Kavarapettai train accident | Alertness of loco pilot minimised impact of collision

Accident Averted: Mysuru-Darbhanga Bagmati Express Collision

A recent incident involving the Mysuru-Darbhanga Bagmati Express could have resulted in a tragedy if not for the swift actions of loco pilot G. Subramani. On October 11, 2024, the train collided with a stationary goods train at Kavaraipettai Railway station in the Chennai Division of the Southern Railway, primarily due to a signal failure.

According to the preliminary report from the Commissioner of Railway Safety, the timely application of emergency brakes by Subramani significantly reduced the train's speed, thus mitigating the impact of the collision. The report highlights the pilot's exceptional alertness, which likely saved many lives, and recommends that his commendable actions be acknowledged by the Ministry of Railways.

The incident occurred at 8:31 PM when the Bagmati Express, traveling at approximately 90 kmph, passed a green signal intended for the main line but unexpectedly veered into the loop line, crashing into an empty goods train. This accident led to the derailment of about 13 coaches, injuring several passengers, and resulted in flames engulfing a parcel-cum-power car due to the collision's impact.

In the aftermath, a multi-departmental inquiry pointed to missing nuts and bolts from a critical part of the railway line, raising suspicions of possible sabotage. However, Southern Railway's General Manager R.N. Singh noted the unusual circumstances surrounding the incident, suggesting that factors beyond mere negligence could have influenced the train's derailment. Despite a thorough inspection by the National Investigation Agency, no evidence warranted a probe into sabotage has been found.

A love triangle, a suicide, a 10-yr case that led nowhere

In a heartbreaking incident that unfolded in Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, a tragic love triangle culminated in the untimely death of a 19-year-old engineering student, E Sumithra. On July 14, 2014, her lifeless body was discovered in her bedroom, following an emotionally charged confrontation the night before between her fiancé, M Anandhan, and her close friend, K Ilayaraaja. This devastating loss sparked a complex legal battle that lasted nearly a decade, ultimately leading to the acquittal of both men on February 10, due to insufficient evidence.

Sumithra was engaged to Anandhan, who was not only her classmate but also a relative, and their relationship was sanctioned by their families. Meanwhile, Ilayaraaja, a longtime neighbor and friend, expressed his desire to marry her, despite her polite refusal. The tension between these two men escalated to a point where a confrontation occurred near their college on July 13, necessitating intervention by bystanders. Both men reportedly bombarded Sumithra with calls throughout the night, pushing her to cut her ties with the other.

In the aftermath, police opened an investigation, leading to the filing of abetment charges against Anandhan and Ilayaraaja. However, during the lengthy trial at Chengalpet Mahila Court, key pieces of evidence were missing. Sumithra's father, Ezhumalai, struggled to comprehend his daughter’s tragic decision, stating, "I do not know why my daughter took her life," which weakened the prosecution's argument significantly. Moreover, a crucial witness, Sumithra’s friend Vaishali, denied that she ever expressed distress over any undue pressure from the two men.

Without compelling evidence to support claims of harassment, such as call detail records or credible witness testimony, the court ultimately found both men not guilty of abetting Sumithra's suicide. As the ringing of justice faded, a haunting question remained: What could have driven this vibrant young woman to take such a drastic step, leaving behind both a grieving family and a community seeking answers?

Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu sets annual tourism growth target at 20%

Andhra Pradesh Aiming for 20% Growth in Tourism

On Thursday, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu convened a review meeting focused on enhancing the tourism sector in the state. He set an ambitious target of achieving a 20% growth rate by 2025-26.

During the meeting, Mr. Naidu emphasized the importance of promoting the 'AP… Happy' concept, envisioning Andhra Pradesh as a top tourist destination. He proposed focusing on the development of areas like Gandikota, Suryalanka, and Lambasingi into 'Tent Cities' to attract visitors. His vision is to ensure that tourists leave with a sense of joy and fulfillment after their visit.

Mr. Naidu insisted on leveraging every opportunity to boost tourism, highlighting the need to create a welcoming atmosphere. He noted the uniqueness of Gandikota, renowned for its combination of water, hills, and forest forts, suggesting that it should be further branded as a key tourist attraction. Additionally, he shared plans to develop the Kadapa Dargah, Ontimitta Ramalayam, and Somasila as significant tourist spots.

