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Owe Hills in monsoon: Kharghar’s popular green escape...
Tapping into tomorrow: CIDCO’s bold plan to secure...
Kharghar blackout ordeal: Residents demand answers after dual...
Ulwe students spearhead plastic collection on World Environment...
Ghot Camp Bridge: New temporary road built after...
Taloja: Razed bridge transformed into temporary road, now...
WHT NOW launches National Youth Ambassador Program to...
NMMC Budget 2025-26: Much awaited animal hospitals and...
NMMC Budget 2025-26: Navi Mumbai’s animal lovers await...
Salaam Bombay Foundation’s Kala Ka Karawaan: Art showcase...
Local Press
Top Posts
Owe Hills in monsoon: Kharghar’s popular green escape...
Tapping into tomorrow: CIDCO’s bold plan to secure...
Kharghar blackout ordeal: Residents demand answers after dual...
Ulwe students spearhead plastic collection on World Environment...
Ghot Camp Bridge: New temporary road built after...
Taloja: Razed bridge transformed into temporary road, now...
WHT NOW launches National Youth Ambassador Program to...
NMMC Budget 2025-26: Much awaited animal hospitals and...
NMMC Budget 2025-26: Navi Mumbai’s animal lovers await...
Salaam Bombay Foundation’s Kala Ka Karawaan: Art showcase...
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Owe Hills in monsoon Kharghar's popular green escape is buzzing with activity
FeaturedLifestyle

Owe Hills in monsoon: Kharghar’s popular green escape is buzzing with activity

by Vishal TM July 3, 2025
written by Vishal TM

NAVI MUMBAI: After the searing summer months, the arrival of the monsoons has brought a palpable sense of relief across Navi Mumbai. For Kharghar residents, this transition means more than just cooler temperatures; it signals the return of a unique outdoor tradition, as the hills and green spaces transform into vibrant hubs of activity. The air, once heavy with heat, now carries the fresh scent of earth and rain, inviting locals and even visitors from surrounding areas to step out and truly embrace the season.

The Owe Hills, nestled within the vast Kharghar forest area, are a cherished local haunt throughout the year, especially popular for Sunday strolls and holiday outings. However, with the monsoon’s arrival, these familiar slopes undergo a breathtaking transformation, unfurling into a vibrant green carpet that draws unprecedented crowds. While water bodies like Pandavkada waterfall and, to some extent, Owe Dam, remain tempting yet inadvisable due to safety concerns during heavy flows, the undulating green expanse of Owe Hills is now truly abuzz. It’s like a veritable fair nowadays, attracting a delightful mix of youngsters, families, couples, and even little children, all eager for a taste of nature’s monsoon magic.

A typical outing here involves a short, invigorating hike up the well-trodden paths, leading to picturesque spots perfect for capturing those essential monsoon selfies. “It’s so much better than being stuck indoors on our phones,” quipped Yash, an engineering student, residing at sector 12, wiping rain from his face after a selfie. Mobile stalls, set up at the foot of the hills, offer quintessential monsoon treats: piping hot bhutta (roasted corn), refreshing ice creams, and the ever-popular vadapav.

For many, these excursions are a cherished opportunity for quality ‘family time,’ where conversations flow as freely as the streams, unhindered by screens. “The kids absolutely love it here,” beamed Deepika Sonawane, a mother of two from sector 35, as her children excitedly pointed at a small stream. “It’s a great way for them to connect with nature, run around freely, and just have some good old-fashioned fun outside without worrying about screens.”

Couples, meanwhile, find it a romantic escape from the daily grind. “This is our perfect weekend escape,” shared Shreyas and Pallavi, a young couple, holding hands as they navigated a muddy path. “Just walking, talking, and enjoying the greenery together, away from all the work pressure. It’s truly romantic.”

Others, like Aditya, a software professional often seen trekking alone, seek ‘me time,’ finding solace and rejuvenation amidst the lush greenery and the occasional gentle shower. “For me, it’s about solitude and connecting with nature,” he mused. “The calm after the rain, the sound of the wind – it’s my ‘me time’ to clear my head and find some peace.”

