June 24, 2026

Evacuation drive: AI brought back 143 cockpit and cabin crew members of its and Air India Express flights who had been stranded in Dubai NEW DELHI: India is working to repatriate thousands of travellers stranded in West Asian countries such as the UAE and Qatar since February 28, using a mix of charters and scheduled flights from nearby open airspace points like Saudi Arabia and Muscat.With scheduled flights cancelled at places like UAE, airports there – including Dubai’s two hubs – are giving charter slots. DGCA Tuesday asked Indian carriers and non-scheduled operators to seek as many as possible. Indian carriers plan 58 flights on March 4, including 30 by IndiGo and 23 by Air India group.Iran Missiles Target Riyadh, Abu Dhabi & Doha; US & Israeli Attack Triggers Bigger Conflict”Airlines and non-scheduled operators have been warned not to hike fares. If stranded passengers holding tickets travel on the same airline, no fare difference should be charged,” officials said after a meeting called by DGCA chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai.Israel attacks IranUS-Israel-Iran War Live Updates: Iran launches ‘massive missile’ strike at US airbase in Bahrain; Israel bombs BeirutFrom Khamenei’s compound to nuclear complex: Satellite images show aftermath of Iranian sites after US-Israel strikesOperation Epic Fury: US spends $700m in 24 hours; final war cost remains uncertainThe meeting followed a detailed review by the PMO on the West Asia crisis, covering evacuation of Indians and the impact on fuel supply and shipping. Aviation secretary Samir Sinha and senior officials from home, external affairs, defence, petroleum and shipping ministries attended.In coordination with the MEA, Sinha and Kidwai have drawn up a repatriation plan that hinges on the evolving situation. Airlines will give morning and evening updates on charter slots secured from UAE, apart from scheduled flights to Saudi and Muscat.Tuesday evening saw some prominent Indian business leaders fly in one of the first private jet movements allowed to India from Dubai World Central (Dubai’s secondary airport) to Delhi. Being an Indian-registered Bombardier Global 6000, the aircraft had to take the longer route home, bypassing the Pakistan airspace.Air India has begun deploying widebody aircraft, including Boeing 777s and B787s, from Delhi and Mumbai to Jeddah and Dubai, expected to operate at full capacity on return sectors. IndiGo operated flights to Jeddah and Muscat and is working on services to UAE stations. AI Express, SpiceJet and Akasa also operated flights to the region.The primary strategy is recovery of crew and aircraft in West Asia, after which evacuation and passenger recovery flights through Jeddah, Muscat and other airports will scale up, officials added.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIsrael Bombs Iran’s Presidential Office, Trump Says Iran’s Leadership ‘Gone’, ‘Too Late For Talks’Mercedes Benz India: Why the FTA Won’t Lower Car Prices in 2026PM Modi Steps Up Gulf Diplomacy Amid US Iran War, India Warns Of Serious Consequences On EconomyBihar Buzz: Will CM Nitish Kumar’s Son Nishant Kumar Enter Politics Through Rajya Sabha Route?As Protests Break Out In India, A Look At Why Ayatollah Khamenei Was Spiritual Anchor For Shia Muslims“Not the Right Choice But The Only Choice”: IAF Veteran on Rafale DilemmaDelhi Police Detain 4,000 In Pre-Holi Crackdown Under Operation Aaghat 4.0Narendra Modi: Global Digital Leader Surpasses 30 Million YouTube SubscribersIndian Air Force Begins Process To Replace 20-Year-Old VIP Jets Used By Ministers And Military ChiefsIndia-Canada Uranium Deal Explained: Why It Matters For India’s Future?123Photostories14 types of veg and non-veg deep-fried pakodas to make the Holi party even more flavourfulRevenge bedtime procrastination: Why you stay up late even when you’re exhausted and how to win over this habitLab-grown gold vs mined gold: What’s the real difference in price, purity, and investment value?Lunar eclipse 2026: See stunning ‘Blood Moon’ photos from across the worldTotal lunar eclipse 2026: Photos of rare ‘Blood Moon’Holi 2026: From Devoleena Bhattacharjee and husband Shanwaz, Gaurav Khanna-Akanksha Chamola to Divyanka Tripathi- Vivek Dahiya; TV celebs’ colourful pictures from the festivitiesTop 5 tallest residential buildings in Europe (2026)5 of the worst travel crisis the world has seen since 2020From salad to halwa: 8 ways to consume raw papaya to improve gut healthHigh cholesterol isn’t just about one number: Cardiologist explains LDL, ApoB, Lp(a) and how to lower your real heart attack risk123Hot PicksIran droneUS Iran War Impact on Stock MarketMiddle East CrisisGulf Flights UpdateIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingNBA Injury UpdateUS Israel Strike IranUS Attack on IranCBSE postpones Class 10 and 12 board examsUS Strike IranLG Hospital AhmedabadMiddle East CrisisIsrael Iran ConflictChandra Grahan 2026 TimeSchool Holiday in March

