Days after mid-day reported about Western Railway opening access from the 12-metre-wide Churchgate-end foot overbridge (FOB), the newly built Bandra East skywalk was on Monday opened for the public. The newly built skywalk will ease pedestrian movement, officials said. Mid-day had last week reported about the newly built Bandra East skywalk being planned to be opened for the public. Read more here According to an official statement, a new skywalk at Bandra (East) was inaugurated on January 26, 2026 by Maharashtra’s Information Technology and Cultural Affairs Minister and Guardian Minister of Mumbai Suburban District, Ashish Shelar. During the inauguration Bandra East MLA and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Varun Sardesai was also present. The skywalk has been opened to improve safety and convenience for pedestrians travelling in one of Mumbai’s busiest areas, officials said. Built for citizens’ convenience The skywalk has been constructed to help people commuting between Bandra Court, Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), MHADA office and the District Collector’s office, officials said. It has been developed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The structure is modern, durable and built with high-quality materials, they said, Key Dignitaries Present The inauguration ceremony was also attended Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects) Abhijit Bangar, Deputy Commissioner (Infrastructure) Girish Nikam, and Assistant Commissioner of H-East Ward, among others. Engineers felicitated for record-time work completion Senior officials honoured the engineering team for completing the project in record time. Those felicitated included Executive Engineer Namdev Ravkale, Assistant Engineer Prashant Jawale, and Junior Engineer Amit Dasurkar. Improved Safety and Reduced Congestion Speaking at the event, Ashish Shelar said the government is committed to strengthening infrastructure in Mumbai suburbs with a focus on citizen safety and convenience. He stated that the skywalk connects Bandra East railway station directly to the pedestrian bridge and the Western Express Highway, allowing pedestrians to cross safely without interacting with heavy traffic. The project is expected to reduce travel time, improve pedestrian safety, and ease congestion on Anant Kanekar Road. Benefits for daily commuters Additional Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar said the skywalk would be especially useful for pedestrians travelling between the railway station, BKC offices, Bandra Court, MHADA office and nearby commercial areas. He confirmed that the skywalk has received structural stability, safety certificates, and no-objection clearance from the Railway authorities, and has been opened to the public from Republic Day 2026. Details of the new skywalk - Total length: 680 metres - Average width: 5.40 metres - Access points: 4 staircases - Escalators: 2 automatic escalators - Security: 14 CCTV cameras installed - Challenging Construction Conditions "The skywalk was constructed under challenging conditions due to heavy traffic on the Western Express Highway, midnight-only construction windows, and continuous pedestrian movement on Anant Kanekar Road below," the officials said, adding that despite utility shifting and safety challenges, the project was completed within the planned timeline, showcasing strong engineering skill and coordination.
26 January,2026 11:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs part of the Republic Day 2026, Acharya Devvrat, Governor of Maharashtra and Goa, on Monday hosted a reception at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai and Bombay High Court Chief Justice S. Chandrashekhar and CM Fadnavis attended the event. An official statement said that Acharya Devvrat, also hosted tea party for the invited guests on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day at Lok Bhavan. The event brought together senior leaders, officials and distinguished personalities from across the state and the country. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, Justice S. Chandrashekhar, were present at the reception along with several other prominent dignitaries, the statement said. Addressing the gathering, Governor Acharya Devvrat extended his Republic Day greetings to all those present and conveyed his best wishes to the people of India. Prominent leaders and officials were present The reception was also attended by the Governor’s wife, Darshana Devi, and CM Fadnavis' wife Amruta Fadnavis, the statement said. Also present were Chairman of the Legislative Council Prof Ram Shinde, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Rahul Narwekar, and Deputy Chairperson of the Legislative Council Dr Neelam Gorhe, it said. Among the ministers in attendance were Mangal Prabhat Lodha and Ashish Shelar. Senior administration and security officials attended the event According to the official statement, senior officials including Chief Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, Director General of Police Sadanand Date, and Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti attended the event. Vice-Chancellors from agricultural and non-agricultural universities, along with senior officers from the Indian Armed Forces, Civil Services, and Police Services, were also present, it said. Consuls, Industrialists and Artists also attended Consuls of various countries posted in Mumbai, leading industrialists Ashok Hinduja and Prakash Hinduja, and several eminent personalities from different fields attended the reception, the statement further said. Artists from the Indian film industry added to the diversity of the gathering. Patriotic Music Performance The programme concluded with a patriotic song performance by playback singer Jagat Varma, which added a cultural and celebratory touch to the Republic Day event. India on Monday celebrated 77th Republic Day with celebratory events across the country.