Ultimately, for the residents of Kharghar, these monsoon outings to Owe Hills are more than just a seasonal activity; they are an enduring ritual. Amidst the emerald landscapes and the invigorating scent of rain, it’s a cherished chance to reconnect with nature, breathe in the crisp, fresh air, and simply revel in the respite that the monsoons so generously offer. Indeed, it beautifully proves that sometimes, the simplest pleasures, found right here in our own backyard, are the most profound.

July 3, 2025 0 comments
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Tapping into tomorrow: CIDCO's bold plan to secure Navi Mumbai's water future
Civic NewsFeaturedInfrastructure

Tapping into tomorrow: CIDCO’s bold plan to secure Navi Mumbai’s water future

by Vishal TM July 2, 2025
written by Vishal TM

NAVI MUMBAI: As our city hurtles towards becoming a global hub, driven by projects like the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), NAINA, and extensive housing schemes, the demand for water is reaching unprecedented levels. Acknowledging this critical challenge, CIDCO has unveiled a comprehensive water infrastructure strategy designed to secure the city’s needs right up to 2050, with projected demand soaring to 1275 Million Litres per Day (MLD).

“As Navi Mumbai continues to grow and develop, our commitment to sustainable water management remains unwavering,” stated Vijay Singhal, CIDCO’s Vice Chairman and Managing Director. “With a robust water supply network, we’re building resilience for tomorrow, not just today.”

A multi-pronged approach to supply

CIDCO’s ambitious blueprint involves a strategic blend of enhancing existing water sources and developing crucial new ones. Plans include significant upgrades to current supply lines from Hetawane Dam, various Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran (MJP) schemes, NMMC, and MIDC networks. Looking to the future, the development of new sources from Balganga and Kondhane Dams is firmly on the cards. The Kondhane Dam, strategically located on the Ulhas River, is poised to initially contribute 250 MLD, with the capacity to expand to 350 MLD, a move set to be a game-changer, particularly for the burgeoning NAINA and Panvel areas.

To bridge any immediate gaps, CIDCO had already secured an additional 120 MLD quota from Hetawane Dam, sanctioned by the Government of Maharashtra in 2020 at a cost of ₹119.80 crore. This vital augmentation project, being developed in four phases, is slated for completion by June 2029. Current progress shows the water treatment plant at 41% completion, pure water tunnels at 25.7%, and the raw water tunnel at 8.5%.

Setting national benchmarks in tunneling

A standout achievement in this monumental undertaking is CIDCO’s tunneling project, which has already set new national standards. Utilising Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) Flamingo, in partnership with Afcons Infrastructure Ltd, the project has recorded:

  • The highest single-day progress in India: 53 meters (achieved March 2025).
  • The highest monthly progress in India: 714 meters (recorded May 2025).

These impressive figures surpass the previous national benchmark of 679 meters, solidifying Navi Mumbai’s position at the forefront of water tunneling infrastructure.

With renowned project management consultants onboard ensuring international standards in design and quality, CIDCO’s water projects are not only timely but also technically robust. These colossal efforts are projected to revolutionise water supply in CIDCO-administered areas, including the Panvel Municipal Corporation, thereby significantly enhancing the liveability and resilience of the entire Navi Mumbai region.

A resident’s perspective: Ensuring water security for urban stability

Witnessing Navi Mumbai’s dramatic evolution over the decades, the city’s water infrastructure has always been a pressing concern. Even today, rapidly developing nodes like Taloja, Upper Kharghar, and Ulwe occasionally grapple with inconsistent supply – a reality often highlighted in local news reports and residents’ forums. This ongoing backdrop makes CIDCO’s ambitious long-term water management strategy, extending to 2050, profoundly significant.

While the sheer scale of the proposed upgrades and new sources, along with the impressive, record-setting tunneling efforts, certainly demonstrates a proactive approach, their ultimate success rests squarely on diligent and timely execution. For residents, whose daily lives and the city’s projected growth – including plans for “Third Mumbai” and continuous construction – hinge on reliable supply, this plan represents a crucial, albeit anticipated, response to both current pressures and extensive future demands. It’s a vision that offers a pathway to enduring urban stability, provided its ambitious targets are met without faltering, ensuring our city’s future truly remains liquid-secure.

