The Andheri East Assembly constituency is expected to see a close contest between Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate and sitting MLA Rutuja Latke against Murji Patel, who is being fielded by the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde). The former came to represent the Assembly seat after emerging victorious in a 2022 byelection following the passing of her husband, two-time MLA Ramesh Latke. Home to a largely middle-class population, the constituency has upscale buildings and slum pockets as well as corporate offices. According to citizens, traffic management, encroached footpaths, water scarcity, poor roads and slum redevelopment are major issues. Kunal Chaudhari, an Andheri East resident, said, “Traffic jams are a huge problem and we hope the MLA we elect can solve it. This constituency has many residential areas and offices, so we expect the public transportation situation to be improved. Also, roads here should be made pothole-free.” Rutuja Latke, Shiv Sena (UBT) How do you plan to address issues citizens face in your constituency if re-elected?Traffic is one of the important issues. In some places, we have been able to solve this but there are places where people are still being inconvenienced. Solving the traffic issue by involving government agencies will be a priority. I intend to provide free high-quality education to students of BMC schools in Andheri and to modernise these facilities. What steps would you take to improve women’s safety?Ensuring the safety of women and children is one of my top priorities. I will work to improve the lighting in public areas that are currently dark and unsafe, ensuring streets are well-lit for everyone. Additionally, I will advocate for establishing dedicated women’s police chowkies in key locations across Andheri East to enhance security. I will introduce self-employment schemes and set up self-defence training centres to empower women, providing resources and skills to help women feel safer and more independent. What are your plans to address water scarcity?Several areas in my constituency are facing water issues. Providing adequate water to people in slum pockets and other spots is something that I will try to solve on priority as water is one of the most important needs. The water supply issue in Subhash Nagar will be taken up when I get elected. What measures will you implement to tackle pollution?Yes, these challenges are serious and as an MLA, I will make sure that the open spaces including the RG [recreation ground] plots and playgrounds of the BMC remain as they are. Efforts will also be taken to increase the green cover of my constituency by taking suggestions from experts. Efforts will be taken to make sure that the open spaces remain unencroached. How do you plan to approach the redevelopment of slums?Many SRA projects are stuck in my constituency and once elected, I will personally look into the issue and resolve them so that slum dwellers get their houses on time.
14 November,2024 11:17 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet JadhavAhead of the upcoming Maharashtra elections 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Mumbai on Thursday for a public rally organised by the Mahayuti alliance at Shivaji Park in Dadar. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, and top BJP leaders from the state will address the rally. The rally is part of the ruling Mahayuti alliance's final push ahead of the Maharashtra elections 2024 on November 20. What time is PM Modi's rally in Mumbai? According to the BJP, PM Modi will likely address a public rally at Shivaji Park at around 5 pm. Besides Mumbai, PM Modi is also expected to hold meetings in Sambhajinagar and Panvel. Today's rally is the latest in the series of PM Modi's campaigns in Maharashtra, which began on November 8. The last rally was in Pune, on Tuesday, November 12, at SP College grounds. Directives for PM Modi's rally in Mumbai: “We are anticipating a crowd of almost 1.20 lakh to attend the gathering at Shivaji Park. Public attending the venue, have been directed not to carry any bags, food, or water bottles. We have arranged for disposable paper glasses and will be providing water inside the venue. The crowd is expected to take their seats between 4-4.30 pm and the prime minister would address the gathering around 5.45 pm onwards (time may change a bit, as per schedule),” said Manoj Kotak, BJP leader and former Member of Parliament. Mumbai Traffic Police have issued a notification stating that certain roads will be designated as no-parking zones and will have traffic diversions. This measure is due to the expected increase in vehicles from the Western and Eastern Express Highways heading toward Shivaji Park, carrying a large number of attendees. Mumbai Police issues traffic restrictions: The Mumbai Traffic Police has issued an advisory for the day amid tight security. Mumbai Police said in a statement on X, “Bharatiya Janata Party is going to organise a ‘Public Meeting’ on Thursday on 14h of November 2024 at Shivaji Park, Dadar (West), Mumbai. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis, many supporters and party followers from all over Maharashtra are likely to participate in the public rally, informed Mumbai Traffic Police.” In its advisory, the Mumbai Traffic Police shut off several roads and imposed parking restrictions in part of the city. The advisory will remain in place from 10am to midnight on November 14. Mumbai Police travel advisory: No parking on these roads 1. SVS Road From Baba Saheb Worlikar Chowk (Century Junction) to Hari Om junction. 