EAC nod to Puri international airport; study on Olive Ridleys, birds suggested
Sources said the report included several recommendations, indicating that environmental clearance (EC) for the project may be granted soon. A four-member subcommittee headed by EAC chairman Ram Kumar had visited the site at Sipasarubali under Brahmagiri tehsil during April 4-6.
Although as per the Ancient Indian History Culture and Archaeology (AIHCA) department of Utkal University report, there would be no adverse impact on Shree Jagannath Temple by the airport when operational, the sub-committee has advised project proponent, Commerce and Transport department, to take the opinion of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The project lies within 10 km of the shrine and other older structures.
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New Indian Express
a day ago
- New Indian Express
Stepping stones into a bygone era
DAMBAL, GADAG: This step-well at Dambal in Gadag district offers a peep into a well-lived life in a bygone era. The step-well where Jain monks used to chant their slokas is gaining the attention of researchers as well as diversion seekers. This 'Japada Bavi' (japada means chant and 'bavi' refers to well in Kannada) is surrounded with 21 small meditation rooms—probably dating back to the Chalukya era. Researchers say sadhus from north and other parts of India while visiting Kappatagudda used to meditate here during monsoon. Tourists have added 'Japada Bavi' to their itinerary while visiting Lake Victoria and Doddabasappa temple in Dambal. Village elders say that one can get a measure of water level in Lake Victoria by observing water level in 'Japada Bavi.' If water level comes above the steps inside the well, it means that the lake is overflowing and the nearby farmers will be put on alert to save their crops. The elders say they have seen the sadhus visiting Kappatagudda coming to stay here for a few days and shut themselves in the cave-like rooms encircling the step-well. Out of the 21 meditation rooms, 19 are in good condition. These are narrow and only one person can sit inside. The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) has spruced up the place but no security guards are deployed here. Siddu Satyannavar, a resident of Dambal, says: 'On most weekends I take guests to 'Japada Bavi'. Recently a writer, Anandteerth Pyati, visited here and said that this well's name is mentioned in Kannada author HS Anupama's book 'Belaginolagu Akkamahadevi'. Akka Mahadevi had spent two days at the well.' 'Researchers claim they have read about this step-well. First, Jains used to meditate here. Later Buddhists came. More research needs to take place to understand the significance of this step-well,' says Satyannavar.
The Hindu
2 days ago
- The Hindu
Wings India 2026 to showcase Advanced Air Mobility while spotlighting aviation growth
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has announced that Wings India 2026, Asia's largest civil aviation event, held in Hyderabad biennially, will serve as a key platform to showcase India's aviation growth story, promote investment opportunities, and highlight emerging technologies including Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). AAM broadly refers to the use of new-age aircraft technologies, often electric, hybrid or autonomous, for short to medium distance transport in both urban and rural settings. It includes air taxis, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and drone-based logistics, with potential applications ranging from easing urban congestion to enhancing access in remote or underserved areas. AAM also aligns with global efforts on sustainability, as many of these technologies focus on low-emission or zero-emission propulsion systems. Responding to a question in the Lok Sabha on August 7, Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu informed that Wings India will provide a platform for AAM, which is emerging globally as the next frontier in air transport technology. While no direct regulatory clearances or financial packages have been finalised under Wings India 2026, the event will facilitate policy discussions, technology showcases and pilot demonstrations aimed at shaping India's future regulatory and project frameworks for AAM. Engagements are underway with State governments, OEMs, regulators and other stakeholders, to identify feasible applications such as medical logistics, disaster response and last-mile connectivity, he said. The Minister said that the four-day event will connect global stakeholders through exhibitions, technical sessions, roundtables and high-level dialogues. The primary objectives include attracting investments into the aviation ecosystem, fostering collaboration among airlines, original equipment manufacturers, infrastructure providers and investors and promoting innovation in digital aviation, safety and sustainability. Wings India 2026 will take place from January 28 to 31, at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad.
The Print
5 days ago
- The Print
Monumental step: Rickety stairs to the Taj's main mausoleum to be replaced with Sal wood & steel
According to the Agra Approved Guides Association President Shamsuddin, the existing wooden stairs have become loose after years of use, their surface and edges have worn out and there are cracks in the wood. In view of this situation, ASI Agra officials had sent a proposal to headquarters to replace these stairs, and it has now been approved. The decision, made by the Archaeological Survey of India comes after reports of several tourists twisting their ankles or injuring themselves after slipping or tripping on the rickety steps. This change will make sure the stairs are durable and safe. Agra: The creaky and worn-out wooden stairs leading to the Taj Mahal's main mausoleum will soon be replaced with new steps made from Sal wood fitted in a stainless steel frame. Prince Vajpayee, senior conservation assistant of Taj Mahal, said, 'The original marble stairs of the Taj Mahal were worn out due to hundreds of years of movement and there was a danger of slipping on them. About two decades ago, they were protected by covering them with wooden steps. These wooden stairs have been replaced from time to time. The last time they were replaced was eight years ago. But this time a combination of stainless steel and Sal wood will be used for the first time, which will increase both the strength and longevity of the stairs.' Vajpayee said that the work of replacing the stairs will be done one side at a time so that movement of tourists is not affected. Vajpayee also said that during the heavy rain between 10 and 12 September last year, there were reports of water leakage into the main dome. After this, the ASI conducted an investigation with drone cameras and LIDAR technology, in which leakage was found at two places. The team of Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), Roorkee, has recently completed the thermal scanning of the dome and the urn and will submit its report soon. Based on the report, the ASI will carry out the necessary conservation work. Earlier in 2015, an accurate record of the structure was prepared with 3D laser scanning of the Taj Mahal. Prahalad Agarwal, President of the Agra Tourist Welfare Chamber, said, 'This city has always considered paramount the safety of tourists who paid a visit to the Taj Mahal and other historical sites in Agra. Considering the strength of the new material, the new stairs will surely be safer and will require fewer repairs in the future. This change will help improve the tourists' experience.' Vishal Sharma, who owns a handicrafts emporium, said, 'The Taj Mahal is our cultural and historical heritage. Facilities must be improved without interfering with the original set-up. This will send out a positive message to the world community, besides giving relief to millions of tourists who were feeling uneasy while plying on the old stairs during peak hours. Such modernisation will work for the improvement of tourism in Agra.' (Edited by Viny Mishra) Also read: Raking hashtags in millions, Taj Mahal & Golden Temple among 10 most 'Instagrammable' religious sites
