Mind Your Business, Say Nainital Tourists, Asked To Use Dustbin
A heated argument broke out at Nainital's Lovers' Point when tourists were asked to dispose of their trash responsibly. Watch the viral video.
Uttarkashi mosque row: Muslim organizations allege threats to mosque's legitimacy
DEHRADUN: In a new twist in the ongoing campaign led by Hindutva organizations demanding the demolition of a mosque in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi district, concerns have emerged from Muslim organizations. They fear that the administration may succumb to pressure to manipulate documents regarding the mosque's legitimacy. Speaking to The New Indian Express , Ishtiyak Ahmed, president of the Jama Masjid Committee in Uttarkashi, expressed deep concerns over potential external pressures influencing the administration's decisions. We are deeply concerned that external pressures could influence the administration's decisions, he stated. He further emphasized the mosque's legal standing, asserting, Our mosque has legal standing, and we will not stand idly by while attempts are made to undermine it. Following repeated demands from Hindu organizations, led by the Sanyukt Sanatan Dharma Rakshak Sangh, for the demolition of a 55-year-old mosque in Uttarkashi, Muslim petitioners sought protection from the High Court. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the Nainital High Court instructed the state government to enforce strict law and order measures in and around the mosque area. We have approached the High Court seeking protection for the mosque, said President Ahmed . Despite this, we remain steadfast in our demand for enhanced security measures, he added. Conversely, the administration has resolutely dismissed the concerns raised by the Muslim groups. There is no basis for such fears; we are committed to upholding the law and ensuring that all communities are treated fairly, stated Mukesh Ramola, the sub-divisional magistrate of Bhatwari. How can there be any tampering with the documents when they (mosque committee) have certified copies? If anyone interferes with the documents in the record room, a criminal case will be filed, stated SDM Ramola. After the repititive demand of Hindu organisations led by The Sanyukt Sanatan Dharma Rakshak Sangh advocating for the demolition of a 55-year-old mosque in Uttarkashi, Muslim petitioners turned to the High Court for protection. Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the Nainital High Court directed the state government to ensure strict enforcement of law and order in and around the mosque area. On November 22, a division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Manoj Kumar Tiwari and Justice Rakesh Thapliyal reviewed a petition concerning the case. The bench issued directives to the state government and the Director General of Police, emphasizing the critical need to maintain peace and order in the region. In a recent development, the Sanyukt Sanatan Dharma Rakshak Sangh, which has launched a campaign against a local mosque, held a masssive Mahapanchayat on Sunday. The event featured the firebrand MLA from Telangana, T. Raja Singh, along with other leaders from the VHP and BJP. During the gathering, Raja urged Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to adopt the strategies of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in addressing issues related to love and land 'jihad.' In a surprising turn of events, the Mahapanchayat proceeded as planned, despite assurances from government counsel in the High Court that o permission had been granted for the gathering. Uttarkashi Mahapanchayat: TG MLA urges U'Khand CM to adopt Yogi's approach to counter 'love jihad'
Crisis looms over Uttarakhand's rivers amid climate change and human intervention
DEHRADUN : Changing weather patterns, climate change, and increasing human activities in the mountainous regions of Uttarakhand are pushing the states 206 perennial rivers and streams toward the brink of drying up. According to a report by the Spring and Rejuvenation Authority (SARA), a staggering 5,428 water sources in the state are currently under threat. Speaking to TNIE , Dr. Vikas Vats, a climate change expert at SARA, stated, The Uttarakhand government established the Spring and Rejuvenation Authority (SARA) last November to investigate the current state of the states perennial rivers and streams in light of the impacts of climate change. This initiative aims to understand how these vital water sources have been affected by the changing climate. As part of this effort, SARA directed all relevant state departments to collaborate and provide data regarding the condition of these water bodies. The findings that emerged from this collaboration have raised serious concerns within the government. Some