Latest news with #Konkan


United News of India
16-07-2025
- Politics
- United News of India
Raju Shetty vows to fight against Shaktipeeth highway
Kolhapur / Sindhudurg, Jul 16 (UNI) MP and president of Anti-Shaktipeeth Highway Action Committee, Raju Shetty, today termed the proposed Shaktipeeth Highway being built by the Maharashtra government as a "Swarthpeeth" (selfish pursuit), which will plunge the state into a debt trap, and vowed to continue his fight till this highway is cancelled. Talking to reporters at Sawantwadi in Sindhudurg district after visiting Sri Patradevi Goa area, he said, "Proposed Shaktipeeth Highway being built by the Maharashtra goverment, is a 'Swarthpeeth' (selfish pursuit), which will plunge the state into a debt trap, and I will fight till the last drop of my blood to get this highway cancelled." Shetty emphasised that his agitation for cancellation of proposed Shaktipeeth was not political but was for protecting the rights of the people of the land and to save the fragile environment. He said that the estimated expenditure of this proposed Shaktipeeth highway is Rs 86,000 crore but considering working style of the state government, the proposed expenditure will raise up to Rs 1.50 lakh crore, which will not be affordable for the government but mount the burden of loan on the state, he reasoned. He made an emotional appeal to the people of Sindhudurg district to extend support for cancellation of the proposed Shaktipeeth highway. Asked about statement of Konkan MLA Deepak Kesarkar who had said that the proposed Shaktipeeth highway will not pass through the Sindhudurg district, Shetty replied that the government has not changed its plan. UNI SSS SS