2. Entire Kelakar Road South and Keluskar Road North, Shivaji Park, Dadar. 3. Entire M. B. Raut Mary, Shivaji Prak Dadar. 4. Pandurang Naik Marg (Road no 5) Shivaji Prak, Dadar. 5. Dadasahch Rege Marg, Shivaji Prik, Dadar. 6. Lt. Dilip Gupte Marg-From Shivaji Park Gate No. 4 to Shitaladevi road, Shivaji Prak, Dadar. 7. Road From Gadkari Junction, Deder to Shobha Hotel, Mahim. 8. N. C. Kelkar Road From Hanuman Temple Junction to Gadkari Junction, Shivaji Park, Dadar. 9. Kataria Road From Ganga Vihar Justion to Asawari Janction, Mahim. 10. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Road From Maheshwari Circle to Kohinoor Junction, Dadar West. 11. Tilak Road From Korwal Garden Circle, Dadar (West) to R.A. Kidwai Road, Matunga East 12. Khan Abdul Gararkhan Road: From Sealink road to J. K. Kapur Chwak upto Bindu Madhav Thackeray Chowk 13. Thadani Road: From Poddar Hospital junction to Bindu Madhav Thackeray Chowk. 14. Dr. Annie besant Road: From Poddar Hospital junction to Dr. Narayan Hardikar Junction. Further, vehicular traffic will be obstructed on S.V.S. Road North Bound, from Siddhivinayak Junction to Yes Bank Junction, and on S.V.S. Road South Bound. Traffic disturbances are expected on routes around the Airport to Dadar, as well as the Sea Link.
14 November,2024 10:59 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn Malad West, a stronghold of the Congress party for over two decades, a fierce electoral contest is brewing. Sitting Congress MLA and former state minister Aslam Shaikh is set to defend his seat against BJP’s Vinod Shelar, the brother of Ashish Shelar, who currently heads the party’s Mumbai unit. Shaikh has defended his tenure by pointing to recent infrastructure projects aimed at relieving traffic congestion and expanding the constituency’s infrastructure. What specific issues do you see as priorities?This will be my sixth term as an elected representative—two terms as a BMC corporator and now three as an MLA. My vision is to make Malad a standout area within Mumbai, a place that’s not only functional but unique in its character and offerings. With nearly 1 lakh new voters in your constituency, how do you anticipate this impacting the outcome?I’m confident that my strong connection, accessibility, and rapport with the people will work in my favour. The increase in voters is indeed an opportunity, and I believe it will translate into more votes. What is your stance on current redevelopment projects, particularly SRA schemes?The concept of making Mumbai slum-free was originally introduced by the Congress under the then-chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh. While significant progress has been achieved, I believe we’ve only realised about 30-40 per cent of the vision that was originally outlined. Despite ongoing redevelopment efforts, new slums continue to emerge. We need to put a stop to the unchecked spread of slums. What are your plans to improve roads, pedestrian footpaths, and encroachment?Creating well-maintained footpaths, open spaces, and water management systems must be prioritised. Additionally, parts of the city’s pipeline infrastructure still date back to the British era, and these need urgent replacement. A more coordinated approach to infrastructure work is also needed; for instance, when roads are laid, all agencies involved in utilities, like pipelines and cables, should collaborate to avoid the constant re-digging that leads to poor road conditions. How will you tackle last-mile connectivity challenges? The Metro system has been initiated, but it needs to become fully operational to benefit everyone. Additionally, large-scale projects like the sea link expansion should connect cities and key areas more effectively, such as linking Mumbai with Mira Road and Thane. Moreover, we should explore water taxis to make better use of our waterways, providing an alternative route for people to travel efficiently. Is water contamination and supply an issue in your constituency? Wherever there are slums, water contamination tends to occur, whether in Malad or any part of the city. This is often due to illegal connections, and because of complex legal issues, it is challenging to address without proper documentation and evidence. The government must either take concrete steps to prevent the creation of illegal structures or improve infrastructure for those that already exist. How to propose to address the high pollution levels here?The surge in construction is one of the major contributors to pollution, and it’s crucial to balance development with environmental preservation to ensure a healthier, cleaner environment for our citizens. The controversy surrounding the Project Affected People of Dharavi redevelopment has reached your constituency, and you have chosen to intervene. What solutions do you propose?This is, quite frankly, one of the biggest scams of our time. Displacing thousands of people and relocating them without fully assessing the consequences is unacceptable. This isn’t about genuinely improving Mumbai; it appears to be more about generating profits for a few corrupt politicians.