of the statistics revealed were startling, prompting the administrative machinery to take the issue seriously and consider necessary interventions to address the challenges facing Uttarakhand's rivers and streams. Dr. Vats emphasized that human intervention, rather than nature, is primarily responsible for the current state of the rivers. He stated, We have prepared a pilot project to revive five identified rivers. The National Institute of Hydrology (NIH) and IIT Roorkee have been assigned the study for this initiative. Following this, work will commence on other rivers. The five rivers targeted for rejuvenation include the Song River in Dehradun, the Western Nayar (Pauri), the Eastern Nayar (Pauri), the Shipra River (Nainital), and the Gaudi River in Champawat. Dr. Vats pointed out that these rivers have faced the most severe impacts of climate change in recent years. According to information obtained by this newspaper, data from the Water Resources Department reveals that there are 288 water sources in the state with less than 50% of their original water levels remaining. Furthermore, nearly 50 of these sources have less than 75% of their water left. A significant number of sources are on the brink of drying up completely. Experts warn that if immediate measures are not taken, these vital water sources could cease to exist. In the past 150 years, the rise in temperature due to climate change has been more pronounced in Tibet and the Himalayas than in the rest of the world. Experts warn that this alarming trend is leading to significant environmental consequences. Moreover, in Bhimtal, the lake has started to resemble a plain. This is just one example; similar crises are emerging across other rivers and water sources, said environmentalist Dev Raghvendra, emphasizing the urgent need for action. Climate change is causing mountains to crumble, and rivers are either changing their courses or wreaking havoc during floods, a climate scientist noted. In Haldwani, the water levels of the Gaula and Kosi rivers in Ramnagar and Almora have dropped, creating a crisis for drinking water and irrigation. The situation is dire; we are facing severe shortages, a local official stated.
Toxic air from Delhi reaches Himalayan states, threatens biodiversity
DEHRADUN: The toxic air enveloping Delhi has now begun to affect the Himalayan states, with a marked increase in particulate matter levels pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) beyond safe limits. Scientists have raised concerns that the worsening pollution levels in the Himalayan region could pose a serious threat to its biodiversity. Once regarded as bastions of clean air and pristine environments, the Himalayan statesUttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmirare now experiencing the adverse impact of pollution from the Indo-Gangetic plains. A report by the GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, Kosi-Katarmal, has revealed an alarming rise in particulate matter (PM) levels. Data shows a 22% increase in PM levels between the last week of October and the first week of November, followed by a further 7% rise in the subsequent week. Scientists have noted that under typical conditions, pollutants transported from the Indo-Gangetic plains tend to dissipate as they ascend the mountains. However, this year has witnessed an unusual combination of stable weather conditions and long-range transport of pollutants, which has severely degraded air quality in the Himalayan region. This environmental crisis coincides with the crop residue burning season, a period known to exacerbate pollution levels in northern India. However, satellite data from NASA has indicated a significant decline in active fire incidents this year, with a reduction of 70-80% compared to previous years. Despite this reduction in stubble burning, experts point to other factors aggravating the situation. Secondary aerosol formation, along with emissions from industrial activities and vehicles, has contributed significantly to the deterioration of air quality. While the number of fires has decreased, other pollution sources continue to exacerbate the problem, an environmental analyst observed. Meanwhile, the pollution crisis in Delhi appears to have had an unexpected impact on tourism in the Himalayan states. Sanjay Agarwal, President of the Mussoorie Hotel Association, and Digvijay Singh Bisht, President of the Nainital Hotel Association, noted a surge in tourist interest in Uttarakhand this year. The ongoing pollution challenges in the capital have prompted travelers to seek cleaner and healthier destinations, they stated. The worsening air quality in the Himalayas has prompted calls for immediate and coordinated action to mitigate pollution and protect the region's fragile biodiversity.
