Village-level panels to keep an eye on illegal mining in Panchkula

Authorities in Panchkula, India, have set up village-level committees to help tackle illegal sand mining, after impounding 32 vehicles in the past month, according to deputy commissioner Priyanka Soni. The district mining department has also registered 15 FIRs and recovered INR28.2m ($373,000) in fines since April 1. The committees will be made up of village leaders and other prominent members. Complaints about illegal mining have been received from nine areas in Panchkula sub-division and three in Kalka sub-division.

BEST fares hiked from today, to generate ₹590 crore annually

BEST bus fares doubled, with minimum rates rising to Rs 10 for non-AC and Rs 12 for AC buses. New pricing aims to generate Rs 590 crore annually, with concessions for students, senior citizens, and special needs passengers.

Drug peddler killed in encounter in Jagraon

In a drug bust near Jagraon, one peddler was killed and another escaped during an ANTF encounter. Police recovered 2 kg heroin, a pistol, and a vehicle after the shootout, with investigations continuing to track the fugitive.

Chhota Rajan granted bail in 2009 attempt-to-murder case involving ex-Shiv Sena leader

Gangster Chhota Rajan granted bail in a 2009 attempt-to-murder case involving a Shiv Sena leader. The case, linked to the Pune Porsche crash's grandfather, was deemed non-critical by the CBI court, which found no impediment to his release.

Malad residents affected by road widening pin hopes on HC

Malad residents are challenging BMC's road widening project in Bombay High Court, claiming the work threatens building structures, parking spaces, and green cover. They allege the project unfairly benefits a developer and violates proper procedures.

Shivaji’s legacy in national curriculum

Maharashtra's education minister proposed including Chhatrapati Shivaji's history in national curriculum, which was accepted by the Union education minister. The move aims to educate students nationwide about the 17th-century Maratha warrior king's legacy and contributions.

Delhi cancels leaves of officials and doctors until further notice

Delhi government cancels leaves for officials and doctors due to heightened security tensions with Pakistan. Police increase night patrols and traffic regulation in the capital, maintaining vigilance across the city.

Bulldozer runs over six-year-old in Pune; driver held

In Pune, a bulldozer ran over a six-year-old boy near his mother's kiosk while she was away. The child was declared dead. The 26-year-old driver, Rahul Yadav, was arrested for rash and negligent driving.

HC seeks Centre’s response to firm’s plea to allow human trials of cancer vaccine

Bombay High Court issued notice to drug regulator over a Nashik-based cancer research firm's plea to conduct human trials for Per-C-Vax, challenging CDSCO's rejection of their vaccine trial application under clinical trial rules.

HC contemplates committee for conservation of Thane flamingo sanctuary

Bombay High Court considers forming a committee to monitor conservation of Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, focusing on expanding eco-sensitive zones, banning aquaculture, regulating activities, and protecting the habitat's ecological integrity.

Pune police custody of four in Mercedes accident case extended by 2 days

Four men arrested in a fatal Mercedes accident in Pune have their police custody extended by two days. The speeding car killed one youth and injured another on May 3, with all accused allegedly intoxicated during the incident.

Relief for residents as PMRDA to build its own STPs in its jurisdiction

PMRDA plans to build its own sewage treatment plants (STPs) in its jurisdiction, aiming to improve sanitation for residents. A project management consultant will assess population needs and guide STP placement in rapidly growing areas like Hinjewadi and Wagholi.

Over 50,000 housing projects registered with MahaRERA; highest in India

Maharashtra's MahaRERA registered 50,162 housing projects, the highest in India, representing 35% of national housing projects. The milestone reflects expanding real estate development across the state, particularly in regions like Konkan and Pune.

Discom SDO suspended for non-performance

Haryana energy minister Anil Vij recommended suspending Avneet Bhardwaj, SDO at DHBVNL Farrukhnagar, for non-performance. The suspension was immediate, with the officer required to report to Hisar office and receive subsistence allowance.

Two premium housing societies in Pune allegedly found polluting Ramnadi River

Two premium housing societies in Pune are accused of polluting Ramnadi River by releasing untreated sewage. MPCB initiated action, local gram panchayats issued notices, and residents demand accountability for environmental and health hazards.

Pune railway division earns ₹62 crore in revenue from ticket cancellations

The Pune division of Central Railway reported a revenue of ?62.7 crore from ticket cancellations in the financial year 2024-25, a 24% increase from ?50.48 crore in 2023-24. The rise is attributed to last-minute cancellations, with policies criticized for excessive fees. Passengers are urged to reconsider booking practices amid concerns over fairness in ticketing and refund policies.