Borugaddas bail plea: HC directs Guntur district judge to record doctors statement
VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh High Court has directed the Guntur Principal District Judge (PDJ) to ensure that the statement of Dr PV Raghava Sharma, a doctor at Lalitha Super Specialty Hospital, is recorded by a judicial magistrate and submitted to the court. This order pertains to a case involving Borugadda Anil, who allegedly submitted fake medical certificates to secure interim bail. The HC issued the directive on Thursday, stating that the court would decide on Anils bail after reviewing Dr Raghava Sharmas statement. The hearing was adjourned for two weeks. Anil, arrested by Anantapur police for posting content on social media targeting Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, and others, is currently a remand prisoner in Rajahmundry Central Jail. He allegedly obtained interim bail by submitting medical certificates from Lalitha Hospital in Guntur, claiming his mothers ill health. Police later alleged that these certificates were forged, a claim reportedly confirmed by Dr Raghava Sharma. During Thursdays hearing, State Public Prosecutor M Lakshminarayana presented sealed records from Lalitha Hospital and Apollo Hospital, Chennai. The public prosecutor stated that Dr Raghava Sharma had informed police that the handwriting and signature on the certificates were not his. Anils counsel, Naresh Reddy, argued that while Dr Raghava Sharma denied issuing the certificate, he did not confirm whether another doctor from the hospital had issued it. After hearing both sides, the court ordered the Guntur Principal District Judge (PDJ) to ensure Dr Raghava Sharmas statement is recorded by a magistrate and submitted for review.
APATA urges Centre to restore cancelled flights
VISAKHAPATNAM: The Andhra Pradesh Air Travelers Association (APATA) has urged the Union Civil Aviation Minister to restore cancelled flights, boost cargo infrastructure, and fast-track aviation projects across the State. In a representation submitted recently, APATA flagged the cancellation of key domestic and international routes. In April 2025 alone, flights from Visakhapatnam to Vijayawada, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur were withdrawn. Services to cities like Goa, Pune, Coimbatore, Bhubaneswar, and Mumbai have also stopped, including those operated by Akasa Air. International links to Malaysia, Colombo, and Dubai were discontinued, along with a seafood export cargo service. The association called for the reintroduction of direct flights to Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, and Coimbatore, improved scheduling on the VisakhapatnamVijayawada route, and dedicated cargo flights to pharmaceutical hubs like Pydibhimavaram and Parawada Pharma City. Citing Union Budget 2025 announcements, APATA sought DPRs for cargo hubs at Vijayawada, Rajahmundry, and Tirupati, Udan Yatri Cafs at major airports, and Udan Cargo flights linking tier-2 cities with national and international hubs. The association reiterated demands to operationalise the proposed Aviation University at Bhogapuram and establish a Sustainable Aviation Fuel refinery. MLA Ganta highlights Andhra to Andhra via Telangana flight travel ordeal
New private homoeopathy college to open in Andhra's Chittoor soon
VIJAYAWADA: Health Minister Y Satya Kumar Yadav approved the setting up of a new private Homoeopathy Medical College in the Chittoor district in line with the TDP-led NDA governments efforts to bolster AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy) systems in the State. The Venkateswara Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital will be established at Muthirevula village of Puthalapattu mandal in Chittoor district. The college, to be set up by the Srinivasa Education Society, will admit 100 undergraduate students annually into the 5 and half-year Bachelor of Homoeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) course. The state will now have a total of eight Homoeopathy Medical Colleges, with three in the government sector and five in the private sector, with an overall intake of 600 undergraduate students annually. The three government-run colleges located at Gudivada, Rajahmundry, and Kadapa offer 120 seats annually, while the four existing private colleges at Guntakal, Tirupati, Tadepalligudem and Vizianagaram have a combined intake of 400 students. It is pertinent to note that these colleges play a key role in delivering healthcare services in the State. Each college provides outpatient services to nearly 250 people daily and inpatient care to about 15 patients per day. The establishment of the new college in Chittoor is expected to strengthen the AYUSH healthcare network and access to traditional systems of medicine in the Rayalaseema region.
Permanent solution for stagnant water in Rajahmundry area
The legislator laid a foundation stone for construction of the pump house and pipeline in the area on Thursday
AP: Pastor found dead under suspicious circumstances in Godavari
Amaravati: A pastor was found dead under suspicious circumstances in Andhra Pradeshs East Godavari district on Tuesday. The body of Praveen Pagadala was found next to his motorbike by the roadside at Kondamuru near Rajahmundry. His death sparked tension near the Government Hospital in Rajahmundry, where his relatives and Christian groups staged a protest, demanding Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Rajahmundry Government Arts College student secures IASc Summer Research Internship
Under the mentorship of Ashima Bhattacharjee of Amity University, Kolkata, Ms. Shreeya will do her internship for two months
Mr. Anil Kumar did not surrender before the prison authorities on March 11 as directed by the High Court of Andhra Pradesh; The Prison Superintendent writes to the court for further action for failing to adhere to the latters order.
