The Times of India
Elections 2026Maharashtra / The Times of India
Reliance Jio achieved the fastest mobile data speeds in Mumbai's recent TRAI drive test. The operator also recorded zero dropped calls, indicating strong voice service performance. Vodafone Idea demonstrated the fewest coverage gaps across surveyed routes and locations. Airtel delivered a solid overall network performance during the independent assessment. MTNL lagged significantly in both coverage and voice call quality metrics.
Maharashtra is developing its first floating solar power project with battery storage. This integrated 11-MW FSPV project and 5.5-MW BESS will be at the Veer reservoir. The project aims to store solar energy for peak demand hours and reduce water evaporation. It will be commissioned in FY 2028-29 under a public-private partnership model. The selected developer will operate the project for 25 years before transferring assets.
The BMC Improvement Committee approved handing over SevenHills Hospital to Capri Global Ventures. Opposition members strongly objected to the private operator and the proposal's processing. Congress alleged work began before statutory approval, which is a serious concern. Capri Global will operate the hospital under a public-private partnership model. The hospital will be redeveloped as a 1,500-bed not-for-profit tertiary care facility.
Uddhav Thackeray compared protestors to Lord Vishnu, saving the nation and its humanity. He warned the central government against ignoring widespread public discontent and fear. Thackeray highlighted that people have lost faith in politicians due to party splits. He criticized the government for paper leaks and failing to address key issues. The Shiv Sena (UBT) chief stated that public anger could escalate into a revolution.
Maharashtra's amended cooperative housing rules cut minimum members for new societies to five, make model bylaws automatically applicable, curb arbitrary levies and ease redevelopment, succession and parking disputes
Maharashtra plans a Rs 1 lakh crore tourism investment by 2034. The state aims to create eighteen lakh jobs and promote diverse destinations. New projects include an underwater museum and expanded scuba diving facilities. Digital campaigns will highlight forts, festivals, and coastal experiences. The government is also improving infrastructure for the 2027 Nashik Kumbh Mela.
Mumbai Police clarified notices to CJP protesters stopped after July 26. Lawyers claimed investigations continued despite government assurances of withdrawal. Police stated no new notices were issued since that specific date. They maintained all served notices predated the stated July 26 cutoff. This clarification addresses concerns about ongoing legal proceedings against demonstrators.
Six trapped residents rescued in two-hour operation
MPSC drug inspector exam faces allegations of irregularities and demands for an independent probe. The commission found inconsistencies and will file an FIR to protect its credibility. Meanwhile, arrests in the separate TET paper leak case have now reached fifteen individuals. A suspect surrendered in the TET case, increasing the total number of those held. These events highlight ongoing issues within Maharashtra's examination systems.
The Bombay High Court has transferred the investigation of Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre's assault case. The court expressed dissatisfaction with the police's handling of the initial probe. It noted a lack of meaningful investigation and preferential treatment for the accused. The Deputy Commissioner of Police will now oversee the investigation expeditiously. The court expects an update on the progress of the probe by July 31.
BEST Committee and commuter group discussed expanding bus services on the Eastern Freeway. They also focused on inducting 150 additional electric double-decker buses for improved connectivity. Passenger representatives urged greater use of the freeway for rapid services connecting eastern suburbs. Discussions also covered route planning and staff shortages within the undertaking. BEST General Manager provided an update on the electric bus fleet expansion.
Resident groups and activists have urged CM Devendra Fadnavis to cancel land allotments. Three reserved open spaces in Juhu and Andheri were allotted to SVKM. Activists demand these plots remain accessible public spaces as per the Development Plan. SVKM president denied irregularities and stated plots will be used for student sports facilities. Mumbai BJP chief also opposed the allotments, seeking CM's intervention.
Model Rhiya Yadav, who went viral after stopping a police van carrying protesters during the NEET paper leak protest in Mumbai, has approached the Maharashtra Police cyber cell, alleging that she faced online harassment following the incident.
A man was arrested by Powai police for attempted murder recently. He knifed a 28-year-old man over a prior police complaint. The accused approached the victim and began hurling abuses. He then pulled out a knife and slashed the victim in the back. Bystanders were threatened as the accused continued his pursuit.
Mumbai's corporate geography is shifting towards Worli for promoter-led businesses. This area offers superior connectivity and convenience for decision-makers. Infrastructure improvements like the Coastal Road enhance its appeal significantly. Institutional investors are also showing increased confidence in Worli's commercial market. Worli is becoming a key headquarters destination for new enterprises.
Reliance Industries Ltd has presented an updated Coastal Road open spaces plan to the BMC, significantly cutting down ticketed recreational areas to just fifteen percent of the site. This adjustment aligns with the Supreme Court's recent ruling advocating for public access. The proposal features gardens and a variety of recreational options along the reclaimed area.
The Integrated Command and Control Centre took charge of a car fire incident within the Coastal Road tunnel. Their cutting-edge systems swiftly detected the fire and activated emergency protocols. Motorists were informed through public announcements to remain calm and utilize the designated exits for evacuation. However, the ensuing panic among drivers obstructed the movement of rescue vehicles.

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