Bhubaneswar: Russia is prepared to redirect crude oil shipments to India to help offset potential supply disruptions arising from the escalating conflict in West Asia, according to an industry source cited by Reuters. Around 9.5 million barrels of crude oil are currently aboard tankers near Indian waters and could be diverted to Indian refiners within…
Bhubaneswar: The escalating conflict in West Asia has begun to directly affect air travel from Odisha, with flights between Bhubaneswar and Dubai facing cancellations due to widespread airspace closures in the region. Airline IndiGo has cancelled its Bhubaneswar–Dubai flights scheduled for Monday and Wednesday, following restrictions on several air routes across West Asia after recent…
Bhubaneswar, INDIA: Iran has opened its land borders for Indian nationals seeking to leave the country following rising regional tensions after U.S. and Israeli strikes that began on February 28 and forced the shutdown of regional airspace. According to reports, Indian citizens are being allowed to exit through neighbouring countries such as Turkey, Armenia, and…
Bhubaneswar: The Ministry of Railways has launched a new technology platform, ‘Rail Tech’, aimed at encouraging startups and innovators to develop solutions for operational and safety challenges across the railway network. The portal seeks to crowdsource innovative technologies addressing key issues in safety, maintenance, and administrative efficiency, with a strong emphasis on the use of…
Bhubaneswar: The Government of Odisha’s mobility platform Odisha Yatri is accelerating its statewide expansion with a dual focus on improving passenger safety and increasing driver incomes, positioning itself as a public-sector alternative in the ride-hailing ecosystem. Launched as a zero-commission platform, Odisha Yatri has enabled drivers to collectively earn over ₹10 crore, allowing them to…
Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s plan to construct a helipad near Similipal National Park reflects the state’s growing push to integrate connectivity with tourism-led development. Announced in the Assembly by Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, the proposal—initiated by Bangiriposhi MLA Sanjali Murmu—seeks to improve access to one of India’s most ecologically significant biosphere reserves while promoting…
Bhubaneswar: From 1 April 2026, cash payments at National Highway toll plazas are likely to be discontinued, with all transactions shifting to digital modes such as FASTag and UPI. The move fits neatly into India’s broader push towards a technology-driven, high-efficiency highway network. In principle, it promises speed, transparency, and reduced congestion. In practice, it…
Bhubaneswar: India’s highways have long symbolised speed, connectivity, and economic progress. But they have also represented ecological disruption—fragmented habitats, declining wildlife populations, and vanishing pollinators. Against this backdrop, the National Highways Authority of India’s proposal to create ‘Bee Corridors’ along national highways is a welcome, if overdue, intervention. Pollinators such as bees are not mere…
Bhubaneswar: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday announced plans to develop a 1,000-acre industrial hub in Sambalpur, marking a major push to accelerate industrialisation in western Odisha. Pradhan said the proposed industrial cluster aims to attract large-scale investments, create employment opportunities, and strengthen the region’s manufacturing ecosystem. Discussions are underway to earmark land for…
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday launched 250 new ambulances at Kalinga Stadium, marking the second phase of the state’s emergency medical transport expansion. With an investment of ₹111 crore, the government plans to deploy 428 new ambulances, strengthening rapid response services across the state. Earlier, 150 ambulances were inducted in December…