intensified security around Maharashtra Secretariat in Mumbai as Maratha Morcha protest enters fourth day, reinforced by local police

In the heart of Mumbai, a significant development has unfolded as thousands of protestors have been camping in South Mumbai during the Maratha quota agitation. The agitation, which has been ongoing for four days, has led to several changes in the city's traffic patterns and enhanced security measures.

The BEST bus routes have been diverted to ease congestion, and vehicular movement near Mantralaya has been halted. The General Jagannath Bhosle Road leading to YB Chavan Centre and traffic on J.J. Road have been diverted, with northbound traffic on D.N. Road being diverted towards Metro Cinema via Fashion Street. Services on Jagannath Bhosale Marg, D N Road, and Mahapalika Marg have also been rerouted. Traffic from the Eastern Freeway may be diverted towards J.J. Road depending on the situation. Madame Cama Road and Free Press Journal Marg have been closed to traffic.

Mumbai Police has deployed 2,000 personnel and 450 traffic officers to maintain order. Police security has been beefed up outside the Maharashtra Mantralaya with personnel from the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) deployed. Policemen are standing guard at every entry point to the Maharashtra Mantralaya, and security forces have erected three-tier barricades around the state secretariat.

The identified leader of the Maratha quota agitation in Mumbai is activist Manoj Jarange Patil. He has been staging an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan and threatened to refuse water starting September 1 to press for Maratha reservation under the OBC category. Jarange-Patil has warned the Maharashtra government not to insult the Maratha community's pride.

If a solution is not reached this week, Jarange-Patil has threatened a waterless hunger strike. This development has raised concerns among authorities, who have issued traffic advisories to avoid disruption on Monday as office-goers return to work.

In addition, security has also been heightened outside the residences of ministers near the Mantralaya due to the large-scale Maratha agitation in the Marine Drive area. Police have urged citizens to avoid CSMT Junction and surrounding areas unless absolutely necessary.

Authorities are working diligently to manage the situation and maintain peace in the city. As the situation evolves, it is essential for citizens to stay informed and follow traffic advisories to ensure a smooth commute.