asd
Home Blog Page 26

Landslide in North Sikkim Disrupts Connectivity, No Casualties Reported


1. A landslide in Munsithang on July 21 disrupted the route to Lachen.
2. No casualties have been reported.
3. North Sikkim remains cut off due to last year’s GLOF and ongoing heavy rainfall.


Gangtok, July 22: A landslide struck Munsithang on the route to Lachen in North Sikkim on July 21, disrupting connectivity. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.

North Sikkim remains cut off following a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) from last year, compounded by ongoing heavy rainfall that hampers road repair efforts.

The District Magistrate of Kalimpong updated on National Highway 10 (NH 10) restoration efforts, noting substantial progress.

According to the Public Works Department (PWD), the work is expected to be completed within a week.


Also Read: Assam Police Honors 26 Officers for Child Rights Initiatives

The district administration emphasizes that the restoration is a top priority, though specifics are yet to be disclosed.

Residents and travelers are advised to await an official update, anticipated within the next seven days.

Assam Police Honors 26 Officers for Child Rights Initiatives


1. Assam Police honored 26 officers at the second annual Assam Police Sishu Mitra Awards.
2. The ceremony was held at the Assam Police Institute.
3. Director General of Police GP Singh presented the awards to the recipients.


Guwahati, July 22: Assam Police honored 26 officers for their exceptional work in protecting child rights at the second annual Assam Police Sishu Mitra Awards.

The ceremony, held at the Assam Police Institute, featured Director General of Police GP Singh presenting the awards to the recipients.

On July 21, the event underscored the police force’s commitment to ensuring a safer environment for children throughout the state.

The Assam Police Twitter account shared updates on the ceremony, highlighting their dedication to child protection with the hashtag #ForEveryChild.

Additionally, the Superintendent of GMCH, the Nodal Officer for the SC/ST (PoA) Act, and the Special Public Prosecutor for the Kamrup (M) Special POCSO Court received Special Recognition for their significant contributions to advancing children’s rights.

This recognition is part of Assam Police’s ongoing efforts to prioritize child safety and welfare.

The Sishu Mitra (Child Friend) Awards aim to acknowledge and encourage law enforcement officers who excel in protecting young citizens.

Assam Flood-Hit Population Decreases to 95,000, New Areas Affected


1. The number of affected people has decreased to 95,000 despite new areas being inundated.
2. The number of flood-impacted districts increased to 11 on Sunday.
3. ASDMA reported that 95,554 people in 21 revenue circles and 345 villages are still affected.


Guwahati, July 22: The flood situation in Assam is improving as the number of affected people has reduced to 95,000, even though new areas have been inundated.

The number of districts impacted by the floods increased to 11 on Sunday, according to an official bulletin from the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA).

The ASDMA bulletin reported that 95,554 people in 21 revenue circles and 345 villages across 11 districts are still suffering from the flood waters. The affected districts are Morigaon, Kamrup, Dhemaji, Kamrup Metropolitan, Dibrugarh, Sivasagar, Nagaon, Golaghat, Goalpara, Jorhat, and Cachar.


Also Read: 14-Year-Old Boy in Kerala Dies a Day After Testing Positive for Nipah Virus

As of Saturday, 130,000 people were affected in 10 districts. This year’s floods, landslides, lightning, and storms have resulted in 113 fatalities. Nagaon remains the worst-hit district, with 70,280 people still affected.

Approximately 6,467.5 hectares of cropland are still underwater, and 13,004 animals remain affected.

A total of 6,311 displaced people have taken refuge in 35 relief camps, with one relief distribution center serving 470 people.

The Brahmaputra River, still above the danger mark in Dhubri district, is the only major river flowing over the danger level.

The ASDMA bulletin also reported damage to some infrastructure in the affected districts, including houses and roads.

14-Year-Old Boy in Kerala Dies a Day After Testing Positive for Nipah Virus


1. A 14-year-old boy in Kerala died on Sunday, one day after testing positive for the Nipah virus.
2. The boy, from Malappuram district, was diagnosed with the Nipah virus on Saturday.
3. Health Minister Veena George confirmed the death, citing cardiac arrest despite ventilator support.


Thiruvananthapuram, July 21: A 14-year-old boy in Kerala died on Sunday, just one day after testing positive for the Nipah virus, according to the state’s Health Minister, Veena George.

The boy, from Malappuram district, had been diagnosed with the virus on Saturday. He suffered a massive cardiac arrest at 10:50 AM and could not be revived despite being on ventilator support. He passed away at 11:30 AM.

The boy’s last rites will follow medical protocols, George stated. Four individuals currently in the “high-risk category” are receiving treatment at Manjeri Medical College.


Also Read: Manipur: Bomb Blast Hits Residence of Salai Holdings Director in Imphal West

Pandikkad in the Malappuram district is identified as the current epicentre of the Nipah outbreak in Kerala.