July 2, 2025 0 comments
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Kharghar blackout ordeal: Residents demand answers after dual power disruptions
Civic NewsFeaturedKharghar

Kharghar blackout ordeal: Residents demand answers after dual power disruptions

by Vishal TM June 29, 2025
written by Vishal TM

KHARGHAR: Residents across multiple sectors of Kharghar experienced a harrowing period this week, enduring two significant and prolonged power outages that severely disrupted daily life and sparked widespread frustration. The disruptions highlighted existing concerns regarding the robustness of the local power infrastructure. Residents are now questioning the ability of the Kharghar MSEB, and the MSEDCL, on a whole, to handle such situations in the future.

The initial major blackout commenced on Tuesday, June 24th, at approximately 3 PM, and persisted until around 12 PM (noon) on Wednesday, June 25th. This extensive outage specifically affected Sectors 27, 30, 24, 35, 36, 37, and 40, leaving many without essential services. Residents in buildings lacking power backup struggled with non-operational lifts, forcing those on upper floors to contend with arduous climbs. “We’re on the 10th floor, and the kids are exhausted. No lift, no water – it was a nightmare,” recalled Rina Sharma, a resident of Sector 27. Crucially, the lack of electricity rendered water pumps inoperable in several societies, leading to a severe disruption in water supply.

The impact extended significantly to the burgeoning population of home-based workers. Many were left with no alternative but to seek refuge at friends’ or relatives’ homes, or even cafes, to continue their work into the late hours. “I had an important client meeting, but no internet or power. I ended up working from a friend’s place until past midnight just to meet my deadlines,” shared Gaurav Patel, an IT professional, residing in sector 35. Some office-goers, even those typically working from home, opted to head to their physical offices as power remained unrestored in the morning.

Local businesses also bore the brunt of the disruption; many shops were forced to close prematurely due to the absence of power and the corresponding low footfall. Businesses reliant on refrigeration, particularly those selling ice creams, reported considerable losses. “Our ice cream stock just melted away. You can’t sell it once it’s like that. It’s a huge loss for a small business like ours,” lamented Lalit Choudhary, a shop owner in sector 35.

Adding to the residents’ woes, mobile phones, tablets, and laptops quickly drained of battery, leaving many feeling isolated and further compounding the challenges. “My phone died, my laptop died, and I felt completely cut off. The first thing I did when power came back was vent on social media – everyone was doing it!” exclaimed Pallavi Singh, a student, residing at sector 36.

While daily routines were severely impacted for adults, some children received an unexpected day off from school due to the disruption. “Honestly, it was a bit of a chaotic day, but the kids thought it was a fun unexpected holiday. They didn’t have school, so they made the most of it,” said Rekha Gude, a parent, and resident of sector 34.

For many, cooking at home became impractical. While some chose to order food from outside to circumvent domestic hassles, long wait times were common as many restaurants in the affected sectors also grappled with the same power issues. “We just ordered in. Who has the energy to cook without electricity or water? The wait was long, but at least some places had power,” remarked Pooja Raut, a resident of sector 35. A few establishments equipped with total power backup reportedly saw a significant surge in business.

In a perhaps unexpected turn, the extensive darkness led many residents to rediscover the humble candle after a long time. For some, this offered a unique, if involuntary, digital detox. It also became an impromptu period for families to sit together, disconnected from screens, engaging in conversation. “It was not a good thing on the authorities’ part, but frankly, it was kind of a much needed break for many glued to their mobile phones and televisions,” reflected Vishal Prajapati, a local resident, who works as a programmer. “It was a good time to sit back without doing anything, enjoying the small, gentle, yet very important flame of a candle, that kept many houses illuminated that night. It was also a sort of family time as many sat together, without their phones, and talked.”