Two drown in Godavari river in Rajahmundry as heavy winds sweep boat
Rajahmundry: Two persons were drowned in the Godavari river here in East Godavari district when the boat they were travelling in was swept aside due to heavy winds, said a police official on Tuesday. The accident occurred around 7:30 pm on Monday and the bodies of the deceased persons were recovered around 1 am on Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Railway Board has approved Rajahmundry railway station modernization with Rs.270-crore; All assembly segments in Rajamahendravaram parliament will soon get cancer screening vehicles, said Ms. Purandeswari.
Rajahmundry gets 327-crore fly-over project
Rajahmundry ESI hospital superintendent, four doctors suspended for forging attendance
Irregularity came to light during surprise inspection by Labour Minister on February 17
5 Rajahmundry ESI Hospital Doctors Among 9 Suspended
The suspension came following a surprise inspection of the hospital by labour minister Vasamsetti Subash on Monday.
DLSA secretary offers legal aid for inmates of Rajahmundry Central Prison
New Delhi stampede: Rail Bhavan gets into huddle
NEW DELHI: Under pressure from various quarters, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday held a series of meeting at the Rail Bhavan to take stock of the safety measures during heavy passenger rush. Vaishnaw also met and briefed Home Minister Amit Shah about the stampede at the New Delhi railway station. Railways announced the names of two high administrative group officials, who will be part of the inquiry committee constituted to probe the stampede at the New Delhi Railway station. Narsingh Deo, Principal Chief Commercial Manager, Northern Railway, and Pankaj Gangwar, Principal Chief Security Commissioner, Northern Railway, are the members of the committee, the railways said. Railways directed all zones to remain on maximum alert, ensuring the safety of passengers during seasons of heavy footfall, especially in stations dealing with high numbers of passengers traveling to the Maha Kumbh. Sources said nearly 60%-70% of those attending the Kumbh are taking trains. The railway stations across Uttar Pradesh have been put on high alert following massive convergence of devotees reaching Prayagraj for holy dip at Sangam. Prayagraj and its neighbouring districts, including Ayodhya, Gonda, Varanasi, Fatehpur, Gorakhpur and Lucknow experienced huge crowd on railway stations. ADG, Railways, Prakash D has issued directives to the authorities concerned to ensure deployment of GRP personnel on all stations across the state. Heightened alert has been sounded on railway stations across Madhya Pradesh, with security being beefed, particularly at the Katni and Satna stations of the West Central Railway (WCR). There is a huge rush of devotees bound to Maha Kumbh. The rush is at its peak in Katni and Satna, the two stations on the route of long-distance trains coming from central, western and southern India to Prayagraj, police said. In Satna, in-charge IG of Rewa Saket Pandey along with administrative, health and railway officials, held a meeting on Sunday afternoon and decided to raise the number of GRP and RPF jawans up to four times at key stations. All trains towards Prayagraj from Jharkhand are overcrowded, with even people with valid reservation tickets finding it hard to board trains. According to a passenger from Hazaribagh, Premchand Prasad, who boarded the train from Koderma, trains are running without ticket collectors and RPF jawans as even they are not able to board the trains. The East Central Railway has bolstered safety measures as most passengers from Bihar are bound for Prayagraj. 'Confusing announcements triggered stampede': Delhi police say after initial probe Major stampedes across country Jan 29, 2025: 30 killed and 60 injured at Maha Kumbh July 2, 2024: 121, most of whom women, lost during a satsang by godman Bhole Baba in Hathras, UP March 31, 2023: 36 died when a well collapsed during Ram Navami at Indore temple January 1, 2022: 12 died and over a dozen injured at Vaishno Devi shrine in J&K due to heavy rush of devotees September 29, 2017: 23 dead and 36 injured in a stampede on a bridge connecting Elphinstone Road station with Parel station of Central Railway in Mumbai July 14, 2015: 27 pilgrims died and 20 injured at a bathing spot along Godavari where devotees gathered for festival in Rajahmundry, AP October 3, 2014: 32 killed and 26 injured at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, shortly after Dussehra celebrations ended October 13, 2013: 115 killed and over 100 injured during Navratri near Ratangarh temple in MPs Datia January 25, 2005: Over 340 devotees trampled to death and hundreds injured during a pilgrimage at Satara temple August 3, 2008: 162 dead, 47 hurt at Naina Devi temple in Himachals Bilaspur September 30, 2008: 250 devotees killed and 60 hurt in a stampede following rumours of a bomb at Chamunda Devi temple in Jodhpur March 4, 2010: 63 killed at Ram Janki Temple in UPs Pratapgarh where people gathered to collect clothes and food from a godman January 14, 2011: 104 Sabarimala devotees killed and over 40 injured when a jeep crashed into homebound pilgrims in Keralas Idukki November 8, 2011: 20 killed in Haridwar at Har-ki-Pauri ghat along the Ganga November 19, 2012: 20 killed and several injured as a makeshift bridge caved in, triggering a stampede during Chhath Puja at Adalat Ghat in Patna
BJP hails Union Budget 2025-26 as Developed India Budget
AP BJP president and Rajahmundry MP Daggubati Purandeswari praised the Union Budget 2025-26, calling it a people-centric budget that will drive economic growth and benefit all sectors, including agriculture, MSMEs, women, and youth.