DEHRADUN: In a significant development, the ongoing agitation by Hindu outfits demanding the demolition of a 55-year-old mosque in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, has escalated to the Nainital High Court. On Friday, a division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Manoj Kumar Tiwari and Justice Rakesh Thapliyal heard a petition related to the case. Following the proceedings, the court issued directives to the state government and the Director General of police, emphasizing the need to maintain peace and security in the region. In a hearing before the division bench of the High Court on Friday, senior counsels Dr. Kartikey Hari Gupta, Imran Ali Khan, Pallavi Bahuguna, Rafat Munir Ali, and Irum Zeba, representing the petitioners, raised serious concerns regarding hate speech directed at Muslims. The members of the Sanyukt Sanatan Dharam Raksha Sangh and their associates have engaged in extreme hate speech against Muslims and the mosque, they argued, emphasizing that such actions are in violation of the directions issued by the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India in the case of Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay v. Union of India Others. The 'Alpsankhayak Seva Samiti' has filed a writ petition asserting that he Jama Masjid on Bhatwari Road in Uttarkashi was constructed in 1969 on privately purchased land. The petition further states that in 1986, the Assistant Waqf Commissioner of Uttar Pradesh conducted an inquiry and confirmed that a mosque existed on Khasra No. 2223, built by members of the Muslim community using charitable funds. Additionally, the Waqf Commissioners report certified that he mosque is actively used by the Sunni community. The petitioners asserted, In 1987, the Jama Masjid on Bhatwari Road was officially registered as a Waqf property. However, in September 2024, the Hindu outfit leaders Jitendra Singh Chauhan, Swami Darshan Bharti, Sonu Singh Negi, Lakhpat Singh Bhandari, and Anuj Waliawho identify themselves as members of the Sanyukt Sanatan Dharam Raksha Sangh and Vishwa Hindu Parishad, began threatening to demolish the mosque. Uttarkashi mosque dispute: Rising communal tensions, allegations of illegality The petitioners have alleged that these leaders have spread false information about the mosque's legality and have engaged in hate speech against the Muslim community. The controversy surrounding the mosque has sparked a broader campaign led by the Sanyukt Sanatan Dharam Raksha Sangh, which is pushing for the demolition of the mosque, located at the base of Varunavat Mountain. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has also announced plans to hold a Mahapanchayat on December 1 in support of their cause. Speaking to TNIE, advocate Imran Ali Khan stated, We have pleaded before the court citing a Supreme Court ruling in which the Supreme Court has directed that in any case of hate speech, even if there is no complainant, the state authorities shall take suo motu action against the perpetrators of hate speech and register a case under Sections 196 and 197 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS). If the state authority fails to register a complaint against hate speech, it shall be considered contempt of the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India. The issue has already led to violence. On October 24, a protest turned chaotic as tensions flared, leading to stone-pelting and police baton charges. The incident left 27 people injured, including nine police officers. In response, authorities filed an FIR against 200 unidentified individuals and named eight suspects. Three key organizers were arrested but later secured bail from the district judge's court. Unrest in Uttarkashi over anti-mosque protest: Prohibitory orders imposed
Illicit Liquor Factory Busted In Uttarakhand's Nainital
A joint team of Uttarakhand Police's Special Task Force (STF) and Excise Department on Wednesday busted an illicit liquor factory being run in a house at Mukhani in Nainital district and arrested one person.
Uttarakhand has 729 bird species across 13 districts
DEHRADUN: In a landmark event for the state, the two-day Uttarakhand Bird Census 2024 has successfully concluded, with bird watchers and nature enthusiasts reporting a total of 729 bird species across 13 districts. According to an official of the state forest department, the impressive tally of 729 includes several rare and endangered species, showcasing the rich avian diversity of the state. The two-day bird census, organised by the e-Bird organization in collaboration with the forest department and various other groups in Uttarakhand, concluded on Sunday. According to official sources from the forest department, Nainital has been identified as the leading district for bird diversity in the state, boasting an impressive count of 251 species. Dehradun follows closely behind with 230 species, while Pauri Garhwal ranks third with 180 species. Bird expert and forester Pradeep Saxena told this newspaper, While the first-ever bird count in Uttarakhand may not provide an exact number of the various bird species in the state, a total of 2,504 birds from 77 species were counted at the Asan Barrage. Among these, the highest counts included 625 Ruddy Shelducks, 238 Indian Spot-billed Ducks, and 324 Eurasian Coots. The endangered Wire-tailed Swallow, Plain Prinia, Grey Wagtail, and Booted Eagle were also observed, each in solitary numbers, said the forester. Saxena informed this newspaper that among the 17 bird species classified as endangered, several notable examples include the Pied Avocet, Red-wattled Lapwing, Spotted Dove, Rose-ringed Parakeet, Greater Coucal, and White-throated Kingfisher. These species are facing increasing threats to their populations, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect their habitats and ensure their survival in the wild. In a significant development during the Global Bird Count, the first-ever bird count in Uttarakhand, bird watcher Nitin Kumar Raghav shared his insights with this newspaper. The programme primarily focused on identifying which species are located where, he stated. Understanding which bird species are declining in the hills, plains, or wetlands is crucial for bird conservation. This knowledge will enable us to undertake urgent conservation efforts in the future. Ankita Bhatt, a bird watcher, said, During this count, we have gathered data on how many species of birds are present in the state, the locations where they were found, and their population sizes. This information will help us gain a better understanding of the diversity of birds in the region.
