Fishermen face losses as rough seas halt operations and diesel quota remains pending.

The Storm

The fishing season in Uran has barely begun, but local fishermen are already facing difficulties. Rough weather and strong winds in the sea have forced several fishing boats to remain anchored at Karaj and other nearby ports.

The disruption has come at a difficult time for the fishing community, which is already struggling with rising operational costs and declining fish catches. With boats unable to venture into the sea, fishermen fear further financial losses during what is expected to be an important fishing season.

Another major concern is the delay in the allocation of the diesel quota. Fishermen depend heavily on subsidized diesel to operate their boats, and the delay has added to their financial burden. They have urged the authorities to approve the quota at the earliest. Fishermen have also raised concerns about the lack of a guaranteed price for their catch and adequate compensation for losses. Although fishing has been given agricultural status, they say they are yet to receive benefits comparable to those available to farmers.

For many families in Uran, fishing is not just a business but their main source of livelihood. The combination of unpredictable weather, rising costs and policy-related issues has made the beginning of this season particularly challenging.

Fishermen are now hoping that weather conditions improve soon and that the government addresses their concerns, allowing them to return to the sea and continue their work without further financial uncertainty.

Demand comes amid monsoon-related illnesses, with residents seeking quicker access to dengue and other fever tests.

The Tests

With monsoon-related illnesses on the rise, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has urged the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) to start fever profile testing at its health centres in Nerul and Karave.

MNS city secretary Sachin Kadam submitted a letter to NMMC Medical Officer Dr Rajesh Mhatre, requesting that the facility be made available at the health centres in Sector 48, Nerul, and Sector 36, Karave.

At present, residents visiting these centres with fever are primarily advised to undergo malaria testing. If the report is negative, patients are asked to visit Meenatai Thackeray Hospital for further tests for dengue and other infections. Residents say the additional travel can be difficult, particularly for elderly people and those who are unwell.

A fever profile test generally includes tests for dengue, malaria, typhoid, leptospirosis and a complete blood count (CBC), helping doctors identify the possible cause of fever at an early stage. Sachin Kadam said providing these tests locally would save patients time and reduce the need to travel to another facility for basic investigations.

Following the request, the NMMC Medical Officer reportedly assured the MNS delegation that fever profile testing would soon be introduced at both health centres. The move, if implemented, could make diagnosis more convenient for residents and help ensure that patients receive timely medical attention during the monsoon season.

Over 9,000 runners including differently-abled athletes took to the slopes of Panvel in a historic display of grit and community.

The Marathon

Long before dawn broke over Navi Mumbai, the quiet paths of Central Park transformed into a surging sea of thousands of eager runners. At 4:30 AM, as the opening flag dropped, over 9,000 participants set off in the inaugural Kharghar Mayor Hill Marathon, making history in Panvel.

Billed as India’s first 42-kilometer hill marathon, the event earned prestigious international recognition from AIMS, drawing seasoned elite athletes alongside casual weekend joggers. Celebrated Marathi actor Ankush Chaudhari, alongside Mayor Nitin Patil and civic leaders, cheered on the massive crowd as they conquered the challenging terrain.

Beyond the competitive thrill, the day was defined by spirit and inclusion. More than 100 differently-abled runners took to the course, proving that endurance knows no physical bounds.

In the grueling 42-kilometer main event, Nilesh Dagdu Arsekar claimed victory in the men’s category with a time of 2 hours, 54 minutes, while Shivani Chaurasia dominated the women’s division, finishing in 3 hours, 28 minutes.

From hydration points to drone monitoring and dedicated medical response teams, civic volunteers ensured a safe, seamless experience. As the finish line celebrations swept through Kharghar, the marathon left behind more than just broken records it cemented Panvel’s place on the national endurance sports map.