News

Nilgiris urges tourists to postpone plans amidst flash flood tragedy

In the wake of torrential rains on Friday, the Nilgiris district administration has advised tourists to postpone their travel plans until May 20, citing safety concerns. Meanwhile, in Tenkasi district, the heavy downpour resulted in flash floods at the Old Courtallam waterfall, tragically leading to the death of a 17-year-old boy. The Nilgiris administration has issued a forecast indicating very heavy rains from May 18 to 20 and has urged people to refrain from visiting the hilly region during this period. District Collector M. Aruna announced that the India Meteorological Department has issued an "orange alert" for the Nilgiris district, predicting very heavy rain (6 cm-20 cm) on May 18, 19, and 20. Addressing reporters after a meeting with officials from the Revenue, Police, and Fire and Rescue Services departments to discuss rain preparedness, the District Collector emphasised the importance of adequate protection for visitors and suggested deferring travel plans to the area if possible. In response to the forecasted heavy rain, all relevant departments are on standby, with nearly 3,500 disaster response personnel and necessary equipment such as earthmovers prepared for deployment. Approximately 450 temporary shelters have been set up, and residents have been advised to remain indoors to ensure their safety. Furthermore, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has issued a warning of increased rainfall activity across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal over the next five days. The bulletin forecasts light to moderate rainfall in many areas, with isolated instances of heavy to very heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds. The latest bulletin also predicts heavy to very heavy rain in isolated areas of several districts, including Theni, Dindigul, Tenkasi, Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Pudukottai, and Ramanathapuram. Additionally, heavy rainfall is expected in other districts such as Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Erode, Salem, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, Madurai, Sivaganga, Virudhunagar, and Thoothukudi. For Chennai and neighbouring areas, the bulletin forecasts generally or partly cloudy skies for the next seven days (from May 17 to 23), with moderate rain, thunderstorms, and lightning expected in certain areas during this period. Citizens are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and exercise caution.

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Jeddah Tower will soon-to-be world’s tallest skyscraper

Burj Khalifa, the Empire State Building - what’s the common links between these iconic structures? Well, they have long held the esteemed title of the world's tallest skyscraper. However, soon a new structure will likely clinch the said title - Jeddah Tower, a neo-futuristic marvel planned in Saudi Arabia. If reports are to go by, this extraordinary structure is being designed by Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture. The tower will, reportedly, soar to a height of 3,281 ft upon completion in the next four to five years, and will dwarf the Statue of Liberty nearly by eleven times. Smith and Gill describe the design as ‘rooted in the symbolism of Saudi Arabia,’ symbolising future growth for the kingdom with its slender, subtly asymmetrical form reminiscent of palm fronds reaching skyward. Situated in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the tower will adorn the city's skyline, serving as a testament to progress. Nestled along the Red Sea, Jeddah stands as the second-most populous city in the nation, adorned with architectural marvels such as the Penang Floating Mosque and the historic Al Balad district. Aesthetically, Jeddah Tower embodies a neo-futuristic ethos, characterised by avant-garde design and cutting-edge technology. Renderings reveal a sleek, tapering tower inspired by the elegant curves of palm fronds native to Saudi Arabia. According to the reports, construction on Jeddah Tower commenced in 2013, but faced interruptions, notably in 2018 due to developments within the Binladin Group, the project's contractor. The COVID-19 pandemic further delayed progress. However, in September 2023, reports surfaced that construction had resumed. The Jeddah Economic Company (JEC), overseeing the project, confirms that construction is underway, and is aiming for completion within the next four to five years. Despite setbacks, JEC is actively soliciting contractors and expects to finalise selections within the coming months. At the time of its pause, about a third of Jeddah Tower had been completed. Once finished, it will stand at a towering height of 3,281 ft, surpassing the Burj Khalifa by approximately 564 ft. Functionally, Jeddah Tower will serve as a mixed-use complex, incorporating residential, commercial, and office spaces. Additionally, plans include an observation deck, set to become the world's tallest, a Four Seasons hotel, and a sprawling outdoor balcony originally designed as a helipad

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International Museum Day 2024: India’s finest museums to add to your must-visit list

