News

Underground Metro 3 records 1.55 lakh ridership in 7 days

The newly launched underground Mumbai Metro Line 3 has recorded 1.55 lakh ridership in seven days — from October 7 to October 13. As per the data available from the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL), which is the project implementing authority, the underground Metro has recorded a spike in ridership after first two days of its operations. On Day 1, it saw a total 18,015 ridership whereas on October 13, the ridership reported was 25,782 — a 43.11 per cent jump. Of the total 33.5-km underground Metro Line 3, about 12.44 km stretch between BKC to Aarey under Phase 1 was opened to public. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had flagged off the commercial operations of Phase 1 on October 4 in Mumbai. Phase 1 from Aarey to BKC, allows commuters to travel the distance in 30 minutes, with trains running every 6.5 minutes during the peak time.

Read more

Gujarat Tourism Soars To New Heights With 22-Fold Increase In Two Decades

In 2003-04, Gujarat attracted just 6.165 million tourists, but by 2022-23, this figure had skyrocketed to over 140 million, with more than 2.2 million of them being international visitors. Gandhinagar: Twenty years ago, Gujarat’s tourism sector was almost negligible, but today it stands as a top destination for travelers globally. In 2003-04, the state saw just 6.165 million tourists, while by 2022-23, this number had soared past 140 million, including over 2.2 million international visitors. Moreover, the tourism department’s budget, which was a mere ₹12 crore in 2001-02, has risen to an impressive ₹1620.06 crore for 2024-25. Rann Utsav and Kite Festival Gain International Recognition Former Chief Minister Narendra Modi, seeing the tourism potential of the White Rann in Kutch, introduced the ‘Rann Utsav’ in 2005. Initially a three-day event, it has since grown into a four-month-long extravaganza. To draw international attention to Gujarat’s famous Uttarayan festival, the International Kite Festival was launched. Since 2009, Ahmedabad’s Kankaria Lake has hosted the annual Kankaria Carnival. Other cultural events like the Tana Riri Festival in Vadnagar and Uttarardh Mahotsav at the Modhera Sun Temple, which highlight Indian dance traditions, have also boosted tourism. Gujarat’s Navratri and Garba have achieved global fame, thanks to the Vibrant Navratri Festival. Statue of Unity, the World’s Tallest Statue, Emerges as a Leading Tourist Destination In honor of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the “Iron Man of India,” and inspired by the vision of former Chief Minister Narendra Modi, the 182-meter-tall Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, was erected in Kevadia, Gujarat. Numerous attractions have been developed around the Statue of Unity, such as the Jungle Safari Park, Children’s Nutrition Park, Aarogya Van (Health Forest), Valley of Flowers, Ekta Mall, Ekta Nursery, Miyawaki Forest, and Maze Garden. A railway station has also been built in Kevadia to enhance tourist access. The state government is committed to the comprehensive tourism development of the Kevadia region.

Read more

Chennai Metro update: Enhanced services and increased frequency for commuters

The Chennai Metro services today (October 15, 2024) have been updated to provide commuters with enhanced travel options, with an increase in the number of trains operating and improved frequency on key lines. The Chennai Metro services today (October 15, 2024) have been updated to provide commuters with enhanced travel options, with an increase in the number of trains operating and improved frequency on key lines. Currently, 47 trains are running, up from the usual 42, ensuring greater convenience for passengers. The update was shared by the official handle of Chennai metro rail on X( formerly twitter). Updated Service Schedule Service hours: 05:00 hrs to 23:00 hrs The first train departs from all terminal stations at 05:00 hrs, and the last train departs at 23:00 hrs. Lines with Updated Frequencies: Green Line: Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Metro to St. Thomas Mount Metro – trains every 5 minutes. Blue Line: Airport to Wimco Nagar Depot – trains every 6 minutes. Between Washermenpet Metro and Arignar Alandur Metro – trains every 3 minutes. Passengers are encouraged to utilize these services and plan their travel accordingly.