In a further blow, just hours after the initial restoration, Kharghar experienced a second major power cut. This second outage began around 8 PM on Wednesday, June 25th, and lasted until approximately 3 AM on Thursday, June 26th, forcing residents to endure yet another night of darkness and inconvenience. “Just when we thought it was over, it happened again at 8 PM. It was disheartening to go through another dark night after such a long first one,” shared Deepak Sharma, a resident of sector 34.

The only discernible respite during this period came from the weather. Intermittent rains ensured the atmosphere remained notably cooler than the preceding weeks, preventing the sweltering heat that might have otherwise exacerbated the situation.

Throughout the ordeal, the incident site at the Adhiraj feeder location became a focal point for anxious residents. Crowds gathered, eager for live updates, with many sharing short videos late into the night, documenting the repair efforts. “I went down to the feeder site myself. Everyone was there, sharing videos, just wanting to see some progress. It felt like the whole neighbourhood was waiting together,” described Alok Verma, a resident of sector 30. Some residents, having nowhere else to go due to the widespread power cut, even brought their young children to witness the scene.

Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) workers were widely commended for their dedication. They reportedly worked on a war footing throughout the night, tirelessly repairing the affected cables despite the intermittent rain. “The workers on the ground were incredible, toiling through the rain. Our appreciation is entirely for them, not for the system that led to this,” commented Mrs. Shetty, a senior resident residing in sector 35.

However, residents collectively voiced strong concerns over what they perceived as the MSEDCL department’s “unpreparedness” in anticipating such large-scale incidents, coupled with an apparent initial confusion regarding the scope of the problem. A significant point of contention was the perceived “unconcerned approach” of the higher management in providing proactive updates, often replying only when explicitly questioned. “It was so frustrating to get the same automated message on X again and again. We wanted real updates, a human to acknowledge our plight, not just copy-pasted templates,” added Varsha Patel, a resident of sector 27. While the efforts of the ground workers were undeniably appreciated, a clear resentment was directed towards the strategic oversight and communication of those responsible for planning and preparing for such critical infrastructure failures.

LocalPress View:

The series of disruptions has left many Kharghar residents demanding greater accountability and proactive measures from MSEDCL’s management. While acknowledging the on-ground efforts of the repair teams, the collective sentiment points towards a need for improved infrastructure resilience and transparent communication channels to prevent such widespread inconveniences in the future.

June 29, 2025 0 comments
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Ulwe students spearhead plastic collection on World Environment Day
Education & LearningEnvironmentFeatured

Ulwe students spearhead plastic collection on World Environment Day

by Vishal TM June 5, 2025
written by Vishal TM

NAVI MUMBAI: Students of C. P. Goenka International School, Ulwe, observed World Environment Day on June 5th, 2025, with a notable initiative aimed at fostering a plastic-free locality.

Students from C. P. Goenka International School, Ulwe, making a tangible difference during their World Environment Day clean-up in Ulwe.

As part of the day’s observance, pupils from Grades VII and VIII participated in a dedicated Plastic Collection Drive. They ventured onto the thoroughfares of Ulwe Sector 5, meticulously gathering discarded plastic bottles and wrappers. This endeavour underscored their commitment to environmental protection through tangible action, moving beyond mere discourse.

Teachers at the school expressed considerable pride in their students’ proactive contribution. They highlighted that the pupils had genuinely embodied the ancient Sanskrit adage, “Yo hi prakṛitiṁ rakṣati, saḥ svayaṁ rakṣitaḥ bhavati,” which translates to, “He who protects nature, is himself protected by nature.”

The effort stood out as a commendable example of community engagement in promoting a cleaner and more sustainable local environment.

June 5, 2025 0 comments
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Ghot Camp Bridge New temporary road built after pre-monsoon washout
Civic NewsFeatured

Ghot Camp Bridge: New temporary road built after pre-monsoon washout

by Vishal TM June 3, 2025
written by Vishal TM

The local residents of Ghot Camp, in Taloja have received temporary respite as the local contractor assigned to the new bridge project at Ghot Camp, has promptly constructed another makeshift road, in place of the temporary road that was swept away on 26 May, during a heavy pre-monsoon onslaught. 