In a nation as culturally rich as India, you will find numerous museums meticulously curating historical treasures, and serving as custodians of our abundant heritage. Today, on International Museum Day, we take you on a virtual tour to some of the finest museums in India that you should add to your travel wish list. National Museum, New Delhi Nestled in the heart of India's capital, the National Museum serves as an institution that boasts of an extensive collection of artifacts, ranging from ancient sculptures and relics to exquisite paintings and manuscripts. Visitors can head out on a journey through time, unraveling the intricacies of India's past and marveling at its artistic and archaeological treasures. Stepping into the hallowed halls of the Indian Museum in Kolkata is akin to traversing the annals of time. Established in 1814, it holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest museum in India. Its vast collection spans various disciplines, including archaeology, anthropology, and natural history. From ancient artifacts and rare manuscripts to ethnographic exhibits, the museum offers a comprehensive insight into India's rich cultural heritage. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Mumbai Formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in Mumbai is a treasure trove of art and antiquities. Situated amidst the lush greenery of the Kala Ghoda precinct, this architectural marvel houses a diverse collection of artifacts, ranging from intricately carved sculptures to exquisite miniature paintings. Its galleries showcase the cultural legacy of India, spanning various periods and regions. Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad Nestled on the banks of the Musi River, the Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad is a testament to the eclectic tastes of its founder, Nawab Mir Yusuf Ali Khan Salar Jung III. Boasting one of the largest collections of art and artifacts in the country, it features a diverse range of exhibits, including rare manuscripts, European paintings, and Oriental artifacts. From ancient weaponry to exquisite textiles, each artifact narrates a unique tale of history and culture. Victoria Memorial Hall, Kolkata Perched on the banks of the Hooghly River, the Victoria Memorial Hall in Kolkata stands as an architectural marvel and a tribute to the legacy of Queen Victoria. Built in the Indo-Saracenic Revival style, this iconic landmark houses a rich collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from the British colonial era. Visitors can wander through its galleries, soaking in the opulence of a bygone era and gaining insight into India's colonial past.

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Vietnam Airlines introduces A350 aircraft on flights between India & Vietnam

Starting from May 15, Vietnam Airlines now connects New Delhi to the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. According to Google Trends, Vietnam was the "Most Searched Destination for Indians in 2023." Currently, Vietnam Airlines operates 14 flights weekly from Delhi and Mumbai to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. Additionally, Vietnam Airlines offers seamless connections to China, Japan, Korea, Australia, and ASEAN countries from India. The flag carrier of Vietnam has commenced commercial operations of the state-of-the-art Airbus A350 aircraft on flights between India and Vietnam. This achievement signifies a crucial step in Vietnam Airlines' dedication to offering world-class service, utmost comfort, and smooth connections for passengers traveling between India and Vietnam, and to other destinations. The Airbus A350 is well-known for its advanced technology and superior comfort. It has been designed to enhance the travel experience for passengers by providing a harmonious blend of modern amenities and spacious cabin layouts, including 276 economy seats with best-in-class extra legroom and 29 full-flat beds in business class. The aircraft features a cutting-edge in-flight entertainment system and offers a diverse menu, including specialized Indian meals. All these features ensure a comfortable and environmentally sustainable journey for travelers across continents. Nguyen Trung Hieu, Country Manager India for Vietnam Airlines, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We at Vietnam Airlines are incredibly proud to launch our inaugural commercial flight Airbus A350, symbolizing our commitment to enhancing connectivity and providing passengers with world-class travel experiences. Vietnam Airlines acknowledges the importance of delivering exceptional travel experiences to Indian travelers. The introduction of Airbus A350 signifies a journey that goes beyond mere transportation. We look forward to welcoming passengers on board with our renowned Vietnamese hospitality." Commenting on the announcement, Abhishek Goyal, Executive Director of Aeroprime Group (India GSA, Vietnam Airlines), said, "Bringing the world-class state-of-the-art A350 to the Indian market demonstrates a greater commitment to customer experience by Vietnam Airlines. With the introduction of the Airbus A350, we aim to provide travelers with a superior travel experience characterized by comfort, efficiency, and warmth." Vietnam Airlines has started commercial operations of the Airbus A350 on the New Delhi to Hanoi and New Delhi to Ho Chi Minh City routes. This reaffirms the airline's position as the top choice for travelers looking for convenient, comfortable, and reliable air travel, especially for Indian patrons. The wide-body aircraft A350 is a symbol of innovation in aviation. Passengers onboard will enjoy a specially curated Indian food menu and premium amenities, including spacious seating, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality from the airline's dedicated crew members.

