QUICKREADS

Delhi govt digs in, Opposition cries ‘rain theft’ as cloud-seeding trial is suspended

Cloud-seeding trials in Delhi aimed at improving air quality were halted due to insufficient moisture in the clouds. While the Delhi government praised the initiative, opposition parties criticized it as a waste of taxpayer money. Experts warned that cloud seeding is not a sustainable solution to the city's pollution crisis, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies.

Sohana man held in ₹55-lakh immigration fraud case

Sohana police arrested Kuldeep Gill from Sunny Enclave, Kharar, for immigration fraud involving ₹54.98 lakh. Operating as Quinox Solutions, he allegedly failed to provide a visa or refund to the victim. Gill, with seven prior FIRs for similar offenses, is in custody for two days as investigations continue to uncover more victims and trace financial transactions.

Mohali: Cops nab Kharar woman, Nigerian national, seize 155gm of ICE drug

Kharar police have arrested a woman and a Nigerian national, recovering 155 grams of methamphetamine (ICE) from them. The woman, previously arrested for drug offenses, revealed her supplier, leading to the arrest of Kingsley Chinoso in Delhi. Both are linked to a broader drug trafficking network, with investigations ongoing to identify other members.

No dump site available, Mohali’s garbage mgmt crisis worsens

Mohali is facing a severe garbage crisis as daily waste collection halts following the National Green Tribunal's closure of the Phase 8 dumping ground. Mayor Sidhu's recent meeting revealed the need for alternative disposal sites, as existing processing locations face local opposition and health concerns. Political tensions also flared over proposed expansions of the municipal limits, highlighting ongoing dissatisfaction among residents.

Chandigarh: Neighbour assaults senior citizen over parking dispute

An 83-year-old shopkeeper, Gurdev Singh, was allegedly assaulted by a neighboring shop owner, Adarsh Gupta, over a parking dispute. After Gupta's car obstructed Singh's shop, a confrontation ensued, resulting in Singh being struck with a stick, causing injuries. Police have filed charges against Gupta, who allegedly threatened Singh during the incident.

Mohali: PCA announces ₹11 lakh cash awards for World Cup stars from Punjab

The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) announced cash awards for Punjab's stars in India's Women's World Cup victory. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and all-rounder Amanjot Kaur will each receive ₹11 lakh, while fielding coach Munish Bali will receive ₹5 lakh. A special ceremony will honor them for their contributions, highlighting the pride their achievements bring to Punjab and Indian cricket.

Sippy Sidhu murder case: Forensics’ take on bullet injury contradicts eyewitness version, states Kalyani’s counsel

In the Sippy Sidhu murder case, defence counsel Kalyani Singh highlighted discrepancies between forensic evidence and eyewitness accounts regarding the angle of a gunshot that killed Sidhu. Forensic expert Dr. Amandeep Singh stated the shot was fired from above, conflicting with the eyewitness testimony claiming the shooter was at the same level. The next hearing is set for November 4.

Chandigarh: 30% complaints in UT pertain to estate office

In a year-long review, Chandigarh's administration revealed 757 public grievances, with the Estate Office receiving 30% of complaints. Most issues related to property transfers and building violations. UT administrator Gulab Chand Kataria's initiative for weekly public hearings has led to timely resolutions, with many residents expressing satisfaction. The Citizen Interaction and Assistance Branch aims to enhance grievance redressal.

Protest against senate reform: PU students block Gate 2 for five hours

Students at Panjab University staged a five-hour sit-in at Gate No. 2, protesting against new senate reforms they deemed "undemocratic." Approximately 200 students, backed by local MPs, blocked traffic while police monitored the situation. Negotiations between university officials and student leaders over a controversial "no-protest" affidavit ended inconclusively, with ongoing protests continuing.

AQI turns poor in Chandigarh again

Chandigarh's air quality worsened over the weekend, with the AQI rising from 170 (moderate) on Saturday to 233 (poor) on Sunday, and 216 (poor) on Monday. Panchkula's AQI remained worse at 308 (very poor) on Sunday, dropping to 294 on Monday. Temperature inversion and increased farm fires in Punjab are contributing factors to the decline in air quality.

Three injured in fire at illegal gas refilling shop in Gurugram

A fire at an illegal gas stove repair center in Laxman Vihar injured three individuals, including the shop owner, on Sunday night. The blaze, caused by a gas leak, destroyed the shop and damaged nearby establishments. Firefighters evacuated nearby residents and controlled the fire, while police restricted access to the area for safety. One injured person is in serious condition.

Chandigarh MC tightens noose around waste collectors

The Chandigarh municipal corporation has approved a new memorandum of understanding with door-to-door garbage collectors, implementing strict penalties for non-compliance. Key changes include mandatory biometric attendance, comprehensive waste segregation, and collection from all floors without charges. These reforms aim to improve cleanliness and achieve a seven-star rating in the annual Swachh Survekshan survey.

Faridabad constable trainee clears CDS, to join Army as lieutenant

Priyanshu, a 23-year-old trainee constable from Faridabad, achieved an all-India rank of 13 in the CDS exam and will join the Indian Army, undergoing 1.5 years of training at the IMA, Dehradun. His journey inspires fellow officers, and he aims to fulfill his childhood dream of serving in the armed forces, becoming the first in his family to do so.

FIR against owners after fire ravages two wedding venues in Zirakpur

A fire broke out during wedding ceremonies at two adjoining halls in Zirakpur on Sunday night, likely caused by fireworks. Guests were safely evacuated as flames spread quickly through flammable decorations. Police have filed an FIR against the venue owners for negligence. Fire officials emphasize the need for improved safety measures, as similar incidents have occurred previously.

Chandigarh MC’s first live streamed House meet | Councillors come to blows as city watches

During Chandigarh's first live-streamed municipal meeting, tensions escalated between BJP and Congress councillors, nearly resulting in a physical altercation. BJP's Gurbax Rawat criticized MP Manish Tewari for excluding her from inaugurations, while Congress's Sachin Galav countered that Rawat's absence from public events led to her being overlooked. The heated debate culminated in chaos, prompting intervention from other councillors.

NCR traffic police ramp up fog patrols, safety checks as winter nears

As winter approaches, traffic police in the National Capital Region are enhancing road safety measures due to reduced visibility. Actions include reflective tapes for vehicles, crash barricades, and increased patrols. An advisory will encourage a 500-metre distance between vehicles. Additionally, road signage and immediate response teams will be deployed to prevent accidents during foggy conditions.