Seven people, including newly-wed couple, die in road accident in Uttar Pradesh's Bijnor
After being hit by the car, the tempo rammed into an electric pole around 2 am on Saturday (November 15, 2024) near the fire station of Dhampur on the Dehradun-Nainital Highway
Seven people, including newly-wed couple, die in road accident in UP's Bijnor
Bijnor (UP): Seven people, including a newly-wed couple, returning from Jharkhand died while two others were injured when a car hit a tempo from behind while overtaking another vehicle, police said on Saturday. After being hit by the car, the tempo rammed into an electric pole around 2 am on Saturday near the fire station of Dhampur on the Dehradun-Nainital Highway, Superintendent of Police Abhishek said. The tempo passengers were thrown on the ground by the impact of the accident, he said. Six people of the same family travelling in the tempo were killed on the spot while its driver Ajab Singh died on the way to a hospital, the SP said. Two persons who were moving in the car have been injured, police said, adding the bodies of the deceased have been sent for post-mortem.
Youth Performs Shirtless Motorbike Stunts On Nainital Road, Video Triggers Police Action
The Haldwani police quickly detained a youth and seized his motorcycle after he posted a video near Walkway Mall. The video prompted immediate action by the police after it was circulated online
Kavya's journey as an influencer began in January 2023 after she left her job to pursue content creation full-time. Originating from Nainital and having lived in both Delhi and Mumbai, her varied experiences have shaped her content.
Uttarakhand monsoon tragedy: 82 lives lost, landslides double in 2024
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand is battling an unprecedented surge in landslides, triggered by relentless monsoon rains, with the number of incidents skyrocketing to twice the count recorded in 2023. Since the onset of monsoon on June 23 this year, the Himalayan state has witnessed 1,521 landslides in just 17 days, with the number rising to 1,813 by the end of the monsoon season, official sources said. The situation is extremely fragile, said a senior official. We are working round-the-clock to mitigate the risks and ensure public safety. Devastating rains and floods in landslide-prone areas have claimed 82 lives and left 28 people missing in Uttarakhand this monsoon season, official sources confirmed. The fatalities include three in Almora, eight each in Chamoli and Champawat, seven in Dehradun, three in Haridwar, eight in Nainital, three in Pauri Garhwal, four in Pithoragarh, 20 in Rudraprayag, six in Tehri, 10 in Udham Singh Nagar, and two in Uttarkashi. Twenty-eight people are reported missing, while 544 livestock have perished in the disaster. Speaking to TNIE, Vinod Kumar Suman, State Secretary for Disaster Management, said, While rain-induced landslides are unavoidable, we're investigating possible causes behind landslides in areas where rainfall wasn't a factor, adding, he said, We have begun analyzing the potential causes behind these incidents. The State Disaster Management Secretary Suman revealed that a special meeting was held at the State Secretariat on Saturday to analyze landslide damage and prepare 15 years' worth of data. This study will enable the state to tackle future challenges effectively. We have decided to compile data on landslide damage over the past 15 years, the Secretary said. By studying this data, we will be better equipped to handle future disasters. The state aims to develop a strategy based on lessons learned from past disasters, particularly those that occurred in the last 10-15 years. Accuracy in weather forecasting has been exceptional this time, with IMD's support playing a crucial role, said Secretary Suman. Encouraged by this success, the state has proposed increasing Automated Weather Stations (AWS) through district-level initiatives. The state's disaster management department effectively took precautionary measures in Tehri, Udham Singh Nagar, and Kedarnath, leveraging AWS capabilities. Data from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) reveals a disturbing trend in Uttarakhand's landslide activity. Between 1988 and 2023, the state recorded 12,319 landslides, with a sharp increase in recent years: Landslide frequency spikes: Year Number of landslides - 2018: 216 - 2019: 254 - 2020: 328 - 2021: 354 - 2022: 245 - 2023: Over 1,100 landslides - 2024 (till date): 1,813 landslides
Global warming plays truant, Pindari glacier melts