Read the story here: Taloja: Razed bridge transformed into temporary road, now washed away by rains

For years, there had been a small bridge over a canal connected to the Taloja river at Ghot Camp, which served as the sole access route for thousands of residents, including office-goers and students. However, it was razed sometime back, to facilitate the construction of a new two-section bridge (one inbound, one outbound, with the latter still months from completion). To allow daily commute to residents, a temporary road was built over the canal, with the debris of razed bridge. However, as the city was lashed by heavy rains, the temporary road was swept away by a violent flow of water in the canal, disrupting daily communte, and literally disconnecting residents from the main areas.

Acting swiftly on the predicament of the residents, a new temporary road has been built swiftly, allowing local residents to resume their daily travels. This has particularly eased movement for those commuting out of Taloja and those working in the Taloja MIDC area, where a longer alternative route had become mandatory.

However, the efficacy of this new temporary road in the long term remains a significant concern. Like its the temporary road that was built earlier, the new road also is a temporary structure. While pre-monsoon rains have currently abated for a week now, the impending full monsoon season, known for its sustained heavy downpours, presents a severe test.

Residents express apprehension that the new road could meet the same fate as the last, being overwhelmed and washed away once intense rainfall recommences. With the permanent bridge still several months from completion, the precarious nature of this temporary solution means locals can only hope for a prolonged dry spell. Such an outcome, however, is unlikely as the monsoon approaches.

June 3, 2025 0 comments
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Taloja: Razed bridge transformed into temporary road, now washed away by rains
Civic NewsFeatured

Taloja: Razed bridge transformed into temporary road, now washed away by rains

by Vishal TM May 29, 2025
written by Vishal TM

A vital temporary road in Navi Mumbai’s Taloja area, constructed from the debris of a recently demolished bridge over a canal connected to the Taloja river at Ghot Camp, has been completely broken down and swept away following heavy pre-monsoon rains on May 26th. This incident has caused considerable disruption for thousands of residents. The full extent of the trouble has been somewhat mitigated by the fact that schools and colleges are currently closed for holidays.

The affected passage was the sole connecting route for Ghot Camp with the rest of Taloja. It served as a critical link for commuters travelling out of Taloja and those working in the Taloja MIDC area, where an alternative, longer route also exists.

The old bridge was removed to facilitate the construction of a new, two-section bridge. One section of this new structure, designed for inbound traffic, is nearing completion, while the second, for outbound traffic, remains largely unfinished and will require at least several months for full usability. The old bridge’s debris had been utilised to form the makeshift road and concurrently act as a temporary blockage for the canal’s water flow. Notably, the contractor had inserted pipes through this debris to permit water passage.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued an alert for coastal Maharashtra, including Navi Mumbai and Mumbai, forecasting thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds, with a possibility of heavy rainfall. The subsequent heavy downpour on May 26th caused the canal to overflow with force, completely breaking down and sweeping away the temporary road despite the installed pipes. As of Thursday, May 29th, the canal’s water level has receded to a gentle flow; however, the temporary road remains entirely broken and unusable.

Commuters now face significant delays. Vehicle users are compelled to take a considerably longer alternative route through the MIDC area. Meanwhile, pedestrians are resorting to crossing via the under-construction bridge, which has been temporarily fitted with planks to enable passage.

Taloja: Razed bridge transformed into temporary road, now washed away by rains
People walking over a plank to cross the under-construction bridge at Ghot camp, Taloja (Photo Credit: Suraj Prajapati)

Amidst these challenges, the contractor responsible for the new bridge was observed working to restore the temporary road, aiming to facilitate smoother movement for commuters. Despite these efforts, an immediate, permanent solution remains elusive, given the current state of the new bridge’s construction and the lack of a comprehensive alternative road plan for the interim, especially concerning the potential impact once academic institutions reopen.

