QUICKREADS

Rituals, grandeur to mark Dev Deepawali in Varanasi on Nov 5

On November 5, 21 Brahmins will perform a Vedic worship of Maa Ganga at Dashashwamedh Ghat for Dev Deepawali, organized by Ganga Seva Nidhi. The event features cultural performances, extensive security measures, and a campaign to promote environmental conservation. The festival will be live-streamed, allowing devotees worldwide to participate virtually.

Revenue official arrested for graft in J&K’s Samba; ₹35 lakh seized

The Jammu and Kashmir anti-corruption bureau arrested a patwari, Sunil Kumar, in Samba district for demanding a bribe of ₹80,000 for processing a report. During the investigation, over ₹35 lakh was found in his vehicle. The case has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act, and further investigations are ongoing.

Noida, Ghaziabad see ‘very poor’ air for third day

Air quality in Noida and Ghaziabad remains "very poor," with Noida's AQI at 304 and Ghaziabad at 325, marking the third consecutive day of hazardous levels. Contributing factors include lower temperatures and stagnant winds. Officials are intensifying pollution control measures, including night patrols in industrial areas, as pollution typically rises in October and November.

Data gaps, odd patterns: Questions over Delhi AQI

Delhi's air quality index (AQI) dropped from 366 to 309 between November 2 and 3, raising concerns about the accuracy of pollution readings. An analysis revealed data gaps, suspicious measurement patterns, and algorithmic loopholes that may distort true pollution levels, particularly during peak pollution times. These discrepancies suggest that the reported AQI may not accurately reflect the city's air quality conditions.

Ludhiana: 4 months on, supplement test reports still pending

The local health department inspected supplement stores in July due to concerns over adulteration in health supplements used by gym goers. Despite collecting samples, reports are still pending four months later. Delays in testing arose from equipment issues. Health officials warn of potential health risks and advise caution in using supplements, especially for those with pre-existing conditions.

Bus fire, crash trigger traffic snarls in south Delhi; curbs planned for Friday

Traffic in south Delhi faced significant disruptions on Tuesday due to a DTC bus fire and a road accident, causing congestion on major routes. The fire was extinguished without injuries, but the aftermath affected traffic on key roads. Additionally, the Delhi Traffic Police warned of upcoming restrictions for a large procession on Friday, advising alternative routes for commuters.

Ludhiana MC issues over 50 challans for open dumping of garbage

Following orders from MC commissioner Aaditya Dachalwal, the municipal corporation has intensified efforts against open garbage dumping in the city. Over 50 challans were issued to violators, who are also required to clean up their waste. Mayor Inderjit Kaur urged residents to support cleanliness efforts, warning of penalties for continued violations, including waste burning.

280 hutments razed in Malwani mangrove zone

In a significant operation, Mumbai authorities demolished over 280 hutments encroaching on mangrove land in Malwani, freeing nearly 10,000 square meters of government property. The drive, which involved advanced satellite imagery for planning, aims to combat illegal land occupation linked to the Slum Rehabilitation Scheme. Officials warned that future encroachments would face strict penalties.

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.