DEHRADUN: The Pindari glacier in the upper Himalayas has retreated significantly, sparking concerns about the impact of global warming on Uttarakhands environment and tourism industry. The Pindari glacier has retreated by more than half a kilometer in the last 60 years, said Padma Shri awardee Anoop Sah, a member of the Uttarakhand State Wildlife Board, after his recent visit to the glacier. Researchers at the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology have corroborated Sahs statement through their studies. Its true that the glacier has retreated. This is a continuous process, and glaciers can also regain their original form, Manish Mehta, a glaciologist at the Wadia Institute, told this newspaper. Glaciers are dynamic systems, and their retreat or advancement is a natural phenomenon. However, human activities and climate change can exacerbate the process, he said. Sah said, In 1964, when I first ventured to Pindari glacier, the Zero Point was blanketed with snow. Now, all thats left are barren, crumbling mountains. Sah and fellow explorer Dhirendra Bist embarked on their latest journey to the glacier from Ranikhet on October 16, reaching Zero Point on October 20. Returning to Nainital on Thursday, they shared their experiences. The receding glaciers are having a devastating impact on the regions wildlife. Species like the Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, sambar, ghural, kakar, satyr, tragopan, monal, and hill peafowl, once abundant, are now rarely spotted, Shah said. Bist said, The disappearance of glaciers has forced animals like snow leopards and bears to venture into human settlements, attacking shepherds sheep and horses. The explorers highlighted the alarming shift in the regions vegetation, with rare herbs like salam panja, salam mishri, atis, and kutki becoming increasingly scarce. This ecological imbalance threatens the very survival of the Himalayan ecosystem, Sah emphasised. Immediate action is necessary to mitigate the effects of climate change and preserve this fragile environment. Sah and Bist expressed concern over the harmful impact of construction on Himalayan glaciers. During their recent expedition, Sah observed extensive use of cement and concrete on trekking routes, posing a significant threat to glacier health. Cement and concrete are detrimental to glaciers. Instead, local resources like bamboo and ringal should be utilised for construction, preserving the glaciers integrity and the regions natural beauty, Sah said. Ive trekked to Pindari Glacier 11 times, traversing Trail Pass in 1994, Baljuri Peak in 1972 and 2023, and Nanda Khat in 1972. Our expeditions highlight the Himalayas majesty and fragility. Its crucial we preserve this ecosystem for future generations, he said. Uttarakhand, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, is witnessing the impact of global warming. Pindari glacier, one of the states iconic landmarks, is among the latest casualties.
New snake species discovered in Himalayas, Named After Leonardo DiCaprio
A team of researchers discovered a new snake species in the western Himalayas which has been named after famous Hollywood actor and Producer, Leonardo DiCaprio for his contribution to the conservation. The species has been named Anguiculus dicaprioi or DiCaprios Himalayan snake. It was discovered by researchers from India, Germany, and the United Kingdom while searching the lesser-known species of India's reptiles during their project in 2020. Their study of the new species was published on Monday in Scientific Reports, a peer-reviewed journal. The new species was classified by the researchers under a new genus called Anguiculus, which means small snake in Latin. The study explained, The specific epithet dicaprioi is a patronym honouring Leonardo DiCaprio, an American actor, film producer, and environmentalist who has been actively involved in creating awareness about global climate change, increased biodiversity loss, and human health issues through pollution. The study also said, In addition to this, he has made funds available for field conservation activities and research. Suggested common name DiCaprios Himalayan snake. The researchers were visiting the mountainous regions in the western Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh for their ongoing project when they found a few brown-coloured snakes in the mud road. The study further mentioned, The individuals were seen basking and remained motionless until caught and made no attempts to bite. The study of these snakes, their DNA analysis, and their comparison with other snakes led to the discovery of new species. HT Lalremsanga, a professor in the Department of Zoology at Mizoram University, and a member of the team of researchers, said, Besides being found in areas of Himachal Pradesh like Chamba and Kullu, the new species has also been found in Nainital in Uttarakhand and Chitwan National Park in Nepal. The other researchers of the team are Zeeshan A Mirza, Patrick D Campbell, Harshil Patel, Gernot Vogel, Saunak Pal, and Virender K Bhardwaj. The study describes the new species as small-sized, reaching about 22 inches in length. It features a road collar with small dark brown spots, a obust skull, and a steeply domed snout. This species is found at heights of approximately 6,000 feet above sea level.