May 29, 2025 0 comments
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WHT NOW launches National Youth Ambassador Program to combat growing cybercrime in India
EventsFeatured

WHT NOW launches National Youth Ambassador Program to combat growing cybercrime in India

by Staff Reporter April 21, 2025
written by Staff Reporter

Mumbai — In a strategic move to tackle the ever-increasing rate of cybercrime across India, WHT NOW, a digital safety movement, has launched a National Youth Ambassador Program. A collective effort of universities and colleges across the country, the initiative aims to train over 5,000 students as ‘digital first responders’ on campus, by the end of 2025. These will be trained to thwart the growing cases of sextortion, cyberbullying, identity theft and online harassment, the numbers of which have peaked up in recent years.

India, home to over 850 million internet users, is one of the most digitally connected nations in the world yet digital safety awareness remains limited within formal education systems. Based on a recent data by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), there has been a 24.4% surge in cybercrime in 2025 alone, with over 65,000 FIRs registered. The actual numbers, experts believe, are far higher, considering the fact that most victims hesitate to report such cases due to fear, stigma or lack of awareness. Out of these, women and minors account for a majority of victims.

WHT NOW’s mission is to bridge that gap by placing empowered young voices at the centre of change.

“This is not just an initiative; it’s a national movement,” said Neeti Goel, Founder of WHT NOW. “We are witnessing an epidemic of silence around online abuse. Our aim is to equip the youth with knowledge, courage and community because only they can change the digital narrative from fear to empowerment.”

Under the programme, each ‘Youth Ambassador’ will undergo expert training in cyber law, reporting mechanisms, psychological first-aid and digital ethics. The program includes hands-on workshops, mentorship from cybersecurity experts and legal professionals and the creation of on-campus Digital Safety Cells to support peers and drive awareness campaigns.

Experts asserted that cybercrime goes far beyond being a tech issue; it’s an overwhelmingly emotional, legal, and social crisis, and the only way to create an impact would be by building undeterred leadership at the grassroot levels. It is such intent that has led to the direct approach to educational campuses.

Backing the legal dimension of the campaign, Akshat Khetan, Co-Founder and legal strategist, added, “In our work, we often see victims freeze in confusion, not knowing where to turn. With trained ambassadors on ground, there will now be a peer-led, structured channel for support, guidance and immediate action.”

Aneka Goel has been designated as the Global Youth Ambassador of WHT NOW, and will represent and coordinate the youth movement across India and internationally. “I’m not here to speak for others — I’m here to speak with them,” said Aneka. “As a young person, I know the digital world is both empowering and dangerous. This role is my commitment to making sure we fight back with empathy, knowledge and unity.”

The movement aims at creating a ripple effect by the training of over 5,000 Youth Ambassadors, directly benefiting lakhs of students and young citizens across the country by creating safer, more aware and better-equipped digital communities. These ambassadors will ensure that they mentor, educate and defend the young from getting exploited digitally, and also provide a support system in the face of such exploitation.

A dedicated national helpline has been set up by WHT NOW, to support victims and concerned individuals. Victims can get immediate assistance, guidance and referral support for cases related to cyber abuse, harassment and online threats, by calling on  — +91-9019115115

The campaign has already garnered the support of over 40 academic institutions, and pilot chapters have been initiated. The long-term goal is to build a pan-India network of trained ambassadors who act as on-ground support for both prevention and response.

The program will officially roll out in phases starting May 2025, with a pan-India tour of awareness sessions, university MOUs and the release of a digital toolkit.

April 21, 2025 0 comments
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NMMC Budget 2025-26: Much awaited animal hospitals and a dedicated pet crematorium, coming this year
Civic NewsFeatured

NMMC Budget 2025-26: Much awaited animal hospitals and a dedicated pet crematorium, coming this year

by Vishal TM February 25, 2025
written by Vishal TM

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) came out with their budget today 25 February 2025. Municipal Commissioner, Dr. Kailas Shinde, presented the NMMC’s Budget 2025-26, which includes updates regarding animal welfare in Navi Mumbai. Shinde outlined plans for a new animal hospital in Sanpada, a pet crematorium, continued work on the Juinagar hospital, and the ongoing Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme.