14 November,2024 10:48 AM IST | Mumbai | Dipti SinghOn Thursday, Mumbaikars woke up to cooler weather and hazy skies, creating a calm, atmospheric start to the day. Meanwhile, the latest Mumbai weather updates from the Indian Meteorological Department indicated a slight rise in temperature. According to the Mumbai weather updates of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the Santacruz observatory recorded a maximum temperature of 36.1 degrees Celcius. The Met Department data showed that the Colaba observatory recorded a temperature of 33.8 degrees. According to the latest Mumbai weather updates by the IMD, the maximum temperature will likely be around 36 degrees Celsius, and the minimum temperature will likely be around 24 degrees Celsius. The relative humidity is 69 per cent. The sun rose at 06:42 AM and will set at 06:02 PM. The IMD’s latest Mumbai weather updates forecast a "clear sky" for the city and its suburbs over the next 24 hours. Mumbai weather updates: City's AQI in 'moderate' category On November 14, the Central Pollution Control Board’s SAMEER app reported in its latest Mumbai weather updates that the city’s air quality remained in the 'moderate' category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 128 at 9:05 AM. Many areas across Mumbai—per the SAMEER app dashboard—showed 'moderate' AQI. Kandivali's and Deonar's AQI recorded 'moderate' air quality with an AQI of 171 and 150, respectively. Colaba, Chembur and Ghatkopar recorded 'moderate' air quality with an AQI of 102, 139 and 168. Meanwhile, Borivali and Kural recorded 'good' air quality, with an AQI of 81 and 87, respectively. According to data from the SAMEER app, Navi Mumbai recorded air quality in the 'moderate' category with an AQI of 153, while Thane registered a 'moderate' AQI of 144. The air quality index from 0 to 100 is considered 'good', 100 to 200 'moderate', 200 to 300 'poor', 300 to 400 'very poor' and from 400 to 500 or above 'severe'. Meanwhile, as air pollution levels continue to rise in Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has revised guidelines issued last year for construction sites. The civic body will also form squads at the ward level to visit construction sites and act if guidelines are flouted. Sensor-based air pollution monitoring systems will be installed at all construction project work sites and immediate action to be taken if pollution levels are detected above the limit.
14 November,2024 10:02 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA fire broke out in a building located in Mumbai's Chembur area, in which a 60-year-old man was injured, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. According to the civic body, the fire broke out at around 10:47 PM on Wednesday in building number 6, MHADA Colony, Vashi Naka, Bharatnagar, Chembur. The 60-year-old man who was injured has been identified as Nafir Sayyad. The fire spread to a gas cylinder in the kitchen of room number 12 on the ground floor of the seven-story building. After receiving a call, the fire brigade rushed to the spot. The blaze was doused after efforts for about half-an-hour. The fire was confined to a gas cylinder, clothes and other household articles in the room. Its cause was not yet known, the civic body said. "The fire was confined to the gas cylinder's main valve, regulator, clothes, household articles, and other items in the kitchen of room no. 12 on the ground floor of the seven-storey building," the civic body said. The injured man was taken to the civic-run Sion Hospital with approximately 30 per cent burns on his hands, face, and neck, the BMC said. Mumbai: 39-year-old man electrocuted after falling in roadside drain in Malad A 39-year-old man died from electrocution on Wednesday night in Triveni Nagar, Malad, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. The 39-year-old man was identified as Kamlesh Chandrakant Shitab, said the civic body. According to the BMC, he fell into a roadside drain approximately 25 feet deep and 10 feet wide after receiving the shock. "A person died due to electrocution and fell into a roadside nallah with a depth of about 25 feet and a width of 10 feet. The individual was rescued by members of the public before the fire brigade arrived and was subsequently rushed to Shatabdi Hospital," the civic body said. The chief medical officer of the Shatabdi Hospital declared him brought dead.