APTDC offering Kumbh Mela bus services for pilgrims
Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) is offering special Maha Kumbh Mela bus services for pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to various locations across Uttar Pradesh. According to an APTDC press release on Thursday, the corporation will run two special bus services, departing from Tirupati and Nellore on February 11 and February 12, respectively. For reservations, individuals can contact www.aptdc.in or visit tourism.ap.gov.in . APTDC officials said the first special service will depart from Tirupati at 6 a.m. on February 11. The service will stop at various locations, including Ontimitta, Kadapa Bypass, Orvakallu, Kurnool Bypass, Hyderabad, Jabalpur, Chitrakut, Prayagraj, Kashi and Nagpur before returning. The tour will conclude in Telangana on February 17 and in Andhra Pradesh on February 18. The package cost of the tour will be between 20,000 and 22,000 for adults and between 17,200 and 19,000 for children, depending on the pickup point. However, pilgrims will need to pay their darshan, meals and refreshment charges. For additional information, pilgrims can contact APTDC officials at Tirupati, Kadapa, Kurnool and Hyderabad. The second special service will start from Nellore at 6 a.m. on February 12, travelling via Vijayawada, Rajahmundry, Annavaram, Visakhapatnam, Puri, Konark, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Chandipur, Gaya, Bodh Gaya and Kashi before reaching Prayagraj. On the return journey, the service will return to Vijayawada via Sri Kurmam and Arasavalli. The tour will conclude in Andhra Pradesh on February 18 and February 19.
RPF, GRP solve Rs.64 theft case at Vijayawada railway station
Hyderabad: In a significant achievement, a joint team of the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), and Crime Investigation Branch (CIB) cracked a high-value theft case at Vijayawada railway station. The team recovered a stolen bag containing Rs.64 lakh during the operation. According to the registered complaint, on January 24, 2025, two aides of Pintu Kumar Jain were traveling from Rajahmundry to Chennai on Train No. 20896 in the B2 coach. They were carrying a bag filled with Rs.64 lakh in cash to purchase gold ornaments for business. Upon reaching Vijayawada, they realized the bag was missing and promptly reported the theft. The RPF team, led by Valleswara B Thokkala, Senior Divisional Security Commissioner, along with the CIB and GRP teams, swiftly launched an investigation. Using CCTV footage, the team identified three suspects stealing the bag and fleeing from Vijayawada station. The investigators meticulously tracked the suspects movements before and after the crime, ultimately tracing them to Rajahmundry. In a major breakthrough, on January 29, 2025, the joint team apprehended the accused - Akula Sai Kumar, Pendem Prasana Kumar, and Valluri Mahesh Kumar - at the circulating area of Vijayawada Railway Station. The Government Railway Police arrested the suspects and seized the stolen cash. The accused were later sent to judicial remand.
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Andhra Pradesh: 35-year-old woman dies after swallowing keypad cell phone
A 35-year-old woman, suffering from psychiatric issues, died after swallowing a keypad cell phone in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh.
Roof Collapse at Rajahmundry Airport Construction Site Injures Two Labourers
Vijayawada: A portion of the roof of the new terminal which is under construction, collapsed causing minor injuries to two labourers at the Rajahmundry airport at Rajamahendravaram in East Godavari at about 11.30 am on Friday. As a part of development of airports in the state, Rajahmundry airport is being developed at an estimated cost of Rs 347 crore by developing a new terminal, three aero bridges and other buildings and the works are scheduled to be completed by August. However, when the steel structure roof was getting erected as part of construction of the new terminal, a part of it caved in and no causally was reported except for minor injuries to the two labourers who were discharged from the hospital after getting treatment. Rajahmundry airport director Gnaneswara Rao said, When the erection of a roof on the steel structure was going on at the upcoming new terminal, a part of it collapsed. We are monitoring the situation.
Two workers injured as steel structure at Rajahmundry airport terminal collapses
Civil aviation experts from New Delhi and Vijayawada to investigate the reasons behind the incident
Rajahmundry Airports under construction terminal partly collapsed
Rajahmundry: A 600 sq ft section of the under-construction terminal building at Rajahmundry Airport in East Godavari district collapsed on Friday, January 24, and two people suffered minor injuries. Rajahmundry Airport Director S Gnaneswara Rao stated that the steel structure of the terminal building collapsed due to some technical reasons, which are yet to be Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Vizag woman heading to exam dies, 18 others injured
Visakhapatnam: A private bus overturned on the Gaman Bridge near Rajamahendravaram, resulting in the death of a young woman and leaving 18 others injured. The accident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Thursday when a Kaveri Travels bus en route from Visakhapatnam to Hyderabad lost control and overturned between Komthamuru and Katheeru. The deceased has been identified as Homini Kalyani (21), a resident of Visakhapatnam who was traveling to Hyderabad for a job interview. She was accompanied by her sister Dhanalakshmi and tragically succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Of the 18 injured passengers, 10 sustained serious injuries, with five patients reported to be in critical condition. Preliminary police investigations suggest that the bus driver was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and driving negligently at the time of the accident. Rajahmundry Three Town police have launched an investigation into the cause of the tragic incident. Emergency response teams quickly mobilized, dispatching six ambulances from Rajamahendravaram to transport the injured to the government hospital. Most of the passengers were from Visakhapatnam, Tuni, and Annavaram, with a significant number being students. Among the five critically injured CH Koteswara Rao, Dhanalakshmi and Renuka are undergoing treatment at the Kakinada Government Hospital, while Tejaswini and Deekshata have been shifted to KIMS Hospital. The bus was carrying 40 passengers when the accident occurred. Local authorities, including SP Narasimha Kishore, supervised the rescue operations. The SP, while having a conversation with the Deccan Chronicle, said that the overturned bus was removed at 1 a.m. with the help of a crane, and rescue personnel worked to free trapped passengers and confirmed that only one fatality was reported.
