and property taxes for scattered housing units and plots will be applicable only from the date of possession, rather than from the date of allotment. This landmark decision is expected to provide much-needed relief to those participating in the MHADA housing lottery, particularly for upcoming housing schemes across the state. Previously, beneficiaries were required to pay maintenance charges and property taxes from the date of allotment, even if possession of the property was delayed. This led to an unfair financial burden as the properties technically remained under MHADA’s control until possession was granted. The new policy ensures that beneficiaries will only incur these charges from the date they take possession of their flats or plots, a move aimed at making the process more equitable and transparent. During a recent meeting, MHADA Vice-President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sanjeev Jaiswal emphasised that flats and plots remain MHADA’s responsibility until possession is granted. "Beneficiaries should not bear any financial burden for delays caused before they take possession. This decision ensures justice and fairness to all beneficiaries," said Jaiswal. In addition to this reform, MHADA is taking further steps to bring greater transparency to the housing allocation process. The executive engineers of MHADA have been directed to include all pending charges — such as maintenance fees and property taxes — into the sale price of flats and plots during future allocations. This will make pricing clearer for beneficiaries and eliminate the possibility of hidden costs emerging later. For beneficiaries who have already taken possession but are being charged by their housing societies, MHADA has decided to directly clear these dues with the societies. The cost incurred will be adjusted in future housing schemes, although those who have already paid these charges will not be reimbursed under the new policy. Outstanding dues from earlier months will also be addressed. MHADA has decided to use cushion funds, such as those set aside for anticipated liabilities or location-based premiums, to settle these outstanding amounts. This ensures that no extra costs are passed on to beneficiaries due to administrative delays. This decision by MHADA is expected to provide immediate relief to beneficiaries awaiting flats and plots in its housing schemes.
06 January,2025 10:21 PM IST | Mumbai | Rajendra B. AklekarMaharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik will present a proposal to launch a cable car project in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) during a meeting of transport ministers in Delhi on Tuesday, reported PTI. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari will chair the meeting to discuss the ambitious Developed India 2047 initiative, stated PTI. During the meeting, Sarnaik is set present a proposal to implement a cable car project in MMR under the Central Government's Parvatmala Project. "The cable car project will provide an aerial alternative to traditional public transport alleviating congestion while preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the region," Sarnaik stated. The cable car project proposes ropeway services to complement existing road, rail, and metro systems and the preservation of ecological and cultural landmarks such as Elephanta Caves, Matheran, and Sanjay Gandhi National Park, reported PTI. The minister added that feasibility surveys and Development Plan Reports (DPRs) will be prepared post-approval of the cable car project. Maharashtra: Nitin Gadkari suggests skill development courses for tribal students Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday requested the Maharashtra Tribal Development Department to enhance the skills of tribal students in the state through various courses and help them in becoming engineers, doctors and civil servants. The Minister of Road, Transport and Highways was addressing a gathering at the prize distribution programme of a state-level competition organised by the department, PTI reported. The Union minister asked the state's minister of Tribal Development Ashok Uike, who also attended the programme, to conduct ratings of 'ashrama shalas (residential schools)' for tribal students and facilitate those with good performance inorder to set up skill development institutes. The Union minister highlighted the need to aim high and batted for rolling out schemes to ensure quality education and skill development courses for tribal children. "Help the tribal children become professionals like researchers, doctors, engineers and civil servants," Gadkari said. He urged the administration to focus on educating tribal students so that they can work in the hotel business as loco pilots and airline pilots. (With inputs from PTI, ANI)
06 January,2025 07:04 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has confirmed that no cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been detected in Mumbai, according to a statement issued on Monday. The civic body reassured citizens that the HMPV strain reported in China does not currently pose a significant threat to public health, as per PTI. In its release, the BMC stated that both the Union and Maharashtra governments have assured the public that all necessary precautions are being implemented to prevent any potential spread of the virus. The Directorate of Health Services, Pune, has already issued preventive guidelines on January 3 in light of reports of an HMPV outbreak in China. "The public is advised not to panic unnecessarily," the release read. "Not a single case of HMPV infection has been reported in Mumbai. The Directorate of Health Services has outlined preventive measures to ensure public safety following global reports of the