The West Bengal Police registered an FIR against Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs Abhishek Banerjee, Derek O'Brien and others over alleged obstruction and assault on police personnel during the removal of an unauthorised hoarding at 9, Camac Street, Kolkata.
Seven Missing Fishermen Return Safely to Kakinada After 23 Days
After nearly 23 days, the fishermen were safely brought back to the West Bengal coast. They have now returned to Kakinada safely.
West Bengal families seek help after 32 go missing in Nepal floods
The News Mill
Nepal floods: 288 Indians uncontactable, 200 stranded in Tibet seeking evacuation
As rescue operations continued along the Nepal-Tibet border following devastating flash floods and landslides, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday that 288 Indian nationals remained uncontactable in Nepal and Tibet, while around 200 Indians stranded in Tibet were seeking evacuation. Randhir Jaiswal said, The first group of 73 people who are working on the Trishuli-1 power project. Then, two separate groups of 37 and 49 nationals from Tamil Nadu, who travelled for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Samrat and Fly Everest Travels. There is a group of 32 Indian nationals from West Bengal who travelled with the help of Samrat Travels in Timure, which is in Rasuwa district. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the missing Indians included those working on hydropower projects and tourist groups. These are five major groups who comprise, by and large, 288 people that we are talking about, he added. Twenty-one Indians from Tamil Nadu were rescued, he said, and were being brought back. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson said the government was working with local authorities to locate those who could not be contacted. There may be some people who are missing there and we are trying our best to locate them through the local authorities, Jaiswal said at a press briefing. The scale of the disaster continued to grow. Nepal Police said more than 300 bodies had been recovered from areas affected by Wednesdays floods, while Nepals National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority reported that 826 people remained missing. A Nepal police update reported by International media says the death toll has risen to 359, as of 17:00 local time Nepal officials reported that rescuers were searching for survivors after massive flash floods destroyed homes, washed away roads and swept away bridges along the Nepal-Tibet border. Nepal Tourism Board spokesperson Sunil Sharma told the BBC that 644 tourists remained unaccounted for following the Bhotekoshi floods. They included 178 Indians, 127 Nepalis, 53 Ukrainians, 51 Malaysians, 65 Americans, 35 Australians and 33 British nationals. We are coordinating with the relevant authorities for their search and rescue, Sharma said. Nepal Tourist Police Deputy Superintendent Bisworaj Adhikari told the BBC that authorities were continuing to collect information from tour operators about tourists who had travelled to the affected region. The disaster has particularly affected routes used by pilgrims and tourists travelling towards Mount Kailash and Mansarovar in Tibet, as well as trekking areas including Langtang and the religious site of Gosain Kunda. At least 77 people reported missing in Nepal were travelling with the Isha Foundation, founded by spiritual leader Sadhguru. The group had completed its Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage and was returning to Kathmandu when contact was lost, according to foundation coordinator Maa Gambhiri. She told ANI that a member of the foundation team spoke to group leader Praveen at around 9.05 am local time on Wednesday. When they attempted to contact him about 10 minutes later, there was no response. We couldnt get through to him or anyone else. It seems the incident occurred within those ten minutes, she said. The group includes people from the US, Australia, Britain and several European and Asian countries, with many of Indian origin, she said. In Tibet, China said the number of people missing in the mudslide disaster in Gyirong county had risen to 558, including 260 foreign nationals. Three deaths have been confirmed in the region, according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said around 100 Chinese nationals were also reported missing in Nepal. He said Beijing was maintaining close communication with Nepal and supporting joint search-and-rescue operations. The two sides of the border continued to face the threat of further landslides. Basanta Raj Adhikari, director of the Centre for Disaster Studies at Tribhuvan University, told BBC Newsday there was a possibility of second and third waves of flooding or landslides. We dont know yet, he said, adding that experts were in contact with colleagues in China monitoring the situation. There isnt high rainfall, but [a] landslide might happen, Adhikari said, linking the increasing risks in the Himalayas to climate change. We are observing but we didnt know that that would happen on [a] particular day, he said s reported by BBC.
