News

8 important things to know about Haryana's first hydrogen-powered train

Good news! Indian Railways is now all set to launch its hydrogen-powered train in December 2024. It will mark a significant step towards sustainable transportation. This eco-friendly train will run on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana. Let’s find out more about this train: India’s first Hydrogen-Powered train: It is India’s first hydrogen-powered train in December 2024. This major milestone in sustainable transportation will take place on the 90-kilometer Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana, marking a significant step towards reducing the country's carbon footprint. Zero Emissions: The hydrogen-powered train uses advanced fuel cells to generate electricity, emitting only water vapor as a byproduct. This makes it a completely zero-emission solution, contributing to Indian Railways' goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. Why Jind-Sonipat was chosen: The Jind-Sonipat route was chosen for the trial due to its moderate traffic and well-developed infrastructure, which will allow for an efficient evaluation of the train's performance, safety, and operational capabilities. Successful trials here will help extend the technology to other non-electrified routes in the future. Hydrogen trains are quieter: In addition to being eco-friendly, hydrogen trains are quieter and more energy-efficient than conventional diesel-powered trains. This reduction in noise pollution and improved energy use makes them a better choice for sustainable transportation. Cost-effectiveness: As hydrogen fuel production scales up, the costs of operating hydrogen-powered trains are expected to decrease. This will make the trains more affordable over time, benefiting both the railways and passengers by offering a more cost-effective transport solution. No Need for Electrification: Hydrogen trains can operate on non-electrified tracks, eliminating the need for expensive electrification projects. This feature makes them a versatile alternative to traditional diesel engines, especially for rural or less-developed routes where electrification is impractical. Plans for Expansion: Indian Railways aims to introduce 35 hydrogen-powered trains by 2025, focusing on routes currently dependent on diesel. This expansion will help reduce the environmental impact of rail transport and support the broader shift toward clean energy. Investment: Each hydrogen-powered train is estimated to cost ₹80 crore, with an additional ₹70 crore required for building the necessary infrastructure. Indian Railways is collaborating with both domestic and international partners to develop hydrogen production and storage capabilities, ensuring the successful implementation of this sustainable transport initiative.

Read more

Schengen visa holders can now explore two more countries in Europe

As per the latest development, Romania and Bulgaria are likely to become full members of the Schengen area from January 2025. After years of limited inclusion, Romania and Bulgaria are expected to reach a significant milestone, and gain complete membership in the Schengen Area. As previously reported, border controls were lifted for air and sea travel, while the two Balkan countries that joined the European Union in 2007 were granted partial membership in the Schengen Area in March 2023. However, due to worries about illegal migration, especially those expressed by Austria, which had banned their entry into the zone, there were restrictions at land borders. Recent discussions in Budapest involving Austria, Bulgaria, Hungary, and Romania’s interior ministers have led to Austria lifting its opposition. This breakthrough allows for a final decision to be made by EU interior ministers in December 2024. Romania and Bulgaria are now "one step closer" to joining Schengen as full members, according to Hungarian Interior Minister Sándor Pintér. The deployment of at least 100 border guards along the Bulgaria-Turkey border to improve migratory control is a crucial need for this advancement. EU authorities, notably European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson, have mostly praised the action. Romania and Bulgaria now "fully belong" to the Schengen Area, according to Johansson, who hailed the move as a step towards complete freedom for the people of both countries. The Schengen Area, which currently consists of 23 of the 27 EU member states as well as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, facilitates simple borderless travel. Its advantages for free movement help millions of travellers every day. The full integration of Romania and Bulgaria will enhance the Schengen Area’s accessibility and strengthen its external borders. This expansion signifies a growing sense of unity within the European Union and highlights the progress Romania and Bulgaria have made in addressing migration and security concerns. What it means for travellers Travelling across borders will be easier for visitors now that Romania and Bulgaria are part of the Schengen Area. Lower administrative barriers will benefit enterprises and tourists, and these countries' inhabitants will have greater mobility. With this development, the Schengen Area is moving toward its goal of creating a more interconnected and cohesive Europe as Romania and Bulgaria are ready for full integration. Travellers can anticipate a more uniform and accessible Schengen experience beginning in January 2025.