26 January,2026 11:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis on Monday, while unveiling the restored ‘Turn Table Ladder’ vehicle of the Mumbai Fire Brigade, emphasised the importance of preserving the city’s historical firefighting equipment. He added that such heritage assets reflect the legacy of public service and sacrifice in Mumbai. Speaking at the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters on the occasion of Republic Day 2026, Fadnavis unveiled the historic firefighting vehicle, which was manufactured in 1937. Restored by the Mumbai Fire Brigade, the ‘Turn Table Ladder’ has been formally reintroduced as a heritage exhibit. History of Mumbai Fire Brigade's ‘Turntable Ladder’ According to BMC, the ‘Turn Table Ladder’ played a key role in emergency operations during the devastating fire on the cargo ship SS Fort Stikine at Mumbai Port in April 1944. The fire on the cargo ship is still one of the most significant disasters in the city’s maritime history. The iconic vehicle was used by fire brigade personnel in rescue operations that helped save several lives. While addressing the gathering at the BMC headquarters, CM Fadnavis said the Mumbai Fire Brigade has consistently served the city with dedication and courage, with its personnel often risking their lives to protect citizens. Fadnavis further noted that preserving the Mumbai Fire Brigade’s historical equipment is essential to safeguarding its institutional memory and legacy. He also suggested that a museum could be created to conserve and showcase such heritage tools and vehicles. Restoration of heritage firefighting vehicle The restoration of the ‘Turn Table Ladder’ was undertaken following a proposal by BMC Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani, with support from industrialist Gautam Singhania. Along with the chief minister, several senior officials and dignitaries were also present at the ceremony, including Additional Municipal Commissioner (Eastern Suburbs) Dr Avinash Dhakane, Chief Fire Officer Ravindra Ambulgekar, Padma Shri awardee Armida Fernandez, and other senior BMC and Mumbai Fire Brigade officials. The BMC in an official statement said that the restored vehicle will now be preserved as part of Mumbai Fire Brigade’s historical legacy, highlighting the evolution of firefighting services in the city and their role in major rescue operations over the decades. CM Fadnavis felicitated Armida Fernandez On the occasion, Fernandez, who was recently conferred the Padma Shri for her contribution to the healthcare sector, was also felicitated by Fadnavis.
26 January,2026 08:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUnder the 'Rashtra Pratham' initiative, students from across Maharashtra took part in a massive patriotic recitation event on Republic Day 2026, setting a world record, officials said on Monday. After flag-hoisting ceremonies in government schools, more than two crore students recited patriotic songs together in a coordinated and disciplined manner. An official statement, released by the Maharashtra School Education Department, on Monday said that the event, held simultaneously in schools across all regions of the state, was officially recorded by the World Book of Records, London. The recognition establishes a new world record for the largest group recitation of patriotic songs. The programme saw participation from students in over one lakh schools across Maharashtra. Alongside the students, seven lakh teachers also took part in the event, making it one of the largest school-based patriotic activities in the country. Preparations and guidance School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse said that preparations for the recitation had been underway for several months under his guidance. The programme was initiated based on the vision of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, the official statement said. A 14-minute instructional video was shared with schools across the state to ensure uniformity in the recitation. Students practiced regularly to deliver a disciplined and coordinated performance. Additional records by Asia and India Book of Records Pic/Special Arrangement Alongside the world record, two other record bodies also recognised the event. Asia Book of Records and India Book of Records recorded separate achievements related to the district-level activities organised in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. Maharashtra Minister highlights aim of 'Rashtra Pratham' Expressing satisfaction with the success of the event, Minister Bhuse said, "The aim was to instil a sense of patriotism, discipline and unity among students. He added that the programme was carefully planned and executed across districts, talukas and schools." He also praised the support received from various social organisations, district administration, health, police, fire department and education stakeholders. He said the initiative not only set a world record but also planted the seeds of patriotism in the minds of future generations. Bhuse announced that the patriotic recitation programme will continue every Saturday across all schools, regardless of management or language. Officials and education dept commended School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse and Minister of State for School Education Dr. Pankaj Bhoir congratulated all students, teachers and officials involved in the programme. The initiative was supported by senior education officials including Principal Secretary Ranjitsinh Deol, Commissioner Sachindrapratap Singh, district collectors, municipal commissioners, directors, and officers from departments such as Tribal Development, Social Justice, Backward Classes Welfare, and others, the statement said.