Understanding tariff, and the hike
The recent power tariff hike in Jammu and Kashmir has created quite a fierce debate on the social media and amongst the society. Many statistics were tossed around in news reports about the hike in different categories of consumers, the cost of purchase of energy and the recovery thereof. The standard practice across the country is to determine the tariff every year. In case of J&K it was last done in 2023 and hence was overdue. As a matter of fact, this exercise should have been completed before the start of the financial year i.e., latest by end of March. It is now being done after five months into the current financial year. As per the Electricity Act of 2003, electricity tariff is determined by the appropriate electricity regulatory commission. For state distribution utilities (like JPDCL and KPDCL), the State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC) decides retail supply tariffs for consumers within the state. Prior to reorganisation of the State in 2019, Jammu & Kashmir had its State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC) which determined the tariff. After the reorganisation SERC was replaced by Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC). The operating principles of the Commission, however, remain the same i.e., to determine tariff in a transparent way while being guided by the need to ensure efficiency, protect consumer interests, and progressively reduce cross-subsidies while moving toward the actual cost of supply. The tariff policy under the Act also requires a fair, open, and transparent process for all parts of the electricity sector i.e., generation, transmission, and distribution. The Commission determines the tariff through a cost-based approach, where the regulator examines expenses such as power purchase cost, operation and maintenance, capital cost, return on equity, and other approved costs. The process involves submission of a petition by the utility (JPDCL or KPDCL in our case) to JERC in which it submits its accounts as regards the purchase of energy, the losses, the cost of distributing it to consumers. The JERC is expected to check these in detail and satisfy themselves to their correctness. Once found in order the expense is allowed in case the expense is not admissible or it is more than the standard norm the Regulator can allow part, or completely disallow the expense. If the State Government wants to keep consumer tariffs below the level fixed by the Commission, it can provide a subsidy in advance through its budget provision. This means the legal tariff can remain cost-reflective while selected consumer groups receive relief through government support. The case in point is the often discussed 200 units of free power. While the utility will submit its petition and the Regulator will fix the tariff, the government can decide to foot the bill for 200 units of the consumers at the rate determined by JERC. This way there is no adverse impact on the financial health of the utility (JPDCL or KPDCL). The utilities (JPDCL or KPDCL) estimate the cost of purchasing and distributing the energy and these calculations are to be checked and verified by the Regulator who then accordingly determines the tariff to be paid by the consumers. Prior to unbundling of the power sector, which led to creation of the utilities, the Power Development Department worked out the costings and petitioned the Regulator for determination of tariff. The utilities are commercial entities who are mandated to provide energy to the consumers in an efficient and competitive manner. It is worth mentioning here that the electricity tariff in J&K is amongst the lowest in the country. Based on existing tariff structure our average domestic tariff is Rs 3.90 per unit while the two states having tariff lower than us were Himachal Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, both with average domestic tariff marginally lower at Rs 3.80 per unit. States like Maharashtra and West Bengal have an average domestic tariff of Rs 8.20 and Rs 7.40 per unit. Incidentally, J&K had the highest T&D Losses in the country. In the year 2023-24 J&Ks losses stood at 48% followed by Arunachal Pradesh at 34% while the All India average was well below 20%. In the last few years these losses have been now substantially reduced are somewhere between 35 to 40%. This is a huge achievement and with the efforts of the utilities and cooperation of the consumers it should be possible to bring the figure down to the national average of around 15%. With the reduction in the T&D losses the tariff will also stabilise and the subsidy component currently funded by the UT Government will be used towards funding other welfare schemes. Equally, the other big achievement is the installation of pre-paid meters. The pre-paid concept itself is so alien to most of us particularly when it had been ingrained in us that electricity should be supplied free of cost. Though there is still a lot of work to do on that front commendable strides have been made in this important area. Without the cooperation of the consumers neither of these two achievements would have been possible. Frankly, a few years back nobody could have thought that such reduction in the losses and on installation of meters was achievable in such a short duration. Both the initiatives needed a complete change of mindset to be successful. Now looking at the financials projected in the tariff petition for the year 2026-2027 the projected cost of purchase and distribution of electricity for the two utilities i.e., JPDCL and KPDCL, is Rs 10276 crores. Out of this, Rs 7856 crores are expected to be collected leaving a shortfall in revenue collection of Rs 2421 crores. This amount of Rs 2421 crores is being funded by