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Delhi Airport’s Terminal 1 likely to remain shut for a month after the roof collapse incident

After a roof collapse by heavy rainfall, Delhi Airport’s Terminal 1 (T1) is likely to remain shut for a month. The sad incident took place on June 28, which caused the death of one person and injuries to six other individuals. The accident prompted a comprehensive technical assessment before operations could resume. As of now, structural engineers from IIT Delhi are conducting a study to evaluate the safety and structural integrity of T1. This assessment is expected to take nearly a month, after which a decision will be made regarding the reopening of the terminal, as informed by a senior government official to PTI. T1 used to handle domestic flights operated by IndiGo and SpiceJet, has temporarily stopped all the operations. All flights originally scheduled at T1 have been redirected to Terminals 2 (T2) and 3 (T3) of the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), managed by the GMR Group-led consortium DIAL. The shift ensures continuity in flight operations, with IndiGo relocating 72 flights to T2 and T3, and SpiceJet scheduling its Delhi flights from Terminal 3 until July 7. While DIAL’s cross-functional teams collaborate with stakeholders to assess and manage the situation, a spokesperson emphasized their commitment to passenger safety and operational continuity at T2 and T3. The closure of T1, which recently expanded its capacity to accommodate 40 million passengers annually, underscores the current suspension of all activities pending further notice. The incident also showcases the impact of severe weather conditions, with Delhi recording exceptionally heavy rainfall—228.1mm in 24 hours at Safdarjung, the highest June rainfall in over 85 years, compared to an average of 75.2mm over the past three decades. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and a technical committee convened by DIAL are investigating the incident to ascertain its cause and implications. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has been instructed to conduct mandatory inspections of structural integrity across all airports, aiming to enhance safety protocols and mitigate future risks. As stakeholders await the findings of the technical study and investigations, the temporary closure of T1 serves as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety and operational resilience amidst challenging weather conditions.

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Mount Fuji in Japan introduces entrance fees to overcome excessive crowding

In a bid to control excessive crowds, administration at Mount Fuji has introduced an entrance fee of ¥2,000 (INR 1033). This is Yamanashi Prefecture’s latest measure to manage the challenges posed by overtourism on Mount Fuji, which is an iconic landmark in Japan. The measure is effective immediately as the climbing season begins, all climbers intending to ascend via the popular Yoshida trail. This fee aims to alleviate congestion and enhance safety on the mountain, which has faced issues such as overcrowding near the summit, environmental damage from littering, and inadequate management of climbing activities. Governor Kotaro Nagasaki highlighted the urgency of managing overtourism, which has intensified since Mount Fuji was designated a World Heritage Site in 2013. He also said that the new initiative is crucial for the preservation of Mount Fuji's natural environment and cultural significance. The new fee will be collected at a booth near the trail's entrance, with payment options available in cash or by credit card. Climbers who pay the fee will receive a wristband granting them access through a temporary gate set up for this year's climbing season. This gate will be monitored by staff from 3 AM to 4 PM, restricting entry during these hours to manage the flow of climbers effectively. To further regulate visitor numbers, only 4000 climbers will be permitted to start their ascent each day. This daily cap, along with the timed entry restrictions, aims to prevent overcrowding and ensure a safer climbing experience for all participants. Updates on the number of climbers starting their journey will be provided through the mountain's official communication channels to inform prospective climbers and avoid situations where climbers are turned away at the 5th Station. Governor Nagasaki expressed optimism that these measures will help safeguard Mount Fuji's World Heritage status by minimising environmental impact and bolstering infrastructure and facilities with the funds generated from entrance fees. The initiative aligns with global efforts in other tourist destinations, such as Venice, where entry fees for day visitors have also been implemented to manage tourist numbers and protect local resources. The ongoing adjustments reflect a commitment to sustainable tourism practices and ensuring Mount Fuji remains a cherished destination for future generations to enjoy responsibly.

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International Travel Debit Card: Check Top Cards To Elevate Your Travel And Luxury Experience