Andhra Pradesh: Tourists Throng Papikondalu on Sankranti Eve
Sailing of tourist boats on Godavari river carrying the tourists to popular tourist destination of Papikondalu either from Polavaram or from Pochavaram has been temporarily suspended for two days from November 17 to 18 in Godavari districts. Sailing of tourist boats on Godavari river carrying the tourists to popular tourist destination of Papikondalu either from Polavaram or from Pochavaram has been temporarily suspended for two days from November 17 to 18 in Godavari districts. Vijayawada: A large number of tourists from states like Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and AP have started visiting the popular tourist destination Papikondalu on Godavari river on the Sankranti eve. Private tourism boats are being operated to Papikondalu from both the Gandi Pochamma temple and from Pochavaram. This time, nearly 35 boats including two from APTDC are running to their full capacity, carrying hundreds of tourists to Papikondalu. Tourists arrive in Rajahmundry and visit nearby temples in Annavaram and other places, proceed to the Gandi Pochamma temple and set sail on Godavari river to reach Papikondalu. They enjoy the fun while cruising on the river. They can see the thick vegetation and the hill ranges on either side of the river. They enjoy the sight of sand dunes and see the wild animals roaming in the area. A majority of these boats are double- decked. They have air-conditioning and toilet facilities. The boat operators organise some cultural programmes while sailing on the river to entertain the devotees with songs and action that suit their age. They offer breakfast, lunch and snacks to the tourists. Tourists say they are delighted at the cruising on the Godavari river as part of Sankranti celebrations. Some 15 boats are anchored at the Gandi Pochamma temple. All these are being engaged for the benefit of tourists during this season. Tourism boat operator Murali Krishna said, We are operating all our boats in the last two days and Sankranti festival will be the last festival in this season, which began during the Darasa vacation in October and continued up to Sankara this January. Tourists are excited to sail on Godavari waters and we are following all safety norms. Similarly, 20 boats are being operated from Pochavaram. Tourists mainly from Hyderabad and parts of Chhattisgarh and Odisha arrive at the Bhadrachalam temple, take darshan of Lord Ram, offer special prayers and reach Polavaram, covering over 72km by road to set sail on Godavari to reach Papikondalu. Another boat operator from Pochavaram, Sudha, said, The Rama temple at Bhadrachalam is attracting more tourists mainly from Hyderabad. They visit the temple at the first instance and take a boat ride to Papikondalu. Boat operators say they are pressing into service all their boats for a festival this time, for the first time. Nearly 2,500 to 3,000 tourists boarded the 35 boats in the last two days from both Gandhi Pochamma and Pochavaram. On the other hand, there is a demand from tourists to allow them to visit the Polavaram project and develop a tourist circuit connecting local temples like Annavaram etc before setting sail to Papikondalu. This would give a major boost to tourism and help earn good revenue also. APTDC allegedly shows little interest in promoting boat ride to Papikondalu and lesser interest in promoting temple tourism. They are reluctant about developing a website and providing advance booking of tickets for a boat ride and for darshan at temples. It also did nothing yet to develop the ghats despite collecting user charges of Rs 100 per head from the tourists. Tourists complain that there are no proper ghats and other amenities for them to spend time and relax in this area.
Special train between Vizag and Cherlapalli
Visakhapatnam :The East Coast Railway has decided to run special train services during Sankranthi between Visakhapatnam and Cherlapalli. Train No. 08523 Visakhapatnam-Cherlapalli special train will leave Visakhapatnam on January 14 (Tuesday) at 6.20 pm, which will reach Duvvada at 6.48pm and depart at 6.50 pm to reach Cherlapalli at 7.30 am the next day. In the return direction, Train No. 08524 Cherlapalli-Visakhapatanam special train will leave Cherlapalli on January 15 (Wednesday) at 10 am, which will reach Duvvada at 9.28 pm, and depart at 9.30 pm to reach Visakhapatnam at 10.30 pm. Duvvada. Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Nidadavolu, Tanuku, Bhimavaram Town, Akividu, Kaikalur, Gudivada, Rayanapadu, Khammam, Warangal, Kazipet, and Jangaon are stoppages between Visakhapatnam and Cherlapalli stations.