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
Evacuation drive: AI brought back 143 cockpit and cabin crew members of its and Air India Express flights who had been stranded in Dubai NEW DELHI: India is working to repatriate thousands of travellers stranded in West Asian countries such as the UAE and Qatar since February 28, using a mix of charters and scheduled flights from nearby open airspace points like Saudi Arabia and Muscat.With scheduled flights cancelled at places like UAE, airports there – including Dubai’s two hubs – are giving charter slots. DGCA Tuesday asked Indian carriers and non-scheduled operators to seek as many as possible. Indian carriers plan 58 flights on March 4, including 30 by IndiGo and 23 by Air India group.Iran Missiles Target Riyadh, Abu Dhabi & Doha; US & Israeli Attack Triggers Bigger Conflict”Airlines and non-scheduled operators have been warned not to hike fares. If stranded passengers holding tickets travel on the same airline, no fare difference should be charged,” officials said after a meeting called by DGCA chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai.Israel attacks IranUS-Israel-Iran War Live Updates: Iran launches ‘massive missile’ strike at US airbase in Bahrain; Israel bombs BeirutFrom Khamenei’s compound to nuclear complex: Satellite images show aftermath of Iranian sites after US-Israel strikesOperation Epic Fury: US spends 0m in 24 hours; final war cost remains uncertainThe meeting followed a detailed review by the PMO on the West Asia crisis, covering evacuation of Indians and the impact on fuel supply and shipping. Aviation secretary Samir Sinha and senior officials from home, external affairs, defence, petroleum and shipping ministries attended.In coordination with the MEA, Sinha and Kidwai have drawn up a repatriation plan that hinges on the evolving situation. Airlines will give morning and evening updates on charter slots secured from UAE, apart from scheduled flights to Saudi and Muscat.Tuesday evening saw some prominent Indian business leaders fly in one of the first private jet movements allowed to India from Dubai World Central (Dubai’s secondary airport) to Delhi. Being an Indian-registered Bombardier Global 6000, the aircraft had to take the longer route home, bypassing the Pakistan airspace.Air India has begun deploying widebody aircraft, including Boeing 777s and B787s, from Delhi and Mumbai to Jeddah and Dubai, expected to operate at full capacity on return sectors. IndiGo operated flights to Jeddah and Muscat and is working on services to UAE stations. AI Express, SpiceJet and Akasa also operated flights to the region.The primary strategy is recovery of crew and aircraft in West Asia, after which evacuation and passenger recovery flights through Jeddah, Muscat and other airports will scale up, officials added.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIsrael Bombs Iran’s Presidential Office, Trump Says Iran’s Leadership ‘Gone’, ‘Too Late For Talks’Mercedes Benz India: Why the FTA Won’t Lower Car Prices in 2026PM Modi Steps Up Gulf Diplomacy Amid US Iran War, India Warns Of Serious Consequences On EconomyBihar Buzz: Will CM Nitish Kumar’s Son Nishant Kumar Enter Politics Through Rajya Sabha Route?As Protests Break Out In India, A Look At Why Ayatollah Khamenei Was Spiritual Anchor For Shia Muslims“Not the Right Choice But The Only Choice”: IAF Veteran on Rafale DilemmaDelhi Police Detain 4,000 In Pre-Holi Crackdown Under Operation Aaghat 4.0Narendra Modi: Global Digital Leader Surpasses 30 Million YouTube SubscribersIndian Air Force Begins Process To Replace 20-Year-Old VIP Jets Used By Ministers And Military ChiefsIndia-Canada Uranium Deal Explained: Why It Matters For India’s Future?123Photostories14 types of veg and non-veg deep-fried pakodas to make the Holi party even more flavourfulRevenge bedtime procrastination: Why you stay up late even when you’re exhausted and how to win over this habitLab-grown gold vs mined gold: What’s the real difference in price, purity, and investment value?Lunar eclipse 2026: See stunning ‘Blood Moon’ photos from across the worldTotal lunar eclipse 2026: Photos of rare ‘Blood Moon’Holi 2026: From Devoleena Bhattacharjee and husband Shanwaz, Gaurav Khanna-Akanksha Chamola to Divyanka Tripathi- Vivek Dahiya; TV celebs’ colourful pictures from the festivitiesTop 5 tallest residential buildings in Europe (2026)5 of the worst travel crisis the world has seen since 2020From salad to halwa: 8 ways to consume raw papaya to improve gut healthHigh cholesterol isn’t just about one number: Cardiologist explains LDL, ApoB, Lp(a) and how to lower your real heart attack risk123Hot PicksIran droneUS Iran War Impact on Stock MarketMiddle East CrisisGulf Flights UpdateIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingNBA Injury UpdateUS Israel Strike IranUS Attack on IranCBSE postpones Class 10 and 12 board examsUS Strike IranLG Hospital AhmedabadMiddle East CrisisIsrael Iran ConflictChandra Grahan 2026 TimeSchool Holiday in March


US, Israel attacks Iran: Scheduled, charter flights to be used for repatriation
Evacuation drive: AI brought back 143 cockpit and cabin crew members of its and Air India Express flights who had been stranded in Dubai

NEW DELHI: India is working to repatriate thousands of travellers stranded in West Asian countries such as the UAE and Qatar since February 28, using a mix of charters and scheduled flights from nearby open airspace points like Saudi Arabia and Muscat.With scheduled flights cancelled at places like UAE, airports there – including Dubai’s two hubs – are giving charter slots. DGCA Tuesday asked Indian carriers and non-scheduled operators to seek as many as possible. Indian carriers plan 58 flights on March 4, including 30 by IndiGo and 23 by Air India group.

