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Mumbai: BMC Keeps Aside Gargai Dam Project, Prefers Seawater Desalination

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To address the annual water shortages and eliminate water cuts, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been exploring options for augmenting water resources. Two potential solutions emerged: desalination of seawater and the development of the Gargai water resources into a dam, supplying water to the Modak Sagar Lake.

Preventing Tree Cutting for Gargai Dam

The BMC’s study indicated that the construction of the Gargai dam would require the felling of approximately 2.5 lakh trees. With a focus on preserving the environment, the BMC has decided to prioritise the establishment of seawater desalination plants instead. The tendering process for the desalination project is expected to commence within the next two to three months.

“The study of BMC shows that around 2.5 lakh trees need to be cut to construct Gargai dam and we want to save those trees. Therefore, We have given first preference to the desalination of seawater plants. Tenders for the desalination project will be floated in the next two to three months

“On the other hand, a company has been selected for the construction of Gargai dam and a tender document is also being prepared. Thereafter, the permission of the state government will be taken and then work will begin. The estimated time of construction of Gargai dam is three years,” Additional Municipal Commissioner, (Project) P Velrasu said.

Progress on Gargai Dam Construction

Concurrently, the BMC has selected a company for the construction of the Gargai dam, and preparations for the tender document are underway. Once the state government grants permission, construction work on the Gargai dam is scheduled to begin. The estimated timeframe for completing the dam is three years.

Current Water Resources and Supply

To cater to the water needs of Mumbai, the city relies on seven dams: Upper Vaitarna, Modak Sagar, Tansa, Madhya Vaitarna, Bhatsa, Vihar, and Tulsi. These lakes collectively hold 14 lakh 47 million litres of water. The BMC supplies 3850 million litres of potable water daily, while the actual demand stands at 4200 million litres per day. The Hydraulic department of the BMC regularly assesses water stocks and formulates water management plans for the year.

Annual Water Cuts and Reserve Water Usage

During May and June, the BMC traditionally seeks permission from the state government to utilize reserve water stock from the Bhatsa and Upper Vaitarna lakes. Last year, all lake levels dipped by 11%, prompting the BMC to implement a 10% water cut in Mumbai. However, heavy rainfall in July led to the withdrawal of water cuts after 12 days. This year, the city is once again at risk of facing water cuts.

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Is the New Waqf Bill Beneficial for the Muslim Community? Report: Qamar Ansari

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The recently introduced Waqf Bill by the government has once again sparked debate within the Muslim community. The bill is being presented as a step towards better management, transparency, and protection of Waqf properties across the country. However, differing opinions have emerged over whether it truly serves the interests of the Muslim community.

The new bill includes several key provisions, such as enhancing the powers of Waqf Boards, introducing a digital registry of Waqf properties, and initiating strict action against illegal encroachments. The government claims that the bill will ensure the protection of Waqf assets and that the revenue generated from them can be effectively used for education, healthcare, and welfare projects.

However, some religious and social organizations have expressed concerns. They argue that Waqf properties are inherently linked to religious purposes, and direct government interference could compromise religious autonomy. Some fear that the bill may hinder the freedom and original purpose of Waqf properties.

On the other hand, legal experts and reformist voices believe that if implemented honestly, the bill could be a positive step for the Muslim community. With better administration of Waqf assets—many of which have been mismanaged or encroached upon—the community could benefit in significant ways.

What’s the Difference Between the Old and the New Waqf Bill?

Old Waqf Law:
The earlier Waqf law, enacted under the “Waqf Act 1995,” aimed to regulate and safeguard thousands of Waqf properties across India. Key features included:

  • Establishment of State Waqf Boards.
  • Responsibility for property management vested in the Boards.
  • Mandatory registration of Waqf properties.
  • Appointment of Mutawallis (caretakers) with board approval.

Over time, however, the law revealed weaknesses in its implementation. Problems such as illegal encroachments, corruption, and ineffective oversight continued to rise.