14 November,2024 09:29 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentOriginally planned as a commercial hub, BKC is today among Mumbai’s costliest real estate spaces. In March this year, industrialist Uday Kotak expressed awe over the area, noting that office buildings in Mumbai’s BKC command higher prices than those in Manhattan. He made this statement in response to a social media user who posted that a New York commercial office building had sold at Rs 16,000 per sq foot—less than half of BKC’s going rate. One of the highest lease rentals ever paid for office space in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC)on a short-term basis was Rs 700 per sq ft for a commercial space in June 2024. The current per sq ft rate in BKC ranges from Rs 500 to Rs 650, according to a real estate agent. One not only inhales the city’s worst air quality but also sees severe traffic congestion at Bandra Kurla Complex. File Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi Despite paying such high rents, working and living in BKC can be a nightmare. One not only inhales the city’s worst air quality after paying premium prices but also encounters severe traffic jams and connectivity issues due to fragmented infrastructure. Broken infrastructure remains a major problem for this high-profile district. In a three-part series, mid-day breaks down the key issues plaguing the area. Enter BKC from Bandra stn “The auto menace at the station is highly problematic. They don’t even allow commuters to get down from the foot overbridge and bully them. In Bandra West, things are a bit more organised, but it’s a different story outside the east exit,” said Akanksha Gawde, a government employee and commuter. “Why are there no buses outside Bandra station? There is space for autos and Chalo buses, but not for regular buses. Is BEST working for the benefit of the auto drivers here? The authorities must get their act together,” said Randivyesh Shukla, another commuter. Entering BKC from the Kurla side via the connector: Lionel Falcao, who visits BKC daily, said, “Commuting in BKC is a daily nightmare due to traffic gridlock and broken promises. Regular traffic snarls have wreaked havoc on countless citizens’ daily travel, compounded by the disarray at vital junctions, such as the clogged BKC area, where the promise of a ‘walk to work’ concept has sadly failed to materialise. Vehicles entering and exiting via the BKC connector and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) are left dealing with constant delays and disruptions.” Despite high rents, working and living in Bandra Kurla Complex can be a nightmare. File Pic/Ashish Raje Falcao explained that heavy traffic on LBS Marg frequently causes missed appointments and late arrivals. “This issue worsens at the BKC connector and BKC One Junction, which links Plot C-80 to Plot C-79, below the BKC connector, stretching from the SEBI building to Avenue 5 (BKC connector road) and Avenue 3 (WeWork). Disrupted cab services and last-minute cancellations leave commuters scrambling for alternatives and cause additional delays. The contract bus parking on main roads worsens the situation, showing an alarming disregard for the city’s needs. The streets of Mumbai belong to its people, and it’s high time their voices are heard. Commuters deserve an effective solution to transform their daily nightmare into a smoother travel experience. The clock is ticking, and the city’s vitality hangs in the balance,” Falcao added. High-profile users complain The lack of proper connectivity, unruly autos, barricades, and ongoing digging and construction along the main road, which has left numerous streetlights non-functional, is not how the city’s costliest district should appear. Despite these issues being frequently highlighted by high-profile BKC users and even a sitting minister, no concrete solutions have been implemented. Frustrated with daily traffic hassles, members of the Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) wrote a detailed letter earlier this year, outlining the commuting problems faced by their staff both within BKC and to the nearest stations. These challenges have begun affecting their operations, and they emphasised that a fundamental design flaw exists. “We write to formally express the severe hardships faced by the stakeholders of ‘G’ Block, BKC in general, and of BDB in particular, due to the acute traffic congestion within BKC area. As one of the largest and most frequented commercial establishments in BKC, with an average daily footfall of approximately 80,000 and a vehicular influx of nearly 9,000, we are compelled to highlight the critical infrastructural challenges that are adversely impacting our operations,” the letter stated. “An aerial view of BDB and its immediate surroundings unequivocally reveals a fundamental design flaw in the allocation of space. The disproportionate width of the pedestrian walkway and green area, at 21 metres, in stark contrast to the mere 15-metre road designed for four lanes of traffic, is a glaring anomaly. This architectural oversight has exacerbated traffic congestion during peak hours, causing significant delays and disruptions for our stakeholders,” the letter, a copy of which is with mid-day, stated. The flaws listed 1. Spatial planning discrepancies: An aerial view of BDB and its surroundings clearly reveals significant discrepancies in the design and approval process. The disproportionate allocation of space to the garden and footpath (21 metres) compared to the road (four lanes, 15 metres) exemplifies this oversight. 