In response, Health Minister George advised residents and hospital visitors in the area to wear masks and avoid visiting patients.

The public is also urged to avoid consuming half-eaten or bird-bitten fruits and to ensure fruits are thoroughly washed.

The consumption of open-container beverages like toddy is discouraged.

The state government is preparing a special action plan to prevent further outbreaks. Past Nipah virus outbreaks occurred in Kozhikode (2018, 2021, 2023) and Ernakulam (2019), with Nipah virus antibodies previously detected in bats across several districts.

Manipur: Bomb Blast Hits Residence of Salai Holdings Director in Imphal West


1. Unknown assailants attacked Chingtham Samson’s residence in Singjamei Mayengbam Leikai.
2. The attack involved two hand grenades, resulting in significant property damage.
3. No casualties were reported; authorities are investigating the incident.


Imphal, July 21: Unknown assailants targeted the residence of Chingtham Samson, a board member of Salai Holdings, in Singjamei Mayengbam Leikai.

The attack involved the detonation of two hand grenades, causing extensive property damage but no casualties.


Also Read: Kolkata Weather and AQI Update: Warm Start at 28.14°C, Forecast for July 21, 2024

The attackers, seen on CCTV footage, arrived in a vehicle and threw the grenades into Samson’s compound. The blast severely damaged five parked vehicles.

Senior Imphal West district police officers quickly responded, assessing the damage and securing the area.

An investigation is underway, with a case filed at Singjamei police station. Authorities are analyzing the CCTV footage and pursuing leads to identify and capture the attackers.

Kolkata Weather and AQI Update: Warm Start at 28.14°C, Forecast for July 21, 2024


1. Current temperature in Kolkata: 30.85°C.
2. Forecasted range: 28.14°C to 32.98°C.
3. Relative humidity at 78% and wind speeds at 78 km/h.


Kolkata, July 21: Today’s temperature in Kolkata is 30.85°C, with a forecasted range between 28.14°C and 32.98°C. Relative humidity is at 78%, and wind speeds are reaching 78 km/h. The sun rose at 05:03 AM and will set at 06:22 PM.

For tomorrow, July 22, 2024, Kolkata is expected to see temperatures between 27.8°C and 33.38°C, with humidity levels around 68%. Given the high temperatures, plan outdoor activities with caution and dress accordingly.


Also Read: Manipur CM N Biren Singh Thanks Jaishankar for Ensuring Safe Return of Manipuris from Bangladesh

Today’s Air Quality Index (AQI) in Kolkata is 66.0, indicating moderate air quality.

Individuals with respiratory issues should exercise caution during outdoor activities, while others can continue their usual routines. Keep the AQI in mind to ensure your well-being throughout the day.

Manipur CM N Biren Singh Thanks Jaishankar for Ensuring Safe Return of Manipuris from Bangladesh


1. Manipur CM N Biren Singh thanked Union Minister Dr S. Jaishankar on X for his efforts.
2. Singh highlighted the collaborative measures to manage the situation.
3. He emphasized facilitating the return of Manipuris stranded in Bangladesh.


Imphal, July 21: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh expressed his gratitude on X for Union Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar’s efforts in ensuring the safe return of Indian nationals from Bangladesh.

Singh emphasized the collaborative measures taken to manage the situation and facilitate the return of Manipuris stranded abroad.

In his update, Chief Minister Singh acknowledged Dr. Jaishankar’s proactive role in coordinating repatriation efforts. “I have personally communicated with Union Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on the developing situation in Bangladesh, and we are working together to arrange a safe return for Manipuris,”

Singh stated. He commended Jaishankar’s direct involvement in monitoring the situation and securing safe passage for Indian citizens.


Also Read: Nearly 1,000 Indian Students Return from Bangladesh Amid Protests That Claimed 115 Lives

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also provided an update on the ongoing repatriation process. According to the latest information, the High Commission of India in Dhaka, along with Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Sylhet, and Khulna, are assisting Indian nationals in returning home.

The MEA has coordinated with local authorities, civil aviation, immigration, land ports, and BSF to ensure smooth travel and safety.

To date, 778 Indian students have returned via land ports, and around 200 students have used regular flights from Dhaka and Chittagong. The High Commission is in constant communication with over 4,000 students in Bangladesh, providing necessary support.

Additionally, students from Nepal and Bhutan have been assisted with their repatriation.

Nearly 1,000 Indian Students Return from Bangladesh Amid Protests That Claimed 115 Lives


1. Nearly 1,000 Indian students returned from Bangladesh amid deadly unrest and a nationwide curfew.
2. The unrest, against a government job quota system, has resulted in over 115 deaths.
3. Clashes involved student protesters, police, and pro-government activists.