Like credit cards, several providers offer international debit cards that are especially useful for people who go overseas regularly. These international debit cards have benefits including travel discounts, lounge access, incremental reward points on foreign purchases, and other relevant elements. You might be able to get a cheap forex markup and cash withdrawal cost from some of these as well. ICICI Mastercard World Debit Card: It lets cardholders receive a variety of unique discounts and benefits from partner retailers. The cardholder is entitled to a maximum of two complimentary visits each quarter to chosen domestic and international airport lounges. Users are also provided with gratis personal accident insurance and air accident coverage. The card also includes zero liability protection, which protects cardholders against unauthorised purchases or losses, as well as theft or misplacement. SBI International Debit Cards: SBI’s Global International Contactless Debit Card lets you withdraw cash from anywhere in the world. The debit card can be used to buy items and earn SBI Rewardz points. Customers would receive two SBI Rewardz points for every Rs 200 spent on dining, shopping, petrol, online payments, or travel bookings. Also, the rewards you receive on your birthday will be doubled. This debit can be utilised for more than 52 lakh merchant outlets in India and over 30 million worldwide. IndusInd World Exclusive Debit Card: The debit card provides two free passes every quarter to chosen domestic and international airport lounges. IndusInd has teamed with BookMyShow to offer movie and event tickets in a buy-one, get-one-free deal. Each quarter, the cardholder receives three complimentary tickets valued up to Rs 500. This debit card does not incur any cross-country markup fees. SBM World Elite Metal Debit Card: This card provides exceptional benefits suited to ultra-affluent customers, such as complimentary Taj Epicure membership, unrestricted airport lounge access, and privileged access to elite premium hotels, resorts, and Michelin-starred restaurants. The primary cardholder will save $1,000 (about Rs 83,000) on private jet reservations. Surprisingly, his debit card incurs no cross-country markup fees. Canara Bank Platinum Debit Card: It is intended for the bank’s NRE/NRO customers. The cardholder is eligible for a maximum of two complimentary visits each quarter to chosen domestic and international airport lounges. It also provides complimentary Rs 8 lakh aviation accident insurance and luggage insurance. The point-of-sale (POS) transaction limit for merchant outlets is Rs 5 lakh, while the cash withdrawal restriction is Rs 1 lakh each day. YES Private Debit Card: It offers a variety of features and benefits to ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs), including affluent professionals and entrepreneurs, in areas such as travel, wellness, and lifestyle. The most notable features are a 24-hour lifestyle concierge who manages extraordinary experiences such as private jets, airport limousines, chauffeured car services, e-gift vouchers from Oberoi Hotels and Resorts that can be obtained during booking, dining and spa experiences at select properties, and unlimited access to domestic and international airport lounges.

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Tamil Nadu To Launch Online Trekking Atlas For All Your Adventure Needs

Tamil Nadu's forest department is about to make your trekking adventures a whole lot easier. They're launching a brand new initiative – The Online Trekking Trail Atlas. This user-friendly online platform will be your one-stop shop for exploring the state's diverse trekking trails. The Online Trekking Trail Atlas will feature over 40 carefully curated trails, ranging from easy family strolls to challenging expeditions. Each trail will come with detailed information, including distance and difficulty level, clear travel instructions, description of the terrain and sights as well as availability of food and water. The online atlas won't just tell you where to go, it will show you as well. The website, which is scheduled to be launched in July, will have high-quality photos showcasing the beauty of each trail and informative videos giving you a sneak peek of the trekking experience. The project, budgeted at ₹4 crore, has involved collaboration with local communities, with reports suggesting involvement of over 400 guides from local tribes. This focus on local participation aims to promote responsible tourism practices and empower communities living near the trekking routes. About Trekking In Tamil Nadu- Back in 2018, Tamil Nadu had shut down all its trekking routes after a Kurangani Hills forest fire had claimed the lives of 23 trekkers and other civilians. And now, after 6 years, Supriya Sahu, the Additional Chief Secretary of Environment Climate Change & Forests Tamil Nadu took to X to announce that the government was restarting 40 safe trekking routes in the state, which will be booked online. As per reports, some of the popular routes that will be reopened to travellers include a jungle trail in the Siruvani Hills, the Parsonsvally-Mukurthi hut trek in Nilgiris, Topslip-Pandaravarai in Pollachi, Sembukarai-Perumalmudi in Coimbatore and Vattakanal-Vellagavi in Kodaikanal.

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Top travel trade shows around the world to attend this week for global travel industry leaders and professionals