Dehradun diary: Union minister recalls Ratan Tata's love for Uttarakhand
Union Minister recalls Tatas love for state Former Union Education Minister Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank revealed that renowned industrialist Ratan Tata was deeply captivated by Uttarakhands breathtaking landscapes. Tata held a special affinity for the state and had even dreamt of settling here. Recalling his tenure as CM, Nishank shared that he had invited Tata to the states foundation day celebrations on November 9, 2010, which Tata had graciously accepted. Dr Nishank reminisces about Tatas profound interests in literature, art, music, yoga, and meditation. Tatas invaluable contributions will be etched in Indias memory, he adds. State film council CEO talks of hiked subsidies Uttarakhand Information and Film Development Council (UFDC) CEO Bansidhar Tiwari met Bollywood veteran Paresh Rawal on the sets of Anant Narayan Mahadevans upcoming film Past Tense. Tiwari highlighted the state governments new film policy, offering increased subsidies for films, OTT releases, and web series. The government, under CM Pushkar Singh Dhamis guidance, is committed to developing the film industry, he stated. State is promoting direct employment opportunities through film production, while also encouraging tourism in the state, said Tiwari. UP ministers prime land in Nainital attached In a significant move, state government has attached a land worth multi-crores in Nainital owned by Bhavani Singh, wife of Raghuraj Pratap Singh alias Raja Bhaiya. The land, purchased 17 years ago, has been seized amid ongoing disputes between Bhavani Singh and Raja Bhaiya. The Nainital district administration has taken control of a 27-nali agricultural land in Siltona village, Kanchi Dham tehsil, owned by Bhavani Singh. The land was seized due to alleged violation of land use conditions under the stringent land laws implemented by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.This development adds to Raja Bhaiyas growing list of controversies. narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@newindianexpress.com
A homestay owner in Nainital shared his horrifying experience with guests from Delhi-NCR. Taking to Instagram, Nature View Villa, a vacation home in Nainital, shared a video showing the sorry state of the room and the mess the group left behind.
Nanital Homestay Owner Shares Horrifying Experience With Delhi-NCR Guests
A homestay owner in Nanital shared his horrifying experience with guests from Delhi-NCR. Taking to Instagram, Nature View Villa, a vacation home in Nainital, shared a video showing the sorry state of the room and the mess the group left behind.
Thennarasu Asks Nirmala Sitharaman To Release Metro Rail Funds
Chennai: Strongly refuting Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharamans claim that the ongoing second phase of the Chennai Metro Rail project was a State Sector Project, State Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu clarified that the scheme was envisaged in 2017 as a Central Sector Project, under which the Union Governments share worked out to Rs 7,425 crore. Speaking to the media in Coimbatore on Thursday, Sitharaman had said that for the second phase of Metro Rail scheme the Union Government had arranged for a loan of Rs 21,000 crore and that the State government had only spent 5,880 crore in executing the project. All that was denied by Thennarasu in a statement on Friday. He said the State government had already spent Rs 11,762 crore of its own funds for the project on which a total amount of Rs 18,564 crore had been expended so far. Demanding that the Union Government released its share of Rs 7,425 crore by recognizing the scheme as a Central Sector Project as recommended by the Public Investment Board (PIB) in 2021, he said the second phase of Chennai Metro Rail was the biggest project of it kind in India as it envisaged three routes totally running for 119 km. The detailed plan submitted to the Union Government envisaged the State and Union Governments sharing the expenses 50:50 with the total outlay worked out to Rs 62,246 crore based on the valuation by the Union Housing and Urban Affairs department, he said. Since the State government started the project with its own funds in 2018 even as the Union Government was studying the proposal because the Japanese financial agency, JICA, wanted the work on the project to be launched immediately, Sitaraman was trying to erroneously portray it as a State Sector Project, he said The Union Government had been giving a step motherly treatment to Tamil Nadu by not releasing the funds due to it, while funds were allocated for Metro Rail schemes in other cities like Bengaluru (Rs 30,399 crore), Kochi (Rs 1957 crore), Nagpur (Rs 6708 crore), Pune (Rs 910 crore) and Thane (Rs 12,200 crore), he said. Chennai was ignored in the fund allocation though the Union Budget of 2020-21 had mentioned Chennai as a city that would have a Metro Rail along with Kochi, Bengaluru, Nagpur and Nainital, he said. Pointing out that the Union Budget for 2024-25 left out Tamil Nadu for funds and Equity and Subordinate Debt allocation, while States like Maharashtra, New Delhi, Gujarat and Karnataka received their dues, Thennarasu said the deliberate neglect of Chennai was aimed at slackening the other people oriented projects by putting the State government in a difficult position as for revenue was concerned.