the government and will not be passed on to the consumers. Since an amount of Rs 502 crores is expected to be collected by increasing the tariff it implies that the actual shortfall in revenue collection, without increase in tariff would have been Rs 2923 crores. While a figure of 6.83% increase in tariff has been mentioned, this figure for consumers other than domestic, is much higher. Only in case of the BPL consumers it is unchanged at Rs 1.40 per unit subject to a maximum of 30 units per month. A preliminary review of the 334-page order issued by the JERC throws up a number of questions that demand clarification: i. If both JPDCL and KPDCL in their tariff petitions had asked for only a 5% across-the-board increase why did JERC approve a much higher tariff structure across different categories of consumers? What is the rationale behind this additional increase? ii. As per the Order the current hike will be effective 1 Sep 26 and will be valid till 31 Mar 27. What happens after Mar 2027? iii. Since the cost of purchase and distribution of electricity is for the full financial year (26-27) and the new tariff regime will be implemented only from 1 Sep 26, how will the full amount of Rs 502 crores be collected by billing at revised tariff for only 7 months (Sep 26 to Mar 27) instead of estimated 12 months in the petition? iv. The Order has considered Time of Day tariff. While it will have an impact the billing for domestic consumers during the peak hours because of 10% surcharge, it will positively effect the commercial and industrial consumers during the solar hours. Most of the commercial establishments and industries operate during the day and thus their bills for solar hour consumption will be reduced by 20% because of the rebate on ToD tariff. The impact of the rebate and of surcharge has not been captured in the calculations. v. The Order has not considered the impact of roof top solar units. Because of the generation from these roof top solar installations there will be lesser withdrawal of energy from the system and thence lesser purchase of energy from grid. Even though the installed capacity is small, it is only proper to capture its impact in the Order. For the hearing on KPDCL petition there hasnt been much of a public consultation and participation. Only three stakeholders attended the hearing of KPDCL and as can be seen from the Order they did not engage in any interaction during the hearing nor had they submitted any objections against the KPDCL petition. However, in the hearing held in Jammu for the JPDCL petition there were 32 stakeholders / consumers present in the hearing and a total of 13 objections were submitted against the proposed hike of 5% in the JPDCL petition. Going forward, for utilities to win the confidence of consumers, it is time to invest in transparent public outreach and shift toward a partnership-based approach. Engaging stakeholders is not optional; continuous engagement with stakeholders is critical to ensuring that the public not only understands but also supports the initiatives and programmes launched by the utilities. Iftikhar A Drabu is a Civil Engineer
PM Shri Schools to Launch Soon in West Bengal, Says Sukanta Majumdar
Kolkata, August 28: Central Education State Minister Sukanta Majumdar announced on Thursday that the PM Shri School project will soon be launched in West Bengal to enhance the education system. The school will be established in Malda district. Majumdar made this announcement during the inauguration of the new building of the Central School located in ... Read more PM Shri Schools to Launch Soon in West Bengal, Says Sukanta Majumdar
Social media video sparks hope, but confusion persists over Kolkata tourist missing in Nepal
Bolt from the blue jolts Mansarovar dream
Lost touch 12 hours before disaster: Patuli family
New Town couple, who saved money for 2 yrs for trip, now missing
No news of mom since she reached Nepal-Tibet border
Tour operator, control rooms not able to answer our queries: N 24 Pgns tourists kin
Family prays for return of Shiva devotee trekker
Suvendu Adhikari confirms 32 West Bengal residents missing in Nepal floods
The News Mill
City Travel Office Turns Into Waiting Room, Unanswered Calls Fuel Anxiety
Techie, One Of Few Youngsters On Trip, Out Of Reach Since Wednesday
West Bengal Chief Minister Announces Strengthening Measures for State Police
Kolkata, August 27: Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced several measures on Thursday aimed at reorganizing and strengthening the state police force. Speaking at an event held at the Kolkata Police Headquarters in Lalbazar, CM Adhikari emphasized the importance of both the force and rapid response vehicles in any disaster situation. He revealed that each police ... Read more West Bengal Chief Minister Announces Strengthening Measures for State Police
Former Trinamool MP Mamtaz Sanghamita passes away at 80
13 arrested for murder of Congress leader and his son in West Bengal
Govt raises civic volunteer pay by Rs 2,000
CM Suvendu Adhikari Urges Skilled Bengalis Abroad To Return, Promises Jobs Under Double-Engine Govt
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has urged skilled and educated professionals working across India and abroad to return to the state, promising new opportunities under the double-engine government. Speaking at LTMs Ananda Niketan IT campus in New Town, he highlighted jobs in AI, cybersecurity, chip design, automation and digital manufacturing. The government will also provide 10 additional acres for a data centre. The campus can accommodate around 5,800 professionals. Adhikari also stressed stronger industry-academia partnerships, credit access for small businesses and continued support for Bengals investment and technology ecosystem.
