'Oil, sugar boards' to now be displayed in government offices, public institutions

NEW DELHI: Following implementation across CBSE schools , oil and sugar boards will be displayed in all government offices, including various ministries, hospitals, railway stations, and even airports, to promote healthy lifestyles and combat non-communicable diseases (NCDS). These informative posters and digital boards highlight the harmful impacts of the amount og sugar and oil present in popular food items, including samosas, kachori, pizza, pakoras, banana chips, burger, soft drink, and chocolate pastry. Official sources told TNIE that the Union Health Ministry, which launched the initiative, has asked the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN), who have prepared these sugar and oil boards, to suggest a model healthy meal that can be served in canteens and eateries of these public institutions, instead of the current oily and sugary meals and snacks. Announcing the launch of the initiative, the FSSAI, the apex food regulator of India, under the health ministry, posted on X on Thursday, Inspired by Hon'ble PM @narendramodi's vision for a healthier India! @MoHFW INDIA has launched an innovative behavioural change strategy-widespread promotion of Sugar and Oil Boards. These boards are vital in helping everyone make informed choices and #StopObesity #EatRightIndia, said the post, which also displayed the oil and sugar boards.' Inspired by Hon'ble PM @narendramodi 's vision for a healthier India! @MoHFW_INDIA has launched an innovative behavioral change strategy-widespread promotion of Sugar & Oil Boards. These boards are vital in helping everyone make informed choices and #StopObesity #EatRightIndia pic.twitter.com/AUocIiL3lc FSSAI (@fssaiindia) July 10, 2025 The boards recommend that people consume only 27-30 gms of fat every day and that their sugar intake should not exceed 25g per person per day for adults and 20g for children. The decision to display the oil and sugar boards comes after the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) directed all affiliated schools to establish sugar boards in May to educate students about the dangers of excessive sugar consumption. CBSE launched the initiative to combat rising health concerns like childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes, which have been linked to high sugar intake. Welcoming the move, Dr Arun Gupta, Pediatrician and Convenor of Nutrition Advocacy in Public Interest (NAPi), a national think-tank on nutrition consisting of independent medical experts, paediatricians, and nutritionists, said, It is heartening to see the centres recognition that consumption of foods products high in sugar, salt or fat (HFSS) is a leading factor for obesity and non-communicable diseases. However, he said, efforts to put up such boards are good, but to reduce the demand for HFSS foods, the government needs to introduce policy interventions on pre-packaged ultra-processed food products, which are always high in the nutrients of concern and remain hidden. These are aggressively and deceptively advertised and mislabeled. Therefore, to achieve a meaningful reduction in the consumption of HFSS, the government should ban its advertisements, put warning labels on HFSS products, and consider health taxes on them, he told TNIE . Officials said some ministries, including the health ministry, located in Nirman Bhavan, have started displaying these oil and sugar boards in their canteens and have also started serving healthy food like satu, millet, corns, coconut water, green tea, instead of sugary milk tea and health shakes. CBSE mandate on 'sugar boards' a wake-up call, but let's not stop there On Thursday, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Rishikesh, also issued an office memorandum on the display of these boards. In its notice, it said that, in compliance with the health ministry letter dated June 21 to all departments, they are directing the prominent display of oil and sugar boards within their premises. This initiative is part of the National Programme for Prevention and Control of non-Communicable Diseases and aligns with the Honble Prime Ministers appeal to adopt a healthy lifestyle under the Fit India Movement, the letter said. Though the initiative is voluntary, many ministries, departments and institutions are getting ready to display these boards. Officials added that the Chandigarh airport has already exhibited these boards. On June 7, on the occasion of World Food Safety Week, Union Health Minister J P Nadda announced that oil and sugar boards, developed by FSSAI, will be widely promoted across schools, workplaces, and public institutions. The boards aim to serve as powerful visual advocacy tools that clearly display clear, relatable information about hidden sugars and fats in everyday food items, he had said. On June 21, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava wrote and proposed to all secretaries, ministries, and departments of the government of India to display sugar and oil boards as an initiative to promote healthier dietary habits in various settings. These boards serve as visual behavioural nudges in schools, offices, public institutions, etc., displaying key information about hidden fats and sugars in everyday foods. She also proposed that they print health messages on all official stationery - letterheads, envelopes, notepads, folders - and publications to reinforce daily reminders on fighting obesity. Srivastava also suggested to promote healthy meals and physical activity in offices through nutritious, healthier food options (more fruits, vegetables, and low-fat options, and by limiting availability of sugary drinks and high-fat snacks) and active workplace initiatives (such as encouraging use of stairs, organizing short exercise breaks, and facilitating walking routes). On July 8, ICMR-NIN also posted on its official X handle, Thanks to Honble @PMOIndia @narendramodi ji's push for healthier workplaces, @MoHFW_INDIA has urged all govt offices to prominently display Sugar Boards. Sharing the Sugar Boards to display in offices. Tag us in your stories/posts. As per NFHS-5 (2019-21), over one in five adults in urban areas are overweight or obese. As per The Lancet Global Burden of Disease 2021 obesity forecasting study, published in 2025, the number of overweight and obese adults in India is projected to rise from 18 crores in 2021 to 44.9 crores by 2050, making it the country with the second-highest global burden. Obesity significantly raises the risk of NCDs such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and certain cancers. It also affects mental health, mobility, and quality of life, and imposes a heavy economic burden through increased healthcare costs and productivity losses. Referring to the Lancet report, Prime Minister Modi has urged people to reduce at least 10 percent of the oil in their food and to do regular physical exercise.

Truck overturns, killing three Kanwar pilgrims in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: A truck with Kanwar pilgrims overturned on the Rishikesh-Gangotri Highway in Tehri district on Wednesday, claiming the lives of three individuals and injuring 16 others. According to the sources at the district disaster management authority, the incident occurred between Jajal and Fakot, casting a pall over the ongoing pilgrimage as rescue operations were immediately launched. District Disaster Management Officer Brijesh Bhatt confirmed the fatalities, stating that one person died on the spot, while two others were found trapped beneath the overturned vehicle. The truck was carrying a total of 19 Kanwar pilgrims who were en route from Rishikesh to Gangotri to collect holy water, a significant ritual in the annual Kanwar Yatra. Of the 16 injured, four critically wounded pilgrims have been referred to AIIMS Rishikesh for advanced medical care. Eight others are currently receiving treatment at the Narendra Nagar Community Health Centre, while one individual is being treated at the Primary Health Centre in Fakot. Upon receiving news of the accident, relief and rescue operations were immediately launched by local authorities and emergency services. According to the Tehri District Magistrate, the truck lost control and overturned approximately two kilometres ahead of Khaadi. Emergency services, including the vital 108 ambulance service, were roped in to transport the injured to various hospitals. Our teams responded swiftly to the scene to provide immediate assistance and transport the injured for medical treatment, a district official stated, highlighting the rapid coordination efforts. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed profound sorrow over the tragic accident. In a statement released shortly after the incident, he directed officials to ensure that the injured pilgrims receive immediate and the best possible medical facilities. The Chief Minister Dhami emphasised that the administration is conducting relief and rescue operations on a war footing to safely evacuate all passengers and provide comprehensive support to those affected in this challenging time. Investigations into the exact cause of the accident are underway.