Read more

Ahmedabad's Jagannath Mandir corridor beautification to connect 35 temples

The very famous Jagannath Temple of Ahmedabad is all set to see a remarkable change with the launch of a new corridor inspired by the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor. This redevelopment initiative, spearheaded by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), seeks to enhance the pilgrimage experience, drawing from the temple’s cultural and spiritual significance as the starting point for Gujarat's grand Rath Yatra. The ambitious ₹155 crore Temple Link Project aims to connect 35 ancient temples across the city through a 2-kilometer heritage trail. The trail will begin at Vasant Chowk and pass by key landmarks such as the Ganesh Temple and Saptarshi No Aaro, ultimately leading to the Jagannath Temple. The corridor will also follow the traditional Jal Yatra route, creating a continuous link between various religious sites. Alongside this, the project includes the development of temple squares, gardens, and a heritage interpretation center that will showcase Ahmedabad's rich cultural legacy. A key feature of the project is the construction of a multilevel parking facility with a capacity to accommodate 750 vehicles, addressing traffic congestion, particularly during major events like the Rath Yatra. The redevelopment will be carried out in three phases: Phase 1: This phase focuses on the renovation of temples near Vasant Chowk and Rambari, located along the Sabarmati River. The goal is to restore the ancient structures while preserving their historical charm and architectural beauty. Phase 2: The next phase will concentrate on the development of a grand plaza in front of the Jagannath Temple, designed to provide a grand entryway for visitors. In addition, temples near Saptarshi No Aaro will be restored, and a heritage gate will be constructed along the Sabarmati River to further enhance the area’s cultural significance. Phase 3: This phase will focus on Tilak Bag, where a 1,600 square-meter heritage center will be built. A multilevel parking facility will also be constructed to further alleviate traffic issues in the area. Additionally, a spacious visiting plaza capable of accommodating up to 4,000 devotees will be constructed outside the temple, creating an inviting space for worshippers and enhancing the spiritual atmosphere. The development also includes upgrades to the Jal Yatra route, which connects the Jagannath Temple to the Sabarmati River, ensuring a smooth journey for pilgrims during the festival. This transformation will not only improve the infrastructure surrounding the Jagannath Temple but also ensure a more enriching and accessible pilgrimage experience for devotees.

Read more

Dubai’s Arabian Travel Market Highlights Tourism Sustainability Goals

The tourism sector is under scrutiny as a whitepaper by the Digital Tourism Think Tank (DTTT), unveiled at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, revealed that only 15% of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to tourism are on track to be achieved by 2030. The findings emphasize the critical need for sustainable practices as tourism growth continues to accelerate globally. Tourism’s Growing Environmental Impact According to the United Nations, if current trends persist, by 2050, tourism will drive a: 154% increase in energy consumption 131% increase in greenhouse gas emissions 152% increase in water consumption 251% increase in solid waste generation These projections underscore the pressing need for the global tourism industry to adopt sustainable practices and invest in resource management technologies. Challenges in Sustainable Tourism Research conducted by Visa and Oxford Economics highlights a significant barrier to sustainable tourism: insufficient information and lack of transparency regarding sustainable travel options. This gap has left consumers unable to make informed choices, complicating efforts to steer the sector toward sustainability. Innovation and Collaboration for Change The whitepaper titled Exploring the Future of Tourism Technology leveraged insights from the ATM Innovation Wall in 2024. This platform encouraged tourism professionals to share ideas and concerns, generating innovative proposals, such as: Gamified recycling programs Hyper-personalized travel experiences focused on cultural immersion Circular and regenerative tourism models Nicholas Hall, Founder and CEO of DTTT, emphasized, “Sustainable tourism cannot rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. Collaboration between stakeholders—from tech companies to local communities—is essential to develop effective solutions.” Regional Initiatives in the GCC Governments in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are actively addressing the sustainability challenge through various national strategies: UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 Saudi Vision 2030 Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy 2030 Bahrain Tourism Strategy 2022-2026 Omani National Tourism Strategy Kuwait Vision 2035 These frameworks aim to align economic growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring tourism remains a vital yet responsible driver of development. Arabian Travel Market 2025: Building on Progress The 2025 edition of ATM, themed “Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity”, will continue to spotlight sustainability. Key sessions will address ethical practices and innovative solutions driving the sustainable tourism agenda. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME at ATM, remarked, “ATM is proud to be a catalyst for advancing sustainability in tourism. By fostering collaboration and investing in resource optimization technologies, we can empower communities, preserve cultural heritage, and enhance the resilience of travel destinations.” In 2023, ATM introduced 30 sustainability goals during its 30th annual event. Building on this, the 2024 edition achieved notable milestones, including: Diverting 48% of event waste from landfills (up from 5% the previous year) Using recyclable carpet and PVC-free vinyl for signage Collaborating with Sparklo, a cleantech company, to collect over 2,200 bottles and cans, preventing 300kg of CO2 emissions The Role of Strategic Partnerships Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM 2025 will feature partnerships with key stakeholders, including: Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) as Destination Partner Emirates Airline as Official Airline Partner IHG Hotels & Resorts as Official Hotel Partner Al Rais Travel as Official Destination Management Company (DMC) Partner These collaborations aim to embed sustainability into the core of the tourism industry while addressing region-specific challenges. Driving Circular and Community-Driven Tourism ATM advocates for circular tourism models that prioritize waste reduction, resource efficiency, and economic benefits for local communities. Initiatives such as cultural immersion programs and community-driven tourism strategies aim to empower local populations and safeguard cultural heritage.