Iran Missiles Target Riyadh, Abu Dhabi & Doha; US & Israeli Attack Triggers Bigger Conflict

“Airlines and non-scheduled operators have been warned not to hike fares. If stranded passengers holding tickets travel on the same airline, no fare difference should be charged,” officials said after a meeting called by DGCA chief Faiz Ahmed Kidwai.The meeting followed a detailed review by the PMO on the West Asia crisis, covering evacuation of Indians and the impact on fuel supply and shipping. Aviation secretary Samir Sinha and senior officials from home, external affairs, defence, petroleum and shipping ministries attended.In coordination with the MEA, Sinha and Kidwai have drawn up a repatriation plan that hinges on the evolving situation. Airlines will give morning and evening updates on charter slots secured from UAE, apart from scheduled flights to Saudi and Muscat.Tuesday evening saw some prominent Indian business leaders fly in one of the first private jet movements allowed to India from Dubai World Central (Dubai’s secondary airport) to Delhi. Being an Indian-registered Bombardier Global 6000, the aircraft had to take the longer route home, bypassing the Pakistan airspace.Air India has begun deploying widebody aircraft, including Boeing 777s and B787s, from Delhi and Mumbai to Jeddah and Dubai, expected to operate at full capacity on return sectors. IndiGo operated flights to Jeddah and Muscat and is working on services to UAE stations. AI Express, SpiceJet and Akasa also operated flights to the region.The primary strategy is recovery of crew and aircraft in West Asia, after which evacuation and passenger recovery flights through Jeddah, Muscat and other airports will scale up, officials added.



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Ladakh bandh to protest SRINAGAR: A month after talks between Ladakh groups and a Union home ministry (MHA) panel in Delhi, the Union Territory observed Tuesday a complete shutdown against the Centre’s alleged backtracking on understandings reached during the parleys.Businesses across Leh and Kargil remained closed as large numbers of people gathered to hear functionaries of Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), the region’s two main political groups that had called the bandh.The groups have alleged that draft minutes of the May 22 meeting shown to LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakrook omitted an agreement on a proposed legislative body with authority over the bureaucracy as well as constitutional safeguards for Ladakh through a provision similar to Article 371.LAB and KDA have warned that if the “two essentials” are not reflected in the final minutes, they would return to their original demand of “full statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh”. Sonam Wangchuk, LAB member and environmentalist, was part of the May talks, described later by both groups as “historic”.This concern was raised Tuesday at Leh’s Polo Ground by speakers from LAB and other groups before a gathering of around 7,000 people. The other groups present were Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), Ladakh Gonpa Association (LGA), Anjuman Imamia, Anjuman Moin-ul-Islam and representatives of the Christian community.The speakers also highlighted other worries, including a proposed excise policy change to allow free liquor sales throughout Ladakh, privatisation of Ladakh Power Development Department (LPDD), land and tourism-related issues.LAB co-chairman Lakrook claims he had pointed out what he described as “omissions” in the draft minutes of the May talks and sought corrections, but the revised minutes were not released or sent back to him.Several rounds of talks have been held with the Centre on Ladakh since 2023. The process stopped after four people were killed and over 80 injured on Sept 24, 2025, in alleged police firing on protesters in Leh demanding statehood. LAB’s Wangchuk was accused of inciting the protesters, arrested, charged under NSA and kept in Jodhpur jail. The Centre revoked his NSA detention in March this year.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Protectors Became Predators’: Dharmendra Pradhan Reacts To NEET Paper Leak Row, Student SuicidesTMC Expels Firhad Hakim, Arup Roy And Six Others As Mamata Cracks Down On Rebel CampUpto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians’ Stake?’Pakistan’s Desperate Attempt To Deflect’: India Snubs Khawaja Asif’s ‘War Over Indus’ RemarkAliganj Fire: Jyoti’s Brother Alleges Corruption, Seeks Murder Charges Against OfficialsMaharashtra RTI Rules 2026 Under Scrutiny: Anna Hazare Demands Changes; Signals Possible Strike’We Expect…’: India Reacts To Alleged Desecration Of Lord Ram Photo In BangladeshLucknow Fire: 15 Dead, No NOC, One Exit — India’s Decade-Long Fire Safety Failure ExplainedPune’s Ketan Agarwal’s Death Was No Accident: Police | Fiancée & Alleged Lover Arrested For MurderMinority Affairs MoS George Kurian Resigns; BJP Veteran’s Exit Sparks Kerala Political Buzz | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom Sanjeev Kapoor, Vikas Khanna to Harpal Singh Sokhi; Net worth of these celebrity chefsWhat lives inside your gut could shape your immunity, mood, and disease risk, and it could hold the blueprint to better healthFrom Rajgad to Lohagad: 5 must-visit forts in Maharashtra during the monsoon and what travellers should knowHow to train your brain to be happier: 10 simple habits that actually workEvery child needs these 4 social skills before age 10 to feel confident and includedWhat’s attracting tourists to Kodaikanal? 7 reasons this hill station continues to charm travellersSmiling depression: Doctor explains how some people use happiness as a mask10 classic Anglo-Saxon baby names that survived centuries of changeBigg Boss Malayalam 8: Celebrities netizens wish to see on the showLong-lived families reveal a rare genetic clue to healthy ageing; scientists say it may help explain why some people stay disease-free for years longer123Hot PicksIPL tradeGold rate todayCUET UG Result 2026Telangana school bandhCBSE 12th revaluationMaldivian wisdomSpanish proverbMalay proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingGeorge KurianUS-Iran WarKunal ShahFIFA World Cup 2026Stock market crashCUET UG Result 2026Ketan AgarwalGold rate todayDelhi weatherMumbai rain