Uttarakhand: ID mandatory for food vendors along Kanwar yatra route; offenders to be fined Rs 2 lakh

DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand government has made it mandatory for all food vendors to display their photo ID card and their shop's license number in an effort to ensure safety and purity of food for the thousands of devotees. This will apply to all food outlets serving pilgrims, from large shops to small stalls. Authorities have warned of severe penalties for those who fail to comply. Violators caught operating without displaying the required identification could face hefty fines of up to Rs 2 lakh. Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar, Health Secretary and Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has launched a special campaign against food adulteration. He emphasised that the ID rule is a key part of ensuring accountability for food quality. Every food business operator on the yatra routes including small vendors, hawkers, and street food stalls must now display their license or registration certificate along with a clear photo identity card. Failure to show this identification will lead to immediate action under the Food Safety Act, resulting in the Rs 2 lakh fine. Speaking to TNIE , Dr. Kumar stated, There will be no compromise on the quality of food served during the Kanwar Yatra. Knowing the identity of the person serving the food is crucial for trust and safety. Adding to this, Tajbar Singh Jaggi, Additional Commissioner of Food Safety and Drug Administration, warned, Legal action will be taken against anyone operating a food business without a proper license or failing to display their identity as required. The government is also using Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) methods to raise awareness among both the public and operators. This includes educating them on the importance of checking vendor identity, identifying pure food, understanding food regulations, and knowing consumer rights. Banners, posters, pamphlets, and social media are being utilised for this outreach. Notably, similar directives were issued by the governments of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and some other states in July last year as well, which the Supreme Court subsequently stayed . In July 2024, a bench of Supreme Court Justices Hrishikesh Roy and S.V.N. Bhatti issued notices to Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and other states where the Kanwar Yatra is observed. The Court, in its order, had clarified: Food vendors, street hawkers, etc., can be asked to display the type of food being served to Kanwariyas, but they should not be compelled to disclose their names, the bench stated.

Uttarakhand reels under heavy rain fury; 15 missing, key highways washed away, orange alert in seven districts

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand is battling a severe monsoon crisis with relentless rains triggering landslides, road closures, and multiple rescue operations. An orange alert has been issued for seven districts, while authorities search for 15 people missing in separate rain-related incidents. The incessant downpour and subsequent landslides are making rescue and recovery operations incredibly difficult. Rescue operations are underway to locate 15 individuals who went missing in two separate incidents. A Tempo Traveller plunged into the Alaknanda River last week, claiming three lives, and seven individuals are still untraceable. In a separate incident near Silai Band, six labourers went missing after a road was completely washed away by surging waters. The Rishikesh-Yamunotri National Highway in Uttarkashi has been entirely washed away near Silai Band and Aujhari, bringing all vehicular movement to a halt. The Kalsi-Chakrata State Highway in Dehradun district is also closed due to a massive debris slide. However, several key routes remain open, including the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway and the Rishikesh-Badrinath and Joshimath-Malari-Niti National Highways. The scale of disruption is significant, with a staggering number of roads closed across various districts due to debris. These include 15 roads in Uttarkashi, 11 in Tehri, nine in Rudraprayag, five in Pithoragarh, 48 in Pauri, two in Nainital, nine in Dehradun, 15 in Champawat, 21 in Chamoli, 16 in Bageshwar, and two in Almora district. District Magistrate Prashant Arya has taken charge, conducting an on-site inspection of the affected area and issuing urgent directives to joint teams from NDRF, SDRF, ITBP, Police, and the Revenue Department to intensify search and rescue efforts. He has also directed the Irrigation Department to expedite work on draining water from a lake forming in the Yamuna River. The immediate focus remains on the tragic incident that occurred late Saturday night, which affected 29 labourers . Of these, 20 labourers have been safely rescued, and three deaths have been confirmed. A continuous and desperate search is underway for the remaining six missing labourers. The situation remains critical, and authorities are working tirelessly to rescue those affected and restore normalcy to the region.

Uttarakhand: Ganga swells in Rishikesh; SDRF, police issue safety alerts

Uttarakhand is on high alert as the Ganga river in Rishikesh approaches the warning mark due to continuous heavy rainfall. SDRF teams and local police are evacuating people to safer zones. The Meteorological Centre has issued red alerts for several districts, forecasting very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and squalls, while other districts are under orange and yellow alerts.

NHAI issues directions to ensure smooth conduct of 'Kanwar Yatra'

NEW DELHI: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on June 30 conducted a meeting with the Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand administrations and police to ensure adequate arrangements for smooth 'Kanwar Yatra' and minimise inconvenience to highway users. The meeting aimed to address various issues pertaining to the route -- used by pilgrims -- such as water logging and potholes. The meeting also aimed to ensure adequate street lighting, implementation of short-term road safety measures and installation of road signages. Directions have also been issued to shut illegal turns or gaps in medians and also ensure that clean toilets and public conveniences for the pilgrims are provided. Addressing the meeting, NHAI chairman, Santosh Kumar Yadav, urged the participants to make adequate arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of the Kawad Yatra with minimal disruption to both the road users and the pilgrims. To expedite preparedness for the upcoming Kawad Yatra, a review meeting through Video Conferencing was held with the officials from state administration. Yadav also directed NHAI officials to coordinate with the local administration, deploy adequate patrol vehicles, ambulances, cranes, and ensure staff availability at the toll plazas to assist the pilgrims and efficiently manage traffic flow along the route of the Kanwar Yatra, said officials. Present in the meeting were Principal Secretary, Public Works Department (PWD) of UP, Commissioner (Saharanpur) Atal Kumar Rai, Commissioner (Moradabad) Aunjaneya Kumar Singh, Commissioner (Meerut) Hrishikesh Bhaskar Yashod, District Magistrates, Police officials, and senior officials of the NHAI. The Member (Administration) of NHAI Vishal Chauhan directed Authority field offices to ensure safety of the commuters and pilgrims around under construction projects, ensure barricading, provide proper diversions, install reflective boards and signages at the dark spots, drainage covers, closure of the unauthorized cuts and prominent display of contact details of emergency service providers such as the ambulances and cranes. The meeting also highlighted the collaborative approach between different government agencies to enhance coordination for the smooth conduct of the religious and community events, said officials.

Char Dham Yatra suspended for 24 hours amid heavy rain alert in Uttarakhand

I have given instructions to the police and administration officials to stop the pilgrims in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag and Vikasnagar, Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey said

Uttarakhand: Char Dham Yatra Suspended For 24 Hours Amid Heavy Rain Alert

Dehradun, Jun 29: The Char Dham Yatra has been suspended for the next 24 hours following a heavy rain alert, officials said on Sunday. Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey said that the pilgrimage had been halted temporarily as a precautionary measure. I have given instructions to the police and administration officials to stop the pilgrims in Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Sonprayag and Vikasnagar, Pandey told. The suspension followed a cloudburst that hit Silai Band on the Barkot-Yamunotri road in [] The post Uttarakhand: Char Dham Yatra Suspended For 24 Hours Amid Heavy Rain Alert appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Char Dham Yatra suspended due to heavy rainfall red alert in Uttarakhand

Due to a red alert for heavy rainfall issued by the IMD, the Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand has been suspended for 24 hours. Pilgrims en route are being stopped at safe locations, while those in Rishikesh are advised to remain there.