2. Urgent infrastructure upgrade: We strongly advocate for a comprehensive redesign of the BKC area, with active participation from key stakeholders. This redesign should prioritise expanding road width to accommodate increased traffic volume. 3. Traffic management enhancements: We propose keeping the left lanes open at all times, removing unnecessary barricades after Metro construction, and implementing a smart traffic signalling system to dynamically adjust traffic flow based on real-time conditions. 4. Dedicated traffic division: Given the unique challenges posed by the BKC area, we urge the establishment of a dedicated traffic division under the BKC police station. BDB is prepared to extend full cooperation in this endeavour. 5. Increased traffic manpower: The Mumbai Traffic Police Department should deploy additional manpower during peak hours at key intersections. BDB is ready to provide its own security traffic wardens to assist the traffic police. However, a consistent and visible Traffic police presence is essential for better impact. 6. Public transport infrastructure: Dedicated parking facilities for private buses and auto-rickshaws are essential for public convenience. However, the current road infrastructure requires a strategic approach to prevent further congestion. Pedestrian bridges A few key pedestrian bridges linking BKC with Kurla, Sion, and Chunabhatti could transform pedestrian access and make BKC more walkable, according to a proposal from the Walking Project to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and the guardian minister. This is one of many suggestions collected from a survey conducted at BKC, which identified issues and recommended enhancements to improve pedestrian-friendliness in the area. “If the MMRDA were to add pedestrian bridges over the Mithi River, similar to those in Ahmedabad, the walking distance between Kurla Station and Diamond Bourse could be reduced by nearly 25 per cent, from 2.1 km to 1.6 km,” said Vedant Mhatre, programme director of the Walking Project. Two bridges in Kurla West could link the New Mill Road/SG Barve Road path, and another could connect from Belgrami Road. Adding a bridge and a few foot overbridges (FOBs) further south would make it possible for pedestrians to walk from Sion and Chunabhatti stations, reaching ONGC in just 15 minutes (1.3 km). “This would alleviate passenger load at Kurla Station and its surrounding area,” he added. “People routinely walk these distances in Fort and Churchgate every day. It’s a practical solution, yet it’s puzzling why the BKC connector was not designed with footpaths, given that it passes directly by Chunabhatti station.” Bandra skywalk The old skywalk, with one arm extending to Kalanagar and another to Bandra court via Anant Kanekar Marg (station road), was built in 2008 by the MMRDA and subsequently handed over to the BMC. With repairs estimated to cost R7 crore, the BMC opted for reconstruction. The old bridge was demolished in October 2022, but there is no sign of the new skywalk. Construction on the new skywalk began after the monsoon season. Minister’s solutions Mumbai Suburban district’s Guardian Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha wrote to the MMRDA in August 2024, requesting immediate measures to address traffic congestion at BKC. The traffic issues worsened after the Sion Road overbridge was closed. “It has been repeatedly brought to the attention of the relevant authorities that traffic congestion in BKC is increasing and has become unbearable. Due to Metro construction, road space has further decreased. While a cycle track and garden were built, we must acknowledge that the cycle track is rarely used. As the guardian minister for the suburb, I have met with all officers concerned and stakeholders over the past six months,” Lodha stated. He proposed a three-point plan involving more buses, merging cycle lanes, and removing unnecessary barricades: 1. Cycle track: The cycle track could be removed from the road, and the MMRDA could construct a separate track on an adjoining plot in BKC where cyclists could ride safely. 2. Reduced barricades: The barriers installed for Metro work should be minimised to allow more space for pedestrians and motorists. 3. Improved transportation: There are significant traffic issues and instances of overcharging by taxis and autorickshaws at Bandra Station (East) for rides to and from BKC. The MMRDA should consider implementing special bus services from Bandra Station to the BKC route.