Ladakh bandh to protest SRINAGAR: A month after talks between Ladakh groups and a Union home ministry (MHA) panel in Delhi, the Union Territory observed Tuesday a complete shutdown against the Centre’s alleged backtracking on understandings reached during the parleys.Businesses across Leh and Kargil remained closed as large numbers of people gathered to hear functionaries of Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), the region’s two main political groups that had called the bandh.The groups have alleged that draft minutes of the May 22 meeting shown to LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakrook omitted an agreement on a proposed legislative body with authority over the bureaucracy as well as constitutional safeguards for Ladakh through a provision similar to Article 371.LAB and KDA have warned that if the “two essentials” are not reflected in the final minutes, they would return to their original demand of “full statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh”. Sonam Wangchuk, LAB member and environmentalist, was part of the May talks, described later by both groups as “historic”.This concern was raised Tuesday at Leh’s Polo Ground by speakers from LAB and other groups before a gathering of around 7,000 people. The other groups present were Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), Ladakh Gonpa Association (LGA), Anjuman Imamia, Anjuman Moin-ul-Islam and representatives of the Christian community.The speakers also highlighted other worries, including a proposed excise policy change to allow free liquor sales throughout Ladakh, privatisation of Ladakh Power Development Department (LPDD), land and tourism-related issues.LAB co-chairman Lakrook claims he had pointed out what he described as “omissions” in the draft minutes of the May talks and sought corrections, but the revised minutes were not released or sent back to him.Several rounds of talks have been held with the Centre on Ladakh since 2023. The process stopped after four people were killed and over 80 injured on Sept 24, 2025, in alleged police firing on protesters in Leh demanding statehood. LAB’s Wangchuk was accused of inciting the protesters, arrested, charged under NSA and kept in Jodhpur jail. The Centre revoked his NSA detention in March this year.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Protectors Became Predators’: Dharmendra Pradhan Reacts To NEET Paper Leak Row, Student SuicidesTMC Expels Firhad Hakim, Arup Roy And Six Others As Mamata Cracks Down On Rebel CampUpto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians’ Stake?’Pakistan’s Desperate Attempt To Deflect’: India Snubs Khawaja Asif’s ‘War Over Indus’ RemarkAliganj Fire: Jyoti’s Brother Alleges Corruption, Seeks Murder Charges Against OfficialsMaharashtra RTI Rules 2026 Under Scrutiny: Anna Hazare Demands Changes; Signals Possible Strike’We Expect…’: India Reacts To Alleged Desecration Of Lord Ram Photo In BangladeshLucknow Fire: 15 Dead, No NOC, One Exit — India’s Decade-Long Fire Safety Failure ExplainedPune’s Ketan Agarwal’s Death Was No Accident: Police | Fiancée & Alleged Lover Arrested For MurderMinority Affairs MoS George Kurian Resigns; BJP Veteran’s Exit Sparks Kerala Political Buzz | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom Sanjeev Kapoor, Vikas Khanna to Harpal Singh Sokhi; Net worth of these celebrity chefsWhat lives inside your gut could shape your immunity, mood, and disease risk, and it could hold the blueprint to better healthFrom Rajgad to Lohagad: 5 must-visit forts in Maharashtra during the monsoon and what travellers should knowHow to train your brain to be happier: 10 simple habits that actually workEvery child needs these 4 social skills before age 10 to feel confident and includedWhat’s attracting tourists to Kodaikanal? 7 reasons this hill station continues to charm travellersSmiling depression: Doctor explains how some people use happiness as a mask10 classic Anglo-Saxon baby names that survived centuries of changeBigg Boss Malayalam 8: Celebrities netizens wish to see on the showLong-lived families reveal a rare genetic clue to healthy ageing; scientists say it may help explain why some people stay disease-free for years longer123Hot PicksIPL tradeGold rate todayCUET UG Result 2026Telangana school bandhCBSE 12th revaluationMaldivian wisdomSpanish proverbMalay proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingGeorge KurianUS-Iran WarKunal ShahFIFA World Cup 2026Stock market crashCUET UG Result 2026Ketan AgarwalGold rate todayDelhi weatherMumbai rain