Uttarakhand cloudburst: 89 workers missing at hotel construction site in Baligarh

Cloudburst in Baligarh: A cloudburst near BarkotYamunotri road in Uttarkashi has caused significant damage to a hotel construction site, leaving several workers missing as rescue operations are underway. Separately, heavy rainfall has blocked the BadrinathRishikesh highway, disrupting pilgrimage travel. Chief Minister Dhami has advised caution and urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel due to the adverse weather forecast.

Heavy rains trigger major landslides across Uttarakhand, Yamunotri highway blocked

DEHRADUN: Heavy rainfall late Friday night triggered a significant landslide near Poligad on the Yamunotri National Highway, bringing traffic to a complete standstill. Hundreds of pilgrims embarking on the sacred Yamunotri Yatra have been left stranded on both sides of the highway since Saturday morning, facing considerable inconvenience. Heavy machinery from the National Highway Department has been deployed to the site, and clearance operations are currently underway to restore connectivity. Adding to the disruption, several other crucial routes across Uttarakhand have also been impacted by landslides and debris. According to the District Disaster Management Office, the Rishikesh-Badrinath National Highway is blocked near Sirobagad, while the Rudraprayag-Gaurikund Highway remains impassable near Sonprayag. Additionally, the Badrinath Highway has been obstructed by debris near Bhanerpani, close to Pipalkoti. Long queues of vehicles have formed at all three locations, with passengers waiting for a break in the weather. The Meteorological Department has issued a 'Yellow Alert' for heavy rainfall in parts of Dehradun and Nainital districts, while an 'Orange Alert' has been declared for Bageshwar district. Light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms is also expected in other districts, with forecasts indicating that lightning and rain will continue across Uttarakhand until 3 July. In Chamoli district, relentless heavy rainfall since Friday night has severely disrupted daily life. The Badrinath Highway has been affected by landslides and debris at multiple points. Near Nandnagar, a pilgrimage vehicle became stuck in the Parthadeep landslide zone; however, all passengers were safely evacuated beforehand. Except for one or two locations, most routes have now been cleared, said Nandkishore Joshi, District Disaster Management Officer for Chamoli. However, the highway near Bhanerpani, close to Pipalkoti, remains blocked, with debris removal operations continuing on a war footing. The village of Thirpak bore the brunt of the intense downpour when the Nolaklana stream overflowed around 1am. The surging torrent and debris engulfed three cowsheds, tragically killing two oxen and seven goats belonging to local residents Balbir Lal and Garib Lal. Villagers sought refuge in a nearby government hospital to escape the rising waters. In response to the warnings issued by the Meteorological Department, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has urged residents of the state to remain vigilant. He appealed to the public to exercise patience and caution during this period of adverse weather.

Uttarakhand: Passenger movement halted after Badrinath-Rishikesh highway blocked due to heavy rains

Heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand has disrupted passenger movement, blocking the Badrinath-Rishikesh highway and halting pilgrimages to Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Hemkund Sahib. Authorities are working to clear debris and restore access, while also managing disruptions on other key routes like the National Highway near Nandprayag. Search and rescue operations continue for victims of a recent bus accident in Rudraprayag.

Kanwar Yatra From July 11: No Baseball Bats, Hockey Sticks, Iron Rods, DJs With Loud Music

Authorities expect over five crore devotees from Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand & Himachal Pradesh will travel to Haridwar and Rishikesh to collect Ganga Jal

Video : Radhika Das Kirtan at The Beatles Ashram, Rishikesh, India

Hinduisms connection with the greatest band ever known, The Beatles, continues The power of transcendental sound has been channeled by various traditions, throughout history and throughout the world. Chants, prayers, hymns, recitation of sacred texts, can awaken our inherent spiritual nature. Mantra is a sanskrit word meaning that which liberates and cleanses the mind. Mantra []

Uttarakhand: Tempo traveller fell into Alaknanda river, one body found

A tempo traveller plunged into the Alaknanda river near Gholthir on the Rishikesh-Badrinath highway in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand this morning.

11 feared dead after vehicle carrying pilgrims from Udaipur plunges into Alaknanda river in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: A family of pilgrims from Udaipur, Rajasthan, on a Char Dham Yatra met with tragedy on Thursday morning when their Tempo Traveller lost control and plunged into the Alaknanda River in Uttarakhands Rudraprayag district. Initial reports suggest that at least 11 people are feared dead in the horrific incident, though only two bodies have been recovered so far. The vehicle, reportedly carrying 17 members of the same family, was completely submerged in the fast-flowing Alaknanda, making rescue operations extremely challenging due to the strong currents, officials from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) said. SDRF divers, along with police and district administration teams, have launched extensive relief and rescue operations to retrieve the missing and those feared trapped. SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi confirmed the details to TNIE , Around 7:30 am on Thursday, near Ghoolteer on the RishikeshBadrinath Highway in Rudraprayag district, a Tempo Traveller lost control and plunged directly into the Alaknanda River. All 17 occupants of the vehicle were from the same family, hailing from Udaipur, Rajasthan, and were on a pilgrimage. Upon receiving news of the accident, teams from the police, SDRF, and district administration swiftly arrived at the scene and launched a rescue operation with the assistance of divers. SDRF divers, along with police and district administration teams, have launched extensive relief and rescue operations to retrieve the missing and those feared trapped. Providing an update on the casualties, District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajwar told this newspaper, As of now, nine individuals have been rescued, two of whom have unfortunately succumbed to their injuries. One of the deceased is a woman. Eight injured individuals have been rushed to the district hospital; several young children are among the injured. Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing moments, stating that three individuals were flung out of the vehicle upon impact and were immediately rushed to the hospital in critical condition.The fate of the remaining passengers remains uncertain, with fears that many were swept away by the rivers treacherous currents. In a grim discovery, one body was found approximately 8 kilometres downstream at Shivpuri, underlining the force of the river. SDRF Sub-Inspector Jagmohan Singh told this newspaper, With the assistance of police and local administration teams, the SDRF has intensified the search operation in the Alaknanda River. However, the strong currents and the inaccessible terrain are posing significant difficulties in our relief efforts. The search operation continues amidst adverse conditions.

1 Dead, 10 Missing as Bus Plunges Into Alaknanda River in Uttarakhand

Tragedy strikes pilgrim route as Rishikesh-Badrinath bus falls into river near Rudraprayag; rescue operations underway

AIIMS Rishikesh Recruitment 2025 - Apply Offline for Project Research Scientist, Project Technical Support Posts

TheAll India Institute of Medical Sciences Rishikesh (AIIMS Rishikesh) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 02 Project Research Scientist, Project Technical Support posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply Offline through the official AIIMS Rishikesh website. The last date to submit the application form is 08-07-2025.

