BURNING ISSUES
Why are we becoming 'vishwaguru' in air pollution: Kharge targets Modi govt
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has accused the BJP government of failing to tackle Delhi's worsening air pollution, questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi over unspent environmental funds and missing PM2.5 readings at monitoring stations. He demanded accountability, citing pollution-linked deaths, poor utilisation of clean-air funds and recurring government assurances.
Delhi pollution: Supreme Court flags rising vehicle emissions, seeks crackdown plan from 4 states
The Supreme Court has flagged rising vehicular emissions as an urgent concern in the Delhi-NCR pollution crisis, seeking action plans from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Rajasthan. It has sought details of enforcement against over-age and non-compliant vehicles, inter-state coordination and a time-bound roadmap to strengthen emission checks.
Delhi wakes up to post-Diwali smog as AQI crosses 440, several areas record 'severe' pollution levels; Burari worst hit
Delhi experienced a sharp decline in air quality on Monday morning following Diwali celebrations. Multiple monitoring stations reported Air Quality Index levels exceeding 400, indicating severe pollution. Burari Crossing recorded the highest AQI at 441, and visibility was heavily affected by smog. In response to deteriorating conditions, the Commission for Air Quality Management implemented Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan.
Florida brought in Old World climbing fern as an ornamental; the vine later smothered more than 100,000 acres and can carry ground fires into tree canopies
Once admired for its ornamental beauty, the old world climbing fern has now wreaked havoc on Florida's ecosystems. This invasive plant grows rampantly, enveloping trees and choking out native flora, while also altering fire dynamics. The heightened fire risk threatens tree vitality and wildlife habitats, complicating management efforts. Although options like herbicides and physical removal exist, these methods face challenges in less accessible areas.
Mumbai and Thane authorities ground aerial firecrackers after Diwali blazes
Authorities in Mumbai and Thane implemented a ban on aerial firecrackers following a significant rise in fire incidents. Reports indicate that the Mumbai Fire Brigade responded to numerous fire calls, primarily due to firecrackers. This ban aims to prevent fire hazards, especially from falling embers onto flammable materials. Violators of the ban may face legal consequences under the Disaster Management Act.
Mumbai bans sky rockets, aerial fireworks till November 25 after fire incidents
The Mumbai Disaster Management Authority has banned the use of sky rockets and aerial fireworks across BMC limits until November 25, 2026, due to fire hazards. This decision follows multiple fire incidents attributed to firecrackers, with concerns raised over the safety risks posed to densely populated areas and buildings in the city.
Death toll in explosion at Oil India's facility in Assam rises to three
Three people have died following an explosion at Oil India Limited's facility in Dibrugarh. The incident occurred during maintenance work at the Intermediate Tank Farm on Friday. Two of the deceased were workers and an engineer who succumbed to burn injuries. The injured were initially treated at Assam Medical College, with three remaining in critical condition. Oil India Limited announced compensation for the families of the deceased and injured individuals.
Akhilesh Yadav targets BJP after part of Bismillah Khan's house demolished, Varanasi officials deny role
Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav criticised the BJP government for the demolition of Bismillah Khan's home. He expressed concerns about the loss of cultural legacy and the integrity of Bharat Ratna awardees. Municipal officials clarified that the family chose to demolish the structure independently after declining a museum proposal. The Varanasi Municipal Corporation had earlier issued a notice concerning the building's dilapidated condition.
Assam OIL facility explosion: Death toll rises to two, 3 critical
In a devastating explosion at the Intermediate Tank Farm of Oil India Limited in Dibrugarh, two workers lost their lives, and numerous others were injured while performing maintenance tasks. Among the deceased was Tapas Jyoti Gogoi, who tragically succumbed to severe burns. Those injured received initial care at a nearby medical college but were later transferred to a private hospital, with three still in critical condition as the investigation proceeds.
SC questions recurring Delhi-NCR pollution, flags vehicle emissions as major contributor
The Supreme Court has raised concerns over recurring air pollution in Delhi-NCR, identifying vehicular emissions as a major contributor and questioning why the AQI continues to approach 400 despite regulatory measures. The bench also called for changes in festival practices and economic incentives to discourage stubble burning.