14 November,2024 09:26 AM IST | Mumbai | Team mid-dayA 39-year-old man died from electrocution on Wednesday night in Triveni Nagar, Malad, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said. The 39-year-old man was identified as Kamlesh Chandrakant Shitab, said the civic body. According to the BMC, he fell into a roadside drain approximately 25 feet deep and 10 feet wide after receiving the shock. "A person died due to electrocution and fell into a roadside nallah with a depth of about 25 feet and a width of 10 feet. The individual was rescued by members of the public before the fire brigade arrived and was subsequently rushed to Shatabdi Hospital," the civic body said. The chief medical officer of the Shatabdi Hospital declared him brought dead. Toddler falls into opening of encroached drain in Mumbai, dies An 18-month-old boy died after falling into a 'nullah (drain)' in Bhandup area of Mumbai, a civic official said on November 12. The incident took place near Mourya Hall along Gaondevi Road at 6.20pm on November 10, he added. "Krishna Omprakash Gupta fell into a small drain opening and was rushed to a nearby hospital after being taken out. He was declared dead by doctors there. The drain is an open one but has been covered at some places by residents, including the toddler's family. They had just kept a small outlet near their home to flush out waste water," he said. The child fell through this opening, the official added. An accidental death report has been registered and further probe is underway, a Bhandup police station official said. (With inputs from Agencies)
14 November,2024 09:02 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentSouth Mumbai's notoriously low turnout numbers for the polls were the focus late Tuesday evening, at a meeting hosted by the Cuffe Parade Residents Association (CPRA) at the Bayview Marina Garden at Cuffe Parade. The pricey Mumbai pocket had a turnout of around 40 per cent in the 2019 Assembly elections. Overall, one saw a 61.4 per cent turnout in the state in 2019. Now, there is a concerted push to up these numbers for the November 20 Maharashtra Assembly polls. The meet saw residents, mainly from the Tony area turn up to meet Dr Kiran Kulkarni, additional chief electoral officer, Maharashtra and joint secretary. The meet had a tagline: an exclusive meeting to learn more about your rights, new voter-friendly measures and the importance of voting. Dr Laura D’Souza president, CPRA, says there is a general disenchantment among residents Interact now Dr Kulkarni said in a crisp introduction, “I am a writer, researcher and government officer. This blend certainly adds a new dimension to my work. I have done at least 100 such programmes all over Maharashtra through eight months. Yet having a programme here is special because Colaba has held a special place in the state's history, culture and economy. The voting figures for this constituency are very low. I would like to know the reason for this,” he said. Saying he was keen on interaction as that would give him an idea about what people are thinking, discerning why voting numbers remain low despite so many awareness campaigns, the officer added, "I have seen high voter turnouts in tribal areas like Gadchiroli for instance. As a researcher, I’m keen to understand why this is not so, here. I’m not here to preach.” Too far? That set off some questions and suggestions from the audience. One suggestion was that more polling booths be created. A woman admitted, “We are spoilt. There is also a feeling that whoever comes in, it is okay, we can handle the situation.” Dr Kulkarni stated, “We have created 1,185 polling booths just in high-rises and co-operative societies in the state [there are more than one lakh polling stations set up across Maharashtra]. Many of these booths are located on the ground floor for easy access. The Election Commission of India (ECI) is coming several steps ahead to meet you, I suggest you all take some steps ahead too. Let us have a grand programme this time, where Colaba jumps ahead in voting statistics.” Dr Kulkarni also said that there are special arrangements for those over 85 years old or with disabilities where officers come to their homes for their vote. “Yet,” he added, “There was a time window for that as people had to fill forms apprising the commission within five days of nomination. That window has now closed.” The top official recounted years earlier when he had met a “102-year-old voter, who did not avail of the vote at home facility, but wished to be brought to the booth. He had stated he wanted to experience this festival of democracy.” Applause rang out at the garden. Turn tide There were some other statements from people at the meet, giving pointers about elite electoral apathy, like ruing lack of parking places for cars near polling booths, many voters did not want to walk even the short distance to the booth, the heat, and a general sentiment of why vote? Some suggestions from the group were that residents could carpool, and another gent volunteered to sponsor an electric buggy that would take voters to the polling station. Answering questions about why voters cannot carry mobile phones inside the booth, and technicalities like names not being on lists, Dr Kulkarni said, “Voter lists can be checked online. We do not allow voters to carry mobile phones inside booths as these can be misused by miscreants. Today phones are so hi-tech and pictures can be taken, videos/films made which can be then edited and made viral to create false impressions and stir trouble,” he said. He defended the Electronic Voting Machine's (EVM) integrity and stated strongly, “The EVM is an invention of Indian scientists and I am so proud of that.” As dusk fell, Dr Kulkarni's message was clear, “Arrangements are in place, we have polling booth officers for help, we have more than 1 lakh polling stations for 9.70 crore voters in Maharashtra, we have done all we can to make the journey to the booth easier.” Dr Laura D'Souza, CPRA president, on why voters are not turning up at the stations, said, “We want educated candidates who live here and those who have proved themselves in their earlier tenure. Today, people are saying as they witness the slow deterioration of the area: you say we must vote, but who do we vote for? We have intra-Cuffe Parade problems like horrendous traffic, encroached pavements, and a hawker menace. There is a feeling of helplessness and what we want most of all is hope.”