virus." According to PTI reports, the state’s Public Health Department has analysed respiratory infection data for Maharashtra and found no significant increase in cases in December 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. However, officials are taking a cautious approach and urging citizens to adopt basic hygiene practices to protect themselves from respiratory infections. The BMC highlighted key preventive measures for residents, including covering their mouths and noses with a handkerchief or tissue when coughing or sneezing, frequent handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitisers, and avoiding public places if experiencing symptoms such as fever, coughing, or sneezing. Citizens have also been advised to drink adequate water, consume nutritious meals, and maintain proper ventilation in living spaces. The BMC discouraged practices such as shaking hands, reusing tissues, and coming into close contact with individuals showing symptoms of illness. Additionally, people have been asked to avoid touching their faces frequently, spitting in public places, and self-medicating without consulting a medical professional. HMPV, first identified in the Netherlands in 2001, is a seasonal virus known to cause acute respiratory infections, particularly in the upper respiratory tract. According to PTI, it is similar to Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza and is more prevalent during winter and early summer months. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in Delhi had also released a statement on January 3 reiterating that HMPV does not currently pose a significant concern in India, as per PTI. The BMC has urged the public to stay informed and follow official guidelines to mitigate risks associated with respiratory infections. (With inputs from PTI)
06 January,2025 06:16 PM IST | MumbaiIn a curious and potentially serious incident, two SUVs were discovered parked in close proximity to the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Colaba, South Mumbai, both displaying the same number plates. The unusual situation came to light on Monday afternoon, raising concerns over the legitimacy of the vehicles and prompting an immediate investigation by the authorities. Around 1 p.m., two cars with identical number plates were spotted in Colaba, Mumbai. One of the number plates was found to be forged. The driver of the vehicle with the original registration filed a complaint. The car was brought to the Colaba police station for further… pic.twitter.com/sLNdZP3dJT — Mid Day (@mid_day) January 6, 2025 According to the police, Sakir Ali, a Navi Mumbai resident, had claimed that he had an Ertiga with number plate MH01EE2388 and is the owner of the car. Around 12:30 pm, he saw another Ertiga with the same number plate. Responding swiftly, officers arrived at the scene and took both vehicles along with their drivers to the Colaba police station for further examination. The police are now conducting a detailed probe to determine how two cars ended up with identical number plates, and whether one of the vehicles is using a forged plate. The investigation is focused on understanding whether this is a case of illegal activity or a mistake, as possessing duplicate number plates could indicate potential involvement in fraudulent or criminal activities. The drivers of the two vehicles have been questioned, and their statements are being recorded by the police. Further action will be taken based on the information provided by the drivers and any additional evidence discovered during the investigation. This unusual incident has raised questions about the security measures in place for monitoring and verifying vehicle registrations, particularly in high-profile areas like Colaba, which is home to numerous landmarks and frequented by both locals and tourists alike. During investigation, it was revealed that Prasad Kadam had made changes to his number plate as he had taken a loan and was unable to re-pay it. “Kadam is a resident of Navi Mumbai and we are in the process of registering an FIR against him,” said DCP Zone 1 Pravin Munde.
06 January,2025 06:11 PM IST | Mumbai | Faizan Khan | Apoorva AgasheA delegation of leaders met Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan on Monday to demand the removal of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Minister Dhananjay Munde from the state cabinet and to ensure a fair probe into the murder of Beed Sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, reported news agency PTI. Leaders, including Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator Suresh Dhas, submitted a memorandum to the governor at Raj Bhavan, and urged him to take decisive action to uphold the rule of law and public confidence in the justice system, reported PTI. Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district, was abducted, tortured and murdered on December 9, allegedly because he tried to prevent an attempt to extort money from an energy firm operating a windmill project. Police have so far arrested seven persons in connection with the murder case. Walmik Karad, an associate of Munde, surrendered on December 31 and is arrested in the extortion case. The leaders have demanded Munde's resignation, a murder case against Karad, strict action against negligent police officers, and measures to curb extortion and hooliganism in Beed, reported PTI. Extortion activities had escalated during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and culminated in Deshmukh's murder, stated the memorandum. On May 28, 2024, an officer of Avaada Power Pvt Ltd was kidnapped and rescued after timely action by the Ahilyanagar Police, but the cops in Beed were criticised for their lack of proactive measures, the leaders claimed in the memorandum, stated