Govt eyes its auditoriums to give Bengali films more screens
4 emergency response vehicles for states 552 police stations by Mahalaya: CM
Govt lends muscle to Rakhi spirit, declares it state-wide festival
Snake expert holds safety session at Bypass school
Rakhi sales up by 75% in city after state fest announcement
BJP seniors show up for Milad-Un-Nabi across Bengal
Scuffles, stairway showdown at Abhishek office as cops, KMC move to remove illegal billboard
Four Cyber Fraudsters Arrested in Burdwan, West Bengal
Kolkata, August 27: Authorities from the cyber police station in Burdwan, West Bengal, have arrested four individuals accused of defrauding people of millions through cyber scams. A senior police officer confirmed the arrests on Thursday, which took place on Wednesday following a tip-off. During the interrogation of the arrested suspects, police officials gathered crucial information. ... Read more Four Cyber Fraudsters Arrested in Burdwan, West Bengal
32 pilgrims from West Bengal missing after Nepal flash floods
The Government of West Bengal is actively coordinating with the Embassy of India in Kathmandu and proper administrative channels, says Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari
Rakhis with PM Modi, CM Adhikari pictures highly demanded in Bengal
East Medinipur, Aug 27 (IANS) A day ahead of Raksha Bandhan, shopkeepers in Kathi, located in West Bengals East Midnapore, said on Thursday that the rakhis carrying the pictures of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) symbol, have seen []
Nepal Floods: 288 Indians Uncontactable, 21 Rescued So Far, MEA Shares Key Updates | Watch
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal provided an update on Indian nationals stranded and uncontactable amid devastating floods in Nepal. According to the MEA, 288 Indian nationals remain uncontactable, including 73 people working at the Trishuli-1 Power Project. Several groups of Indian travellers from Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Kerala and other states are also stranded in different parts of Nepal. Jaiswal said 21 Indian nationals from Tamil Nadu have been rescued, while around 200 people stranded on the Chinese side have sought assistance for evacuation. India has also stepped up humanitarian support, sending two aircraft carrying eight tonnes of medicines and one tonne of food items to Kathmandu. Overall, India has sent 47.5 tonnes of emergency supplies to support Nepals rescue and relief operations.
Can 'One District, One Destination' catalyse tourism in West Bengal?
Can One District One Destination catalyse tourism in West Bengal
Nepal Disaster Strands Indian Pilgrims: Families in Distress as Search Efforts Continue
New Delhi, August 27: A devastating disaster in Nepal has left several Indian pilgrims stranded during their journey to Kailash Mansarovar. Among those missing are 68-year-old Anita Das from West Bengal and 63-year-old Ranjit Halder, both of whom were traveling near the Tibet-Nepal border. The family of Devika Adhikari from Bhopal has reported that 29 ... Read more Nepal Disaster Strands Indian Pilgrims: Families in Distress as Search Efforts Continue
TMC alleges attacks on party workers; asks why President's rule should not be imposed in West Bengal
TMC spokesperson and Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien alleged that a brutal attack was perpetrated on Gyananand Samanta by unidentified miscreants in the presence of police earlier this week
Flash Floods in Nepal: 36 People from West Bengal Confirmed Missing
Kolkata, August 27: The West Bengal government has officially confirmed that 36 individuals are missing following devastating flash floods in Nepal. The state is coordinating with the Indian Embassy and Nepalese authorities to locate the missing persons. According to government reports, the missing tourists hail from various regions in West Bengal, including Kolkata, Sonarpur in ... Read more Flash Floods in Nepal: 36 People from West Bengal Confirmed Missing
Only 2 pc of Bengal SIR exclusion appeals decided so far
New Delhi:Barely 2 per cent of the nearly 38 lakh appeals filed by voters excluded from West Bengals electoral rolls after the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) had been decided as of August 7, with the vast majority still pending before appellate tribunals, according to data placed before the Supreme Court this week. Of the 82,782 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 .
Nepal floods: 32-member group of tourists from West Bengal missing
Many Indian nationals, including pilgrims, are reportedly missing after the devastating Nepal flooding. The West Bengal government has established an emergency control room and helpline numbers for assistance. Officials are coordinating with the Indian Embassy in Nepal to track the missing individuals.