To enhance the culinary experience, he proposed changes to the food offerings in tourism hotels, suggesting an emphasis on organic food to benefit both visitors and local farmers. He stressed the importance of showcasing Andhra Pradesh as a destination for high-quality cuisine and recommended providing training for chefs when necessary.

As the global hospitality industry continues to grow, Mr. Naidu advocated for incorporating hotel management training into traditional college programs. He also set a timeline of 90 days to develop Gandikota, Suryalanka, and Lambasingi as Tent Cities and proposed the establishment of ropeways through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

In response to the Chief Minister's instructions, officials revealed plans for a tourism calendar for 2025-26, which will include 37 events, two of which will be international and 12 categorized as mega events. Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh and other officials were present to discuss these developments.

'Cow smugglers' open fire at Raj Bajrang Dal activists, one injured

In a startling incident in Dholpur, Rajasthan, a 24-year-old activist of the Bajrang Dal, named Lucky Parmar, was shot in the leg while pursuing a group of suspected cattle smugglers late Wednesday night. This confrontation unfolded after Parmar and his team received alerts about the illegal transportation of cattle, prompting them to report their findings to the local police.

The chase led to a dramatic turn of events, with the altercation occurring about 45 kilometers from Dholpur town. Parmar suffered a gunshot wound to his right leg and was quickly rushed to the district hospital for treatment. In the frenetic pursuit, law enforcement managed to apprehend three individuals tied to the alleged smuggling operation. However, two others managed to evade capture.

During the operation, a total of twenty-six cows, believed to be on their way to the markets of Mathura and Hathras in Uttar Pradesh, were rescued from a container truck that was being escorted by a jeep. The police confirmed that one of those arrested hailed from Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh, while the other two originated from Karauli in Rajasthan.

According to reports, the Bajrang Dal activists alerted the police approximately at 11:45 PM concerning the suspicious cattle transport. In response, the police established barricades to detain the vehicle, but the suspects, realizing their cover was blown, fled the scene, leading to the chaotic chase through the nearby forest. The apprehended smugglers are currently being interrogated for further insights into their operations, while the rescued cattle have been entrusted to a local cow shelter for safekeeping.

Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu insists on completion of Polavaram project by December 2027

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu Reviews Irrigation Projects

On Thursday, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu convened a review meeting at the Secretariat to assess the progress of the state’s irrigation projects. He emphasized the utmost priority to complete the ambitious Polavaram irrigation project by December 2027. Naidu firmly stated that delays in completing projects, which already have approvals and funding, are unacceptable.

“By the time the Polavaram project starts yielding results, the Uttarandhra Sujala Sravanti project must be operational,” he asserted, holding a review meeting focusing on the Water Resources Department.

During the discussion, Naidu criticized the previous YSRCP government for its neglect of the irrigation sector, while he insisted that the current NDA government is taking the necessary steps to rectify the situation. “Our goal is to provide water to the people. Accordingly, irrigation projects must proceed with well-defined targets,” he remarked, stressing the importance of accountability for both officials and contractors if targets are not achieved.

Officials informed the Chief Minister that 51 meters of the 1,379-meter diaphragm for the Polavaram project had been completed. Naidu directed them to accelerate the pace of work to ensure the headworks are finished by the December 2027 deadline, while outlining that the left canal needs to be completed by June 2025.

Naidu also mentioned that arrangements must be made so that by the time water from the Polavaram left canal arrives in Visakhapatnam, the Uttarandhra Sujala Sravanti project is ready to divert Godavari water to north Andhra projects. He urged for the quick resolution of legal issues related to the Chintalapudi lift project.

Expressing dissatisfaction over the delays in the Veligonda project, Naidu highlighted the significant progress made on it between 2014 and 2019, stating it was disheartening that a project initiated 30 years ago remains unfinished. He stressed that officials must inform the public about the shortcomings of the previous government.

In a forward-looking move, he instructed the officials to take the necessary steps to launch the Polavaram-Banakacharla link project as a means to make the state drought-free, along with the establishment of a dedicated corporation to manage it. Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu was also present during this crucial meeting.

