News

Cyclone Remal: How it will impact the travel plan in East and Northeast India

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that severe cyclonic storm Remal weakened into a cyclonic storm early Monday and is expected to continue weakening. As of 5:30 AM on May 27, Remal was located about 70 kilometres northeast of Canning and 30 kilometres west-southwest of Mongla, with the system anticipated to gradually weaken further. Flight operations at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata recommenced at 8:59 AM on May 27, following a suspension the previous day caused by Cyclone Remal, as announced by the airport on X. Additionally, the Northeast Frontier Railway reported the cancellation of 42 trains for two days beginning Monday. If you had plans to travel to the Northeast or West Bengal, you might want to give it some time. Even though the cyclone is slowly losing its intensity, the affected areas may take some time to come back to normal. These are the updates coming in from various states and districts in East and Northeast India. Kolkata In the aftermath of Cyclone Remal's landfall, Kolkata is experiencing persistent heavy rain and strong winds. Authorities are working tirelessly to minimise the cyclone's impact. Teams from the Kolkata Municipality and Kolkata Police Disaster Management are actively engaged in clearing uprooted trees and debris, particularly in heavily affected areas like Alipore. Sundarbans The Sundarbans has seen significant damage to its river embankments, with high tides breaching protective barriers at multiple locations. This has exacerbated flooding and made travel to the region hazardous. Over one lakh people were evacuated from vulnerable areas in West Bengal prior to the cyclone's arrival to mitigate potential harm. The focus now is on assessing the damage and beginning the long process of repair and recovery. Assam The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has issued warnings for exceptionally heavy rainfall across Assam and neighbouring northeastern states on May 27 and 28. Orange and Red alerts have been issued for several districts, including Dhubri, South Salmara, Bongaigaon, Bajali, Tamulpur, Barpeta, Nalbari, Morigaon, Nagaon, Hojai, and West Karbi Anglong. Additionally, significant rainfall is expected in Chirang, Goalpara, Baksa, Dima Hasao, Cachar, Hailakandi, and Karimganj. Residents in these areas are urged to prepare for severe weather conditions, which may include flash flooding, landslides, and strong winds. Meghalaya In anticipation of severe weather, the government of Meghalaya has advised residents to assemble emergency kits, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated with weather reports. These precautions are essential to ensure safety and readiness as the region braces for the potential impacts of heavy rainfall and strong winds. Tripura The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Tripura's Sepahijala and Gumati districts due to anticipated heavy rainfall and strong winds caused by Cyclone Remal. The state is preparing for severe weather conditions, with authorities urging residents to take necessary precautions. The government is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with disaster management teams to ensure a swift response to any emergencies that may arise.

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US Ambassador Eric Garcetti seeks travel recommendations, and here's what we have in mind

Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, will soon be heading to Bengaluru for his first official trip. As he prepares for his trip, he reached out to Bengalureans for recommendations on places he should visit, and also what food he should try when here. Taking to ‘X’ he shared a video message to express his excitement, and said, “Namaskara Bengaluru! I am excited to explore the Silicon Valley of India and home of #USIndia space program. As I get ready for my trip, I'm curious to know what's the must-see sight and one dish I absolutely can't miss while I'm there? #USIndiaFWD #USIndiaFWDforSpace.” He also asked Bengalureans to send him their ideas and added, "I will send you a report back from a beautiful city where we are going to show this relationship that literally extends to the stars between US and India in Bengaluru. I will see you there.” So what are those places that first come to your mind when you think about a trip to Bengaluru? Well, Here’ are some of our favourite places as suggestions, hoping he considers exploring at least one during his trip. Lalbagh Botanical Garden It stands as a verdant sanctuary nestled in the heart of Bengaluru, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Spanning over numerous acres, it’s all about serene landscapes adorned with a captivating array of flora, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Bangalore Palace Visit this place to get a glimpse of the city's regal heritage, showcasing exquisite architecture reminiscent of a bygone era. With its imposing structure, ornate interiors, and sprawling grounds, it offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the erstwhile Maharajas of Mysore. Visitors can explore its lavishly decorated rooms, adorned with intricate carvings, European-style paintings, and vintage artifacts, immersing themselves in the grandeur of the past. Cubbon Park It’s a sprawling oasis of greenery in the heart of Bengaluru, providing a refreshing respite from the urban chaos. Boasting lush lawns, shady groves, and scenic vistas, it offers the perfect setting for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities amid nature's embrace. Vidhana Soudha Sharing the same thoughts as MP DK Suresh, Vidhana Soudha stands tall as an iconic symbol of Karnataka's legislative prowess, embodying the state's democratic spirit and administrative excellence. Renowned for its imposing architecture and monumental presence, it serves as the seat of the state legislature and government offices. Bannerghatta National Park Bannerghatta National Park is a biodiverse sanctuary teeming with wildlife, offering safari rides and a butterfly conservatory for nature enthusiasts.