New Waqf Bill:
The new Waqf Bill introduces several major changes, aiming to modernize the system, enhance transparency, and incorporate technology. Key provisions include:

  • Digital Registry: All Waqf properties to be registered and monitored online.
  • Central Database: A national Waqf portal to provide public access to information.
  • Action Against Encroachments: Legal powers to swiftly remove illegal occupants.
  • Administrative Transparency: Stronger audit mechanisms and transparent functioning of Waqf Boards.
  • Grievance Redressal System: A responsive complaint cell to address corruption and misuse.

Summary of Differences:

AspectWaqf Act 1995 (Old Law)Waqf Bill 2025 (New Bill)
RegistrationManual registryDigital registry with a national portal
OversightState-level monitoringCentralized oversight and national database
TransparencyLimitedEnhanced transparency and robust auditing system
Action Against EncroachmentLengthy legal processSwift legal action provision
Public ParticipationWeak grievance mechanismActive grievance redressal system

The use of modern technology, improved transparency, and administrative reforms in the new Waqf Bill are promising aspects. However, some scholars and religious groups worry that increasing government involvement may infringe upon religious autonomy. The actual impact of the bill will largely depend on its execution and the extent to which the Muslim community is consulted and included in the process.

For now, it remains too early to say whether the bill will prove to be entirely beneficial for the Muslim community. Its success hinges on fair implementation and inclusive governance.

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Maharashtra

Thief who came from Mumbai and committed several thefts arrested

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Mumbai: Police have claimed to have arrested a thief who committed theft in the limits of Milind police station, against whom several cases of theft and burglary are registered in Mumbai. Mumbai Zone 7 DCP Vijay Kant Sagare, while addressing a press conference here, said that the accused came to Mumbai by flight with the intention of stealing and broke into several 5 houses.

Theft cases are registered against him in Nehru Nagar, Milind, Alwaye, Navi Mumbai. One and a half lakh silver ornaments weighing two kg, totaling Rs 15 lakh have been seized. Cases of stalking are also registered against the criminal Rajesh in Dombivali, Vishnu Nagar, Vishai, Vitthalwadi, Manpara, Pan police stations.

The accused told that he came to Mumbai from Varanasi by plane on March 13, 2025 and robbed five houses in 15 days.

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Maharashtra

Struggle Against Land Mafia in Waqf Properties: New Amended Bill Adds to the Challenges

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New Delhi : In the ongoing battle to protect Waqf properties and ensure their benefits reach the deserving, land mafias, encroachers, and illegal groups were already a major hurdle. Now, the government’s newly amended bill has emerged as another significant challenge. Advocate Dr. Syed Ejaz Abbas Naqvi has strongly criticized this move and demanded immediate reforms. He stated that the primary objective of Waqf was to benefit the needy, but unfortunately, this objective has completely failed. On the other hand, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the largest Sikh religious organization, has been actively involved in the welfare of its community for decades. As a result, the Sikh community has nearly eradicated beggars and human rickshaw pullers.

Illegal Encroachments and Misuse of Waqf Lands Exposed :
According to Dr. Naqvi, Waqf properties have suffered the most due to unlawful encroachments by vested interest groups. The most unfortunate fact is that many Waqf lands were originally donated for the shrines (Dargahs) of Syed families, but they have been grossly misused. He revealed that a well-known individual shamelessly sold an acre of prime Waqf land on Mumbai’s Altamount Road for just 1.6 million rupees, a blatant violation of Waqf principles and laws.

Demand for a Stricter Amendment in Section 52 :
Dr. Naqvi has called on the government to take strict action against those who illegally sell Waqf properties. He has urged for an immediate amendment to Section 52 of the Waqf Act to introduce

capital punishment or life imprisonment* for unauthorized Waqf land sellers. This issue is a major setback for those fighting to safeguard Waqf properties, who are already battling corrupt elements and illegal land grabbers. It remains to be seen whether the government takes these concerns seriously and enacts effective legislation to protect Waqf lands.

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