Landowners peeved at delay in completing survey, boundary stone laying for Ernakulam Bypass

The much-anticipated Ernakulam Bypass is set to initiate from Nettoor on the Aroor-Edappally bypass, but concerns are mounting due to delays in vital processes. Residents have reached out to the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nithin Gadkari, expressing dissatisfaction with the slow pace of the survey and the laying of boundary stones for the Kundannoor-Angamaly NH 544 Bypass.

Currently, only partial stone-laying has been completed in four out of the 18 villages that the proposed 44-kilometer greenfield corridor will traverse. This sluggish progress has fueled fears of further postponements in a project that has been deliberated for nearly a decade, primarily aimed at alleviating traffic congestion on the Edappally-Aroor NH 66 Bypass and the Edappally-Angamaly NH 544 route.

In a formal petition to Mr. Gadkari, local resident Paul Chacko shared his distress over the delays affecting his land, which falls under the 3(A) notification for acquisition. He highlighted that the protracted timeline has left landowners in a bind, unable to sell property or initiate construction. With the impending monsoon season, planning and executing work in the paddy fields becomes even more challenging.

Community members have expressed concerns that any further delays would force a re-issuance of the 3(A) notification, complicating matters even further. T.S. Jubair, a coordinator for the affected landowners, noted that this could jeopardize their rightful claims to the 12% interest owed for the time lag between the 3(A) and the forthcoming 3(D) notifications, which officially detail land acquisition conditions.

Furthermore, the persistent delays not only heighten project costs but also add to the inconveniences faced by motorists navigating the congested Edappally-Aroor Bypass. NHAI officials have cited a disagreement over payments between the project’s consultant and sub-contractor as a contributing factor to the delays but assured that steps are being taken to resolve the matter.

NATPAC told to ready transport master plan for Ernakulam

In a significant move towards improving transportation in Ernakulam, District Collector N.S.K. Umesh has proposed the formulation of a comprehensive transport master plan aimed at 2035. This initiative, spearheaded by the National Transportation Planning and Research Centre (NATPAC), seeks to bring together a host of stakeholders to collaboratively address the pressing issue of city congestion.

During the inauguration of a stakeholders’ meeting organized by NATPAC, Umesh underscored the necessity of developing Kochi as a model city that effectively integrates various public transport modes. Highlighting the rapid urbanization Kochi is experiencing, K.P. Sudheer, who leads the meeting as the executive vice president of the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment, echoed these sentiments. He stressed that smart transportation solutions must be at the forefront of any development plans.

The meeting saw participation from a wide range of officials and entities, including the Kochi Corporation, National Highways Authority of India, Cochin International Airport Limited, and the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation, among others. These stakeholders shared their insights and concerns regarding the transportation challenges faced in central Kerala, fostering a rich dialogue on potential solutions.

Key figures like former NATPAC director Samson Mathew and various scientists responsible for different transportation divisions offered valuable perspectives, showcasing the importance of expertise in tackling these complex issues. The collaborative effort aims not only to alleviate congestion but also to pave the way for a more sustainable and efficient public transport future in the region.

3 killed, 30 hurt as 2 elephants go berserk at Kerala temple festival

In a tragic incident on Thursday, two captive elephants wreaked havoc at the Manakkulangara Bhagavathi temple in Kozhikode, Kerala, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuring nearly thirty others who had gathered for the event. The chaos erupted during the final day of the annual festival, a time when the temple typically attracts large crowds, all eager to partake in the celebrations.

According to K E Baiju, the chief of Kozhikode rural police, the pandemonium began when one elephant, disturbed by the loud noises from firecrackers, became agitated. In an unusual display of aggression, it jabbed its companion, igniting a brawl between the two majestic creatures. The situation escalated dramatically as one of the elephants charged into the temple committee office, leading to a partial collapse of the structure, which further injured attendees.

The frightened elephants then dashed into the crowd of devotees, causing a stampede and leaving a scene of chaos and terror in their wake. This unfortunate event serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers when animals are involved in cultural and religious festivities, especially in densely packed gatherings.