AIIMS Rishikesh Junior Research Fellow Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences Rishikesh (AIIMS Rishikesh) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 01 Junior Research Fellow posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official AIIMS Rishikesh website. The last date to submit the application form is 30-06-2025.

Bengaluru to Rishikesh first-ever direct train starts: Timings, fare, stops, frequency and everything else you need to know

Indian Railways is set to launch a direct train service between Bengaluru and Rishikesh, commencing on June 19, 2025. This Yeshwantpur-Rishikesh Express Special will operate weekly, offering various accommodation classes and catering services. The route includes major cities like Nagpur, Bhopal, and Haridwar, facilitating tourism and pilgrimage to Uttarakhand, with convenient access to Char Dham sites.

AIIMS Rishikesh Project Technical Support III Recruitment 2025 - Apply Offline

TheAll India Institute of Medical Sciences Rishikesh (AIIMS Rishikesh) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 01 Project Technical Support III posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply Offline through the official AIIMS Rishikesh website. The last date to submit the application form is 15-07-2025.

Gujarat mourns Vijay Rupani: Former Chief Minister laid to rest with state honours

AHMEDABAD: The state of Gujarat is in mourning following the untimely demise of its former Chief Minister, Vijaybhai Rupani, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash on 12 June. The sudden loss has sent shockwaves across the region, with tributes pouring in from both political circles and the general public. Today, his mortal remains were laid to rest in a solemn ceremony conducted with full state honours. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel personally attended the final rites, which were carried out in strict accordance with official protocol. A Guard of Honour was accorded as a mark of the state's highest respect for Rupanis contributions and leadership. AI171 plane crash: Vijay Rupani's lucky number '1206' becomes date of his last journey Following the state tribute, his remains were respectfully handed over to his grieving family, including wife Anjali Rupani and son Rushabh Rupani, in the presence of senior dignitaries. Every step of the ceremony reflected the states commitment to dignity, duty, and reverence for the leader who once steered its governance. In an official statement, the state government remembered Vijaybhai Rupani not merely as a political figure, but as a visionary leader renowned for his integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to public welfare. His legacy, they affirmed, rests on the pillars of ethical leadership and tireless public service. At Ahmedabads Civil Hospital, where his body was initially kept for public homage, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel was joined by Health Minister Hrishikesh Patel, Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghvi, Cooperation Minister Jagadish Vishwakarma, Rajya Sabha MP Mayank Nayak, as well as senior officials and leaders from across communities and organisationsall united in grief and respect. As the state prepares for his final journey to Rajkot, where his last rites will be performed, the sorrow remains palpable. Vijaybhai Rupanis sudden passing has left not only a vacuum in Gujarats political landscape but also in the hearts of millions who admired him as a principled and visionary leader.

UKhand CM directs DGP to conduct thorough investigation into Assam womans death

GUWAHATI, June 14: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed the DGP to conduct a thorough and detailed investigation into the death of Assam woman in Rishikesh. The woman Rosmita Hojai, hailing from Dima Hasao district of Assam, was reported to be missing in Rishikesh on June 6 and her body was found in []

Assam CM seeks probe into Rosmita Hojais mysterious death in Rishikesh

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has requested Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Dhami to investigate the death of Rosmita Hojai, whose body was found in the Ganga River in Rishikesh. Hojai had traveled to Delhi for an exam and then went to Rishikesh with two people before disappearing on June 6.

DNA identification of Ahmedabad plane crash victims underway; only eight bodies handed over so far

AHMEDABAD: As the aftermath of the devastating Air India plane crash continues to unfold, DNA testing remains in full swing on the second day at Kasoti Bhavan inside the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital. Authorities have so far conducted postmortems on over 270 bodies, while DNA sampling has been completed for at least 220 victims. Despite the scale of the tragedy, only eight bodies have been identified and handed over to their families. Officials confirmed that more than 25 ambulances have been stationed outside the hospital to assist in the transfer of remains. However, identification of the remaining victims hinges entirely on DNA results, which are expected within the next three days. Samples of nearly 250 individuals have already been collected as part of the massive identification effort. Among the victims confirmed so far are two from Rajasthan, two from Bhavnagar, and one from Madhya Pradesh. The identities of others remain under process as forensic teams work round the clock. Special attention is being given to the 27 passengers from Vadodara city and district who were aboard the ill-fated flight. District Collector Dr Anil Dhamelia stated that DNA sampling of their families has been completed at the Civil Hospital. To assist in the coordination, the district administration deployed one male and one female officer each for 20 of the affected families to establish direct contact and streamline the identification process. Dr Dhamelia also informed that three medical officers from the Vadodara district health system have been dispatched to Ahmedabad for support. Additionally, a Chitnis has been appointed by the state government to assist with on-ground coordination. In a show of oversight, Gujarat State Health Minister Hrishikesh Patel and Minister of State Jagadish Vishwakarma visited the hospital to inspect the ongoing DNA collection and identification process. Meanwhile, police have officially registered a case of accidental death in connection with the crash, as investigations continue to piece together the chain of events that led to one of Indias deadliest aviation disasters.

Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project Achieves Another Milestone With Breakthrough Of 6.67 Km Tunnel Between Gullar And Byasi

Rosmita Hojai case takes a turn: Rishikesh police release a statement about missing UPSC aspirant from Assam

Rosmita Hojai, a civil services aspirant from Assam, was found dead in the Ganga river in Rishikesh, days after being reported missing. Police suspect suicide based on WhatsApp chats indicating career disappointments, though investigations are ongoing. The All Dimasa Students Union has called for a detailed inquiry into the circumstances surrounding her death, urging accountability.

'India created distinct identity on global stage under PM Modi': Uttarakhand CM Dhami

Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami says India has a strong global presence. He highlights the Modi government's achievements over 11 years. These include infrastructure development and initiatives like Ayushman Bharat. Dhami mentions progress in Uttarakhand, such as the Rishikesh-Karnprayag rail line. He notes improved road connectivity and expanded rail and air networks.

Assam Woman, Who Went Missing In Rishikesh, Found Dead Near River

According to officials, the woman was to travel to Delhi to appear for the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) examination.

Does This Video Show a Rafting Mishap in Rishikesh? No, Its From Bosnia

The video shows a rafting mishap on Bosnia's Vrbas river and doesn't show visuals from Rishikesh, as claimed.

Two Girls Drown While Bathing In Ganga River In Rishikesh

Locals present at the spot somehow saved one of them, Anjali (10), but two others drowned in the water.

'She wanted to escape': How 100 witnesses, exhaustive evidence exposed VIP cover-up, led to justice in Rishikesh resort murder case

In a verdict delivered in Kotdwar, Pulkit Arya, owner of Vanantra Resort, along with Saurabh Bhaskar and Ankit Gupta, received life imprisonment for the murder of a 19-year-old receptionist. The case, involving charges of murder, destruction of evidence, and sexual harassment, sparked public outrage in Uttarakhand. The victim was killed for refusing to provide special services to a VIP guest.