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NEW DELHI: National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) to establish a research centre on transportation, mobility and logistics.The centre, to be set up at the NCAER, will be India’s first permanent and independent research centre dedicated to the economics of transportation, mobility and logistics, an official statement said.The Centre will serve as a dedicated platform for undertaking applied economic research on transportation, mobility and logistics, with a focus on generating actionable insights to support long-term planning, investment and policy formulation in the road and transport sector.It will undertake policy-relevant research across a wide range of thematic areas, including National Highway economics, freight logistics, modal integration, regional economic impacts of National Highway investments, toll policy, asset monetization, road safety interventions, technology adoption in National Highway operations and maintenance.The Centre will be anchored by an Advisory Committee comprising leading economists, transportation specialists, public policy experts and eminent academicians, along with NHAI’s Member (Finance) and the Director General, NCAER.The statement said the centre is founded with a contribution from NHAI, with NCAER committed to mobilising contributions from other allied institutions and partners.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Protectors Became Predators’: Dharmendra Pradhan Reacts To NEET Paper Leak Row, Student SuicidesTMC Expels Firhad Hakim, Arup Roy And Six Others As Mamata Cracks Down On Rebel CampUpto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians’ Stake?’Pakistan’s Desperate Attempt To Deflect’: India Snubs Khawaja Asif’s ‘War Over Indus’ RemarkAliganj Fire: Jyoti’s Brother Alleges Corruption, Seeks Murder Charges Against OfficialsMaharashtra RTI Rules 2026 Under Scrutiny: Anna Hazare Demands Changes; Signals Possible Strike’We Expect…’: India Reacts To Alleged Desecration Of Lord Ram Photo In BangladeshLucknow Fire: 15 Dead, No NOC, One Exit — India’s Decade-Long Fire Safety Failure ExplainedPune’s Ketan Agarwal’s Death Was No Accident: Police | Fiancée & Alleged Lover Arrested For MurderMinority Affairs MoS George Kurian Resigns; BJP Veteran’s Exit Sparks Kerala Political Buzz | Watch123PhotostoriesWhat lives inside your gut could shape your immunity, mood, and disease risk, and it could hold the blueprint to better healthFrom Rajgad to Lohagad: 5 must-visit forts in Maharashtra during the monsoon and what travellers should knowHow to train your brain to be happier: 10 simple habits that actually workEvery child needs these 4 social skills before age 10 to feel confident and includedWhat’s attracting tourists to Kodaikanal? 7 reasons this hill station continues to charm travellersSmiling depression: Doctor explains how some people use happiness as a mask10 classic Anglo-Saxon baby names that survived centuries of changeBigg Boss Malayalam 8: Celebrities netizens wish to see on the showLong-lived families reveal a rare genetic clue to healthy ageing; scientists say it may help explain why some people stay disease-free for years longer7 schools where India’s richest send their kids123Hot PicksIPL tradeGold rate todayCUET UG Result 2026Telangana school bandhCBSE 12th revaluationMaldivian wisdomSpanish proverbMalay proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingGeorge KurianUS-Iran WarKunal ShahFIFA World Cup 2026Stock market crashCUET UG Result 2026Ketan AgarwalGold rate todayDelhi weatherMumbai rain

NEW DELHI: National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) to establish a research centre on transportation, mobility and logistics.The centre, to be set up at the NCAER, will be India’s first permanent and independent research centre dedicated to the economics of transportation, mobility and logistics, an official statement said.The Centre will serve as a dedicated platform for undertaking applied economic research on transportation, mobility and logistics, with a focus on generating actionable insights to support long-term planning, investment and policy formulation in the road and transport sector.It will undertake policy-relevant research across a wide range of thematic areas, including National Highway economics, freight logistics, modal integration, regional economic impacts of National Highway investments, toll policy, asset monetization, road safety interventions, technology adoption in National Highway operations and maintenance.The Centre will be anchored by an Advisory Committee comprising leading economists, transportation specialists, public policy experts and eminent academicians, along with NHAI’s Member (Finance) and the Director General, NCAER.The statement said the centre is founded with a contribution from NHAI, with NCAER committed to mobilising contributions from other allied institutions and partners.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Protectors Became Predators’: Dharmendra Pradhan Reacts To NEET Paper Leak Row, Student SuicidesTMC Expels Firhad Hakim, Arup Roy And Six Others As Mamata Cracks Down On Rebel CampUpto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians’ Stake?’Pakistan’s Desperate Attempt To Deflect’: India Snubs Khawaja Asif’s ‘War Over Indus’ RemarkAliganj Fire: Jyoti’s Brother Alleges Corruption, Seeks Murder Charges Against OfficialsMaharashtra RTI Rules 2026 Under Scrutiny: Anna Hazare Demands Changes; Signals Possible Strike’We Expect…’: India Reacts To Alleged Desecration Of Lord Ram Photo In BangladeshLucknow Fire: 15 Dead, No NOC, One Exit — India’s Decade-Long Fire Safety Failure ExplainedPune’s Ketan Agarwal’s Death Was No Accident: Police | Fiancée & Alleged Lover Arrested For MurderMinority Affairs MoS George Kurian Resigns; BJP Veteran’s Exit Sparks Kerala Political Buzz | Watch123PhotostoriesWhat lives inside your gut could shape your immunity, mood, and disease risk, and it could hold the blueprint to better healthFrom Rajgad to Lohagad: 5 must-visit forts in Maharashtra during the monsoon and what travellers should knowHow to train your brain to be happier: 10 simple habits that actually workEvery child needs these 4 social skills before age 10 to feel confident and includedWhat’s attracting tourists to Kodaikanal? 7 reasons this hill station continues to charm travellersSmiling depression: Doctor explains how some people use happiness as a mask10 classic Anglo-Saxon baby names that survived centuries of changeBigg Boss Malayalam 8: Celebrities netizens wish to see on the showLong-lived families reveal a rare genetic clue to healthy ageing; scientists say it may help explain why some people stay disease-free for years longer7 schools where India’s richest send their kids123Hot PicksIPL tradeGold rate todayCUET UG Result 2026Telangana school bandhCBSE 12th revaluationMaldivian wisdomSpanish proverbMalay proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingGeorge KurianUS-Iran WarKunal ShahFIFA World Cup 2026Stock market crashCUET UG Result 2026Ketan AgarwalGold rate todayDelhi weatherMumbai rain