A long-standing Tamil Nadu connection in guarding the largest prison in Asia

Violence Erupts at Tihar Jail: A Look Back at the 1990 Riots

In October 1990, New Delhi's Tihar Jail, recognized as Asia's largest prison, was rocked by chaos when riots erupted following the reported medical negligence resulting in an inmate's death. A desperate attempt by thousands of prisoners to force their escape led to them attempting to blast the prison walls with LPG cylinders. In an escalation of the situation, the VIII Battalion of the Tamil Nadu Special Police (TSP), present for external security, was ordered to fire upon the rioters, tragically resulting in the deaths of 10 inmates and injuring around 200 others.

The decision to deploy the Tamil Nadu Special Police at Tihar Jail stems from events in the early 1980s when a concerning escape of 13 inmates prompted the Ministry of Home Affairs to enhance security measures at the facility. Today, their responsible performance has extended their presence beyond Tihar to include the newly constructed Mandoli and Rohini prisons.

Interestingly, the TSP's deployment raised questions about language barriers, given that many of the personnel do not speak Hindi, a language understood by a majority of inmates. However, senior police officials assert that this communication divide has surprisingly worked to their advantage, minimizing potential biases and corruption by keeping a professional distance from the inmates.

Equipped with advanced technology such as metal detectors and surveillance systems, the VIII Battalion holds strategic roles across high-security wards and main entrances. DGP Mahesh Kumar Aggarwal emphasizes the importance of security in ensuring effective rehabilitation and reform of inmates, highlighting the professionalism with which the TSP operates.

The TSP's oversight has led to notable successes in curbing the smuggling of contraband into the jail, reporting finds such as a significant number of mobile phones, drugs, and cash being confiscated during surprise inspections. However, the TSP has also faced scrutiny, as demonstrated by the May 2023 incident where personnel were questioned following a gang-related murder within the prison.

Overall, despite various challenges, the VIII Battalion stands as a hallmark of effective security in one of the country's most challenging correctional environments.

House gutted near Ambur; couple escapes unhurt

A couple narrowly escaped injury as a fire engulfed their home in Periyavarigam village, near Ambur town in Tirupattur, on Thursday. The incident unfolded around 10:40 a.m. when K. Kuppan, 52, noticed thick smoke billowing from one of the rooms in their house. Immediately alerting his wife, K. Janani, the two managed to flee their home just in time.

In response to the emergency, a 12-member fire fighting team from Ambur quickly mobilized to the scene. Unfortunately, by the time they arrived, the fire had already spread to multiple rooms, causing complete destruction of their residence. Local residents reported severe eye irritation caused by the thick smoke, particularly affecting children and the elderly.

Authorities have registered a case with the Ambur Town police, who are investigating the cause of the blaze. Preliminary findings suggest that an electrical short circuit from the main electrical board may have triggered the fire. A thorough probe is currently underway to ascertain the full details of this unfortunate incident.

Chennai Metro Rail services on Poonamallee-Porur stretch to be operational by year-end: CM

Infrastructure Development in Chennai: A New Era of Connectivity

The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin, announced on Thursday that the Metro Rail services on the Poonamallee-Porur stretch are set to be operational by the end of 2025. In a recent social media post, he emphasized the importance of accelerating the ongoing construction work, instructing the officials of Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) to expedite the remaining sections.

Mr. Stalin expressed confidence that once these projects are completed, Chennai would redefine standards in connectivity, urban mobility, and public transportation throughout the region. He pointed out that the current administration is revitalizing the phased expansion of the Metro, which had faced delays under the previous administration. In a significant development, Tamil Nadu has become the first state to continue the metro expansion using its own funding.

With the recent approval of contributions from the Union government, the Chief Minister is optimistic about speeding up construction efforts. Earlier on the same day, he inspected ongoing CMRL works alongside officials, reinforcing his enthusiasm for the project’s progression. He urged the Union government to expedite the approval of Metro Rail projects for Coimbatore and Madurai.

Mr. Stalin also noted the historical significance of the Chennai Metro Rail project, which was initiated during the leadership of the late DMK leader, M. Karunanidhi, and is now experiencing a rapid advancement under his governance.