India Plans Major Expansion Of Railway Capacity
India is looking to significantly expand railway capacity across its busiest routes, with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighting the need to strengthen seven high-density corridors spanning around 11,000 km.In a latest social media post, Vaishnaw states that these routes account for nearly 41% of total rail traffic despite making up only 16% of the railway network. The seven corridors include Delhi-Howrah, Howrah-Chennai, Chennai-Mumbai, Mumbai-Delhi, Delhi-Chennai, Mumbai-Howrah and Delhi-Guwahati.The Centre has also approved four multitracking projects worth 9,450 crore, which will add around 410 km of new rail lines across states including West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.Vaishnaw stressed that expanding rail capacity is crucial for reducing logistics costs and making transportation greener.
Kolkata, August 27: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated on Thursday that the primary goal of the newly established dual-engine government is to ensure public welfare through economic transformation in the state. He emphasized his readiness to attract significant investments and facilitate ease of doing business in West Bengal to achieve this objective. While ... Read more West Bengals Dual-Engine Government Aims for Economic Transformation, Says Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari
LTM makes fresh tech push from Kolkata with Global Delivery & AI Competency Centre
LTM, the business creativity partner to global enterprises, has inaugurated a new Global Delivery & AI Competency Centre in Kolkata, expanding the L&T Groups technology and AI capabilities in West Bengal. The centre will support global delivery operations, develop AI solutions, create technology opportunities and tap Kolkatas talent pool, academic ecosystem and digital infrastructure as part of LTMs wider India expansion strategy.
Why did the UN committee urge India to address hate speech and hate crimes?
The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination called on India to suspend NRC, and revise Special Intensive Revision; it also noted that more than nine million people have been disenfranchised in West Bengal because of the SIR
Return to Bengal, CM Suvendu urges skilled professionals from state working outside
West Bengal's Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has called on skilled professionals to come back to their roots, highlighting promising career opportunities available through the government's recent initiatives. With aims to generate jobs for the educated youth and boost investments, the inauguration of LTM's new IT campus marks a significant step. The administration is committed to fostering growth in emerging tech sectors and supporting local businesses.
Kolkatas Ward Count May Exceed Draft Proposal Amid Upcoming Elections
Kolkata, August 27: The West Bengal Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Department has released a draft delimitation list this week, indicating that the number of wards under the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) may increase by two beyond the proposed count. According to the draft, the number of wards in KMC is set to rise from ... Read more Kolkatas Ward Count May Exceed Draft Proposal Amid Upcoming Elections
Number of Kolkata wards likely to exceed draft delimitation plan
Kolkata, Aug 27 (IANS) The number of wards under the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) may be increased by two more, higher than the number in the draft delimitation list, which was released by the West Bengal Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Department earlier this week. As per the draft delimitation list, the number of wards []
Nepal Flood Live Updates: Toll climbs to 168
Nepal Flash Flood LIVE Updates: At least 168 people have died and more than 1,100 remain missing after a glacial collapse triggered devastating flash floods and mudslides along the Nepal-China border, destroying roads, bridges and settlements and leaving hundreds of foreign travellers unaccounted for.Nepals National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority said Thursday that 165 bodies had been recovered from flood-affected areas near the Bhotekoshi river at the Nepal-China border. Identification of the victims was under way.Also read: Nepal flash floods: List of nationalities of missing touristsChinas Xinhua News Agency reported three deaths and 558 missing people in Tibet after mudslides struck Gyirong county. Chinese state broadcaster CCTV said 260 of those reported missing in Tibet were foreigners and that two villagers had been rescued.Glacial collapse triggered sudden flood surgeNepals disaster management authorities separately said 579 travellersincluding 466 foreigners and 113 Nepaliswere missing from the affected area. The combined figure of more than 1,100 reported missing people reflects separate updates from Nepal and Tibet and may include figures that authorities are still working to reconcile.The disaster struck on Wednesday after an ice-and-rock mass collapsed in the Himalayas, sending a sudden surge of water and debris down the Lhende Khola river system. The flood swept through communities in Nepals Rasuwa district and affected Tibets Gyirong county near the border.Videos and drone footage showed muddy floodwaters washing away roads and bridges, burying vehicles and damaging