Stampede Deaths: Pawan Asks TTD Chairman, EO to Tender Apology
Vijayawada: Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has asked TTD functionaries the board chairman, executive officer, additional executive officer and board members -- to tender an apology to the people for the death of six pilgrims in Wednesday nights stampede in Tirupati. The death of devotees pained me a lot. This happened when our newly elected government was celebrating the first Sankranti festival, he told a public meeting at Pithapuram in Kakinada district on Friday. This government was elected by the people. We should be accountable to the people, he said. I tendered an apology to the people for these deaths, even as some people who are a part of the government committed mistakes, he said. PK said TTD chairman BR Naidu, EO Shyamala Rao and AEO Venkaiah Choudhary were in high positions and there is nothing wrong on their part tendering an apology to the people by owning the moral responsibility for the deaths. If the TTD top brass tender an apology, the deceased may not come back to life. Yet, it would be in the fitness of things if they come before the people and accept the responsibility for the lapse, he said. He exhorted the youth to be mindful of the painful situation before them and stop shouting loudly in joy after seeing him. He called upon TTD officials to stop giving VIP treatment to leaders and advised them to instead focus more on providing better services to the common people. The six-months honeymoon period for the new government was over, he asserted. With regard to Pithapuram assembly segment, the Dy CM called upon the police to strictly maintain law and order, and take to task the youths who trouble women and are getting addicted to ganja. Earlier in the day, the Dy CM inaugurated 12,500 Gokulas set up across the state as part of Palle Panduranga-Panchayat week-long programme at Pithapuram. He called for development of dairy farmers on the lines of those in New Zealand. He vowed all support to these farmers to see such a growth in their dairy business. The newly set up Gokulas would help the small dairy farmers earn Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,000 per month, he said. He said the NDA government was clearing wages to 97 lakh workers under MGNREGA to the order of Rs 5,193 promptly, except for the pending wages of Rs 2,000 crore. When the Dy CM was proceeding to Pithapuram from Rajahmundry airport by road, he stopped at Mukundavaram village of Rangampeta mandal, where two youths -- Charan and Manikanta-- were killed in a road accident. The youths were returning home on a bike after attending the pre-release event of Game Changer. PK spoke to their relatives and inquired about the incident with officials
SCR to run Janasadharan Special Trains between Charlapalli and Vizag
Hyderabad: In order to clear extra rush of passengers during Sankranti, the South Central Railway (SCR) will run Janasadharan Unreserved Special Trains between Charlapalli and Visakhapatnam as detailed below : Train No: 08534 Charlapalli Visakhapatnam (Janasadharan Unreserved special trains) will depart Charlapalli at 12.30 am and arrive Visakhapatnam at 2.20 pm the same day on January 11, 13, 16 and 18. Train No: 08533 Visakhapatnam Charlapalli (Janasadharan Unreserved special trains) will depart Visakhapatnam at 9.45 am and arrive at 10.30 pm the same day) on January 10, 12, 15 and 17. Train No. 08533 / 08534 Visakhapatnam Charlapalli Visakhapatnam Jansadharan (Unreserved) Special Trains will stop at Duvvada, Anakapalli, Yelamanchali, Tuni, Annavaram, Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Nidadavolu, Tadepalligudem, Eluru, Vijayawada, Guntur, Satenapalli, Piduguralla, Nadikudi, Miryalaguda and Nalgonda in both the directions Train No. 08538 Charlapalli Visakhapatnam (Janasadharan Unreserved special trains) will depart Charlapalli at 10 am and arrive Visakhapatnam at 10 pm the same day on January 11, 12, 16 and 17. Train No. 08537 Visakhapatnam Charlapalli (Janasadharan Unreserved special trains) will depart Visakhapatnam at 6.20 pm and arrive Charlapalli at 8 am the next day on January 10, 11, 15 and 16. Train No. 08537/08538 Visakhapatnam Charlapalli Visakhapatnam Jansadharan (Unreserved) Special Trains will stop at Duvvada, Anakapalli, Yelamanchali, Tuni, Annavaram, Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Nidadavolu, Tadepalligudem, Eluru, Vijayawada, Guntur, Satenapalli, Piduguralla, Nadikudi, Miryalaguda and Nalgonda in both the directions. All these Jansadharan special trains shall consists of Unreserved Coaches to facilitate passengers travelling in general coaches.