Twin towers, countless troubles

In a stark and emotional portrayal of neglect and despair, the parking lot of Tower B in the Chander Kunj Army Towers on Silversand Island, Kochi, has become a canvas reflecting the anger of its beleaguered residents. The lot is covered in concrete flakes of various sizes, representing not only a physical hazard but also the emotional turmoil faced by those who invested their fortunes in what should have been a secure home.

The scene captures the distressing reality for inhabitants like Paul Erinjeri, a 73-year-old retired Army captain, who spent approximately ₹1.40 crore on two apartments that now serve as a makeshift garage for debris. Following a Kerala High Court ruling, the twin towers are set for demolition and reconstruction due to severe structural failures. This decision comes after numerous complaints by the owners about the ongoing dangers, which included falling concrete and exposed rebars.

Originally developed by the Army Welfare Housing Organisation (AWHO), Chander Kunj was envisioned as a safe community for defense personnel and their families. Completed in 2018, the towers reportedly began to show critical issues as early as the first year, casting shadows over the project’s integrity. Residents describe alarming defects such as gaping cracks, spalling concrete, and even dangerous conditions for children playing outside.

Many residents have been forced to relocate to rented accommodations, adding to their financial burdens as they continue to pay the mortgage on their now-dangerous apartments. The trauma associated with sudden moves and the discovery of unsafe living conditions has deeply affected families, destroying their sense of community and stability.

In light of these developments, a committee has been formed to supervise the necessary demolition while complaints against those responsible for the situation are being pursued. However, feelings of betrayal run deep among the residents, who feel let down by the very organization designed to protect their welfare.

This disheartening story highlights the potentially dire consequences of negligence in construction oversight, prompting urgent discussions around safety regulations, accountability, and the need for thorough inspections in housing projects intended for vulnerable populations.

As summer sets in, water shortage worries people

As the summer season unfolds, residents in various parts of Kochi and its neighboring suburbs are urgently calling for increased water supply. The Mukkottil Temple Road Residents’ Association, which includes areas within the Kochi Corporation and regions such as Pettah, Thripunithura, and Mukkottil Temple Road, has expressed significant concern over the dire shortage of drinking water. Association president, Roy Thekkan, reported on Thursday (February 13) that local residents have been compelled to reach out to the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) regarding their ongoing water crisis that has persisted for roughly four months.

Thekkan noted that approximately thirty families are the most severely affected by this water scarcity. Despite previous communications with the relevant authorities, little has been done to address their needs. Currently, water is supplied from the Thammanam pumping station on alternate days, yet the supply reaching Thripunithura is notably inadequate. According to Thekkan, while each family is entitled to receive 1,000 liters of water per day, they are only getting around 500 liters, and there are instances where some families experience entire days without any water.

Many residents are unable to rely on their open wells due to salinity intrusion, and as the dry season hits earlier than expected, these wells are running dry. This has forced some families to incur high expenses on tanker water deliveries, although they struggle with low pressure on designated pumping days. In response to the alarming situation, KWA officials have made visits to assess the area's conditions. Thekkan asserted that the installation of new six-inch pipes from Pettah Junction and a direct water connection are crucial for ensuring an adequate drinking water supply to the Mukkottil residential area.

Committee to oversee demolition, reconstruction of Chander Kunj towers to visit site on Feb. 15

The committee formed by the District Collector, prompted by the Kerala High Court, is set to visit the site of the Chander Kunj Army Towers located on Silversand Island, Vytilla, this Saturday, February 15. This event comes following the committee's inaugural meeting chaired by District Collector N.S.K. Umesh on February 13. The committee consists of various stakeholders including the Deputy Collector from the District Disaster Management Authority, two representatives from the residents' association of the towers, a structural engineer, a municipal engineer, and a Town Planning department officer.

Anil Joseph, known for his prior experience in demolishing apartment complexes in Maradu, has been enlisted as the structural engineer. The managing director of the Army Welfare Housing Organisation (AWHO) is expected to arrive in the city next week, leading to a follow-up meeting. During this upcoming assembly, Mr. Joseph plans to present on explosive technologies and demolition strategies. The committee will also evaluate how the planned demolition of Towers B and C will affect the remaining Tower A.