26 January,2026 07:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis, while hailing India’s development on the occasion of Republic Day 2026, said that the country is moving fast on the strength of its Constitution, news agency PTI reported. Fadnavis also added that the democratic values of the nation are on track to become the world's third-largest economy. Speaking at the main Republic Day 2026 function at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ground in Dadar, Fadnavis said that Maharashtra signed investment agreements worth Rs 30 lakh crore at the recent World Economic Forum in Davos, which will make the state even stronger as a key driver of India's economy. "India is rapidly progressing on the strength of its Constitution and democratic values and is on course to become the world's third largest economy. The MoUs signed at the recent World Economic Forum would strengthen the state's role as the backbone of the country's economy," said Fadnavis. After unfurling the National Flag, he stated that "Maharashtra will not stop and will remain dynamic and continue to move ahead with the strength of the Constitution". Following the flag-hoisting ceremony, Fadnavis also paid tribute to Dr BR Ambedkar and thanked him and the members of the Constituent Assembly for framing the Constitution. "The values of freedom, equality and brotherhood are part of Indian culture and are clearly reflected in the Constitution," said the Maharashtra CM. Under Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi's leadership, India is now seen as an important global power and economy, made possible because of the democratic system given by the Constitution, Fadnavis stated. CM Fadnavis on job creation across Maharashtra While throwing light on the issue of employment, Fadnavis said investments and job creation are happening in all the regions, including Vidarbha, Marathwada, North Maharashtra, Western Maharashtra, Konkan, and Mumbai. He added, "The state government is fully committed to farmers and has given strong support during difficult times. River-linking projects will be carried out to make Maharashtra drought-free. Major infrastructure projects like those in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, the Samruddhi Motorway and the Shaktipeeth Motorway are helping the state's growth." Fadnavis hails ‘Ladki Bahin’ scheme The Maharashtra CM said the construction of 30 lakh houses in rural areas under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana would be a record. He also stated that Maharashtra has ranked first in solar-powered farm feeders and solar pumps, PTI reported. Welfare schemes such as the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme and free electricity for farmers aim to ensure development for all sections of society, the CM added. The Republic Day parade included contingents from the Indian Navy, Maharashtra Police, State Reserve Police Force, Mumbai Police, home guards, fire brigade, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), scouts and school students. The parade was led by Navy Commander Pankaj Baghel. (With inputs from PTI)
26 January,2026 06:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Congress and Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP SP) leaders have criticised the decision to confer the Padma Bhushan on former state governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, reported the PTI. The announcement sparked sharp reactions, with leaders describing the award as an insult to Maharashtra and its cultural icons. Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal said that Koshyari had insulted the constitutional office and hurt the sentiments of people in the state. Speaking after a Republic Day 2026 event at the Congress office, Sapkal claimed that the former governor’s actions were inappropriate and unacceptable, according to the PTI. The Congress leader also revealed that he had refused an award from a Pune-based social organisation because the ceremony was to be hosted by Koshyari. Varsha Gaikwad accuses BJP of disrespecting Maharashtra icons Mumbai Congress chief and Lok Sabha MP Varsha Gaikwad accused the BJP of having a history of insulting Maharashtra’s great leaders and constitutional icons. She alleged that Koshyari had made disrespectful remarks about revered figures such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, and Savitribai Phule, as per the PTI. Gaikwad said honouring Koshyari with a Padma award was a “direct insult to Maharashtra”. NCP (SP) leader condemns the award Nationalist Congress Party (SP) spokesperson Clyde Crasto joined the criticism, saying Koshyari’s repeated controversial remarks had hurt