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Sikkim fixes issue of rising taxi fares for Gangtok-Nathula trips; updated fare details inside

Great news awaits all those planning or are heading towards Sikkim! In a strategic move aimed at curbing overcharging of visitors, the government has fixed taxi fares for journeys between Gangtok and Nathula, an iconic tourist destination. This initiative, effective immediately, seeks to ensure fair pricing and enhance the overall tourist experience. According to an official order issued by C S Rao, Principal Secretary of the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, round-trip taxi fares for both normal and luxury vehicles traveling from Gangtok to Nathula have been set at INR 6,500 and INR 7,000, respectively, inclusive of permit charges. Overcharging of tourists is a widespread issue encountered in many travel destinations. In an effort to combat this practice and foster a welcoming environment for tourists, Sikkim has taken proactive measures to regulate taxi fares between its capital, Gangtok, and the renowned Nathula pass. This decision comes in response to numerous complaints of tour operators overcharging visitors for taxi rides and permit fees. To enforce compliance with the newly established fare structure, the Sikkim Government has put in place several measures. Contact information for reporting instances of overcharging has been made readily available to the public. Additionally, checkpoints have been established to ensure adherence to the prescribed fares. Stringent action will be taken against individuals or operators found violating the stipulated rates, as per the directives outlined in the official order. Offenders may face penalties under various transportation laws and regulations, including the Central Motor Vehicle Act 1988, CMV Rules 1989, and Sikkim Motor Vehicles Rules 1991, enforced by the Transport Department. For the convenience of aggrieved visitors, the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department has provided contact details, including phone numbers, to report instances of overcharging. This proactive approach demonstrates the government's commitment to promoting fair and transparent tourism practices in the region. You can reach out at 9434182178. Additionally, alternative contact numbers include 7908081127 and 9434126851. Tourism thrives when visitors feel valued and welcomed, and initiatives like these contribute significantly to enhancing the overall tourist experience. Kudos to the authorities in Sikkim for taking proactive steps to address overcharging concerns and ensure a hassle-free experience for travelers.

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Nainital: You will now have to pay entry fee to visit these eco-tourism sites

As per the latest development, the Uttarakhand forest department has recently implemented a new entry fee of INR 50 per person for access to two prominent eco-tourism sites. If reports are to go by, these are two popular tourist spots, namely 'Tiffin Top' and 'China Peak', located within the picturesque Nainital district. This initiative aims to generate funds to support the department's efforts in maintaining cleanliness and implementing solid waste management practices within these ecologically sensitive areas. Chandrashekhar Joshi, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Nainital, highlighted the necessity of this fee imposition, emphasising the need for better management of waste, particularly plastic, which has been a growing concern among visitors. By issuing entry tickets, the forest department aims to instill a sense of responsibility among visitors toward maintaining the cleanliness of these natural habitats. However, not everyone is in favour of this new regulation. Indu Pandey, a former chief secretary of Uttarakhand and a resident of Nainital, expressed concerns that the imposition of entry fees may deter nature enthusiasts from visiting these sites. In a social media post, Pandey voiced his apprehensions regarding the potential negative impact of this fee on tourism and pledged to address the issue with state government officials. Pandey further highlighted the underutilisation of these sites, particularly 'China Peak', attributing it to the challenging trek required to reach its summit. Despite its scenic beauty, the difficulty of the trek has limited the number of visitors, rendering the imposition of an entry fee seemingly unjustified. In addition to the enchanting eco-tourism sites in Nainital, Uttarakhand offers a number of natural wonders and cultural attractions that captivate visitors from around the world. The region's verdant forests, pristine lakes, and majestic mountains provide an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Beyond Nainital, Uttarakhand has other pretty tourist destinations too, each offering its own unique charm and allure. You will find the serene hill stations of Mussoorie and Ranikhet to the spiritual sanctuaries of Rishikesh and Haridwar, offering you ample opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether embarking on a trek through the lush wilderness of the Himalayas or immersing oneself in the vibrant culture of its quaint hillside villages, Uttarakhand promises an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking vistas and enriching experiences.

