Maharashtra is in mourning due to the plane crash that took place in Baramati, on Wednesday, killing Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister. Pawar was a senior member of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and was one of the most prominent political figures in the state, having had many decades of public service and helping build the economy and administration of Maharashtra.
In memory of 'Ajit Dada', Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared three days of state mourning in the state of Maharashtra from January 28 through January 30.
In a post on X on January 28, CMO Maharashtra stated, "Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has canceled all his programs and both he and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde are departing for Baramati in a short while. A public holiday has been declared in the state today, and a three-day mourning period has been announced."
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As the state observes these three days of grief to honour the 66-year-old NCP leader, here's all you need to know about what will remain open and closed across the state during this period.
According to a report by news agency NDTV, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all buildings where it is flown regularly.
What is closed?
Administration: According to several media reports, administrative departments, public sector enterprises (PSUs) and all offices of state government will not be open to the public. Although some essential services could be provided by administration using a limited number of employees, no additional business will be conducted until the period of mourning ends.
Educational institutions: Suspension of classes was announced by a majority of schools, colleges and universities located throughout the state, particularly in Mumbai, Pune and Baramati. Several examinations that were scheduled previously have been postponed, as per a report by Republic World.
Entertainment programmes: Media reports have informed of all entertainment events run by the government as well as cultural and celebratory events have been cancelled. This also includes state-sponsored events such as ceremonies or inaugurations where public projects are involved.
Rallies: The suspension of rallies and public meetings occurred spontaneously by all political parties as a mark of respect for "Ajit Dada", where Baramati along with parts of Pune observed a spontaneous bandh.
Also Read | Who were with Ajit Pawar on the ill-fated flight? Here's all we know
What's open?
Essential services: The critical infrastructure system remains intact. Hospitals, pharmacies, ambulance services, firefighters and police are all operational.
Transport: Ensuring that residents do not get stranded due to the city shutdown, local trains in Mumbai will continue operating (BEST and MSRTC bus services), although there may be some small modifications to the frequency of the train and bus schedules due to local lockdowns impacting specific areas.
Banks: Most commercial banks, ATMs and stock markets will remain operational. Local grocery stores, milk booths and retail stores will also stay open to provide daily needs.
IT hubs: Major companies and IT centres in Pune and Hinjewadi have issued advisories for employees to work from home and avoid travel during the high-security period.