Maharashtrians’ sentiments. He added that awarding him the Padma Bhushan demonstrated the BJP’s “arrogance of power” and disregard for the state’s history and cultural pride, according to the PTI. Crasto said people of Maharashtra would not forget the alleged insults to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and described the award as shameful. Controversial tenure as Maharashtra Governor Koshyari served as Maharashtra’s governor from September 2019 to February 2023. His tenure was marked by frequent clashes with the Maha Vikas Aghadi government led by Uddhav Thackeray. During this period, Thackeray criticised him for being “overactive” and noted that Koshyari did not fill 12 vacant seats in the state Legislative Council, despite recommendations from the state government. Koshyari had also faced criticism for once referring to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as “an icon of the olden times”, a remark that sparked public outrage, the news agency reported. (with PTI inputs)
26 January,2026 06:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAt an event on Republic Day 2026, Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal said on Monday that the Tricolour symbolises the nation’s honour, dignity and pride but some forces were trying to divide by politicising green and saffron, reported the PTI. He was speaking after the 77th Republic Day flag hoisting ceremony at the Congress office. Sapkal criticised certain political groups for attempting to create divisions by politicising the green and saffron colours for their own interests. He said both colours deserve respect: green symbolises prosperity, while saffron represents sacrifice and honour. Call to spread the Tricolour across Maharashtra Sapkal urged Congress workers to take the national flag to every part of the state. He emphasised that the Tricolour represents the larger idea of India, and noted that many have shed their blood for it. He added that even today, people are ready to make sacrifices for the nation. The Congress leader highlighted the party’s role in the freedom struggle and in building the nation after Independence. He said the spirit of struggle must be preserved in order to protect constitutional values. CM making 'exaggerated claims' about investment proposals at Davos Meanwhile, Sapkal on Monday also criticised Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for making what he called “exaggerated claims” about investment proposals announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos, according to the PTI. Last week, Fadnavis stated that Maharashtra had signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth ₹30 lakh crore, which could generate up to 40 lakh jobs across industries, services, agriculture and technology. Sapkal said the actual status of these investments should be disclosed publicly, and questioned the claims made by the Chief Minister. Fadnavis had also mentioned that talks were in a preliminary stage for projects worth Rs 7-10 lakh crore, with MoUs expected to be finalised within two months. He added that 83 per cent of the MoUs were for foreign direct investment, with the rest involving technical partnerships. The Chief Minister claimed that 83 per cent of FDI would come from 18 countries, including the US, UK, Japan, Germany, France, UAE and others. He also stated that the realisation rate of MoUs is 75 per cent, citing that last year’s agreements had materialised to the same extent, the news agency reported. (with PTI inputs)
26 January,2026 06:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentShiv Sena ministers have warned of a strong and befitting reply after Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik’s remark about “finishing off their existence”, allegedly aimed at Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, triggered a sharp political exchange between the ruling allies, news agency PTI reported. Naik made the comment on Sunday, stating that if the BJP allowed, “we can finish off their existence”, an apparent reference to his long-time rival Shinde. The remark has revived tensions between the two parties, which have a history of rivalry despite being part of the Mahayuti alliance. Reacting to the statement, Shiv Sena leader and Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat said the BJP owes its current position in power to Shinde’s revolt against the undivided Shiv Sena in 2022. “Who is talking about finishing off (Shinde)? He is not Navi Mumbai’s hills or sand to get finished. We are the ones to stand with courage. Shinde cannot be underestimated,” Shirsat told reporters in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. He further stressed that