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Under the plan, heritage ghat structures, temples and shrines will be repaired and retrofitted using traditional construction techniques NEW DELHI: Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Kolkata (SMPK) and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to restore and redevelop the historic Kumartuli Ghat riverfront in Kolkata, with work on the Rs 10-crore project set to be completed before this year’s Durga Puja. The initiative aims to revive the culturally significant stretch along the Hooghly River while improving infrastructure, accessibility and visitor facilities.The redevelopment will cover a 300-metre section between Kumartuli Ghat and Champatala Ghat, an area closely linked to Bengal’s centuries-old idol-making tradition. The project will be carried out in phases to minimise disruption, particularly during the Durga Puja season, when the riverfront becomes a focal point for artisans, devotees and visitors.Under the plan, heritage ghat structures, temples and shrines will be repaired and retrofitted using traditional construction techniques to preserve the area’s historic and spiritual character. Authorities will also strengthen riverbank protection, upgrade ritual platforms and create pedestrian-friendly pathways with universal access to the river’s edge.The redevelopment will introduce dedicated spaces for artisans, cultural programmes, boating activities and leisure. Viewing decks, food courts, souvenir stalls and community toilets will also be added to improve the experience for residents and tourists alike.Environmental sustainability forms a key part of the project. Plans include green embankments, native riverine plantations and sacred groves inspired by Vrindavan. Architectural lighting will be installed across the ghats and Kumartuli facades, while first-aid facilities, surveillance systems and other safety measures will be introduced to ensure better management of the precinct.”Kumartuli is Kolkata’s cultural soul. Through this partnership with APSEZ Limited, we are not just restoring infrastructure but reviving a space woven into West Bengal’s identity. The project will make the ghat safer, cleaner, and more welcoming for all,” Rathendra Raman, SMPK Chairman, said.Kumartuli occupies a unique place in Bengal’s cultural landscape as one of the world’s most recognised centres for idol-making. Every year, thousands of Durga idols crafted in the neighbourhood are transported from the eastern bank of the Hooghly River to puja pandals across Kolkata, other districts of West Bengal, and overseas destinations including the United States and several European countries.The riverfront’s significance has grown further since Kolkata’s Durga Puja was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. For generations, Kumartuli’s artisans, rituals and community life have remained deeply connected to the Hooghly, making the restoration project both a heritage conservation effort and a modern urban renewal initiative.Once completed, the revamped Kumartuli Ghat is expected to function as a vibrant public space that combines Bengal’s artistic and religious traditions with improved civic infrastructure and visitor amenities.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Protectors Became Predators’: Dharmendra Pradhan Reacts To NEET Paper Leak Row, Student SuicidesTMC Expels Firhad Hakim, Arup Roy And Six Others As Mamata Cracks Down On Rebel CampUpto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians’ Stake?’Pakistan’s Desperate Attempt To Deflect’: India Snubs Khawaja Asif’s ‘War Over Indus’ RemarkAliganj Fire: Jyoti’s Brother Alleges Corruption, Seeks Murder Charges Against OfficialsMaharashtra RTI Rules 2026 Under Scrutiny: Anna Hazare Demands Changes; Signals Possible Strike’We Expect…’: India Reacts To Alleged Desecration Of Lord Ram Photo In BangladeshLucknow Fire: 15 Dead, No NOC, One Exit — India’s Decade-Long Fire Safety Failure ExplainedPune’s Ketan Agarwal’s Death Was No Accident: Police | Fiancée & Alleged Lover Arrested For MurderMinority Affairs MoS George Kurian Resigns; BJP Veteran’s Exit Sparks Kerala Political Buzz | Watch123PhotostoriesWhat lives inside your gut could shape your immunity, mood, and disease risk, and it could hold the blueprint to better healthFrom Rajgad to Lohagad: 5 must-visit forts in Maharashtra during the monsoon and what travellers should knowHow to train your brain to be happier: 10 simple habits that actually workEvery child needs these 4 social skills before age 10 to feel confident and includedWhat’s attracting tourists to Kodaikanal? 7 reasons this hill station continues to charm travellersSmiling depression: Doctor explains how some people use happiness as a mask10 classic Anglo-Saxon baby names that survived centuries of changeBigg Boss Malayalam 8: Celebrities netizens wish to see on the showLong-lived families reveal a rare genetic clue to healthy ageing; scientists say it may help explain why some people stay disease-free for years longer7 schools where India’s richest send their kids123Hot PicksIPL tradeGold rate todayCUET UG Result 2026Telangana school bandhCBSE 12th revaluationMaldivian wisdomSpanish proverbMalay proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingGeorge KurianUS-Iran WarKunal ShahFIFA World Cup 2026Stock market crashCUET UG Result 2026Ketan AgarwalGold rate todayDelhi weatherMumbai rain

