Bhubaneswar: Indian fuel prices could face upward pressure following reports that Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes. The narrow maritime corridor connects the Persian Gulf to global markets and handles a significant share of international crude oil shipments. Any disruption in this passage typically constrains…
Bhubaneswar: With an average of 16 people losing their lives daily in road accidents across Odisha, the state government has accelerated the rollout of the Prime Minister’s Road Accident Victims’ Hospitalisation & Assured Treatment Scheme (PM RAHAT). The scheme guarantees free and cashless treatment for road accident victims admitted to a hospital within 24 hours…
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: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) is establishing two new waste processing facilities to strengthen solid waste management and promote sustainable recycling practices in the city. A construction and demolition (C&D) waste processing plant will be set up at Pandra, with a processing capacity of five tonnes per day. The facility will convert debris into…
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…