Time Business News
24-06-2025
- Time Business News
Best Beaches in Maharashtra: Coastal Escapes You Can't Miss
Maharashtra's coastline stretches over 700 km along the Arabian Sea, offering a treasure trove of sun-kissed beaches, cultural retreats, and offbeat seaside getaways. Whether you're seeking peace, water adventures, or beach parties, the best beaches in Maharashtra cater to every traveler's desire. From the golden sands of Ganpatipule Beach to the clear waters of Tarkarli Beach, the lively buzz of Juhu Beach to the tranquil shores of Velneshwar—each destination has its own charm. You can read Best Hill Stations in Maharashtra Beaches like Alibag Beach and Kashid Beach make for perfect weekend getaways from Mumbai and Pune, while hidden gems like Vengurla-Malvan Beach, Bhatye, and Guhaghar offer untouched beauty and authentic Konkan experiences. Rich in heritage, blessed with natural beauty, and dotted with temples, forts, and coconut groves, these coastal escapes promise unforgettable moments. In this blog, explore the best beaches in Maharashtra with complete information—how to reach, best time to visit, must-see attractions, fun activities, and handy travel tips. Whether you're a solo backpacker, couple, or family, it's time to dip your toes in Maharashtra's finest coastal gems. Overview: A pristine beach blessed with a famous Ganesh temple, Ganpatipule is ideal for both spiritual seekers and beach lovers. Nearest station: Ratnagiri (30 km) Road: 340 km from Mumbai Best Time to Visit: November to March Ganpatipule Temple Prachin Konkan Museum Malgund Beach Swimming Devotional visits Watching sunsets Book early during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi Avoid weekends for a peaceful experience Famous Weekend Getaway From Mumbai Overview: A long, uncrowded beach lined with chikoo orchards, perfect for relaxed, offbeat trips. Nearest station: Dahanu Road Road: 140 km from Mumbai Best Time to Visit: October to March Bordi Beach Asavli Dam Dahanu Fort Beach strolls Orchard walks Local Warli art tours Try fresh chikoo during harvest season Great for eco-stays and rural tourism Overview: One of the most iconic and lively beaches in Mumbai, Juhu is perfect for evening outings, street food, and celeb spotting. Easy access from anywhere in Mumbai via road and suburban rail Best Time to Visit: October to February ISKCON Temple Prithvi Theatre Versova Beach (nearby) Try Mumbai street food Evening walks Beach sports Keep an eye on personal belongings Visit during weekdays to avoid heavy crowds Best Weekend Getaways From Delhi – One Day Trip Overview: A scuba diving paradise, Tarkarli is one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in Maharashtra. Nearest station: Kudal (35 km) Road: 550 km from Mumbai Best Time to Visit: October to March Sindhudurg Fort Devbagh Beach Tsunami Island Scuba diving Snorkeling Dolphin watching Stay in beachside homestays for best experience Book water sports in advance Overview: Kashid is a quiet, white-sand beach nestled between Alibag and Murud, perfect for picnics and water sports. Road: 30 km from Alibag, 125 km from Mumbai Best Time to Visit: October to February Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary Murud-Janjira Fort Revdanda Beach Banana boat rides Camping Photography Weekdays are more peaceful Avoid monsoon due to high tides Best Tourist Places In Maharashtra To Visit In Summer Overview: Popular for its proximity to Mumbai and ferry access, Alibag offers a mix of beach fun, historic forts, and local cuisine. By ferry from Gateway of India to Mandwa + local transport Road: 100 km from Mumbai Best Time to Visit: November to February Alibag Fort Kihim Beach Varsoli Beach Water sports Fort exploration Local seafood tasting Try cycling from Mandwa to Alibag Book ferry tickets online in peak season Best 20 Places To Visit in Pune Overview: A holy beach town often called the 'Kashi of the South,' surrounded by hills and temples. Nearest town: Shrivardhan (18 km) Road: 200 km from Pune Best Time to Visit: October to February Harihareshwar Temple Diveagar Beach Kalbhairav Temple Temple visits Sea walks Photography Early mornings are peaceful for temple darshan Combine with Diveagar and Shrivardhan for a beach circuit Overview: A clean, serene beach perfect for a spiritual and nature-filled retreat. Nearest town: Guhagar (20 km) Road: 300 km from Mumbai Best Time to Visit: October to March Velneshwar Shiva Temple Hedvi Ganesh Temple Guhagar Beach Meditation Local seafood Swimming Carry cash; limited ATMs No water sports, ideal for peace seekers Overview: Famous for their clean waters, coral reefs, and cultural festivals, these beaches are a hidden gem of Konkan. Nearest station: Sawantwadi (20 km) Road: 540 km from Mumbai Best Time to Visit: October to February Sagareshwar Beach Vengurla Jetty Sindhudurg Fort (Malvan) Snorkeling Dolphin tours Seafood feasts Hire local guides for underwater sports Ideal for peaceful vacations Overview: A lesser-known beach with a vast coastline, perfect for long walks and quiet time. Nearest town: Chiplun (45 km) Road: 280 km from Mumbai Best Time to Visit: November to February Vyadeshwar Temple Anjanvel Lighthouse Hedvi Ganesh Temple Sunset walks Village exploration Nature photography Carry food and water on the beach Not many resorts—opt for local homestays Overview: A beautiful long beach near Ratnagiri, ideal for photography, family time, and gentle swims. Best Time to Visit: November to March Mandavi Beach Ratnadurg Fort Thibaw Palace Parasailing Sand sports Exploring Ratnagiri town Combine with Ganpatipule trip Visit early morning for best photos Maharashtra's coastline is filled with diverse beach destinations—from lively shores to quiet getaways. Whether you're after water sports, temple visits, photography, or peaceful sunbathing, the best beaches in Maharashtra offer something for everyone. Plan your journey, respect the coast, and soak in the stunning Konkan charm. Q1: Which is the cleanest beach in Maharashtra? A: Tarkarli and Ganpatipule are among the cleanest beaches. Q2: Which beach is closest to Mumbai? A: Juhu and Alibag are the most accessible from Mumbai. Q3: Which beaches are best for water sports? A: Tarkarli, Alibag, and Kashid offer various water sports. Q4: When is the best time to visit beaches in Maharashtra? A: October to March offers the best beach weather. TIME BUSINESS NEWS