buildings. Nepals Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority said as many as 80 bridges and 40 kilometres of paved highway had been damaged or swept away.At least 83 security personnel, including members of the police and armed forces, were also reported missing in Nepal. Hundreds of people have been rescued by helicopter, although damaged infrastructure, difficult terrain and widespread debris have slowed relief operations.The United States Geological Survey initially reported a magnitude 4.4 earthquake near Kathmandu but later revised its assessment, saying the seismic event was caused by a glacial collapse and debris flow rather than an earthquake.The USGS said the collapse triggered subsequent catastrophic impacts downstream. Climate experts at the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development said an avalanche from a glacier likely caused the flash flood.Water levels in the Trishuli river rose by as much as nine metres within half an hour, the experts said.Also read: Nepal floods: 37 from Tamil Nadu, 32 from West Bengal, 77 Isha Foundation members among those missingIndia places Bihar and Uttar Pradesh on alertIndia has placed Bihar and Uttar Pradesh on alert for possible flash flooding. About 5,000 people were evacuated in Bihar after flood warnings were issued, according to the earlier AP report.India is also coordinating with Nepal on rescue and relief efforts, amid reports that 133 Indian pilgrims travelling to Mount Kailash were among those missing.Australias Foreign Minister Penny Wong said at least 34 Australians involved in pilgrimage and hiking groups remained unaccounted for.We understand these Australians were part of separate pilgrimage and tour groups, Wong said.Malaysias Foreign Ministry said 55 Malaysians in Kathmandu were unreachable because severe infrastructure damage had disrupted communication. It said there was no official confirmation of Malaysian casualties.Roads, bridges and villages swept awayThe floods struck rapidly in the morning, when many residents were preparing to leave for work.When I reached Dhunge bazaar, in half an hour, the flood came and damaged all the market. People were preparing to go to office then, resident Shoyam Rajbhandari said. How many people are missing or dead, we dont know.Videos showed what appeared to be the second floors of buildings in Nepals hard-hit areas covered in mud. Debris was left hanging from tree branches and power lines, while vehicles were buried under sediment.Rescue teams have been working to reach communities cut off by damaged roads and bridges. The United Nations, Red Cross and other organisations are coordinating humanitarian assistance.In Tibet, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for an all-out rescue effort. Xinhua reported that a Y-20 transport aircraft from the Western Theater Command Air Force was carrying a guidance team to help organise rescue operations in Gyirong county.A recurring Himalayan dangerThe Lhende Khola river system has flooded twice in 14 months. Last year, a glacial lake in Tibet overflowed after high temperatures, killing nine people and damaging critical infrastructure, including a bridge connecting Nepal and China.The Lhende Khola has flooded twice in 14 months, this time triggered by an ice rock avalanche from a glacier on the Nepal side that blocked the river and released a sudden surge downstream, said Saswata Sanyal, a disaster risk reduction specialist.He stressed the importance of early-warning systems in a warming Himalaya.Researchers have found that glaciers across the Hindu Kush Himalaya are melting faster, with ice loss rates doubling since 2000. Experts warn that rising temperatures, intense monsoons and unstable ice formations could make similar disasters more frequent across South Asia.What happenedA glacial collapse sent ice, rocks and debris into the Lhende Khola river system.The resulting flash flood swept through parts of Nepals Rasuwa district and Tibets Gyirong county.The USGS later ruled out an earthquake as the cause.Experts said the flood wave reached exceptional speed and magnitude.Casualties and missing personsNepal has recovered 165 bodies, with identification under way.Tibet has reported three deaths and 558 missing people.Nepal has reported 579 missing travellers, including 466 foreigners and 113 Nepalis.More than 1,100 people are reported missing across the two affected areas, although the figures remain subject to verification.At least 83 Nepalese security personnel are among those reported missing.Foreign nationals affectedNepalese tourism officials earlier said 133 Indians travelling on pilgrimage to Mount Kailash were missing. The list also included 47 Americans, 34 Australians, 33 Britons and 24 Canadians.The US State Department said it was working with local authorities to assist affected Americans and providing $500,000 in emergency funding, according to the Bloomberg report.Australia said it was coordinating with Nepal, the United Nations, the Red Cross and other organisations on a humanitarian response.The Himalayan range contains some of the worlds largest remaining glaciers and supplies water to millions of people. Its steep valleys are also vital transport and economic corridors but remain highly vulnerable to flash floods, landslides and glacial lake outbursts.The latest disaster has renewed concerns over the safety of communities and infrastructure across a rapidly warming Himalayan region.