Key Takeaways for animal welfare provisions in NMMC’s Budget 2025-26:

  • Sanpada Animal Hospital: The budget allocates funds for the establishment of an animal hospital in Sanpada, aimed at providing veterinary services.
  • Pet Crematorium: Plans are in place for a pet crematorium to serve the community.
  • Juinagar Hospital: Work on the Juinagar hospital continues, with interior work reported to be nearing completion and civil and equipment upgrades ongoing.
  • Animal Birth Control (ABC) Programme: The ongoing ABC programme will continue, with the aim of controlling the stray animal population.

A Measured Response:

Residents have noted the updates and expressed a desire for practical results. “We acknowledge the ongoing efforts,” said Kapil Malhotra, founder of The Bark Treat, Seawoods, “and hope to see these projects progress smoothly. It is important that these services become available to the community, including the continued work of the ABC program.”

The NMMC will now focus on the implementation of these plans, with the aim of providing improved animal welfare services to Navi Mumbai.

February 25, 2025 0 comments
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NMMC Budget 2025-26: Navi Mumbai's animal lovers await adequate funds, as well as action
Civic NewsFeatured

NMMC Budget 2025-26: Navi Mumbai’s animal lovers await adequate funds, as well as action

by Vishal TM February 25, 2025
written by Vishal TM

As Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) prepares to present its annual budget today, 25 February 2025, animal welfare advocates across the city are placing their hopes on comprehensive measures to improve the lives of animals throughout Navi Mumbai. Concerns have been raised regarding delayed animal welfare projects, notably the long-pending animal hospital and clinic at Juinagar. Residents are calling for a broader, city-wide approach to animal welfare in this year’s budget, beyond just financial allocations.

Juinagar Hospital: Delays and Capacity Concerns

Residents are increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress. The hospital, after four years of inactivity, remains a mere structure. Questions linger about the promised incinerator and the allocation of funds in the upcoming budget. Many are asking if, after such a prolonged delay, the facility will even be adequate for the city’s growing stray population. There’s a strong sense that a ‘patch-up job’ won’t suffice; a genuine, comprehensive solution is needed.

The Juinagar animal hospital, while anticipated to open in a few months, has already faced a four-year delay, raising questions about the NMMC’s commitment to timely project completion. Even upon opening, there are concerns whether this single facility will be sufficient to serve the entire city’s growing population of stray animals. With Navi Mumbai’s population expanding, the number of strays is also on the rise, placing increasing pressure on existing resources.

“While we’re relieved to hear the Juinagar hospital might finally open, we have to ask: will it be enough?” said a local animal welfare volunteer. “Four years is a long time to wait, and now we need to be sure that this facility can handle the volume of animals needing care. We can’t afford another delay or a half-measure.”

City-Wide Needs and Expectations

For years, animal welfare organisations and concerned citizens have emphasised the need for enhanced facilities and programmes to support stray animals and pets. The lack of a comprehensive animal hospital network, coupled with limited resources for Animal Birth Control programmes, has created significant challenges.

The need for a city-wide commitment to animal welfare is becoming more apparent. While the Juinagar hospital project is important, residents stress that it cannot overshadow the broader needs of animals in every neighbourhood. They are calling for a budget that reflects a holistic approach, addressing the diverse challenges faced by animals across the city.

Residents are calling for increased funding to establish strategically located animal care centres, improve existing Animal Birth Control programmes, and support local animal welfare organisations. They are also advocating for educational initiatives to promote responsible pet ownership and raise awareness about animal welfare issues.

Practical Implementation and Community Involvement

Beyond funding, there’s a strong emphasis on the need for practical implementation and community involvement. For instance, despite expectations since 2021, the NMMC has yet to launch an Animal Birth Control program for cats, highlighting the importance of clear budgetary provisions and implementation timelines. Residents stress that even modest budgets can be effective if funds are used efficiently and projects are completed on time. Delays and mismanagement, they argue, are as detrimental as a lack of funding. Community members believe that true progress requires more than just financial allocations; it demands a collaborative effort between the NMMC and its citizens.