Indian Express
23-06-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mumbai Confidential: Tantra in Maharashtra politics
In Maharashtra's political corridors, whispers of occult rituals have been associated with a regional powerhouse. The speculation turned abuzz when several of its leaders recently visited the famed Kamakhya temple in Assam, a known seat of Tantric power. A new name has now entered this domain — a cabinet heavyweight from the Konkan belt, embroiled in a bitter tussle over the plum post of guardian minister. A video clip, said to be from last year but recently gone public, appears to show the minister in ritual regalia seated beside an Aghori sadhu clad in black, in what seems like a ritualistic invocation. Political opponents say it shows how tantra is thriving in the state's polity. Firebrand Concern Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, as part of his outreach to the Muslim community after the split in the NCP, had famously promised that he would not spare anyone who intimidated Muslims in the state. Pawar, however, seems to be struggling to rein in a young firebrand from his own stable. The three-time MLA from a prominent western Maharashtra city and the son-in-law of a sitting BJP legislator has been making speeches laced with communal rhetoric. His most recent demand was that Muslim employees at a well known temple trust be removed. With back-to-back electoral victories and an eye on further consolidation, the young leader is believed to be tapping into rising polarisation to shore up his personal clout. Power Games An NCP minister was livid when he realised that a newly appointed chief officer of a prime municipal council in his constituency had taken charge without the consent of state's Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Development Department Minister Eknath Shinde. The appointment was through an officer in Shinde's office without informing the former CM. The NCP minister complained to Shinde on the cabinet day after the appointment was cancelled. Now the officer who went ahead without informing Shinde and is holding double charge at present is under radar.


Indian Express
22-06-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Mumbai Confidential: Tantra in Politics
Tantra In Politics In Maharashtra's political corridors, whispers of occult rituals have been associated with a regional powerhouse. The speculation turned abuzz when several of its leaders recently visited the famed Kamakhya temple in Assam, a known seat of Tantric power. A new name has now entered this domain — a cabinet heavyweight from the Konkan belt, embroiled in a bitter tussle over the plum post of guardian minister. A video clip, said to be from last year but recently gone public, appears to show the minister in ritual regalia seated beside an Aghori sadhu clad in black, in what seems like a ritualistic invocation. Political opponents say it shows how tantra is thriving in the state's polity. Firebrand Concern Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, as part of his outreach to the Muslim community after the split in the NCP, had famously promised that he would not spare anyone who intimidated Muslims in the state. Pawar, however, seems to be struggling to rein in a young firebrand from his own stable. The three-time MLA from a prominent western Maharashtra city and the son-in-law of a sitting BJP legislator has been making speeches laced with communal rhetoric. His most recent demand was that Muslim employees at a well known temple trust be removed. With back-to-back electoral victories and an eye on further consolidation, the young leader is believed to be tapping into rising polarisation to shore up his personal clout. Power Games An NCP minister was livid when he realised that a newly appointed chief officer of a prime municipal council in his constituency had taken charge without the consent of state's Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Development Department Minister Eknath Shinde. The appointment was through an officer in Shinde's office without informing the former CM. The NCP minister complained to Shinde on the cabinet day after the appointment was cancelled. Now the officer who went ahead without informing Shinde and is holding double charge at present is under radar.


Hindustan Times
21-06-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Mhada reduces prices of Kalyan homes
Jun 21, 2025 08:20 AM IST Mumbai: The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority's (Mhada) Konkan board has reduced the prices of 6,248 units in housing projects at Shirgaon and Khoni villages under Kalyan tehsil. The houses, built under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) for economically weaker section, will now be sold on a first-come first-serve basis. Mhada reduces prices of Kalyan homes Sanjeev Jaiswal, vice-president and chief executive officer, Mhada, has approved the revised price for the houses. The price of 5,236 houses in Shirgaon has been reduced by ₹ 1.43 lakh each to ₹ 19.28 lakh each. Similarly, the price of 1,012 houses at Khoni has been reduced by ₹ 1.01 lakh to ₹ 19.11 lakh each.