Nepal floods: 37 Tamil Nadu tourists, 32 from West Bengal among those missing
Scores of other Indians were stranded as rescue and contact efforts continued. Information about those affected remained limited due to the severe disruption of communication networks in flood-hit areas
West Bengal Minister Advises Caution for Mountain Travel Following Nepal Flood Tragedy
Kolkata, August 27: West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh expressed his condolences regarding the recent flood disaster in Nepal, describing it as a tragic natural calamity for which no one can be held accountable. He emphasized the need for caution, particularly for travelers heading to mountainous regions during the monsoon season. Ghosh stated, While natural events ... Read more West Bengal Minister Advises Caution for Mountain Travel Following Nepal Flood Tragedy
Over 130 Indians are missing and many others are stranded in Nepal. Many pilgrims on the Mansarovar Yatra are among those affected by the floods. Several Indian states have launched helplines to assist affected citizens and their families. Communication links are disrupted, making details about missing individuals scarce. Authorities are working to account for all stranded and missing Indian nationals.
60 child deaths in 3 weeks, 10 in one day: Bengal hospital under scanner
Majid Magray captains India in Mixed Disability Cricket Series against England
Majid Magray was on 48 when he launched his 15th ball over the boundary at Lords on Aug19. The six brought up his 50 off 15 balls. He finished unbeaten on 63 off 19 as India beat England in the seventh and final Mixed Disability IT20. For the 36-year-old from the Anchidora locality of Anantnag town, the innings came at Lords, the home of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). For Magray, walking onto the historic ground in an India jersey and leading the side made the occasion even more special. It was a different feeling altogether. You see photographs and portraits of all these great players there. To walk onto that ground wearing the India jersey and lead the team was something special, Magray said after returning from England. The Lords galleries feature portraits and photographs of cricket greats, including W.G. Grace, Sir Donald Bradman, Viv Richards, Richard Hadlee, Clive Lloyd, Brian Lara, Ian Botham, Shane Warne, Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil Dev, Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Javed Miandad, Saeed Anwar, Inzamam-ul-Haq and Zaheer Abbas. India posted 206, with Arjun Gawre of Nagpur scoring 68 off 44 balls and Sai Akash Saivamani of Chennai making 48 off 38. England was bundled out for 88. Hilal Ahmad Wani of Akad, Anantnag, took four wickets, while Jayesh Parmar of West Bengal claimed three. Wani finished the series with 11 wickets from four matches. The match was the seventh and final fixture of the series. India won three games and England four. One of Indias defeats came by two runs off the final ball. It was a closely fought contest. The match where we lost by two runs went to the wire, to the last ball. We couldnt face the pressure and buckled. Otherwise, we would have won, Magray said. Magrays 15-ball fifty was quicker than Kapil Devs 35-ball Test fifty against England in 1982. Liam Livingstone scored a 25-ball ODI fifty at Lords against Australia in 2024. Magray began playing physical disability cricket in 2018 and made his India debut in 2024. Since then, he has represented India in that category and has now also made it to Mixed Disability Cricket. Earlier this year, he was part of Indias winning T20 Champions Trophy campaign in Mixed Disability Cricket, which featured England, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Mixed Disability Cricket has three categories- physical disability, learning disability, and deaf and hard of hearing. Three cricketers from Kashmir represented India in the tournament. Magray came from the physical disability category, Wani from the deaf and hard-of-hearing category, and Rizwan Ahmad of Kupwara from the learning disability category. Magray was not born with a disability. An accident when he was in Class 8 left him with a locomotor disability and disrupted his studies. He later returned to cricket, initially playing alongside non-disabled cricketers before entering competitive disability cricket. I got the best possible treatment but remained bedridden for over a year. The disability, however, remained with me forever, Magray said. The game has also evolved in Jammu and Kashmir. We used to play matting cricket. For the past three years, we have shifted to turf cricket as facilities have improved, he said. Tap-ball cricket has increasingly given way to the cricket ball, mostly Kookaburra. Magray said better equipment and infrastructure had helped differently abled cricket gain recognition. After the England tour, the Indian team met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and raised issues concerning differently abled cricketers. He gave us a patient hearing and assured us of addressing them, Magray said. At 36, Magray said managing his workload had become important. Earlier, age was on my side. Now age is catching up, and I have to be very selective about the matches I play. In professional cricket, we have trainers, and that makes things easier, he said. He credits his parents, brother and sister for standing by him throughout his journey. His message to other differently abled people is simple. Dont let your disability dominate you. Overcome it and you will do what other people do. England won the series 4-3. But for Magray, the numbers from Lords will endure 63 off 19, including a 15-ball fifty, while captaining India.