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Agra gets new white marvel, posing competition to Taj Mahal

A new white marble structure in Agra, which took more than 100 years to build, is now attracting a huge number of visitors. These visitors often draw comparisons between the iconic Taj Mahal and the newly constructed mausoleum of the founder of the Radha Soami sect in Soami Bagh, situated about 12 km away from the Taj Mahal. The pristine white marble structure has become a popular attraction for tourists exploring Agra, leaving many in awe of its grandeur and considering it a worthy rival to the Taj Mahal, thus adding to the architectural splendour of the city known for its Mughal-era monuments. In contrast to the Taj Mahal, which was completed within 22 years by the labour of numerous skilled artisans and craftsmen under a mediaeval authoritarian regime during the 17th century, the construction of the Soami Bagh mausoleum extended over a century within an open society. Pramod Kumar, an ardent follower of the faith, added that the construction of the mausoleum serves as an example of their unwavering faith, fervour, and dedication of its creators, who were motivated by their religious beliefs. Resting on a foundation of 52 wells, the towering 193-foot structure, entirely crafted from white marble sourced from Makrana in Rajasthan, stands as one of India's most ambitious undertakings. Dedicated to the founder of the Radha Soami faith, Param Purush Pooran Dhani Swamiji Maharaj, the grand mausoleum is situated in the Soami Bagh colony in Agra's Dayalbagh area. Each day, huge number of tourists visit the mausoleum. While the entrance is free, photography is not permitted. If reports are to go by, some minor additions are yet to be made to the mausoleum. Visitors can still see craftsmen engaged in their work. "Now, of course, we have huge grinders, cutters, finishers, lorries, lifters, and all kinds of machines and computer technology, all of which were employed to advantage here, and the results show," an official connected with the project said. Visitors have already started to draw comparisons between the Soami Bagh mausoleum and the globally renowned Taj Mahal, which attracts thousands of tourists from around the globe each day. The Taj Mahal is home to the mausoleum of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Officials overseeing the construction said, "It represents a form of worship that has persisted and will continue tirelessly." The Soami Bagh mausoleum is situated within a community of adherents to the Radha Soami faith, which boasts millions of followers across states such as Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Karnataka, as well as in various foreign nations. The original samadh was a basic white sandstone structure. Construction on a new design by an architect from Allahabad began in 1904. Despite delays, men have been working tirelessly since 1922, primarily by hand, on the expansive and intricately adorned construction. Artisans, some of whom have spent their entire lives on the site, continue the tradition passed down through generations. While modern machinery aids their work, their craftsmanship remains meticulous. The building's architectural design is not bound by any specific style, whether modern or traditional, although its conception leans towards oriental influences. There's a concerted effort to seamlessly blend various styles. Nevertheless, the sponsors of Soami Bagh, dubbed the 'garden of the Lord,' vehemently deny any intention to rival the Taj Mahal. The 31.4-foot gold-plated pinnacle, taller than that of the Taj Mahal, required years of effort and a crane from Delhi for installation due to challenges in sourcing marble. Most marble comes from Makrana and Jodhpur, with mosaic stone from Nowshera, Pakistan, and semi-precious stones from Indian riverbeds. Despite leasing quarries in Mount Abu and Udaipur, acquiring high-quality marble posed difficulties, compounded by labour shortages as skilled masons migrated to Gulf countries. While the Taj Mahal remains a top tourist choice for its grandeur, spiritually inclined individuals find solace in Soami Bagh, prompting comparisons with the Taj Mahal in Agra.

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UAE launches 10-year Blue Residence Visa

In a significant step toward cultivating a culture of sustainability, the UAE Cabinet has greenlit a 10-year Blue Residence visa for individuals who have made exceptional contributions to environmental protection. This decision was announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, following a Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Underlining the UAE’s steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability, the Prime Minister emphasised, “The sustainability of our economy has become linked to the sustainability of our environment, and our national directions in this area are clear and consistent.” He reiterated the country’s determination to safeguard the environment, embrace cutting-edge international technologies, and enhance its higher education systems. As the UAE progresses through its year of sustainability (2023–2024), the introduction of the Blue Visa aligns perfectly with the country’s long-term objectives of promoting environmental protection and sustainable practices. Here’s all you need to know about it. What’s the UAE 10-year Blue Visa? The UAE has launched a long-term residency program for environmental champions, known as the ‘Blue Residency’. This 10-year visa is specifically tailored for individuals who have exhibited exceptional dedication and efforts towards environmental protection. The initiative aims to bolster sustainability initiatives within and beyond the UAE, in harmony with the country’s pledge to environmental conservation and sustainability. Aligned with the President’s directive to extend the 2023 Year of Sustainability, this endeavour encompasses sustainability endeavors both within and beyond the UAE. By recognizing and backing individuals devoted to environmental conservation, the UAE sustains its sustainability initiatives and strengthens its dedication to a more eco-friendly future. Who is eligible? The Blue Visa, a special residency permit, will be offered to those who have showcased remarkable commitment and impact across various environmental domains, including marine life, land-based ecosystems, air quality, sustainability technologies, the circular economy, and more. How do you apply? Eligible individuals are encouraged to apply for the Blue Visa through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), and relevant authorities may also nominate them for consideration. The Blue Visa offers recipients long-term residency in the UAE, opportunities for collaboration on environmental projects, access to funding and resources, and acknowledgment for their contributions to environmental protection.

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