New Delhi, July 20: Nearly 1,000 Indian students have returned from Bangladesh as authorities in the neighboring country imposed a nationwide curfew due to deadly unrest against a quota system for government jobs. Over 115 people have been killed in clashes between student protesters, police, and pro-government activists.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) referred to the situation in Bangladesh as an “internal matter.” The MEA reported that 778 Indian students returned to India through various land ports, while around 200 students returned via regular flight services through Dhaka and Chittagong airports.

“The High Commission of India in Dhaka and our Assistant High Commissions are in regular touch with more than 4,000 students remaining in various universities in Bangladesh and are providing necessary assistance,” the MEA stated.

The High Commission, in coordination with the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Bureau of Immigration, has ensured the safe passage of these students through border crossings such as Benapole-Petrapole, Gede-Darshana, and Akhaura-Agartala.

“We see the protests in Bangladesh as an internal matter of the country,” MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said at a media briefing. He added that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar was personally overseeing the safety of Indians in Bangladesh.


Also Read: New Gas Reservoir Discovered in Assam’s Dirok Field, Tinsukia

The MEA has issued an advisory for Indian nationals in Bangladesh to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors.

Reasons for Protests in Bangladesh

The protests in Bangladesh, primarily led by students, are against the Sheikh Hasina-led government’s job quota system, which reserves a significant portion of government jobs for certain groups. Protesters argue this system is discriminatory and prevents meritorious candidates from securing government positions.

Last month, Bangladesh’s High Court nullified its decision and reinstated the quotas after relatives of the 1971 Liberation War veterans filed petitions, triggering the latest demonstrations.

The clashes have prompted Bangladeshi authorities to shut down all public and private educational institutions indefinitely, disrupting the lives of many students, including those from India.

Evacuation of Indians from Bangladesh

Citizens of India, Nepal, and Bhutan crossed into Meghalaya from violence-affected areas, bringing the total number of people taking refuge in Meghalaya to over 670. The Meghalaya government has also set up a helpline to assist its citizens affected by the violence in Bangladesh.

Among those who returned is Asif Hussain, a medical student from Manikganj district, about 50 km from Dhaka.

Hussain described the experience as harrowing, recalling a six-hour journey under a security escort to the India-Bangladesh border.

“Our college was not directly affected by the violence, but we heard about trouble nearby,” he was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters.

Hussain and about 80 other Indian students hired private taxis to travel to the border, where they were met with further delays before finally crossing into India.

The ongoing protests have not only disrupted daily life but also severely affected communication networks, with mobile internet services cut off in many areas.

The Indian High Commission has activated multiple helplines operating round the clock to assist Indian nationals and has been providing regular updates to keep families informed about the situation.

New Gas Reservoir Discovered in Assam’s Dirok Field, Tinsukia


1. The Dirok Field in Tinsukia district has reached a new milestone in India’s Oil & Gas sector.
2. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced the successful discovery on X.
3. This aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of resource optimization.


Guwahati, July 20: In a significant development for India’s Oil & Gas sector, the Dirok Field in Tinsukia district has reached a new milestone.

Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri announced on X the successful discovery, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of resource optimization.


Also Read: Gauhati High Court Orders CBI Inquiry into Areca Nut Smuggling from Myanmar

The Dirok Field, situated in the ON-94/1 block at Margarita and operated by HOEC in partnership with OIL and IOCL, has tested a new reservoir, Sand-9, in well Dirok-1.

This well has reported a flow rate of 6 million standard cubic feet of gas per day.

Further production testing is ongoing to confirm and potentially expand the field’s proven reserves based on these promising results.

Gauhati High Court Orders CBI Inquiry into Areca Nut Smuggling from Myanmar


1. The Gauhati High Court has directed the CBI to investigate areca nut smuggling from Myanmar into India through Mizoram’s Champhai district.
2. This decision follows a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by activist Vanramchhuangi, also known as ‘Ruatfela Nu’.
3. The court cited the need for an unbiased inquiry due to the international scope of the smuggling operations.


Guwahati, July 20: The Gauhati High Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to investigate allegations of areca nut smuggling from Myanmar into India through Mizoram’s Champhai district.

This decision follows a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by activist Vanramchhuangi, also known as ‘Ruatfela Nu.’

A bench led by Justice Michael Zothankhuma and Justice Marly Vankung issued the order on Tuesday.


Also Read: Rail Line to Mizoram Expected to Be Completed by July 2025: Officials

The PIL alleged that fake or forged e-way bills and GST certificates were used in the smuggling operations.

The court noted that the state’s police had expressed their inability to investigate the issue thoroughly due to the international scope of the issue.

“This direction for a CBI probe is necessitated by the involvement of international smuggling and the need for an unbiased inquiry,” the court stated. It further instructed the CBI to register a case if warranted and pursue the investigation to its logical conclusion.

- Advertisement -