Kotdwar 2022 murder case: All three convicts sentenced to life imprisonment in under three years

In the 2022 Rishikesh resort murder case, a Kotdwar court has sentenced all three accused to life imprisonment with rigorous punishment. The swift police action led to arrests within 24 hours, supported by a detailed SIT investigation and a 500-page charge sheet.

Uttarakhand court convicts ex-BJP minister's son Pulkit Arya, 2 others in Ankita Bhandari murder case

In Uttarakhand, Pulkit Arya and two employees faced conviction for Ankita Bhandari's murder. A Kotdwar court found them guilty under IPC sections including murder and criminal conspiracy. The 2022 crime involved pushing Ankita into a canal near Rishikesh. The case sparked public outrage due to the accused's political ties. Ankita's mother seeks the death penalty for the convicts.

Justices Anjaria, Bishnoi, Chandurkar take oath, SC regains full working strength of 34 judges

NEW DELHI: Chief Justice of India B R Gavai on Friday administered the oath of office to Justices N V Anjaria, Vijay Bishnoi and A S Chandurkar as judges of the Supreme Court. The CJI administered the oath to the judges at a ceremony in apex court premises. With the swearing in of the judges, the top court will regain its full working strength of 34 judges, including the CJI. The Supreme Court collegium on Monday recommended the appointment of Karnataka High Court Chief Justice Anjaria, Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Bishnoi, and Bombay High Court judge Justice Chandurkar as judges of the top court. Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal announced their appointment on X. Their names were recommended against the three existing vacancies of judges in the top court following the superannuation of ex-CJI Sanjiv Khanna, and Justices Abhay S Oka and Hrishikesh Roy. Justice Anjaria had taken oath as the chief justice of Karnataka High Court on February 25, 2024. Earlier, he was elevated as additional judge, Gujarat High Court, on November 21, 2011 and confirmed as permanent judge on September 6, 2013. Born on March 23, 1965 at Ahmedabad, Justice Anjaria obtained a Master's degree in law in 1989 from University School of Law, Ahmedabad. He started law practice in the Gujarat High Court from August 1988 and conducted matters involving constitutional issues and all categories of civil cases, labour and service. Justice Bishnoi took oath as the chief justice of the Gauhati High Court on February 5, 2024. He was appointed additional judge of the Rajasthan High Court on January 8, 2013, and took oath as a permanent judge of the high court on January 7, 2015. Born on March 26, 1964 in Jodhpur, Justice Bishnoi was enrolled as an advocate on July 8, 1989. He practised law at the Rajasthan High Court and the Central Administrative Tribunal at Jodhpur. Born on April 7, 1965, Justice Chandurkar joined the Bar on July 21, 1988, after obtaining a law degree. Justice Chandurkar shifted to Nagpur in 1992 and practised in various courts. He was elevated as an additional judge of the Bombay High Court on June 21, 2013.

Uttarakhand launches Indias first dedicated yoga policy

DEHRADUN: After pioneering the Uniform Civil Code, Uttarakhand has taken another groundbreaking step by becoming the first state in India to implement a dedicated Yoga Policy. The Pushkar Singh Dhami-led cabinet approved the landmark initiative on Wednesday, setting an ambitious goal to establish Uttarakhand as a global center for yoga and wellness. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated the government's commitment to this vision under the newly introduced Yoga Policy 2025. We aim to create a robust yoga ecosystem in the state, said officials. As part of the initiative, the state will establish five international yoga hubs and a Directorate of Yoga and Naturopathy to streamline efforts and ensure quality standards across institutions. Shailesh Bagouli, Secretary to the Chief Minister, explained the policy's broader objective: promoting yoga as a tool for health and wellness across all sections of society. Community-based special health programmes will be designed to cater to the needs of different age groups, he said. The new policy places a strong emphasis on yoga tourism , seeking to position Uttarakhand as a leading international destination for holistic health. To achieve this, the government plans to implement stringent guidelines for yoga teaching institutions and integrate yoga education into school and college curricula. Capacity-building programmes in collaboration with national and global institutions will help train a large pool of qualified yoga experts. The five new international yoga hubs will be set up at Jageshwar, Mukteshwar, Vyas Valley, Tehri Lake, and Kolidhek Lake. These will complement the existing infrastructure in Rishikesh, already a globally recognized yoga destination. The proposed Directorate of Yoga and Naturopathy will be responsible for overseeing the registration, recognition, and regulation of yoga centres. It will also introduce a rating system to maintain standards and foster national and international partnerships in the field. To encourage investment and growth in the yoga sector, the Dhami government has announced substantial incentives. Yoga centres established in hill regions will receive up to 50% of the project cost or a maximum of Rs 20 lakh as government grants. Those in the plains will be eligible for 25% or up to Rs 10 lakh. Over the next five years, the government plans to invest Rs 35 crore in the initiative, with projections to generate over 13,000 jobs. Nearly 2,500 yoga teachers will be certified, and more than 10,000 yoga instructors are expected to gain employment under the policy framework.

Collegium recommends elevation of 3 HC judges to SC

The Supreme Court collegium has recommended the appointment of Karnataka High Court Chief Justice N V Anjaria, Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi, and Bombay High Court judge Justice A S Chandurkar as judges of the Supreme Court. The five-member collegium, headed by Chief Justice B R Gavai, decided to recommend the names to fill three existing vacancies in the top court. The appointments follow the superannuation of former Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, and Justices Abhay S Oka and Hrishikesh Roy. The Supreme Court, which has a sanctioned strength of 34 judges, is currently working with 31 judges.

SC collegium recommends elevation of two HC chief justices, Bombay HC judge as apex court judges

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court collegium on Monday recommended the appointments of Karnataka High Court Chief Justice N V Anjaria, Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi, and Bombay High Court judge Justice A S Chandurkar as judges of the top court. The five-member collegium headed by Chief Justice B R Gavai decided to recommend the names as against the three existing vacancies of judges in the top court following the superannuation of ex-CJI Sanjiv Khanna, and Justices Abhay S Oka and Hrishikesh Roy. Justice Bela M Trivedi is also set to superannuate on June 9. The apex court, which has a sanctioned strength of 34, is currently working with 31 judges.

Uttarakhand: Three COVID cases reported in AIIMS Rishikesh

AIIMS Rishikesh reported three COVID-19 cases amid a nationwide surge, with one patient discharged. While a resident and a Badrinath Yatra pilgrim from Gujarat are isolated, authorities emphasize the variant's mild nature. Delhi government advises hospitals to ensure preparedness, but experts assure the situation is under control, with most cases mild and not requiring hospitalization.

No need to panic: Haryana Health Minister on COVID cases in state

Haryana assures preparedness amidst recent COVID cases, with only four mild, home-quarantined cases reported, all previously vaccinated. AIIMS Rishikesh also reported three cases, one discharged, emphasizing the variant's low harm but advising caution for those with comorbidities. India's active cases stand at 257, mostly mild, with robust surveillance systems in place.