Tirupati deaths akin to Godavari Pushkaralu casualties in 2015
Vijayawada: The deaths of six pilgrims and injuries to over 40 more in the stampede in Tirupati on Wednesday have similarities in relation to the killing of 29 pilgrims during the Godavari Pushkaralu in Rajahmundry on July 14, 2015. The 2015 stampede took place when the gates were opened suddenly to allow the pilgrims to move in at a time in large numbers. In Tirupati, as a large number of pilgrims arrived in advance to get tickets to take darshan of Lord Venkateswara on the eve of Vaikunta Ekadasi festival from January 10 to 12. The opening of a gate for an emergency purpose led to the stampede deaths, During the Godavari Pushkaralu, a large number of devotees had turned up at the main bathing ghat on the banks of Godavari river, called Pushkar ghat, to take holy dip at the auspicious time of 6.26am on July 14. They were forced to wait outside the gates of Pushkar ghat from the early hours of the day for nearly two hours, even as the day temperature was rising. This delay or wait was because the then chief minister Chandrababu Naidu along with his family members abruptly reached there and took a holy dip along with other VIPs and moved out of the ghat to change his dress. This took time. As the VVIP stepped out of the Pushkar ghat, the East Godavari administration gave the nod to the police to allow the devotees to step into the ghat to take the holy dip in the river. When the gates were opened, thousands of pilgrims waiting for several hours rushed towards the ghat by breaking all the barricades. It took the form of a stampede in front of the two gates leading to the ghat. This caused the death of 27 persons, mainly the aged ones on the spot, and two more died while undergoing treatment in the hospitals. Though an inquiry commission led by retired high court judge, Justice Somayajulu was appointed, it made a laughing stock of itself. It concluded that the stampede took place due to the arrival of a large number of devotees at the same time to take the dip in the river. It fixed no responsibility on anyone for the stampede. The Naidu government swiftly closed the matter. With regard to ex-gratia for the Tirupati stampede, the AP government announced `25 lakh each to the families of the deceased, while the government had paid only `10 lakh each for the families of the dead in the Godavari Pushkaralu. Activists urged the state government to come up with Standard Operating Procedure, which should be followed scrupulously while allowing gatherings of a large number of people for any occasion, so as to avoid stampede deaths in the state. The police and the district administration takes maximum care only in situations when a PM or CM attends a public event.
Vasamsetti Subhash Seeks Upgrading of ESI Hospitals into Super Specialities
Vijayawada: Labour minister Vasamsetti Subhash on Wednesday highlighted the necessity of upgrading the existing four Employees State Insurance (ESI) hospitals into super-speciality institutions. Presiding over a review meeting with officials at the AP Secretariat in Amaravati, he asked officials to prepare plans in this regard. The ES hospitals are located in Visakhapatnam, Rajahmundry, Vijayawada and Tirupati. The minister asked officials of the labour department to coordinate with other departments and raise the current insurance amount for workers from 14.5 lakh to 25 lakh. He asked them to ensure that all facilities at the ESI hospitals, including diagnostic centres, dispensaries and equipment are fully functional. He maintained that patients must be able to use all available ESI services without the need to approach private institutions. Subhash observed that lack of inspection in factories and shops has hindered registration of ESI cards for workers. He directed officials to focus on this issue and conduct special drives, if necessary, to resolve the problem. The minister referred to requests by his ministerial colleague Kolusu Partha Sarathy and Tanuku MLA A. Radhakrishna, seeking setting up of ESI hospitals in Nuzvid and Tanuku. He wanted officials to examine these proposals and initiate action. He said proposals for promotion of doctors and other staff should be prepared quickly. Subhash asked the department to expedite approval of policies under the Chandranna insurance scheme. He underlined that steps be taken to resolve all pending claims by March of this year. He ordered department officials to eliminate the child labour system.
Venkaiah Naidu Wants Governance of AP in Telugu Language
Vijayawada : Former vice president M. Venkaiah Naidu on Wednesday declared that a person who does not know Telugu cannot be called a Telugu person. Addressing a gathering while inaugurating the second edition of World Global Conference at the Godavari Global University campus in Rajahmundry of East Godavari district, he described the obsession with English language as a sign of ignorance. The former vice president emphasised that priority must be given to the mother tongue, which will help enhance proficiency in other languages too. He asked every Telugu person to work for preservation of the Telugu language. Venkaiah Naidu called upon Telugu people to vote only for leaders who speak Telugu language at the time of elections. He wanted governance in the state to be carried out in Telugu, including issuance of official orders in Telugu. The former vice president the richness of Telugu language is reflected from the fact that it has six lakh words. He urged children to address their parents as amma and nanna, instead of mummy and daddy. Venkaiah Naidu asked those who speak Telugu language at the global level to use the language in their daily life and protect its rich heritage. He called upon people to love Telugu, promote Telugu and protect Telugu. The two-day World Global Conference is being held under the aegis of Chaitanya educational institutions led by Godavari Global University chancellor K.V.V. Chaitanya Raju. Padma Bhushan Yarlagadda Lakshmi Prasad was present on the occasion.
Two Ram Charan Fans die in road mishap after Game Changer Rajahmundry event
Tragedy struck after the pre-release event of Game Changer in Rajahmundry on Saturday, as two diehard fans of Ram Charan lost their lives while returning home. The event, attended by Ram Charan and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, was meant to be a celebration but ended in sorrow. The victims, Arava Manikanta and Thokada Charan from Gaigolupadu in Kakinada were riding home on a bike with friends when a van traveling in the opposite direction collided with them. Despite immediate medical attention, both succumbed to their injuries. Authorities have launched an investigation and registered a case regarding the accident. Producer Dil Raju expressed deep grief over the unfortunate incident, stating that such losses during moments of joy are truly heartbreaking. He assured full support to the victims' families, announcing a financial aid of 5 lakh for each family. As per reports, Pawan Kalyan will also contribute Rs 5 lakh to each bereaved family, extending his heartfelt condolences. Earlier, Pawan Kalyan at the pre-release event said that he was a bit anxious after witnessing such a massive turnout. He urged mega fans to be safe and take care of themselves. I am a bit tense these days and I want all our fans to be safe. I urge you all to take care of yourselves, return home safely, and avoid any kind of jostling and stampedes. You have come here for some fun, so it shouldnt turn untoward, he cautioned his cheering fans.