14 November,2024 08:17 AM IST | Mumbai | Hemal AsharOnly mobile phones will be allowed to be carried to the Kharghar venue, a directive from Navi Mumbai police states, appealing to people, who intend to visit the Prime Minister Narendra Modi pre-election public gathering today. Contractual workers hired by the local administration were seen hurriedly trimming the trees, fixing the roads and street lights, and even washing the road dividers, before the PM’s visit. Some schools in the vicinity have already informed parents about an early dispersal of students due to anticipated traffic congestion. The rally is expected to start at 3 pm. Visitors to be screened Prashant Mohite, DCP Zone II, Panvel, said, “We will be screening all the visitors attending the event thoroughly, and those found carrying any sort of handbags including ladies’ purses, party banners, and water bottles, will be barred from entering the venue. Only mobile phones will be allowed at the venue.” Workers setting up the shed for the rally “The local party organisers have ensured that there are adequate drinking water facilities, medical teams and even mobile toilets have been provided at the venue. The venue is covered with German hangar shed, for better ventilation and to prevent any extreme heat-like situation. Even during the afternoon time, the venue is comparatively comfortable to sit in,” said DCP Mohite. Traffic arrangements Chairs arranged at the venue where PM Narendra Modi will address the gathering today “We have notified certain roads, as designated parking for VVIPs closer to the venue, followed by no parking and road diversion in some arterial roads connecting the venue from Kharghar and Taloja. Also, traffic arrangements around the ‘helipad’ Owe Cricket ground to the venue in sector 29, both sides of the road are made without parking,” said Tirupati Kakade, DCP (Traffic). Vijay Rane, Fire Chief said, “We have deployed six fire tenders and twenty additional manpower at the venue other than the staff on each fire tenders.” BJP candidate speaks Prashant Thakur, the BJP candidate from Panvel Assembly Constituency said, “This election, our party is banging on the extensive work done by us and considerable growth seen in the constituency between 2019-2024—be it the international airport which would develop large scale employment opportunities and growth. Work on the tunnel connecting Kharghar to Turbhe has started. Metro line connectivity between CBD Belapur to Pendhar, 25 health care centres in the constituency, and development of parks, gardens, etc.” Trimming of plants on the road dividers by contractual staff Candidate’s kin speaks “My wife Leena, has walked the talk, by being with the people of her constituency. Those in power seldom did anything in the larger interest of the common man and they are making tall claims, today. We are confident that the 70 per cent cosmopolitan crowd in our constituency, knows the reality and they will surely cast their votes to their leader, who leads their issues from the front,” said Arun Garad, husband of Leena Garad, Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate. Resident group speaks “We don't find any contestants giving us our basic requirements like water, roads, footpaths, maintained gardens, etc. Instead, we see contestants busy with their own securities and assurances. I am aware that some societies in Taloja have also put up banners of no water no votes. The Prime Minister's visit is just an eyewash,” said Mangal Kamble, founder and president of Swachh Kharghar Foundation. Directives for Mumbai Rally “We are anticipating a crowd of almost 1.20 lakh to attend the gathering at Shivaji Park. Public attending the venue, have been directed not to carry any bags, food, or water bottles. We have arranged for disposable paper glasses and will be providing water inside the venue. The crowd is expected to take their seats between 4-4.30 pm and the prime minister would address the gathering around 5.45 pm onwards (time may change a bit, as per schedule),” said Manoj Kotak, BJP leader and former Member of Parliament. Mumbai Traffic Police have issued a notification stating that certain roads will be designated as no-parking zones and will have traffic diversions. This measure is due to the expected increase in vehicles from the Western and Eastern Express Highways heading toward Shivaji Park, carrying a large number of attendees.