Chardham Yatra sees unprecedented offline registration surge; online slots full for May-June

DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand's revered Char Dham Yatra is witnessing an unprecedented surge in offline registrations, with over 27,000 pilgrims registering in a single day on Thursday. This significant increase comes as online registration slots for May and June have been completely filled, pushing pilgrims towards the offline channels. The state government has made registration mandatory for the Char Dham Yatra. The cumulative figure for both online and offline registrations has now surpassed 3.2 million. The Tourism Department initiated online registrations on March 20, leading to the current unavailability of slots for the peak months of May and June. To facilitate pilgrims, offline registration counters were opened on April 28 in key locations including Haridwar, Rishikesh, Herbertpur, and Naya Gaon Vikas Nagar. May 22 marked the first time over 27,000 offline registrations were recorded in a single day. Meanwhile, Friday witnessed the highest single-day pilgrim footfall of this Yatra season, with a remarkable 67,172 devotees visiting the four shrines. This figure represents the highest daily number since the commencement of this year's Char Dham Yatra. Yogendra Gangwar, Joint Director and Nodal Officer of the Uttarakhand Tourism Department, told TNIE , As of Friday, a total of 3,214,250 pilgrims have registered for the Yatra through various means. Out of these, 1,287,836 devotees have already completed their darshan. Gangwar further stated that the number of offline registrations is expected to increase in the coming days. He assured that adequate arrangements have been made to ensure that no pilgrim faces any difficulty during the registration process. So far, over 1.2 million pilgrims have successfully visited the Char Dhams against the total registrations.

Uttarakhand's Hemkund Sahib shrine set to welcome devotees as pilgrimage season commences

DEHRADUN: The revered Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib, nestled in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, is set to open its portals to devotees on Sunday, following traditional prayers (Ardas). While the shrine prepares for its official opening, the annual Yatra has already commenced, with the first batch of pilgrims departing on Thursday from Gurudwara Sri Hemkund Sahib on Laxman Jhula Road, Rishikesh. The official commencement of the yatra was marked by a flag-off ceremony led by Governor Lt. Gen. Sardar Gurmeet Singh (Retd.) and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The first 'jatha' (batch of pilgrims) set off under the spiritual guidance of the 'Panj Pyare.' Speaking at the inauguration, Governor Singh emphasised the spiritual importance of the pilgrimage. This sacred journey is a testament to unwavering faith, he stated. We extend our best wishes and prayers for a safe and spiritually enriching experience for all devotees embarking on this path. Chief Minister Dhami echoed these sentiments, highlighting the state's preparedness. Uttarakhand is honored to welcome pilgrims from across the globe to this divine land, CM Dhami remarked. Our administration has worked diligently to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place for a smooth and comfortable yatra, reflecting our commitment to facilitating this spiritual endeavor, added CM Dhami. The revered Shri Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara continues to draw significant enthusiasm from pilgrims, echoing the interest seen for the Char Dham pilgrimage. According to official figures, 183,000 devotees visited the high-altitude Sikh shrine in 2024. This substantial turnout, however, remains below the all-time record of 240,000 pilgrims who undertook the journey in 2019. We are witnessing considerable enthusiasm among pilgrims for Shri Hemkund Sahib, much like the sustained interest we observe for the Char Dham yatra, stated a spokesperson from the Uttarakhand Tourism Department. For countless Sikh devotees, the path to spiritual solace often leads to this sacred pilgrimage site, nestled high in the Himalayas. The revered Gurudwara Hemkunt Sahib stands at a breathtaking altitude of approximately 14,200 feet above sea level, cementing its status as one of the world's highest spiritual destinations.

First Batch For Hemkund Sahib Yatra Leaves From Rishikesh

Dehradun, May 22: Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Gurmeet Singh and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday flagged off the first batch for the pilgrimage to Shri Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara from Rishikesh. The governor and the chief minister congratulated the first batch of Sangats and wished them a safe journey. The doors of the Sikh pilgrimage located at an altitude of 15000 feet in the Chamoli district are scheduled to open on May 25. Describing this journey to Hemkund [] The post First Batch For Hemkund Sahib Yatra Leaves From Rishikesh appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

7 Must-Visit Places on a 2-Day Trip to Haridwar & Rishikesh this Summer

Planning a quick getaway? Discover spiritual vibes, scenic spots, and serene experiences in just two days!

Who is Hrishikesh Hemant Kanitkar? India A head coach for upcoming England tour

VVS Laxman, head of the NCA usually handles coaching for India A or when the main coach is unavailable but this time Kanitkar has been assigned the coaching role.

Close call for 3 as heli ambulance makes emergency landing in Kedarnath

Rudraprayag: A Sanjeevani heli ambulance operated by AIIMS, Rishikesh on Saturday made an emergency landing in Uttarakhands Kedarnath after developing a technical snag, an official said. Two doctors and a pilot on board the helicopter are safe, District Tourism Development Officer Rahul Chaubey said. The Sanjeevani heli ambulance had gone to Kedarnath to rescue a 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 .

Narrow Escape For Helicopter Ambulance During Kedarnath Emergency Landing

The heli ambulance operated by AIIMS, Rishikesh had gone to Kedarnath to rescue a pilgrim suffering from respiratory distress when its tail rotor broke.

Heli Ambulance Makes Emergency Landing In Kedarnath After Technical Snag

RUDRAPRAYAG, May 17: Three people had a narrow escape on Saturday when a heli ambulance had to make an emergency landing in Kedarnath after it developed a technical snag, an official said. The heli ambulance operated by AIIMS, Rishikesh had gone to Kedarnath to rescue a pilgrim suffering from respiratory distress when its tail rotor broke, forcing the pilot to make an emergency landing, District Tourism Development Officer Rahul Chaubey said. Two doctors and a pilot were on board the [] The post Heli Ambulance Makes Emergency Landing In Kedarnath After Technical Snag appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

AIIMS Rishikesh heli ambulance crash-lands in Kedarnath due to technical damage, all onboard safe: Garhwal Commissioner

An AIIMS Rishikesh heli ambulance crash-landed in Kedarnath due to damage to its rear section. Fortunately, all three occupantsa doctor, pilot, and medical staff memberescaped unharmed. Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed the incident, stating that the cause of the damage is under investigation. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.

AIIMS Rishikesh Chopper Crash-Lands Near Kedarnath, All Onboard Safe

5 dead, 2 injured as helicopter crashes in Uttarakhand

Uttarkashi (UKD), May 8: Five persons were killed and two others injured on Thursday when a private companys helicopter on way to Gangotri shrine crashed near Gangnani in Uttarkashi district, officials said. The helicopter carrying a total of seven people, including the pilot, crashed on the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway at around 8:45 am. According to [] The post 5 dead, 2 injured as helicopter crashes in Uttarakhand appeared first on Northlines .

5 killed as helicopter crashes in Uttarakhand

The helicopter carrying a total of seven people, including the pilot, crashed on the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway at around 8:45 am.