the Shiv Sena alone cannot be forced to follow the “Mahayuti dharma”. “The BJP is in power today because of our sacrifice. We will not tolerate being asked to follow Mahayuti dharma on one hand, while BJP leaders make such statements on the other. This cannot be tolerated. I will speak to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis,” he added. Shiv Sena leaders assert Deputy CM Eknath Shinde can counter Ganesh Naik Shirsat also addressed Naik directly, warning, “If you challenge us, we will accept it.” Echoing the sentiment, Shiv Sena leader and Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai, a close confidant of Shinde, said the party was equally capable of responding, PTI reported. “If our party permits, our stand will be the same. When their party takes a stand, we will also give a befitting reply,” Desai said in Satara. Transport Minister and Sena leader Pratap Sarnaik also emphasised that Shinde himself is capable of responding to Naik’s remarks. Naik, a former guardian minister of the undivided Thane district, and Shinde have been long-time rivals. Navi Mumbai has traditionally been a stronghold of Naik, who controlled the civic body for more than two-and-a-half decades. Currently, Naik serves as the guardian minister of Palghar district, carved out of Thane, which remains Shinde’s political base. Recently, Shiv Sena and BJP contested the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation Elections separately after seat-sharing talks failed. While both parties have contested as allies in several civic elections in the past, their rivalry has been evident on the ground, with some civic bodies witnessing bitter contests despite the alliance at the state level. (With PTI inputs)
26 January,2026 05:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentWestern Railway marked the 77th Republic Day with a ceremonial flag-hoisting and parade at the Mahalaxmi Sports Ground in Mumbai on Monday. The National Flag was unfurled by Western Railway General Manager Vivek Kumar Gupta, who also inspected the ceremonial parade and took the salute of the march past. Addressing railway employees and their families, Gupta extended Republic Day greetings and highlighted Western Railway’s recent achievements and milestones. He commended the workforce for securing the highest number of prestigious Efficiency Shields in 2025, recognising outstanding performance across departments. Calling upon employees to continue working with renewed zeal and dedication, he urged them to contribute towards the national goal of Viksit Bharat. At the outset, Gupta was welcomed by Ajoy Sadany, inspector general and principal chief security commissioner of western railway. The ceremony was attended by Neeta Gupta, president of the Western Railway Women’s Welfare Organization (WRWWO), Additional General Manager Pradeep Kumar, along with principal heads of departments and senior railway officials. According to a press release issued by Vineet Abhishek, chief public relations officer of Western Railway, Neeta Gupta donated stainless steel insulation kettles for patients at Jagjivan Ram Hospital. The donation was formally handed over to Dr Atul Sharma, principal chief medical director, Western Railway. The celebrations concluded with a dog squad demonstration by the Railway Protection Force and cultural programmes featuring patriotic songs and dance performances. Mumbai civic body observes 77th Republic Day with flag-hoisting and ceremonial drill The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day on Monday at its headquarters with a ceremonial flag hoisting by Municipal Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani. The event was attended by Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects) Abhijeet Bangar, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Western Suburbs) Dr Avinash Dhakne, Joint Commissioner (Tax and Collection) Vishwas Shankarwar, Deputy Commissioners Chanda Jadhav (Special), Prashant Gaikwad (Finance), Vishwas Mote (Ward 3), Kiran Dighavkar (Solid Waste Management), Sharad Ughade (Public Health), Prachi Jambhekar (Education), Shashank Bhore (Engineering), Avinash Kate (Environment and Climate Change), Girish Nikam (Infrastructure), and Purushottam Malvade (Special Engineering), along with BMC Secretary Manjiri Deshpande, department heads, officials, employees, and citizens. The ceremony began with Gagrani paying tribute by offering floral respects to the statue of Sir Ferozeshah Mehta, the architect of modern Mumbai's municipal governance. A parade was also carried out by BMC’s security personnel and firefighters, showcasing a ceremonial drill that added grandeur to the Republic Day celebrations.