Kapil Malhotra, founder of The Bark Treat, a pet food and accessories store in Seawoods, echoed these sentiments, drawing from his extensive experience helping stray dogs and cats. “As someone who’s been on the ground, feeding strays, coordinating rescues, and even providing shelter within my own shop, I can tell you that the challenges are immense,” Malhotra explained. “The lack of a civic animal hospital is a major hurdle. We often struggle to find vets willing to treat strays, and we face constant pushback from those who simply don’t want animals in their neighbourhoods. What we need from the NMMC is more than just financial allocations. We need practical support, like accessible veterinary care, community awareness programmes to change attitudes, and streamlined processes for Animal Birth Control and rescue operations. We need a budget that empowers citizens and organisations to work together for the welfare of these animals.”

Demand for dedicated animal parks

Beyond the immediate needs of veterinary care and population control, residents are also calling for dedicated animal parks across Navi Mumbai. Currently, there is only one dog park in the city, located in Vashi. These spaces would provide safe and hygienic environments for pets to exercise and socialise, while also offering opportunities for community engagement and education on responsible pet ownership. The lack of additional animal parks has been a longstanding concern for pet owners, who often struggle to find suitable areas for their animals to roam freely.

Animal lovers are urging the NMMC to put forward a budget that lays out a clear, city-wide strategy for animal welfare. They want to see tangible commitments to getting on with delayed projects like the Juinagar hospital, while also putting in place robust support systems for animal care throughout Navi Mumbai. The hope is that this year’s budget will bring about real, lasting change and make good on the promises made to the city’s animal population, with a focus on both funding and effective implementation.

February 25, 2025 0 comments
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EventsFeatured

Salaam Bombay Foundation’s Kala Ka Karawaan: Art showcase for Mumbai’s government school students

by Vishal TM February 23, 2025
written by Vishal TM

YB Chavan Auditorium in Mumbai recently played host to an event put on by the Salaam Bombay Foundation, providing a platform for students from the city’s municipal and government-aided schools to showcase their artistic and media skills. The event, Kala Ka Karawaan, offered a glimpse into the creative potential within these educational institutions, and helped to bring to the fore the talent often overlooked.

Exhibitions

The event featured exhibitions from the Arts Academy, where students put on display their work in painting, photography, and digital art. Interactive stalls laid out the practical skills they had acquired in areas such as filmmaking, podcasting, and magazine writing. This focus on vocational skills drew attention to the event’s emphasis on preparing students for future opportunities.

Performances

Theatre and dance performances provided a space for students to give voice to their lived experiences and perspectives. These performances, while showcasing artistic talent, also served as a means of communication, addressing real-world issues relevant to the students’ lives.

Alumni Inspiration

The presence of alumni, including artist Priti Singh, choreographer Sagar Kanojia, and photographer/video editor Kushal Mahale, shed light on the potential career paths available to students. Their success stories, originating from Mumbai’s municipal schools, stood as tangible examples of the impact of the foundation’s work.

Foundation’s Aims

Rajashree Kadam, Senior Vice President (Arts and Media), Salaam Bombay Foundation, pointed out the event’s alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, stating, “Kala Ka Karawaan demonstrates that if students from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds are given the right education and opportunities, they can achieve extraordinary success.” This statement spoke to the foundation’s commitment to providing vocational training and fostering cultural development.  

Official and Industry Perspectives

Jeff Goldberg, a renowned theatre director, actor, and screenwriter, and co-founder of the Jeff Goldberg Studio in Mumbai, observed, “The confidence, talent, and storytelling skills these students possess are incredible.”

Bhushan Gagrani, BMC Commissioner, added, “Students in Mumbai’s municipal schools have immense potential. Organisations like Salaam Bombay Foundation prove that, with the right platforms, they can excel in fields beyond traditional academics.”  

The event served as a reminder of the importance of providing equal opportunities in education, and the potential for vocational training to bring out the talent within Mumbai’s municipal schools.

February 23, 2025 0 comments
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