Helicopter Crashes In Uttarakhand, Five Dead

Uttarkashi (UKD), May 8: Five persons were killed and two others injured on Thursday when a private companys helicopter on way to Gangotri shrine crashed near Gangnani in Uttarkashi district, officials said. The helicopter carrying a total of seven people, including the pilot, crashed on the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway at around 8:45 am. According to information received from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the helicopter belonging to AeroTrans Services Private Limited crashed and fell into a gorge about 200-250 [] The post Helicopter Crashes In Uttarakhand, Five Dead appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Six killed, one injured in helicopter crash en route to Gangotri shrine in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: A private helicopter en route to the Gangotri shrine crashed near Gangnani in Uttarkashi district on Thursday, leaving six tourists dead and the pilot critically injured. According to information received from SDRF sources, the helicopter, operated by AeroTrans Services Private Limited (VT-OXF) and piloted by Captain Robin Singh, had taken off from the Sahastradhara helipad in Dehradun at 8:50 am on Thursday morning with six passengers. The helicopter was scheduled to land at the Kharsali helipad, located approximately six kilometres from Gangotri Dham, when the crash occurred unexpectedly near the Rishikesh-Gangotri National Highway. The deceased have been identified as Kala Soni, 61, Vijaya Reddy, 57, and Ruchi Aggarwal, 56, all from Mumbai; Radha Aggarwal, 79, from Uttar Pradesh; Vedavati Kumari, 48, from Andhra Pradesh; and the pilot, Robin Singh, from Gujarat. The injured person has been identified as Bhaskar from Andhra Pradesh. SDRF Commandant Arpan Yaduvanshi told TNIE , Uttarkashi Police and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are engaged in relief and rescue work at the spot. The investigation into the causes of the accident is ongoing. Upon reaching the crash site, the SDRF team from Bhatwadi observed that the helicopter had fallen into a deep gorge, approximately 200 to 250 metres deep. The team has established a base at the scene and commenced rescue operations to descend into the gorge. Garhwal Divisional Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed that the rescue operation was underway, with administration and relief teams present at the site. Expressing grief over the helicopter crash, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami ordered an investigation into the incident. SDRF and district administration teams were dispatched immediately to the crash site for relief and rescue operations. Notably, this incident follows a recent emergency landing in the region. On 5 May, a helicopter carrying pilgrims from Badrinath to Dehradun had to make an emergency landing at the Gopeshwar sports ground due to inclement weather in the Badrinath Dham area. The crash also occurred on a day when the Meteorological Department had issued a weather warning for Uttarakhand. Light to moderate rain, accompanied by lightning and strong winds, was forecast for Thursday in districts including Dehradun, Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Tehri, Pauri, Nainital, and Champawat.

Trade Setup For May 4: Nifty 50 Faces Immediate Resistance At 24,590

For Bank Nifty, the resistance is seen at 56,000, while the key support lies at 54,450, said Hrishikesh Yedve.

Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani's son Akash Ambani and 'badi bahu' Shloka Mehta spotted in printed ethnics at Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh, see pics

Anant Ambani, Radhika Merchant, Akash Ambani, and Shloka Mehta, along with their children, were seen in traditional Indian attire at Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh.

Video: Bull Takes A Scooter Ride In Rishikesh, Internet Can't Handle It

A stray bull in Rishikesh has taken the Internet by storm after CCTV footage showed it mounting a parked scooter and nudging it forward.

'Bro Just Wanted A Test Drive': Netizens In Splits After Bull Takes Scooter For A Spin In Rishikesh

The incident has sparked waves of laughter and a stream of cheeky comments from amused viewers

Over 22 lakh devotees register for Char Dham Yatra 2025

The Char Dham Yatra 2025 commenced with over 22 lakh devotees registered in Rishikesh, heading towards their destinations under heightened security. Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Dhami inaugurated the pilgrimage by offering prayers at Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham.

Rishikesh Bypass In Uttarakhand, Major Rail Projects In MP And Maharashtra Reviewed By NPG Under PM GatiShaktiAll About It

Key planning group sets ball rolling for Rishikesh bypass construction

The Rishikesh bypass project in Uttarakhand is gaining momentum with the Network Planning Group evaluating the 11-km elevated section. This key project, part of the PM Gati Shakti initiative, aims to ease access to Kedarnath-Badrinath and Yamunotri-Gangotri.

Chardham Yatra 2025: 24x7 High-Tech System And Mobile Teams To Ensure Pilgrim Safety

Chardham Yatra 2025: The Yatra starts on April 30. Dehradun DM Savin Bansal inspected the Rishikesh Transit Camp, stressing passenger convenience and strict service monitoring

Indias longest rail tunnel faced collapse threat during construction: L&T

JANASU: The completion of India's longest rail tunnel between Devprayag and Janasu in Uttarakhand faced significant challenges, including moments when it seemed the tunnel might collapse and jeopardise the whole project, Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) said on Saturday. The tunnel boring machine (TBM) named 'Shakti' was about five km inside the tunnel when it encountered a gush of water from all directions at the rate of around 1,500 litres per minute, Rakesh Arora, Project Director of the tunnel, told PTI. Besides the TBM operator, there were 200 people inside the tunnel at that time. It was one of the toughest moments when the tunnel was at risk of flooding or collapsing. However, we took corrective measures immediately, he said. Arora said the situation did not improve for around a month. His team struggled to overcome it by using a combination of chemical as well as cement grouting to stabilise the rings and surrounding rock, consequent to which, the water flow started reducing and the engineers could stabilise the interiors successfully, he added. Besides, there were occasions when huge pressure from the surrounding soft rock posed a serious risk to the tunnel's progress, which was successfully handled by speeding up the excavation works with a combination of lubricating the TBM shield using bentonite, Arora added. The 14.57-km tunnel on the 125-km Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Link Project achieved a breakthrough on April 16 in the presence of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and other railway and state officials. Devprayag-Janasu tunnel, besides being the longest, was completed with the fastest speed in the world. It was for the first time that a Single Shield Hard Rock TBM of 9.11-metre diameter was used in the Himalayas to excavate the mountains. According to the Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), out of 14.57 km, 10.49 km was completed through TBM and the rest with the traditional drill and blast method. The 9.69-metre diameter Cabrera tunnel in Spain was built by a Double Shield Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) at an average rate of 423 metres per month and the 10.49-km Devprayag-Janasu tunnel has been completed by Single Shield TBM at an average rate of 413 metres per month, becoming the second fastest in the world, RVNL Chairman and Managing Director Pradeep Gaur had told PTI on the day breakthrough was achieved. As the Himalayas are the most challenging geologically, it makes the whole project extremely demanding and interesting. Out of a total of 125 km, 105 km pass through the tunnels. Around three km are covered through bridges and four km by adits (openings) and cross passages; the left portion is just 12 to 13 km which consists of 12 station yards, Gaur added. Arora said the TBM's biggest enemies are water ingress and soft squeezing rock which try to obstruct them from digging a tunnel in the Himalayas. Once a TBM is stuck inside a tunnel, the project is abandoned, he added. According to L&T officials, besides the state-of-the-art TBM machine, multiple scientific and physical investigations helped them ascertain what kind of rocks they would encounter ahead, and they made preparations accordingly. There is a manual probe through drilling and studying the speed of drilling to find out the rock conditions up to 60 metres ahead. Hard rock gives us slow penetration while soft rocks make penetration faster, Arora said. The scientific method is Tunnel Seismic Prediction (TSP) in which seismic waves are emitted and a report is prepared on the condition of rocks ahead by studying the speed of the waves. TSP tells us what kind of rock is 100 metres ahead of TBM and 15 metres on both sides of TBM, he said. The construction firm said they used another physical method to know the rock conditions by investigating the excavated muck.