Anthony Santander salary, achievements: All about Toronto Blue Jays star whose controversial posts about new Michigan Senator Abdul El-Sayed go viral after midterm elections results
US President Donald Trump referred to El-Sayed as a “jihadist,” evoked the September 11 attacks and deliberately misstated the candidate's name.
Fire at Oil India tank farm in Assam kills one, injures six
A fire broke out at the Intermediate Tank Farm of Oil India Limited in Dibrugarh, Assam. The incident occurred during maintenance work, leading to tragic consequences. One person died due to injuries sustained in the explosion, while six others were injured. The injured workers were employees of Spectron Engineers Private Limited, engaged by Oil India Limited. The fire was controlled by the company's fire service personnel shortly after the incident.
2,787 cases of stubble burning recorded in Punjab, fines totaling Rs 46.10 lakh imposed
In Punjab, 2,787 incidents of paddy stubble burning were recorded as of November 5. The Punjab Pollution Control Board conducted field inspections at various locations, confirming many fires. Environmental compensation fines have been imposed, and several FIRs were registered for violations. Various actions, including warning notices, were issued to curb these incidents and hold offenders accountable. The situation remains critical as stubble burning continues across multiple districts despite administrative actions.
Japanese climbing fern came to the US as an ornamental; it now spreads across at least 6 Southern states, climbing over trees and helping fire reach their crowns
Japanese climbing ferns, introduced for ornamental purposes, have proliferated across southern forests since the early 1900s. These ferns pose risks to native plants by causing shading and competing for resources. Fire crews are concerned about their ability to facilitate crown fires in pine plantations. While fire can damage the ferns, it is ineffective for complete control, necessitating early detection efforts.
Rs 600 for 1,000 km journey: Nitin Gadkari proposes Rs 3 per unit for EV charging at night and Rs 5 during the day to boost EV adoption
Nitin Gadkari recommended varying electricity rates for electric vehicle charging to enhance usage in Maharashtra. He indicated that costs for traveling in electric vehicles are significantly lower than petrol or diesel cars. Gadkari mentioned the potential for solar power to support cheaper night-time electricity. He provided updates on alternative fuel technologies including electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. Additionally, Gadkari discussed biofuels, biogas, and their role in environmental sustainability.
Punjab government 'misleading' people on issue of stubble burning: Manjinder Singh Sirsa
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa criticized the Punjab government for misleading the public regarding stubble burning, linking a rise in farm fires to deteriorating air quality in the capital. He called out Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's false claims and highlighted the failure to provide solutions for farmers, while asserting that pollution was exacerbated by smoke from Punjab.
Parliamentary panel raises concerns over high airfares; IndiGo, Air India flag rising fuel costs, Pakistan airspace closure
A parliamentary panel raised concerns over high airfares during discussions with IndiGo and Air India officials. Rising Aviation Turbine Fuel prices and the closure of Pakistan airspace were cited as major factors. IndiGo reported significant losses in the September quarter due to these issues, alongside challenges faced by Air India. The meeting also reviewed aircraft security and global aviation practices in India.
Amit Shah slams Congress for holding rally on anniversary of 1984 anti-Sikh riots
Union Home Minister Amit Shah condemned the Congress party for holding a rally on the anniversary of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. He expressed the view that this action disrespected the victims and their families. Shah referred to the historical context of the violence that occurred after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's assassination. He emphasized the steps taken under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership towards justice for the riot victims.
Delhi pollution restrictions from November 1: 50% WFH, parking charges to double, vehicle curbs and more; check full list under winter action plan
Delhi vehicle restrictions from November 1: The Delhi government will enforce various anti-pollution measures to improve air quality from November 1. From restricting older vehicles to banning dust-generating construction activities, the government has launched a winter action plan to combat the air pollution that chokes the city annually. Under the restrictions, parking charges will double to discourage the use of private vehicles and encourage public transport usage. Additionally, a 50% work-from-home policy will also be implemented in government and private offices during the winter months.
Load More