On February 3, 2025, the Kerala High Court mandated the demolition of these towers due to significant structural concerns, aiming to safeguard lives and property. This ruling stemmed from multiple petitions lodged by the owners’ association of the twin towers. Notably, the Chander Kunj Welfare and Maintenance Society, a group of apartment owners dissenting from the main association, opted to abstain from the meeting on legal advice, intending to contest the court's decision.

The District Collector emphasized that regardless of the associations' official standing, all residents faced a similar level of risk and were required to evacuate. Concerns were raised during the meeting by two apartment owners regarding the court-mandated relocation allowances of ₹21,000 and ₹23,000 for those in Towers B and C, respectively. Plans for the next meeting include extending invitations to representatives from the controller of explosives and Kochi Metro Rail Limited, given the metro line's proximity to the towers slated for demolition.

CRPF jawan opens fire, kills 3 colleagues before shooting self in Manipur

NEW DELHI: A tragic incident unfolded at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp in Lamphel, Imphal West district, when a CRPF jawan reportedly shot and killed three of his colleagues before turning the gun on himself. This shocking event occurred around 8:20 PM on Thursday, leaving the camp in turmoil.

The perpetrator, identified as Havildar Sanjay Kumar from the 120th battalion, opened fire with his service weapon. He fatally shot a constable and a sub-inspector before taking his own life. In a devastating aftermath, it was later confirmed that another jawan succumbed to injuries, raising the death toll to three. A total of eight CRPF personnel were injured during this tragic incident and were promptly rushed to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal for urgent medical care.

The motives behind this disturbing act remain unclear, prompting a thorough investigation by the authorities. As of now, the CRPF has yet to issue an official statement addressing the situation.

14 accused of attacking Chilkur Balaji temple priest arrested

A troubling incident unfolded earlier this week at the Chilkur Balaji Temple, where 14 individuals have been arrested for their involvement in an attack on the temple's head priest, C.S. Rangarajan. The Moinabad police took action and apprehended several suspects, including Veera Babu, Murthy, Govind Rao, L. Venkat Ramana, M. Venkat Ramana, Laxman Rao, and Venkateshwarlu, on Thursday, as confirmed by Moinabad Inspector G. Pavan Kumar Reddy.

These individuals are part of a gang led by the prime accused, Kovvuri Veer Raghava Reddy, who was arrested on February 8 and is currently in judicial custody. The attack reportedly occurred when a group of 20-25 men forcefully entered the priest’s residence next to the temple, attempting to coerce him for financial support and recruitment into a private militia dubbed the 'Rama Rajyam Army'. The police are diligently working to track down the remaining accused in this disturbing case.

Following the incident, M.V. Soundararajan, the priest’s father and leader of the Temples’ Protection Movement, publicly condemned the attackers. He expressed concerns about their illegitimate claims to be descendants of the Ikshwaku clan and their attempt to establish a private army to push their agenda. Soundararajan emphasized that their understanding of the constitutional concept of Rama Rajya was profoundly misguided. He revealed that the refusal of his son to engage with these individuals ultimately led to the violent confrontation.

Plastic recycling unit gutted in accidental fire

A destructive fire broke out in a plastic recycling unit situated in a residential area of Sunkadaktte on Thursday afternoon, resulting in significant damage to the facility and neighboring homes. The blaze was first detected at around 2:10 p.m., prompting residents to quickly evacuate for their safety as the flames spread rapidly due to the presence of plastic materials.

Firefighters acted swiftly, with five fire tenders responding to the scene. Their tireless efforts to extinguish the fire lasted approximately two hours. Fortunately, despite the extensive damage to materials and equipment—valued in lakhs—there were no reported injuries among residents or firefighters.

In the aftermath, officials revealed that the recycling unit was operating without the necessary permits, raising serious questions about regulation and safety standards in the area. As the investigation continues, local authorities, including the Byadarahalli police, are working to uncover the cause of the fire.

Kerala receives additional ₹124.25 cr. under AMRUT scheme

Kerala has recently been awarded an additional ₹124.25 crore under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme, as announced by the Minister for Local Self-Government, M.B. Rajesh, on Thursday, February 13, 2025. This funding is a special incentive intended for capital investment and acknowledges the State's commendable efforts in urban planning reforms.