Under the plan, heritage ghat structures, temples and shrines will be repaired and retrofitted using traditional construction techniques NEW DELHI: Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Kolkata (SMPK) and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to restore and redevelop the historic Kumartuli Ghat riverfront in Kolkata, with work on the Rs 10-crore project set to be completed before this year’s Durga Puja. The initiative aims to revive the culturally significant stretch along the Hooghly River while improving infrastructure, accessibility and visitor facilities.The redevelopment will cover a 300-metre section between Kumartuli Ghat and Champatala Ghat, an area closely linked to Bengal’s centuries-old idol-making tradition. The project will be carried out in phases to minimise disruption, particularly during the Durga Puja season, when the riverfront becomes a focal point for artisans, devotees and visitors.Under the plan, heritage ghat structures, temples and shrines will be repaired and retrofitted using traditional construction techniques to preserve the area’s historic and spiritual character. Authorities will also strengthen riverbank protection, upgrade ritual platforms and create pedestrian-friendly pathways with universal access to the river’s edge.The redevelopment will introduce dedicated spaces for artisans, cultural programmes, boating activities and leisure. Viewing decks, food courts, souvenir stalls and community toilets will also be added to improve the experience for residents and tourists alike.Environmental sustainability forms a key part of the project. Plans include green embankments, native riverine plantations and sacred groves inspired by Vrindavan. Architectural lighting will be installed across the ghats and Kumartuli facades, while first-aid facilities, surveillance systems and other safety measures will be introduced to ensure better management of the precinct.”Kumartuli is Kolkata’s cultural soul. Through this partnership with APSEZ Limited, we are not just restoring infrastructure but reviving a space woven into West Bengal’s identity. The project will make the ghat safer, cleaner, and more welcoming for all,” Rathendra Raman, SMPK Chairman, said.Kumartuli occupies a unique place in Bengal’s cultural landscape as one of the world’s most recognised centres for idol-making. Every year, thousands of Durga idols crafted in the neighbourhood are transported from the eastern bank of the Hooghly River to puja pandals across Kolkata, other districts of West Bengal, and overseas destinations including the United States and several European countries.The riverfront’s significance has grown further since Kolkata’s Durga Puja was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. For generations, Kumartuli’s artisans, rituals and community life have remained deeply connected to the Hooghly, making the restoration project both a heritage conservation effort and a modern urban renewal initiative.Once completed, the revamped Kumartuli Ghat is expected to function as a vibrant public space that combines Bengal’s artistic and religious traditions with improved civic infrastructure and visitor amenities.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Protectors Became Predators’: Dharmendra Pradhan Reacts To NEET Paper Leak Row, Student SuicidesTMC Expels Firhad Hakim, Arup Roy And Six Others As Mamata Cracks Down On Rebel CampUpto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians’ Stake?’Pakistan’s Desperate Attempt To Deflect’: India Snubs Khawaja Asif’s ‘War Over Indus’ RemarkAliganj Fire: Jyoti’s Brother Alleges Corruption, Seeks Murder Charges Against OfficialsMaharashtra RTI Rules 2026 Under Scrutiny: Anna Hazare Demands Changes; Signals Possible Strike’We Expect…’: India Reacts To Alleged Desecration Of Lord Ram Photo In BangladeshLucknow Fire: 15 Dead, No NOC, One Exit — India’s Decade-Long Fire Safety Failure ExplainedPune’s Ketan Agarwal’s Death Was No Accident: Police | Fiancée & Alleged Lover Arrested For MurderMinority Affairs MoS George Kurian Resigns; BJP Veteran’s Exit Sparks Kerala Political Buzz | Watch123PhotostoriesWhat lives inside your gut could shape your immunity, mood, and disease risk, and it could hold the blueprint to better healthFrom Rajgad to Lohagad: 5 must-visit forts in Maharashtra during the monsoon and what travellers should knowHow to train your brain to be happier: 10 simple habits that actually workEvery child needs these 4 social skills before age 10 to feel confident and includedWhat’s attracting tourists to Kodaikanal? 7 reasons this hill station continues to charm travellersSmiling depression: Doctor explains how some people use happiness as a mask10 classic Anglo-Saxon baby names that survived centuries of changeBigg Boss Malayalam 8: Celebrities netizens wish to see on the showLong-lived families reveal a rare genetic clue to healthy ageing; scientists say it may help explain why some people stay disease-free for years longer7 schools where India’s richest send their kids123Hot PicksIPL tradeGold rate todayCUET UG Result 2026Telangana school bandhCBSE 12th revaluationMaldivian wisdomSpanish proverbMalay proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingGeorge KurianUS-Iran WarKunal ShahFIFA World Cup 2026Stock market crashCUET UG Result 2026Ketan AgarwalGold rate todayDelhi weatherMumbai rain

