Bhubaneswar: A recent study by wildlife researchers Rajkishore Swain, Sandesh Behera, and Subhani Rath has highlighted growing threats to honeybee diversity in Odisha due to habitat loss, climate change, and excessive pesticide use. The study notes that honeybees contribute to over 70% of pollination in certain crops and ornamental plants in Bhubaneswar, underlining their critical…
Bhubaneswar: Amid soaring temperatures across Odisha, the Panchpatmali hills in Koraput district are drawing attention for their unusually cool, lush, and mist-covered landscape—often compared to the scenic beauty of Kashmir. Despite nearby regions experiencing heat levels touching 40°C, the Panchpatmali range remains green and refreshing. The area’s dense vegetation and natural moisture help maintain its…
Bhubaneswar: Early weather projections indicate a possible low-pressure system forming over the southeast Bay of Bengal during the second week of May, with potential to intensify into a cyclonic storm. According to the Global Forecast System (GFS), the system may develop between May 11 and 15. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has not confirmed…
Bhubaneswar: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a major regulatory shift mandating plastic-free packaging for pan masala, gutka, and similar products. Under a draft amendment to the Food Safety and Standards Packaging Regulations 2018, these products would be allowed to be packed only in eco-friendly materials such as paper, paperboard,…
Bhubaneswar: The Government of Odisha has officially notified the Treated Used Water Policy 2026, marking a major step toward sustainable water management and circular economy practices. The policy sets ambitious targets, including achieving 100% treatment of used water across all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) by 2030. It also outlines a phased reuse roadmap, aiming for…
Bhubaneswar: In a unique initiative, the Bhubaneswar Commissionerate Police has started playing soft, soothing music at 32 major traffic intersections across Bhubaneswar to ease commuter stress, especially during long waits and ongoing heatwave conditions. The system operates through Public Address Systems integrated with CCTV networks and is centrally controlled. Along with music, authorities are also…
Bhubaneswar: Saudi Aramco is expected to continue its suspension of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) exports into the coming month following significant damage at a key export facility in late February, according to a report by Bloomberg. The disruption has tightened global LPG supply chains, increasing pressure on importing countries already facing reduced shipments from the…
Bhubaneswar: The Government of Odisha is planning to establish Heatwave Relief Centres across the state as part of its strategy to tackle rising temperatures and associated health risks. These shelters will function on the lines of cyclone and flood shelters, offering safe spaces for people to rest during peak heat hours while providing access to…
Bhubaneswar: A quiet agricultural village in Odisha is making headlines for an impressive farming transformation. Kundhei has earned the nickname “Taiwanese Watermelon Village” after local farmers shifted from traditional crops to cultivating a premium variety of Taiwanese watermelon. The results have been remarkable. Within just three months, the village has collectively generated around ₹1 crore…
Bhubaneswar: A potential aviation emergency was averted early today after takeoff of Swiss International Air Lines Flight LX147 from Delhi to Zurich was aborted due to smoke detected from the left-side wheel. The incident occurred around 2 a.m., prompting the crew to declare an emergency and halt departure procedures. There were 232 passengers on board…