PTI. The leaders alleged that Karad issued repeated threats to Avaada officials, demanding Rs 2 crore and his associates reportedly attacked security personnel at the company's Massajog storeyard on December 6, 2024. Deshmukh was allegedly kidnapped, tortured, and murdered on December 9, and a video of the crime was circulated to intimidate others. The body was found in a neighbouring village, the memorandum said. The residents of Massajog village staged protests demanding the arrest of the accused the next day, but the cases were registered only after public pressure, the leaders said. The memorandum stated that on December 31, 2024, Karad announced his surrender through a video on social media, and crowds gathered at the CID headquarters in Pune during his surrender, causing disorder, reported PTI. Questions have been raised about alleged preferential treatment for Karad and the influence of powerful figures on the investigation, the leaders claimed. The memorandum was signed by former MP Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati, NCP (SP) MP from Beed Bajarang Sonawane, Congress MLA Vijay Wadettiwar, MLA Jitendra Awhad, among others. (With inputs from PTI)
06 January,2025 04:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar has appealed to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to review and bolster the security arrangements for public representatives and political leaders across the state, following growing concerns over threats to their safety. In a letter addressed to Fadnavis on Sunday, Pawar expressed his deep concern over the continued absconding of some of the perpetrators involved in the brutal murder of Santosh Deshmukh, the sarpanch of Massajog village in Beed district. Deshmukh was abducted, tortured, and killed on December 9, allegedly for his efforts to resist an extortion attempt linked to a windmill project. As per PTI, some of the killers remain at large nearly a month after the crime. The murder has sent shockwaves across the state, leading to growing demands for justice and action. Public representatives from across various political parties have condemned the horrific incident, with some even calling for the arrest of the "mastermind" behind the crime. However, Pawar has refrained from naming anyone specific in his letter. The recent 'Akrosh Morcha' in Beed, an angry protest organised by local public representatives, demanded the immediate capture of those responsible for Deshmukh's death. The march highlighted the frustration felt by many over the slow pace of investigations. In his letter to the chief minister, Pawar pointed out that such incidents were not isolated, as Beed district has seen a pattern of violent crimes, including murder, extortion, and kidnapping. Many public figures have raised concerns that these cases could be linked, raising further questions about the safety of elected officials. PTI reports that the police have arrested seven individuals in connection with the murder case, and Walmik Karad, an associate of Maharashtra NCP minister Dhananjay Munde, has been arrested in relation to the extortion charges. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) from the Crime Investigation Department (CID) is overseeing the investigation. However, there has been considerable pressure from various political leaders, both from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition, to remove Minister Munde from the state council for a transparent and unbiased investigation. In his letter, Pawar expressed concerns that the rising number of such criminal incidents could endanger the lives of public figures in Beed and beyond. "Given the seriousness of the situation, there is a growing fear that these criminals may pose a threat to the lives of public representatives," he wrote. (With inputs from PTI)
06 January,2025 04:13 PM IST | MumbaiIn a major crackdown, Mumbai police and the Wadala Regional Transport Office (RTO) collected over Rs 24.53 lakh in fines after conducting a joint operation to check for autorickshaw rule violations in the city’s eastern suburbs. The two-day drive, held on December 30 and 31, revealed a significant number of violations, with more than 2,000 autorickshaws found flouting various transport regulations. According to an official from the RTO, the drive uncovered that 40 per cent of the autorickshaws operating in the eastern suburbs were non-compliant with the prescribed rules. Of the 5,425 autorickshaws checked, 2,130 were found to be operating beyond their prescribed service age and lacked necessary documentation such as valid fitness certificates, insurance, pollution under control (PUC) certificates, and public service vehicle permits. The authorities also found several autorickshaw drivers in violation of basic operational norms, with some driving vehicles that were past their age limit but still ferrying passengers illegally. In total, 261 autorickshaws were impounded for lacking valid fitness certificates, public service vehicle permits, or both. Additionally, several drivers were found without the required badges, licences, or uniforms. A senior RTO official explained that the fines for such violations are substantial, with Rs 10,000 imposed for plying an autorickshaw without a valid permit. First-time offenders found operating without a fitness certificate are liable to pay a fine of Rs 2,000. The authorities have so far collected a sum of Rs 24.53 lakh from the owners and drivers of the offending vehicles, underscoring the seriousness of ensuring compliance with transport regulations. This drive is part of ongoing efforts to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of public transport in Mumbai. (With inputs from PTI)