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NEW DELHI: A stampede-like situation was reported at the JSCA Stadium in Ranchi during the final of the Jharkhand T20 League after a large crowd gathered at the venue on Tuesday.Following the incident, Jharkhand health minister Irfan Ansari said hospitals had been placed on alert to ensure prompt treatment for those injured.“Hospitals have also been alerted for the better treatment of the injured. Health Department is fully engaged in relief and treatment efforts with utmost readiness. There is no need to panic; arrangements are being ensured for the proper treatment of all the injured,” Ansari said.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Protectors Became Predators’: Dharmendra Pradhan Reacts To NEET Paper Leak Row, Student SuicidesTMC Expels Firhad Hakim, Arup Roy And Six Others As Mamata Cracks Down On Rebel CampUpto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians’ Stake?’Pakistan’s Desperate Attempt To Deflect’: India Snubs Khawaja Asif’s ‘War Over Indus’ RemarkAliganj Fire: Jyoti’s Brother Alleges Corruption, Seeks Murder Charges Against OfficialsMaharashtra RTI Rules 2026 Under Scrutiny: Anna Hazare Demands Changes; Signals Possible Strike’We Expect…’: India Reacts To Alleged Desecration Of Lord Ram Photo In BangladeshLucknow Fire: 15 Dead, No NOC, One Exit — India’s Decade-Long Fire Safety Failure ExplainedPune’s Ketan Agarwal’s Death Was No Accident: Police | Fiancée & Alleged Lover Arrested For MurderMinority Affairs MoS George Kurian Resigns; BJP Veteran’s Exit Sparks Kerala Political Buzz | Watch123PhotostoriesWhat lives inside your gut could shape your immunity, mood, and disease risk, and it could hold the blueprint to better healthFrom Rajgad to Lohagad: 5 must-visit forts in Maharashtra during the monsoon and what travellers should knowHow to train your brain to be happier: 10 simple habits that actually workEvery child needs these 4 social skills before age 10 to feel confident and includedWhat’s attracting tourists to Kodaikanal? 7 reasons this hill station continues to charm travellersSmiling depression: Doctor explains how some people use happiness as a mask10 classic Anglo-Saxon baby names that survived centuries of changeBigg Boss Malayalam 8: Celebrities netizens wish to see on the showLong-lived families reveal a rare genetic clue to healthy ageing; scientists say it may help explain why some people stay disease-free for years longer7 schools where India’s richest send their kids123Hot PicksIPL tradeGold rate todayCUET UG Result 2026Telangana school bandhCBSE 12th revaluationMaldivian wisdomSpanish proverbMalay proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingGeorge KurianUS-Iran WarKunal ShahFIFA World Cup 2026Stock market crashCUET UG Result 2026Ketan AgarwalGold rate todayDelhi weatherMumbai rain

NEW DELHI: A stampede-like situation was reported at the JSCA Stadium in Ranchi during the final of the Jharkhand T20 League after a large crowd gathered at the venue on Tuesday.Following the incident, Jharkhand health minister Irfan Ansari said hospitals had been placed on alert to ensure prompt treatment for those injured.“Hospitals have also been alerted for the better treatment of the injured. Health Department is fully engaged in relief and treatment efforts with utmost readiness. There is no need to panic; arrangements are being ensured for the proper treatment of all the injured,” Ansari said.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Protectors Became Predators’: Dharmendra Pradhan Reacts To NEET Paper Leak Row, Student SuicidesTMC Expels Firhad Hakim, Arup Roy And Six Others As Mamata Cracks Down On Rebel CampUpto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians’ Stake?’Pakistan’s Desperate Attempt To Deflect’: India Snubs Khawaja Asif’s ‘War Over Indus’ RemarkAliganj Fire: Jyoti’s Brother Alleges Corruption, Seeks Murder Charges Against OfficialsMaharashtra RTI Rules 2026 Under Scrutiny: Anna Hazare Demands Changes; Signals Possible Strike’We Expect…’: India Reacts To Alleged Desecration Of Lord Ram Photo In BangladeshLucknow Fire: 15 Dead, No NOC, One Exit — India’s Decade-Long Fire Safety Failure ExplainedPune’s Ketan Agarwal’s Death Was No Accident: Police | Fiancée & Alleged Lover Arrested For MurderMinority Affairs MoS George Kurian Resigns; BJP Veteran’s Exit Sparks Kerala Political Buzz | Watch123PhotostoriesWhat lives inside your gut could shape your immunity, mood, and disease risk, and it could hold the blueprint to better healthFrom Rajgad to Lohagad: 5 must-visit forts in Maharashtra during the monsoon and what travellers should knowHow to train your brain to be happier: 10 simple habits that actually workEvery child needs these 4 social skills before age 10 to feel confident and includedWhat’s attracting tourists to Kodaikanal? 7 reasons this hill station continues to charm travellersSmiling depression: Doctor explains how some people use happiness as a mask10 classic Anglo-Saxon baby names that survived centuries of changeBigg Boss Malayalam 8: Celebrities netizens wish to see on the showLong-lived families reveal a rare genetic clue to healthy ageing; scientists say it may help explain why some people stay disease-free for years longer7 schools where India’s richest send their kids123Hot PicksIPL tradeGold rate todayCUET UG Result 2026Telangana school bandhCBSE 12th revaluationMaldivian wisdomSpanish proverbMalay proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingGeorge KurianUS-Iran WarKunal ShahFIFA World Cup 2026Stock market crashCUET UG Result 2026Ketan AgarwalGold rate todayDelhi weatherMumbai rain

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