Game Changer event attendees killed in ADB Road crash, Pawan announces ex gratia
Kakinada : Two young men, Arav Mani Kanth and Tokada Charan, residents of Gaigolupadu in Kakinada district, tragically lost their lives in a road accident on the ADB road between Kakinada and Rajahmundry on Saturday night. The accident occurred when their motorcycle was struck by a speeding vehicle while they were returning home. Expressing deep sorrow, AP Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The ADB road, a crucial artery connecting Kakinada and Rajahmundry, has been in a state of disrepair for the past five years due to neglect by the previous government. The lack of proper maintenance and inadequate street lighting has significantly increased the risk of accidents on this vital route, posted Kalyan on X. While the current government has initiated repair work on the road, this tragic incident highlights the urgency of addressing the safety concerns of road users. The victims, who were returning from the pre-release event of Game Changer movie, were repeatedly advised to exercise caution during their journey. On behalf of the Jana Sena, Kalyan announced that financial assistance of Rs. 5 lakh each will be provided to the bereaved families. Furthermore, the deputy CM pledged to further help the families.
Minister Anitha Confirms Discovery of Cannabis Plant During Central Jail Inspection
Visakhapatnam: Home minister Vangalapudi Anitha, confirmed that a marijuana sapling was found inside the Visakhapatnam Central Jail during an investigation into a series of security breaches involving mobile phones discovered within the facility. The ministers visit, which took place on Sunday, was prompted by the chaotic situation following the discovery of two mobile phones without SIM cards just days earlier, with another phone uncovered shortly thereafter. The minister announced that a thorough investigation is underway, and a report will be compiled within ten days. She addressed allegations regarding the supply of marijuana in the jail, stating, We are conducting a full investigation. She emphasised that advancements in technology would aid in uncovering the truth, noting that authorities have already traced calls made from the confiscated mobile phones. Anitha criticised the previous administration for neglecting the jail system over the past five years, asserting that this lack of oversight has contributed to the current lapses. No one can escape from committing crime, she stated. She warned that strict action would be taken against those involved in illicit activities, including staff members who may have neglected their duties. The home minister also addressed concerns regarding recent protests by jail staff. She clarified that while some employees were transferred as part of a government plan after five years of service, no suspensions were enacted. She reiterated that public servants should refrain from participating in protests while on duty. She also mentioned that CCTV cameras will be installed in the jail within ten days to enhance security measures. Additionally, some prisoners will be transferred to Rajahmundry Jail as part of ongoing efforts to manage the situation effectively. The minister addressed the recent removal of her personal assistant (PA), Jagadish, from his position. She revealed that she had received alerts about Jagadishs inappropriate conduct and had issued him two prior warnings. According to the minister, the decision to dismiss Jagadish, which occurred ten days ago, came after multiple allegations were made against him. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle , DIG (Prisons) Ravi Kiran explained that marijuana samples were discovered during one of their routine security operations a week ago. We conduct special searches on daily, weekly, and monthly bases as per the superintendents instructions, during which specific areas undergo thorough inspection, he said. He further explained that any cannabis found during these searches is immediately destroyed, and inmates caught with such substances face prison disciplinary actions.
Ram Charan is like brother to me, says Pawan Kalyan
Noted star Pawan Kalyan claimed that he never saw Ram Charan dancing in real life from his childhood days and he likes to keep his talent within himself. He doesnt show off his strengths and is quite humble. I was floored by his dancing talent in movies, while I havent seen him giving a small movement in real life, says Pawan while speaking at pre-release event of 'Game Changer' in Rajahmundry and adds, Ram Charan is like a brother to me since Chiranjeevi is like my father, and Anjana Vadina is like my mother and they took good care of me for long, he added. He vividly remembers Ram Charan waking up early in the morning and getting ready with all the kit to practice horse riding. I used to sleep a lot those days and I wasnt so disciplined. But I was impressed with Charans commitment and discipline. He used to wake me up as I had to drop him on the ground, he adds. He also hails Chiranjeevi for his hard work and recalls how he used to return home down and out. I have seen him looking tired every day after shooting and he didn't have the energy to even untie his shoelaces. He used to dance and fight hard on the sets and returned physically drained out. Those days action sequences had no safety measures and he suffered injuries while shooting action episodes of his film Goonda. He toiled hard and reached the top and laid a path for me, Ram Charan, and other family members, he points out. He also alerted mega fans who turned up in big numbers at the 'Game Changer' event in Rajahmundry, I am being tensed these days and I want all my fans to be safe. I urge you all to take care of yourselves, return home safely, and avoid any kind of stampedes. You have come here for some fun, so it shouldnt turn untoward, he cautioned his cheering fans. He also supported the ticket hike issue, Tickets rate work on demand and supply mode. I remember watching director Shankar's Tamil movie by procuring tickets on the black market in Chennai. I wanted to watch his movie, so I paid more. Similarly, fans of big stars also want to watch the first show of movies of their respective stars. On the other hand, state governments could earn more since they get 18% GST on each hiked ticket rate. Above all, Telugu cinema has expanded the world over and invariably budgets have shot up to cater to a wider audience. Revising ticket rates is more of a necessity than a choice these days and I fully support it, he concludes.