Read more

Tourism Malaysia Celebrates Prestigious Recognition for Outstanding Travel Experiences

Tourism Malaysia proudly announces that Malaysia has been crowned “Destination of the Year” at the esteemed TripZilla Excellence Awards 2024. This prestigious accolade, determined through an extensive voting process by avid travel enthusiasts, celebrates Malaysia’s unwavering dedication to delivering outstanding travel experiences, innovation, and exceptional service. It is a testament to the nation’s vibrant tourism offerings, rich cultural diversity, and commitment to enhancing the journey for global visitors. Malaysia’s allure lies in its dynamic blend of cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and world-class hospitality. From its iconic landmarks and pristine beaches to UNESCO-listed cultural sites, the country continues to capture the hearts of travelers. These attributes, along with modern infrastructure and a renowned culinary scene, played a pivotal role in securing this recognition. The award also highlights Malaysia’s dedication to sustainable tourism, with initiatives focused on preserving its natural beauty while empowering local communities. From eco-tourism hotspots to conservation efforts, Malaysia demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to creating a sustainable future for the travel industry. Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, remarked, “As Malaysia celebrates this remarkable achievement, we warmly invite travellers to explore our nation’s unique charm, exceptional hospitality, and the myriad of experiences awaiting discovery.” TripZilla, a leading travel media company in Southeast Asia with a reach of over 20 million monthly travelers, organizes the TripZilla Excellence Awards, now in its 10th year. These awards honor travel brands that consistently deliver unforgettable and exceptional experiences, making them one of the most sought-after recognitions in the industry. “Tourism connects people, creates jobs, and supports communities worldwide, all while fulfilling our innate wanderlust. It is a complex and profoundly impactful industry. As a leading travel inspiration platform, it’s incredibly meaningful for us to recognise the standout brands in this vital sector,” said Winnie Tan, CEO of TripZilla.com. “This year’s TripZilla Excellence Award winners are true trailblazers, crafting unforgettable moments that leave a lasting impression on travellers seeking new and unique experiences.” In response to this remarkable achievement, Malaysia is gearing up for a vibrant year of tourism promotions, aiming to attract visitors from across the globe. The upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign sets ambitious goals, targeting 35.6 million international arrivals and projected receipts of RM147.1 billion, further solidifying Malaysia’s status as a premier global travel destination.

Read more

Jetstar Asia officially launches flights between Singapore and Sri Lanka

Jetstar Asia, based in Singapore, officially launched scheduled flight operations between Sri Lanka and Singapore on November 21, 2024. The airline will operate five return flights weekly, utilizing its modern Airbus A320 fleet to connect the two destinations. The inaugural flight touched down at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) at 10:30 AM, carrying 179 passengers. It received a ceremonial water salute from Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited (AASL), marking the occasion with grandeur. Passengers were greeted with a vibrant Kandyan dance performance sponsored by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau. Additionally, they were gifted tea packs courtesy of the Sri Lanka Tea Board, showcasing the nation’s cultural and culinary heritage. Air Chief Marshal (Retd.) Harsha Abeywickrema, Chairman of AASL, highlighted the significance of this milestone: “The launch of Jetstar Asia’s scheduled flights between Singapore and Sri Lanka is a significant boost for our tourism sector’s ongoing growth. This new connection promises an enhanced travel experience for both local and international passengers. We are delighted to see Jetstar Asia contributing to Sri Lanka’s aviation and tourism landscape by commencing flights to Bandaranaike International Airport. As we thank Jetstar Asia for choosing us and congratulate Jetstar Asia on this new venture, AASL remains committed to supporting our partnership and ensuring an exceptional travel experience for our valued passengers.” The introduction of this route is expected to enhance travel and tourism ties between the two nations, providing more opportunities for cultural exchange and economic growth.

Read more