14 November,2024 08:13 AM IST | Mumbai | Vinod Kumar MenonJustice K U Chandiwal (retired), who probed the corruption charges against Anil Deshmukh, has said that he had not given ‘clean chit’ to the then-home minister in his inquiry report and that Deshmukh and police officer Sachin Waze had tried to implicate then-Opposition leader, Devendra Fadnavis. Chandiwal made some stunning revelations in an interview given to ABP Majha, creating ripples in political circles amid the state Assembly polls campaign. Recently, Deshmukh published his biographical account that dealt with the case and the days he spent in prison. The MVA government had appointed retired high court Justice Chandiwal to probe the graft allegations the city’s former police chief Param Bir Singh had levelled against Deshmukh. The Chandiwal Commission report was submitted to then-Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. Neither the MVA nor the Mahayuti government made it public. Singh had written an eight-page letter to the CM and governor, accusing Deshmukh of several malpractices. He claimed Deshmukh made a plan to extract R100 crore from the city’s hotels, bars and restaurants by pressing police officer Sachin Waze into service. Before resigning, Deshmukh had requested then CM Uddhav Thackeray to initiate an inquiry against him. The retired justice said that he had refused to record the names of Sharad Pawar (then chief of undivided NCP) and Ajit Pawar (then DyCM) that were mentioned in Waze’s affidavit with the purpose of implicating them. Chandiwal further told the interviewer that Waze and Deshmukh had also tried to frame Fadnavis. “I told Waze that I would not take it on record as evidence. Taking big names was an attempt to seek publicity. I didn’t want that to happen. It was not in the scope of my inquiry,” he added. Waze retracted the affidavits later, said Chandiwal. “I had clearly told Waze that I would not summon political people named in his affidavits and take anything on record.” When asked about retractions, Chandiwal said one Thane DCP, who regularly attended hearings, would intervene. He also said that he was told that the people [Waze, Deshmukh, Parambir Singh] who were being probed and summoned by him, had met. ‘Evidence not submitted’ He said he had not used the words ‘clean chit’ for Deshmukh, who claimed to have been exonerated by the commission. “I have not given Deshmukh a clean chit. I said that the evidence was not submitted despite being available,” he stated further, adding that the situation would have been different if the evidence had been submitted. “Singh later said in an affidavit that whatever he had alleged against Deshmukh was hearsay.” According to him, his report had strictures and recommendations that could not be ‘digested’ by any government. No evidence: Deshmukh Deshmukh said though Chandiwal had said there was no mention of ‘clean chit’, he had amply made clear that there was no evidence against him [Deshmukh]. He wondered how he could meet Waze or any other person when he was in jail. He said he had no idea about the DCP Chandiwal talked about. Fresh CBI probe needed: Fadnavis DyCM Fadnavis said the revelations were explosive, and the commission said that it had not given any clean chit to Deshmukh. He further said that Waze had written a letter that he was under pressure and that had been vindicated now. “I think that the CBI should conduct a fresh inquiry into this,” Fadnavis said.
14 November,2024 08:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Dharmendra JoreAt a public rally at Worli’s Jambori Maidan, MNS Chief Raj Thackeray criticised Shiv Sena (UBT) Chief Uddhav Thackeray for forming a government with Congress after contesting the elections in alliance with the BJP. He urged Worli voters to ‘take revenge’ for the betrayal of their votes. During Wednesday’s rally, Raj Thackeray notably refrained from speaking against the Mahayuti coalition. He clarified his support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2024, saying, “I backed Modi this time for his vision. In 2019, I opposed him because he mirrored Congress’s approach. But after Modi abolished Article 370 and built the Ram Mandir, I supported him again, not for personal gain or any post.” He emphasised that this was not ‘role reversal,’ adding, “However, forming a government with Congress after contesting with the BJP is an insult to the voters who voted against Congress.” Raj also criticised NCP leader Sharad Pawar for his shifting political stances, and he accused Uddhav Thackeray of opposing key projects for personal interests. “Uddhav Thackeray opposed the Konkan refinery project to protect the business of his industrialist friend, who also owns a refinery. Similarly, his opposition to the Dharavi Redevelopment project has financial motives,” Raj alleged. He added, “Uddhav also opposed the proposed nuclear plant in Konkan, yet Mumbai hosts the Bhabha Atomic Research Center without issue.” Referring to Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy, Raj said, “Balasaheb always opposed Congress, and Shiv Sena received votes against Congress in 2019. Yet, Uddhav formed a government with Congress for the chief minister’s post. He never disclosed the ‘two and a half year’ power-sharing agreement with the BJP before the elections, even though BJP leaders stated that Devendra Fadnavis would be chief minister. Why didn’t Uddhav clarify this?” Raj Thackeray emphasised that Uddhav had insulted Worli voters, who had voted against Congress. “If you don’t take revenge for this insult, this kind of politics will continue,” he warned. Raj also mentioned Aaditya Thackeray, Uddhav’s son, who is contesting in Worli as a UBT candidate. Aaditya Thackeray, the sitting MLA of Worli, is contesting as a UBT candidate. MP Milind Deora is contesting as the Shiv Sena candidate, while former corporator Sandeep Deshpande is MNS candidate.
14 November,2024 08:05 AM IST | Mumbai | Sameer SurveADVERTISEMENT