Three hospitalised after chlorine gas leak in Nainital
SRDF and NDRF teams at the spot for rescue efforts.
SC orders U'khand Medical College to release original documents of MBBS students
NEW DELHI: In a relief to 91 students, the Supreme Court has ordered a medical college in Uttarakhand to release their original documents withheld by the institute for non-payment of fee arrears. A bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud took note of the submissions of senior lawyer Gaurav Agarwal and advocate Tanvi Dubey, appearing for the doctors, that the students will neither be able to register themselves as medical practitioner nor can take up examinations for higher studies for lack of original documents. The bench, which also comprised justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, ordered Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical and Health Sciences College at Dehradun in Uttarakhand to release the documents on payment of Rs 7.5 lakh to students who have completed their MBBS course and the requisite internship. The students will have to give an undertaking that they will be paying the remaining fee arrears, the top court said on Monday. The medical college had earlier increased Rs 5 lakh annual fees to Rs 13.22 lakh for students who got admission under the All India quota. The college had increased the annual fees of Rs 4 lakh per annum to Rs 9.78 lakh for those who had taken admissions under the state quota. The fee hike was made applicable with a retrospective effect. The students, who completed their MBBS course and also did the one-year internship, had challenged the legality of the decision of the college asking them to pay exorbitant arrears to get their original documents. Without original documents, the doctors are forced to sit idle at home. They can neither participate in counselling of NEET-PG nor start their practice in a hospital, Dubey said. The matter has been seeing a series of litigation for the past few years and a petition was also pending at the Nainital High Court against a retrospective fee hike. The students had challenged the order asking them to pay around Rs 38 lakh, the lawyer said. The counsel for students argued that the decision was arbitrary and forcefully imposed on them for a course they have already completed. If they were aware earlier, they would have never chosen a college in Uttarakhand since they were getting colleges in their home states at a lesser fee, the lawyer said. The high court had directed the students to pay the entire amount in nine instalments. The college had issued a notice stating that the internship could not start unless payments were made. Senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, appearing for the college, said often it gets difficult for the colleges in such scenarios to keep track of the pending dues from students after documents are released. Some of the students simply vanish and in some cases, the cheques, given towards the arrears of the fees, have bounced.
Dehradun Diary: Cong MLA donates salary for disaster relief
Lakhpat Butola, the newly elected Congress MLA from Badrinath, Uttarakhand, has announced that he will forgo his increased salary for the next six months. He intends to donate the amount to support relief efforts in Chamoli district, which has recently been affected by a natural disaster. The Uttarakhand assembly had recently approved a hike in MLAs salaries to `4 lakh. Butola is the only legislator to have made this pledge. He said while the government and other organisations are offering relief to those affected, the severity of the disaster calls for every elected representative to step up efforts. Uttarakhand govt to revamp old markets The Uttarakhand government is set to revamp the states bustling historic markets with a new redevelopment policy, which will soon be presented to the Cabinet. The plan involves redeveloping these markets through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Many cities, including Dehradun, Haridwar and Nainital, have markets with narrow roads, no vehicle entry, and inadequate parking. A government spokesperson said that the markets will be redeveloped with a modern design, replacing the existing one- or two-storey shops with new complexes with parking facilities. Shake-up after liquor mafia attacks journo In a major shake-up, the Senior Superintendent of Police has transferred 37 policemen from the affected police station, including Kotwali, and dissolved the SOG team, attaching them to headquarters. A journalist was brutally attacked by the liquor mafia in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, while reporting on illegal liquor sales, leaving him critically injured and hospitalised at AIIMS. The police have arrested the accused and taken action against the liquor mafia. This incident has prompted Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to take swift action, highlighting growing concerns about journalist safety and the illicit liquor trade in the state. Narendra sethi Our correspondent in Uttarakhand narendrasethi@ newindianexpress.com