26 January,2026 04:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) celebrated the Republic Day 2026, with enthusiasm and pride on its campus in Mumbai, officials said on Monday. The event was attended by students, faculty, staff and members of the campus community. The celebrations began with the unfurling of the National Flag by the Director of IIT Bombay, Prof. Shireesh Kedare, at the Institute’s Gymkhana Ground. Security staff of IIT Bombay and NCC cadets saluted the National Flag during the ceremony, they said. Prof. Kedare addressed the gathering and extended his warm wishes to the IIT Bombay community on the occasion. Chief guest addresses gathering According to an official release, Raj Nair, Chairman of Avalon Consulting and a distinguished alumnus of IIT Bombay, was the Chief Guest for the function. He is an entrepreneur, AI enthusiast, investor and advisor, with wide experience across industries and countries. Nair spoke about the values of democracy and citizenship, stating that the Republic survives through integrity, courage and compassion shown by citizens in their daily lives. He stressed that in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), teaching students how to think is more important than teaching them what to think. Director highlights role of education In his address, Prof. Shireesh Kedare spoke about the true role of educational institutions. He said learning should go beyond classrooms and include shared experiences, responsibility and participation, the officials said. He also congratulated former Deputy Director Prof. Juzer Vasi and IIT Bombay alumnus Shashi Shekhar Vempati on being conferred the Padma Shri award. Prof. Kedare felicitated Prof. Vasi with a shawl and a potted plant. Awards and felicitations During the programme, certificates were awarded to winners of an essay writing competition organised during Vigilance Awareness Week 2025. Security officers, guards and NCC cadets were also felicitated for their service. Cultural programmes add colour to celebrations The celebrations featured cultural performances by students from Aman Day Care Centre, IIT Bombay Campus School, PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalaya IIT Mumbai, IIT Bombay and NSS. A total of 360 students from Kendriya Vidyalaya and 358 students from Campus School participated in the cultural programme along with their teachers. Thirty IIT Bombay students sang patriotic songs, concluding the event with a full rendition of Vande Mataram. More than 2,000 members of the IIT Bombay campus community attended the Republic Day celebration, making it a memorable and inspiring occasion.
26 January,2026 04:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day on Monday at its headquarters with a ceremonial flag hoisting by Municipal Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani. The event was attended by Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects) Abhijeet Bangar, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Western Suburbs) Dr Avinash Dhakne, Joint Commissioner (Tax and Collection) Vishwas Shankarwar, Deputy Commissioners Chanda Jadhav (Special), Prashant Gaikwad (Finance), Vishwas Mote (Ward 3), Kiran Dighavkar (Solid Waste Management), Sharad Ughade (Public Health), Prachi Jambhekar (Education), Shashank Bhore (Engineering), Avinash Kate (Environment and Climate Change), Girish Nikam (Infrastructure), and Purushottam Malvade (Special Engineering), along with BMC Secretary Manjiri Deshpande, department heads, officials, employees, and citizens. The ceremony began with Gagrani paying tribute by offering floral respects to the statue of Sir Ferozeshah Mehta, the architect of modern Mumbai's municipal governance. A parade was also carried out by BMC’s security personnel and firefighters, showcasing a ceremonial drill that added grandeur to the Republic Day celebrations. Kalyan-Dombivali civic body headquarters celebrates Republic Day 2026 with patriotic fervour The 77th Republic Day was celebrated with patriotic fervour at the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) headquarters on Monday, with Municipal Commissioner Abhinav Goyal unfurling the national flag at 7.30 am and taking the ceremonial salute. City Engineer Anita Pardeshi, additional municipal commissioners, the municipal secretary, senior officials and staff were present. Personnel from the fire brigade, security forces, local police and MSF contingents participated in a march-past and saluted the national flag. As part of the celebrations, 12 sanitation workers from the Solid Waste Management Department were felicitated with certificates of appreciation and mementoes in recognition of their services. Additional Municipal Commissioner Yogesh Godse unfurled the national flag at the old Dombivli East ward office, in the presence of former corporator Mandar Halbe, municipal officials and staff. Later, Commissioner Goyal paid floral tributes at the memorial of Captain Vinaykumar Sachan and the Prerana War Memorial in Dombivli, in the presence of civic officials, citizens and elected representatives. The Commissioner also unfurled the 150-foot-tall national flag at Dattnagar Chowk, Dombivli East, and appealed to citizens to uphold constitutional values and fulfil their civic responsibilities. MLA Rajesh More extended Republic Day greetings. A large number of citizens attended the celebrations.
26 January,2026 03:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