Medical students summoned for questioningin blood bank scamin Bengal
Three laboratory technicians werearrested in Panskura in relation to the blood selling scam
West Bengal Proposes Multi-Service Centers to Combat Rising Prices
Kolkata, August 27: The All India Fair Price Shop Dealers Federation has submitted a proposal to the West Bengal government aimed at transforming the states Public Distribution System (PDS) shops into multi-service centers. This initiative seeks to mitigate the soaring prices of essential goods in the market. In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, ... Read more West Bengal Proposes Multi-Service Centers to Combat Rising Prices
Allen Park to host Park Streets first Durga Puja this year
Kolkata, August 27: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated on Wednesday that the state government is fully committed to protecting the faith, expression, and cultural practices of every community. In a post on the social media platform X, Adhikari emphasized that during the occasion of Milad-un-Nabi, religious flags and the Indian national flag were ... Read more West Bengals Chief Minister Promises Zero Tolerance Against Political Exploitation of Religious Events
Mini Bangla empties out, bounce-back hope fades
Helmetless biker detained for assaulting cop
Cops probe Rs 1.1 cr SIM fraud racket
4 phones go missing from actors bags at venue
Neighbour sexually abuses Garfa 4-yr-old, detained
SSKM files plaint over fake prescription
32 tourists from Kol missing as Nepal flood cuts off contact
Ruby puja to trace Suvdenus journey to Nabanna, have his bust outside pandal
Govt forms advisory board to supervise book fair
West Bengal Government to Provide Employment Cards for Migrant Labor Families
Kolkata, August 27: The West Bengal government has directed all district magistrates to identify families of migrant workers in their respective districts. This initiative aims to issue them Gramin Rozgar Guarantee Cards (GRGC). These cards guarantee 125 days of wage employment each financial year for rural families, provided they are willing to undertake unskilled manual ... Read more West Bengal Government to Provide Employment Cards for Migrant Labor Families
Bengal Government to Issue Employment Cards for Migrant Workers Families
Kolkata, August 26: The West Bengal government has directed all district magistrates to identify families of migrant workers in their respective districts to issue them Gramin Rozgar Guarantee Cards (GRGC). These cards provide a legal guarantee of 125 days of wage employment each financial year for rural families, provided they are willing to engage in ... Read more Bengal Government to Issue Employment Cards for Migrant Workers Families
Festivals belong to those who follow the faith: VHP to puja organisers
Third donation in a week: Mans organs save three lives in Kolkata, Gurugram
Yatri Sathi to add five AC shuttle bus routes
CU allows exit plan for sixth sem students
Man killed after bike hits truck on VIP Road
Commuters face crater challenge on Bypass
Traffic police SOS to KMDA for emergency repairs on Sealdah flyover
JU meet today, likely on Salt Lake campus, no deposition on day 1
Shocking Discovery: Body Found Between Railway Line and National Highway in West Bengal
Kolkata, August 26: A mysterious body was discovered on Wednesday between a railway line and a national highway in the Ranisarai area of Belda, West Medinipur, West Bengal, causing a stir among local residents. Authorities suspect that the body may have been dumped after a murder. Upon receiving the report, teams from the railway police ... Read more Shocking Discovery: Body Found Between Railway Line and National Highway in West Bengal
Plaint against JU professors over emblem vandalism
Traders pack up to shift out of B C Roy Market
Improve food quality, min tells hospital
Seven missing Konaseema fishermen found safe off West Bengal coast
Fishermen noticed the missing boat near Shankarpur fishing harbour and helped the missing ones to contact their family members through cellphone
Minister warns Mamata over unreturned library books. Not at home, theyre in CMs chamber: Didi
Schoolteacher killed, 7 injured in Hwh bldg fire
ITA seeks West Bengal tea policy push for Darjeeling, Dooars-Terai
White papers seek financial support, tea-area rejuvenation, factory modernisation and trade reforms to revive production, protect livelihoods and attract investment in North Bengal
Speaker gives 20 NCPI MPs 7 days to reply to Abhisheks disqualification plea
Day after CM help to footpath-dweller, Agni says, I made a mistake
After court prod, cops lodge FIR against stalker colleague
Water supply disruptionin west Bengaluru on August 28
Kolkata, Aug 26 (IANS) The All India Fair Price Shop Dealers Federation, a national association of fair price shop owners in the country, has given a proposal to the West Bengal government for transformation of the PDS (public distribution shops) in the state into multi-service centres in a bid to prevent the skyrocketing prices of []
Another member of Jadavpur University inquiry panel quits
Two panel members step down as ABVP demands NIA probe into August 20 clash; four Trinamool workers arrested after a separate clash at West Bengal State University
Former Gobardanga civic chief held over alleged storage of relief materials