Uttarakhand police file cases against two BJP leaders for alleged sexual harassment, One arrested
DEHRADUN: In two separate incidents, police in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand have registered cases against two BJP leaders for alleged sexual harassment. In one case, a district-level leader of the party has been arrested, while in the other, a case of rape and intimidation has been filed against another leader, with questioning of the accused underway. A widow from Bindukhatta has levelled serious allegations against Mukesh Bora, Administrator of the Uttarakhand Cooperative Dairy Federation., police said. The victim claims that Bora promised her a permanent job and exploited her physically. She alleged that on November 10, 2021, he raped her at a hotel in Kathgodam. Even after the incident, she was threatened and intimidated multiple times and forced to remain silent. In a written complaint to the police, the victim has made additional allegations, stating, Bora also pressured her to engage in relationships with his friends and threatened to kill her if she refused. The victim further claims that Mukesh Bora and his driver, Kamal Belwal, have been consistently threatening to kill her and her children. The victim is a daily wage worker at Nainital Dairy Federation in Lalkuan. On November 10, 2021, BJP leader Mukesh Bora called me and asked me to meet him at Jayka Hotel in Kathgodam. He said he would introduce me to someone who could help me get a permanent job. However, after I arrived, no one showed up, said the victim in her complaint, adding, alleged, Bora then started touching me, and when I objected, he ignored my protests and forcibly raped me, promising me a permanent job. The victim further alleged that Bora threatened her, saying: If you tell anyone about this, I'll remove you from your daily wage job and circulate your photos. The victim claimed she remained silent due to fear, as she has two young children to care for. Dinesh Singh Fartiyal, SHO of Lalkuan, told TNIE , A case has been registered against both named accused under sections 376 and 506 of the Indian Penal Code. Since the incident occurred in 2021, the new 'Bhartiya Nyay Sahinta' does not apply. Investigations are ongoing based on evidence, but no arrests have been made yet. In a separate case, Bhagwat Singh Bora, BJP Mandal President of Salt Block in Almora district, was arrested by police late at night from Marchula Road. SSP Devendra Pincha confirmed, The accused has been produced in court and sent to jail. The BJP has expelled Bhagwat Singh Bora from the party following his arrest. Meanwhile, in the Lalkua case, the government has removed Mukesh Bora, also accused of rape, from his post as Administrator of the Uttarakhand Cooperative Dairy Federation. The main opposition party in the state, Congress, has unleashed a scathing attack on the BJP, demanding accountability from the state's BJP government for all cases of sexual assault that have occurred in the past year, involving senior party leaders.
Mild earthquake tremors felt in Uttrakhand's capital Dehradun
DEHRADUN: An earthquake with a magnitude of 3.1 on the richter scale jolted Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand on Sunday night. Thw quakes epicenter was located 5 kilometers beneath the ground in the city. District Disaster Management Officer Rishabh Kumar said that mild earthquake tremors were felt in some areas of the capital city, but the quake's low intensity, caused no damage. However, officials will remain vigilant for the next 3-4 days. Geologists caution that a mild tremor does not necessarily predetermine a major earthquake, but nor can the possibility be ruled out. Instead, the slight jolt serves as a mild reminder and a call to be better prepared. A mild earthquake is a practical reminder for preparedness and to be equipped for the future, Dr. Pal a retired seismology and earthquake engineering scientist from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology told TNIE . Uttarakhand falls under the high-seismic zone five, which includes most parts of Rudraprayag district, along with Bageshwar, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, and Uttarkashi districts. Udham Singh Nagar, Nainital, Champawat, Haridwar, Pauri, and Almora fall under zone 4 of earth quake prone area. Some areas of Dehradun and Tehri districts are under zone 4, while others fall under the high-seismic zone 5. Experts attribute the frequent earthquakes in the Himalayan region to the collision of the Indo-European plate, leading to continuous release of energy from beneath the earth's surface. According to past records, most earthquakes have been recorded in high-seismic zones, indicating a persistent stress build-up in the region's geology.
'No better time to be in India than now'
The chain has also appointed Shailender Singh as the market managing director for Eurasia. Wyndham has 60 operational hotels in India, with 45 hotels in the pipeline. Wyndham's upcoming hotel openings for this year include new properties in Srinagar, Nainital, Ayodhya, Vrindavan and Wayanad.