Not only Kerala but also Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Himachal Pradesh have benefited from this financial boost. Mr. Rajesh emphasized that this allocation is a testament to Kerala's significant contributions to the AMRUT 1.0 and 2.0 initiatives, and he extended his congratulations to the municipalities for their vital roles in executing these reforms.

The substantial incentive will support various urban development projects, including the expansion of master plan roads, enhancements in housing infrastructure, the establishment of parking facilities, suburban development, and the implementation of technical reforms such as GIS-based planning and other urban redevelopment initiatives.

Notably, last year, Kerala received ₹282.3 crore as a special incentive, alongside ₹10 crore for extending drinking water connections to 85% of households in Thiruvananthapuram and ₹59.82 crore for its contributions to urban policy reforms. Mr. Rajesh pointed out that these recognitions underline Kerala's exemplary performance in urban planning, which can serve as a national model.

Regarding the progress of the AMRUT schemes, a total of 1,111 projects under AMRUT 1.0 have been initiated, with 1,004 projects completed, amounting to ₹1,658 crore. Currently, 107 projects worth ₹880 crore are nearing completion. Of the total project cost of ₹2,538 crore, the Central government bears ₹1,161.2 crore while the remaining is funded by the State and local self-governing bodies. Projects have been implemented across nine Corporations and Municipalities, including Alapuzha, Guruvayur, and Palakkad.

In addition, projects worth ₹3,514 crore under AMRUT 2.0 are underway, benefiting all municipalities in the State with a Central share of ₹1,374 crore. Out of 740 planned schemes, 121 have been completed, and ongoing projects encompass water distribution, sewage treatment, rejuvenation of water bodies, and the development of green parks.

Muslim Jamat announces 11-point initiative to mark Samastha centenary

In a significant event held in Kozhikode on Tuesday, Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar revealed an ambitious 11-point initiative as part of the centenary celebrations for the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, scheduled for 2026. The initiative, steered by the Kerala Muslim Jamat, aims to bolster the traditional Sunni ideology with a series of year-long activities focused on various sociocultural and community betterment projects.

The 11-point program features several pivotal themes including 'Manushyarkkoppam' (with people), 'Adarsha Kerala' (ideological Kerala), 'Sauhrida Kerala' (friendly Kerala), 'Lahari Mukta Kerala' (drugs-free Kerala), and 'Karunya Kerala' (compassionate Kerala). Among these, the Darul Khair housing project and a hostel project stand out as integral components designed to aid less privileged segments of society.

As part of the planned activities, a Kerala Yatra is slated to traverse from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram during November-December. The 'Manushyarkkoppam' initiative encompasses a five-year plan aimed at fostering better relations between the Muslim Jamat and the broader community. Remarkably, the 'Adarsha Kerala' program anticipates 5,000 classes, 125 ideology gatherings, and a thousand family conferences across major centers to engage the public.

Additionally, the Jamat aims to establish 10,000 model villages under the 'Friendly Kerala' scheme, alongside constructing 100 houses for the impoverished as part of the Darul Khair project and 100 hostels at key locations. During the unveiling event, Musliar emphasized the need for international acknowledgment of Palestine as the rightful homeland of its people, urging nations including India to take tangible steps toward realizing this goal. The function witnessed participation from around 15,000 representatives statewide, further underscoring the initiative’s extensive outreach.

Two senior police officers booked for assault

The High Grounds police department has found itself embroiled in a serious controversy, with two senior police officers facing grave charges. A case has been registered against them for attempted murder, assault, and criminal intimidation, following a shocking complaint from the wife of one of the officers.

The allegations come to light as the wife discovered her husband’s extramarital affair through an unexpected phone call. Curiosity led her to check his messages, revealing not only the affair but also a disturbing discussion about plans to eliminate her. When she confronted her husband about the betrayal, he reportedly reacted violently, assaulting and threatening her.

Additionally, the police officer involved in the affair's relationship also allegedly participated in the harassment, verbally abusing and threatening the wife when approached. The police have responded by charging both officers with assault, knowingly causing injury, wrongful confinement, criminal intimidation, and intentionally provoking a breach of peace on Wednesday.