Read more

Leaf-peepers are flocking to see New England's brilliant fall colors

MEREDITH, N.H. — New England leaf-watching season is in full swing, as people from as far as Florida and Berlin flock to the region for scenic drives, train rides and bus tours to soak in the splendid hues of red, orange and bronze. With quaint towns and covered bridges scattered through swaths of changing forest, the rural Northeast provides an ideal setting to view nature's annual show. "Leaf-peeping is one of the most accessible tourism things that you can do," said Teddy Willey, the general manager of the Frog Rock Tavern in Meredith, New Hampshire. “You don’t have to have the athleticism to be a hiker, you don’t have to have the money to own a boat.” You just need to be able to jump in a car and head north, he said. “Once you’re there, you just take it in," Willey said. He spoke just after his tavern was flooded with tourists from Indiana who had stepped off a sightseeing bus. Among them was Vicky Boesch, of Fort Wayne, who had made the trip with her sisters. “We came out to the Northeast to see the beautiful foliage and the colorful leaves,” she said, adding the she was impressed with Vermont. “The leaves were very pretty on the mountains because the sun was out yesterday, and so that makes them pop more,” she said.

Read more

The impact of spiritual tourism on major cities and the hospitality sector in India

India is renowned as the land of spiritual awakening, attracting seekers of inner peace and enlightenment. The realm of spiritual tourism is transforming quickly, attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups to India’s profound spiritual heritage. What was once seen as a pursuit primarily for the elderly has now captured the interest of younger generations, who are in search of balance, wellness, and a deeper sense of purpose in their hectic lives. As a result, spiritual tourism is emerging as a significant driver of growth in India's hospitality and travel sectors. According to industry reports, spiritual tourism now accounts for a substantial 60% of domestic tourism. This sector is set to play a pivotal role in the development of several temple towns across India, aided by strong government policy support and significant infrastructure developments. Cities such as Varanasi, Tirupati, Rishikesh, and Bodh Gaya, long known for their religious importance, have transformed into bustling hubs of spiritual tourism. This increased activity has driven demand for high-quality accommodations and services tailored to meet the needs of travellers seeking spiritual and wellness experiences. The hospitality sector is making substantial investments in smaller towns, recognizing their potential to become major travel destinations as spiritual tourism continues to rise. Many hotel brands are expanding their presence in key pilgrimage and spiritual cities. Hotels and resorts are adapting to meet the distinct needs of spiritual tourists by providing culturally immersive experiences, reflected in their interior designs and food and beverage offerings, and easy access to nearby temples and pilgrimage sites. These services allow travellers to explore the religious and spiritual aspects of these destinations while rejuvenating their minds and bodies, making the experience holistic and enriching.

Read more

Rabat crowned UNESCO World Book Capital for 2026

Rabat, Morocco’s capital, has been named the UNESCO World Book Capital for 2026, marking a significant milestone in its literary and cultural journey. With 54 publishing houses, one of Africa’s largest international book fairs, and a growing number of bookstores, Rabat’s book industry is a key driver of its creative economy. This recognition celebrates the city’s dedication to promoting literacy, empowering women and youth through reading, and combating illiteracy, especially in underserved communities. UNESCO and the World Book Capital Advisory Committee chose Rabat for its clear commitment to literacy development. As part of its role as World Book Capital, the city will launch a series of initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth and social benefits by improving access to books and supporting the local publishing industry. One of the major projects will focus on reinforcing literacy efforts for all citizens, ensuring that reading becomes a tool for empowerment and inclusion across different age groups and social backgrounds. The World Book and Copyright Day, April 23, 2026, will mark the official start of Rabat's year-long commemoration. There will be activities transcending national boundaries, whereas the city's program will support books and reading for everyone while also promoting cross-cultural interactions and a worldwide conversation on the value of literacy. Rabat is now the 26th city to hold the title of World Book Capital, following other notable cities like Madrid, New Delhi, Beirut, and Accra. It is the fifth African city to receive this honour, following Alexandria, Port Harcourt, Conakry, and Accra. This recognition highlights Rabat’s role as a cultural hub in the region and its commitment to building a society where knowledge and reading are accessible to all.

Read more