Pawan Kalyan justifies ticket price hike as revenue booster for AP
Vijayawada : Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan defended the increase in ticket prices for certain films, highlighting that the 18% GST levied on tickets contributes significantly to the states revenue. He cautioned against the black-market sale of tickets, stressing that such transactions result in unaccounted money. Speaking at the pre-release event of Ram Charans Game Changer , set to release on January 10 in Rajahmundry, Pawan urged filmmakers, producers, and industry representativesnot actorsto approach the government for permissions regarding ticket pricing. He appealed to fans to prioritise safety and avoid stampede-like situations during film-related events. The Deputy Chief Minister emphasised the importance of original and value-driven storytelling in films, urging filmmakers to guide the youth positively and keep politics out of the industry. He advocated unity among Indian cinema industries, lamenting their division into Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood, and Mollywood since the 1990s, and stressed the need for discipline within the film fraternity. Pawan credited stalwarts like Raghupathi Venkata Naidu and Dadasaheb Phalke for their foundational contributions to Indian cinema, urging current filmmakers to remember their roots. He thanked Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu for supporting the event in Rajahmundry and expressed gratitude to Chiranjeevi for his unwavering support throughout his career. Reflecting on his journey, Pawan revealed that the remuneration from Vakeel Saab, produced by Dil Raju, helped sustain the Jana Sena party. He also lauded veteran actors, including NTR, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Krishna, and Sobhan Babu, along with the younger generation, for their efforts in elevating Telugu cinema. Concluding his address, Pawan wished Game Changer immense success at the box office, expressing hope it would set new records.
Comedian Alis rich life in Hyderabad: Net worth to Manikonda villa
Hyderabad: Ali, one of the most loved comedians in Tollywood, started his career as a child actor in the movie Seethakoka Chiluka in 1981. He was born in a small town called Rajahmundry in Andhra Pradesh and worked hard to make his name in the film industry. His unique comedy style and timing made him Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Kakinada-Rajahmundry and Vice Versa Commute Turns Difficult
Kakinada: Passengers travelling by APSRTC buses between Kakinada and Rajamahendravaram and vice versa are facing great difficulties to reach their destinations, in particular during the morning and evening hours. RTC has started non-stop services between the two cities every 10 minutes, especially from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. These services are mostly taken by commuters going to schools and offices. However, the Rajamahendravaram non-stop services halt at Rajanagaram, Diwan Cheruvu (request stops), GSL Hospital and Lala Cheruvu, while Kakinada non-stop services stop at Samalkot bridge, Madhavapatnam and Pratap Nagar. During these morning and evening hours, there are also more than 500 buses belonging to various colleges and schools passing through the same route, apart from heavy vehicles. Such volume of vehicles is leading to frequent traffic jams at Madhavapatnam and railway over bridge at Samalkot. This is leading to abnormal delays in RTC buses reaching their destinations. As a result, many school going students and employees are facing enormous difficulties, particularly during the morning times, when they have to reach schools or work. To avoid such delay, RTC Kakinada depot manager Manohar said there are plans to divert the buses from Sarpavaram and Achampet junctions in the morning and evening hours, so that traffic jams at Madhavapatnam could be curtailed. But many of the passengers are not agreeable to this proposal. They feel that police officials could instead stop heavy vehicles, including school buses but excluding RTC buses, from getting on to the Madhavapatnam-Sarpavaram road. These vehicles should be diverted at Achampet junction, they feel. In view of such differences, the matter needs consideration by district superintendent of police Vikrant Patil and district collector S. Shan Mohan before a decision could be taken in overall interests.
SCR to Run Six Sankranti Specials to Kakinada
Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) in anticipation of the extra rush during Sankranti is to run six special trains across destinations from January 9 to 12. SCR authorities informed on Wednesday the trains include four services of Train No.s 07653 and 07654 Kacheguda to Kakinada. They will stop at Malkajgiri, Cherlapalli, Nalgonda, Miryalaguda, Piduguralla, Sattenapalli, Guntur, Vijayawada, Eluru, Tadepalligudem, Nidadavolu, Rajahmundry and Samalkot stations in both directions. Train No.s 07023 and 07024 Hyderabad to Kakinada will have special trains with two services. They will stop at Secunderabad, Nalgonda, Miryalaguda, Piduguralla, Sattenapalli, Guntur, Vijayawada, Gudivada, Kaikaluru, Akividu, Bhimavaram, Tanuku, Nidadavolu, Rajahmundry, Anaparti and Samalkot stations in both directions. These special trains will have 2AC, 3AC, sleeper class and general second sitting coaches. Bookings for the special trains will start at 10 am on Thursday.