06 January,2025 03:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn response to reports of a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China, the Maharashtra health department has ramped up its monitoring of respiratory infections across the state. HMPV, a respiratory virus first identified in the Netherlands in 2001, is known to cause acute infections in the lower respiratory tract, often mimicking symptoms of the common cold, flu, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). The virus tends to peak during winter and early spring, making this a critical period for heightened vigilance. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) issued an advisory on January 3, 2025, emphasizing preventive measures and surveillance protocols. While Maharashtra has reported no cases of HMPV so far, the Public Health Department is actively analysing respiratory infection trends to ensure early detection. Officials confirmed that there has been no significant rise in cases in December 2024 compared to the previous year. Public Advisory: Preventive measures To curb the spread of respiratory infections, the health department has released guidelines urging citizens to adopt preventive practices. What you should do: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or handkerchief when coughing or sneezing. Wash hands frequently using soap and water, or sanitize them with alcohol-based products. Avoid crowded public spaces if you experience fever, cough, or cold-like symptoms. Stay hydrated and consume nutritious food to boost immunity. Ensure proper ventilation in homes and public areas to minimize the risk of infection. What you should avoid: Avoid shaking hands or close physical contact with sick individuals. Do not reuse tissues or handkerchiefs. Refrain from touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, with unwashed hands. Do not spit in public places, as it increases the risk of infection. Avoid self-medication and always consult a doctor for proper treatment. Enhanced surveillance in Maharashtra Health officials have directed intensified monitoring of cases involving Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI). Local health departments have been instructed to submit regular reports detailing the prevalence and trends of respiratory diseases. Despite the absence of HMPV cases in the state, authorities have emphasized the importance of preparedness to prevent the potential spread of the virus. Citizens have been reassured that necessary precautions are being implemented to address any emerging health concerns. The health department has urged the public to remain calm, as there is currently no immediate threat from HMPV in Maharashtra. However, the advisory has emphasized the need for vigilance and adherence to preventive measures to safeguard public health. By focusing on awareness and preparedness, Maharashtra aims to stay ahead in managing respiratory health risks while ensuring the safety of its citizens.
06 January,2025 01:14 PM IST | MumbaiMaharashtra Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate has said the Ladki Bahin Yojana is creating a burden on the state coffers, affecting its ability to implement the farm loan waiver scheme, reported news agency PTI. The Ladki Bahin Yojana scheme, launched by the previous Eknath Shinde-led government in August last year to provide a monthly allowance of Rs 1,500 to eligible women, is likely to cost the state around Rs 46,000 crore annually. The scheme is said to have played a key role in the ruling Mahayuti's win in the state assembly elections held in November 2024. Speaking to reporters in Pune on Sunday, Kokate said the financial strain caused by the Ladki Bahin Yojana has disrupted the state's ability to form a surplus that would otherwise be allocated for waiving the loans of farmers. "The burden created by the Ladki Bahin Yojana scheme has affected our ability to set aside funds for the farm loan waiver. We are reviewing the financial situation, and once the state's income increases, we will move forward with the loan waiver scheme in the next four to six months," the NCP leader said, reported PTI. The state cooperation department is responsible for implementing the loan waiver decision, which will ultimately be made by the chief minister and deputy CMs, he said. Maharashtra Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare last week said the state government has decided to act on complaints about bogus beneficiaries of the Ladki Bahin Yojana, and sought information from the income tax and transport departments for their verification. She also made it clear that the government would only address complaints pertaining to the bogus beneficiaries. Tatkare, who previously managed the Women and Child Welfare Department and oversaw the scheme’s rollout, called the reports baseless. Speaking to a regional news channel, she said, “There is no question of re-scrutinising the applications of beneficiaries under this scheme. Around 2.34 crore women are receiving benefits, and all applications underwent thorough review before benefits were disbursed. Any news suggesting otherwise is incorrect.” The Ladki Bahin scheme provides a monthly financial aid of Rs 1,500 to eligible women, with Mahayuti leaders pledging during the election campaign to increase this amount to Rs 2,100. While the scheme has been largely successful, Tatkare acknowledged the presence of complaints about certain women fraudulently availing funds. "It will be the prerogative of the Women and Child Development (WCD) department to investigate these complaints and take appropriate action. However, I want to emphasise that no decision has been made to review or re-scrutinise the applications comprehensively," the NCP MLA added. (With inputs from PTI)
06 January,2025 01:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
