QUICKREADS

Delhi cops nab Nepal jail escapee in Bihar

Delhi Police arrested Arjun Kumar, a 31-year-old murder fugitive who escaped Nepal's Kathmandu jail during recent protests. Wanted for killing his girlfriend in 2017, he was captured at the India-Nepal border in Bihar after evading arrest for eight years.

HT spot check: No let-up in firecracker sales

Despite a Supreme Court ban on firecracker sales in Delhi following Diwali, vendors continue to sell them unchecked due to the ongoing wedding season. Spot checks reveal widespread violations, with many unaware of the restrictions. Residents report increasing noise from firecrackers during celebrations, prompting concerns over enforcement of the ban, according to local officials and community leaders.

UP Police launches action plan to curb road mishaps, traffic snarls

Director General of Police Rajeev Krishna has launched a statewide plan in Uttar Pradesh to reduce road accidents and enhance traffic management, marking November as Traffic Awareness Month. The initiative prioritizes high-density areas, aims to create a data-driven model for road safety, and includes specific measures for accident hotspots. Successful pilot interventions have already shown significant reductions in accidents.

HC rejects petition of pilot questioning ICC report in harassment case

The Bombay High Court dismissed an Akasa Air captain's petition challenging an Internal Complaints Committee report on sexual harassment allegations. The captain claimed he wasn't allowed to cross-examine witnesses, citing natural justice principles. Justice NJ Jamadar ruled that the ICC's inquiry was fact-finding and not bound by strict procedures. The committee recommended professional conduct training and imposed restrictions on promotions and benefits.

Sector 10A locals decry civic neglect, sanitation woes, and broken roads

Sector 10A in Gurugram, once a model neighborhood, now suffers from severe civic neglect, including broken roads, choked drains, and non-functional streetlights. Residents have resorted to self-repairs due to unresponsive Municipal Corporation complaints. Issues like illegal encroachments and poor sanitation exacerbate the situation, with assurances from MCG officials promising improvements in the coming months.

State allots Bandra East land to TTD for ₹1 lease

The Maharashtra government has leased 395 square metres of prime land in Bandra to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam for 30 years at a nominal rent of ₹1 per year. The land will be used for a parking area, office, and information centre. This is the second allotment to the temple trust, following a 2019 grant of 648 square metres.

Man bludgeoned to death in Samaypur Badli; three held, one absconding

A 32-year-old man, Manish Kumar, was killed in north Delhi's Samaypur Badli after being attacked by four men due to an old rivalry. Three suspects have been arrested, while one remains at large. The confrontation stemmed from a previous altercation between Manish and one of the accused. Police are investigating the incident further.

RWAs seek clarity over latest in-situ waste management rules

Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) in Gurugram are uncertain about implementing in-situ wet waste management, as mandated by the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. A recent meeting with Municipal Corporation of Gurugram officials highlighted the need for clear guidance, approved vendors, and training for effective waste management. The MCG is drafting new bye-laws and seeking public feedback for sustainable implementation.

Lucknow’s post-monsoon air improves, but PM levels still unsafe

A report by CSIR-IITR reveals Lucknow's post-monsoon air quality has improved, with PM10 and PM2.5 levels dropping significantly compared to 2024, attributed to heavy rainfall and reduced activity. However, pollution levels still exceed national standards, classifying air quality as "moderately polluted." Noise pollution remains a concern, and experts emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and public awareness to maintain improvements.

Delhi set for colder nights by weekend

A western disturbance is expected to bring colder nights to Delhi, with temperatures dropping by 2-3°C by the weekend. Fresh snowfall in the mountains and cold northwesterly winds will contribute to a minimum temperature likely falling below 15°C for the first time this season. The forecast also predicts mist and fog, impacting air quality.

Delhi Jal Board releases ₹735 cr for water and sewerage projects

The Delhi Jal Board has allocated over ₹735 crore for sewer and water projects across 68 constituencies in Delhi, excluding the Cantonment and New Delhi areas. Water Minister Parvesh Verma emphasized decentralization, enabling MLAs to address local needs. The funds will enhance infrastructure and maintenance, with strict monitoring to ensure transparency and timely execution of projects.

Over 700K challans issued for PUCC violations

The Delhi Traffic Police have issued over 700,000 challans for pollution violations since October 14, including nearly 47,000 for vehicles lacking pollution certificates. This represents a significant increase compared to previous years. Enforcement includes stricter actions against old vehicles and improper parking, as part of efforts to combat air pollution under the Graded Response Action Plan.

25 cancer cases reported in Nuh’s Falendi village

An investigation has been launched in Nuh's Falendi village after 25 cancer cases, including fatalities, were reported. Officials suspect contaminated groundwater and pollution from the Ujina drain as potential causes. A health and environmental survey is underway to assess the situation, with results expected soon. The district prioritizes identifying the cause and ensuring clean water access for residents.

Three minors hack boy, 17, to death in broad daylight

Three juveniles were arrested for the daylight murder of 17-year-old Mayank Kharare, who was attacked with a sharp weapon on Bajirao Road. His friend sustained injuries during the incident, which stemmed from a prior feud. Police recovered the murder weapon and confirmed that all involved were from the same slum area.

Delhi records first deaths linked to dengue this year

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has reported its first two dengue-related deaths of the year, involving a 9-year-old boy and a 48-year-old man. The city currently has 1,136 dengue cases. The health department is also reviewing 13 other deaths. Anti-breeding measures were hindered by a month-long strike, resulting in significantly fewer inspections.

Ludhiana: PSPCL reports ₹1.25-lakh loss after transformer theft, FIR registered

The Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) reported a revenue loss of ₹1.25 lakh due to the theft of a 63 KVA transformer in Janakpuri. Discovered on October 16, the incident has been complicated by non-functional CCTV cameras. An FIR has been filed, and officials are investigating local leads to identify the culprits, raising concerns about potential power outages.