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Kolkata Police issues traffic advisory ahead of PM Modi's mega rally today

Kolkata Traffic Police issued a traffic advisory ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mega roadshow in the city on May 28 and May 29. The advisory includes diversions, road closures, and alternative routes to manage the anticipated traffic surge during the event. Modi's visit to West Bengal spans two days, preceding the seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha elections, scheduled for June 1. Modi is scheduled to arrive in West Bengal on Tuesday afternoon and will address a public meeting at Ashoknagar in Barasat constituency at 2:30 p.m. According to BJP sources, he will hold another rally in Jadavpur at 4:00 p.m. Later in the day, at around 5:55 p.m., he will pay floral tribute to the statue of Subhas Chandra Bose, followed by a 2.5 km-long roadshow in Kolkata. The advisory states that the movement of all types of goods vehicles will be restricted in some parts of Kolkata from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday and from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday or until the conclusion of PM Modi's visit. Additionally, vehicle parking will be regulated or restricted during these times. As per the advisory, traffic restrictions on May 28 will be effective on the following routes: -11 Furlong Gate, Khidderpore Road, J&N Island, Red Road, R.R Avenue, Govt. Place East, Esplanade Row East, Esplanade Crossing, C.R Avenue, J.M Avenue, Girish Avenue, K V V Avenue, N K Saha Lane, Udbodhan Lane, Bhupen Bose Avenue, Shyambazar 5point Crossing, Bidhan Sarani, College Street, Aurobinda Sarani, Beadon Street, Vivekananda Road, Girish Park Crossing, B. B Ganguly Street, Lalbazar Street, BBD Bag East, and Old Court House Street. Traffic restrictions on May 29 will be effective on the following routes: -Raj Bhawan (South) Gate, RR Avenue, Red Road, Jenson & Nicholson Island, Khidderpore Road, and 11 Furlong Gate. Moreover, Biddhan Sarani will be non-operational for all vehicles from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday. The movement of all types of heavy goods vehicles will be restricted in the vicinity of Raj Bhawan from 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday until 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday.

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Complete ban on the use of mobile phones in Ayodhya’s Ram Janmabhoomi Temple: Here what it means for pilgrims

In a recent update, the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya has completely put a ban on the use of mobile phones within its premises. The decision was taken jointly by the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra and the Ayodhya administration. The reasons given by the authorities are security concerns and the need to ensure the comfort of devotees. Temple trustee Anil Mishra.has requested all visiting devotees to follow the new rule. Cloakroom facilities are available close to the temple for the convenience of the devotees. Talking to ANI, Mishra said, "In a recent meeting with the administration, we conveyed our concerns regarding security and the comfort of devotees, leading to this decision. We kindly request all devotees to comply with this ruling... We have adequate facilities to securely store mobile phones and other valuables. Devotees are encouraged to utilize these amenities and cooperate with the arrangements." Also, the temple trust's general secretary has announced their plans for the construction of a 14-foot-wide security wall, named 'Parkota,' surrounding the temple. Champat Rai elaborated that this multifunctional area would feature six additional temples dedicated to various deities, and would be able to accommodate up to 25,000 pilgrims. The Ram Janmabhoomi temple is a beautiful example of the traditional Nagara style architecture. It is spread across 2.7 acres and boasts 392 pillars, 44 doors, and five halls, each serving different purposes. The intricately sculpted pillars and walls depict various Hindu deities and mythological scenes. Apparently, on January 22, the consecration ceremony of the 51-inch-tall idol of Ram Lalla was held. The idol was sculpted by the famous artist Arun Yogiraj and the ceremony was attended by nearly 8000 VIPs. Several rituals were done by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the ceremony.

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