July 2024 is set to be an exciting month for the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry, with several significant travel events scheduled to take place across Asia and beyond. These events are essential for professionals in the tourism and travel sectors, providing opportunities for networking, learning, and discovering the latest trends and innovations. In this article, Travel And Tour World will explore four major travel trade MICE events: ILTM Asia Pacific, Indonesia Aero Summit, Travel Meet Asia, and the Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit. These events promise to offer valuable insights and connections for anyone involved in international travel, global travel news, and the tourism industry. ILTM Asia Pacific: A Premier Tourism Event- The International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Asia Pacific is one of the most prestigious events in the tourism industry, scheduled from July 1-4, 2024, at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. This travel event is a must-attend for professionals in the luxury travel sector, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking and business growth. ILTM Asia Pacific brings together high-end travel brands, luxury hotels, and travel advisors from around the globe. Attendees can expect to meet with top-tier buyers and decision-makers, gaining insights into the latest trends in luxury travel and tourism. The event will feature exclusive appointments, educational sessions, and networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections and drive business success. Indonesia Aero Summit: A Key Event for the Aviation Industry- The Indonesia Aero Summit 2024, scheduled for July 2-3, 2024, in Jakarta, Indonesia, is a significant event for the aviation industry. This MICE event will gather aviation professionals, industry leaders, and enthusiasts from around the world to explore the latest trends, innovations, and developments in the sector. As a hub for global travel news and advancements, the Indonesia Aero Summit will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions. Attendees will gain insights into sustainable aviation practices, regulatory changes, and technological advancements shaping the future of international travel. The event will also highlight the vital role of aviation in promoting tourism and travel, both in Indonesia and globally. Travel Meet Asia: A Road Show for Tourism Professionals- Travel Meet Asia is a dynamic road show scheduled for July 3-4, 2024, in Jakarta, Indonesia. This travel event is designed to connect tourism professionals, travel agents, and industry stakeholders, providing a platform for networking and business development. Travel Meet Asia offers a series of interactive sessions, one-on-one meetings, and networking opportunities. Attendees can expect to discover new travel products, services, and destinations while building valuable business relationships. The road show will cover various topics, including travel news, tourism trends, and strategies for enhancing the travel experience. Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit: Focusing on Responsible Travel- The Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit, taking place from July 3-6, 2024, in León, Guanajuato, is dedicated to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices. This tourism event brings together professionals and organizations committed to making a positive impact on the travel industry and the communities they serve. The MICE travel summit will feature a range of sessions focused on sustainable tourism practices, social responsibility, and community engagement. Attendees will learn about innovative strategies for promoting eco-friendly travel, supporting local economies, and preserving cultural heritage. The trade event aims to inspire and empower participants to implement sustainable practices in their own operations and contribute to the overall well-being of the tourism industry. Why MICE Travel Trade Events Are Very Important to Global Industry Professionals ? Attending these travel and tourism events in July 2024 offers numerous benefits for professionals in the MICE industry, tourism, and travel sectors: Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders, decision-makers, and peers from around the globe. These events provide a platform for building new relationships and strengthening existing ones. Knowledge Sharing: Gain insights from expert speakers and panelists who will share their experiences, challenges, and success stories in the travel and tourism industry. Learn about the latest trends, innovations, and best practices. Business Growth: Discover new products, services, and solutions that can enhance your business operations and customer experience. Engage in one-on-one meetings and interactive sessions to explore potential partnerships and collaborations. Educational Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops designed to provide practical knowledge and skills. These sessions will cover a range of topics, from sustainable tourism practices to regulatory compliance, ensuring that attendees leave with actionable insights.

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IMD issues alerts as Mumbai braces for intensified rainfall

The India Meteorology Department (IMD) has forecasted intensified rainfall for Mumbai and surrounding regions in the upcoming week. A yellow alert has been issued for Sunday, indicating expectations of moderate to heavy rainfall, followed by an orange alert for Monday, signalling the likelihood of heavy to very heavy rains. IMD officials attribute this anticipated intensification to the strengthening of westerly winds and the formation of a trough along the west coast, which create favourable conditions for substantial rainfall across the area. Alongside Mumbai, IMD has also issued orange alerts for Ratnagiri, Raigad, and Sindhudurg districts, indicating a similar forecast of heavy to very heavy rainfall. Thane and Palghar districts have been placed under yellow alert status for the next five days, suggesting potential moderate to heavy rainfall patterns during this period. Precautions to take during heavy rainfall: Regularly monitor weather updates and advisories issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and local authorities. Stay tuned to reliable sources of information such as weather apps, news channels, and official websites. Steer clear of areas prone to flooding and waterlogging, such as underpasses, low-lying streets, and areas near rivers or drains. These areas can quickly become hazardous during heavy rainfall, posing risks of drowning and accidents. Avoid unnecessary travel and outdoor activities during heavy rainfall. If travel is unavoidable, choose safer routes known to be less prone to flooding and keep emergency contacts handy. Also to keep in mind – adhere to safety guidelines and instructions issued by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) or local authorities. Excessive rainfall in Mumbai is a recurring challenge during the monsoon season, often leading to widespread flooding and disruptions. The city's geographic location and coastal climate make it vulnerable to intense rainstorms, made worse by factors such as rapid urbanisation and inadequate drainage systems. Each year, heavy downpours overwhelm infrastructure, causing waterlogging in low-lying areas and traffic congestion across the city. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and local authorities work tirelessly to mitigate the impact, yet the unpredictability of monsoon patterns continues to pose significant challenges for residents and urban planners alike. Efforts to improve drainage, upgrade flood management systems, and raise public awareness about safety precautions during heavy rains remain crucial in Mumbai's ongoing battle against excessive rainfall.

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