Uttarakhand CM kickstarts Rishikesh rafting hub, parking project to boost tourism

Uttarakhand's Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, initiated the Rishikesh Ganga Corridor Project's first phase, including an Iconic City Rishikesh Rafting Base Station, backed by a Rs 100 crore grant. He also laid the foundation for a 136 crore multi-story parking and office complex to ease traffic.

HC bars online platforms from publishing woman's river rafting clip after she claims harassment

The Delhi High Court has ordered Google, Facebook, and X to remove a woman's river rafting video clip, citing privacy concerns and online harassment. The video, recorded during a Rishikesh trip in March 2025, was allegedly uploaded without her consent, leading to cyber abuse.

India's longest rail tunnel breaks ground, to reduce journey from Rishikesh to..., connecting major cities, know details here

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw attended the breakthrough ceremony of Tunnel T-8 of India's longest rail tunnel, Rishikesh-Karnprayag rail line connecting Devprayag to Janasu section. RVNL) has achieved a major milestone with the 125 km long rail.

Tourist dies in Rishikesh rafting accident; five others rescued

DEHRADUN: A tourist has died in an accident on the Ganges River in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, a location renowned for river rafting, after a raft overturned during an excursion. The fatality occurred near the Garud Chatti area within the Muni Ki Reti police station limits in Tehri district. The deceased has been identified as Sagar Negi, a resident of Dehradun. Police teams rushed to the scene upon receiving news of the accident and took custody of the body, which has been sent for post-mortem. Senior Sub-Inspector Yogesh Pandey stated, The incident occurred at Muni Ki Reti during a rafting excursion involving a group of six people. According to information received from SDRF Inspector Kavinder Sajwan, a tourist from Dehradun died after a raft suddenly overturned near Garud Chatti in Tehri district's Muni Ki Reti police station limits. Police have initiated an investigation into the incident and are questioning the raft operator. According to preliminary information, Sagar Negi and his friends arrived at Shivpuri, Rishikesh, for rafting on Wednesday morning. According to the sources, the trip commenced from Shivpuri. However, as the raft approached the Garud Chatti bridge, it suddenly capsized, plunging everyone into the fast-flowing river. The rafting guide acted swiftly to pull the tourists back onto the raft safely one by one. Tragically, during this effort, Sagar Negi became unconscious. He was quickly brought to the riverbank and transported by road to the Rishikesh government hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead.

Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project: Indias Longest Railway Tunnel Breakthrough Achieved In Uttarakhand

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw witnessed the breakthrough of India's longest rail tunnel at Janasu in Uttarakhand on Wednesday.

Indias Longest Railway Tunnel Breakthrough Achieved In Uttarakhand Under Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail ProjectAll About It

Rishikesh-Karnaprayag rail link project: Vaishnaw witnesses breakthrough of longest rail tunnel in Uttarakhand

The 14.57-km-long tunnel no 8 between Devprayag and Janasu is part of the ambitious 125-km Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Broad Gauge Rail Link Project in Uttarakhand

544 accident-prone spots identified for Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand

DEHRADUN: With the Char Dham Yatra set to begin later this month, the authorities concerned in Uttarakhand have identified 544 accident-prone spots along the routes of pilgrimage across four districts. In view of this, the transport headquarters has issued a letter to the National Highways Authority of India, Border Roads Organisation and the Public Works Department, urging immediate action in these areas and requesting a report on the measures taken. In a bid to enhance safety and ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience for the Yatra, government sources reveal, road safety committees in Dehradun, Haridwar, Uttarkashi, Tehri, Pauri, Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts have been directed to conduct surveys. According to these committees, a total of 544 accident-prone areas have been identified that require immediate attention. The report highlights that there are 38 such areas in Haridwar, 65 in Chamoli, 297 in Tehri and 144 in Dehraduns Vikas Nagar and Rishikesh regions. Sources indicate that the safety measures recommended for these routes include traffic calming interventions, rumble strips, informational signage, pothole repairs, chevron boards, crash barriers, road markings, reflectors, the removal of debris along the roads and addressing unauthorised median openings & blind curves. In a notable first, this years Char Dham travel routes have been divided into 15 super zones, 41 zones, and 137 sectors. Speaking to this daily, Dehradun Traffic SP Lokjeet Singh stated, Each sector will cover an area of 10 kilometres. Police personnel will be on patrol 24 hours a day, ensuring safety and order. He added, Over six thousand police officers and staff will be deployed to manage security and traffic throughout the pilgrimage route. Notably, registrations for the Yatra have now surpassed an impressive 12.5 lakh. Yogendra Gangwar, the nodal officer from the Uttarakhand Tourism Department overseeing Char Dham yatra registrations, told TNIE, We have recorded 3,674 registrations for Kedarnath, 3,045 for Badrinath, 1,918 for Yamunotri and 2,105 for Gangotri from foreign visitors. The online registration process, which requires Aadhaar verification, began on March 20.

5 Unique Things To Do In Rishikesh That Go Beyond Rafting

Things to do in Rishikesh: Rishikesh is a town of contrasts-one minute, you're meditating by the river, and the next, you're jumping off a cliff.

Amitabh Bachchan, Rajesh Khanna were locked by Hrishikesh Mukherjee on Namak Haraam set for this shocking reason: 'Tum dono idhar kaam karne aaya hai ya...'

Raza Murad recently shared that Hrishikesh Mukherjee got so frustrated with Amitabh Bachchan and Rajesh Khanna attending phone calls during the shoot of Namak Haraam that he locked both the superstars on the set of the 1973 film.

Top 6 destinations for water sports in India this summer

India offers a thrilling mix of water sports, from scuba diving in the Andamans to river rafting in Rishikesh. Here are the top destinations where you can make a splash this summer.

Trade Setup For April 1: Niftys Resistance At 23,810

A clear breakout above 23,810 could push the rally further towards 24,00024,080, Hrishikesh Yedve said.

Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Line Project: Nine Out Of 16 Mainline Tunnels, Eight Major Bridges Completed

Hills Lead The Way: Nainital, Dehradun, Shimla See Spike In Real Estate Searches, Says Magicbricks

Nainital recorded a 49.3% increase in residential searches in 2024, followed by Shimla seeing 33.7% growth, Dehradun 27.7% and Rishikesh 26.6%, according to Magicbricks.

'Hum karke dikhate hain': Gautam Adani hails wheelchair-bound employee for bunjee jumping | Watch video

Gautam Adani praised Kay Mehta, a differently abled Adani employee, for his courageous bungee jump in Rishikesh. This act highlighted willpower overcoming barriers. Adani Group supports various initiatives for differently abled individuals, including financial assistance for para-athletes and efforts to empower women with disabilities.