|
|
|
|
Lohari, Nagpala Hydro Project
Analysis
Corbett tourist operators oppose online booking
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Suicide: Nursing students demand probe, block highway
Kaladhungi: New ASP for Nainital
Adamant councillors still on protest
Classic
Lyricist Joshi honoured
Badminton: Dehradun, U’khand Police enter final
|
|
Lohari, Nagpala Hydro Project
Dehradun, August 30 Bahuguna, MP from Tehri Garhwal, had organised a bandh at Uttarkashi recently demanding reopening of the hydroelectric projects, particularly
Lohari-Nagpala, being constructed by the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC). "For the past several years, residents of
Kunjan, Tihar, Sunagar and other villages, which are situated above the tunnels of this hydropower project, have been suffering due to disastrous consequences of the project. “Powerful blasting operations carried out for tunnel construction have led to disappearance of their natural water sources, besides causing cracks in their houses. I have personally seen the plight of people residing in such houses, which are on the verge of collapse," she said. She questioned whether execution of such projects that endangered the lives of the local population could be called development. "One should not play party politics with such life-threatening issues nor resolve them in a political manner," she added. "Employment generation for the mountain people from such projects is an illusion. Local residents mostly do manual work when construction is on. After it is over they are not provided longterm employment; even their entry into the project area is prohibited. "I have personally seen a dharna on the issue of employment, staged by residents of Dhikoli village, who had to give up their land for the Maneri Bhali -II and the Tehri Dam projects. Instead of giving them steady employment they were jailed for protesting. "The destruction of Uttarakhand's natural resources, including water, forests and land, and destroying their present livelihoods in exchange for a few days of employment on daily wages is gross
injustice. “There is an urgent need for the government, legislators, parliamentarians and social activists to work together for providing them with dignified permanent employment while conserving their forest, water and land resources," added Radha Bahen. She has challenged Bahugana's contention that 1,000 jobs have been provided by the project authorities to local
people. Citing a study by Suresh Bhai, an Uttarkashi-based social activist committed to environment and people-centric development, she said only 450 local residents are employed in the Lohari-NagPala project. "The world is now moving towards environment-friendly development. Several hydropower dams are now being de-commissioned around the world. In such times, will advocacy of long tunnels excavated by blasting in the ecologically and geologically sensitive Uttarakhand Himalayas make any sense?" she questioned. "I have also seen the riverbed of the Bhagirathi running dry several kilometers downstream of the diversion dams. “This is an extremely undesirable action not only against the country's national river but also against every other river of Uttarakhand that contributes mineral-rich soil resources in the form of silt to northern India. “Not only is the present population of the country unknowingly suffering the harmful consequences of these actions but future generations will suffer even more," said Radha Bahen. As such, attempts aimed at shortterm and temporary gains in lieu of causing harm in the longterm are entirely undesirable, she said. "We all acknowledge India's power needs up to a certain limit but there are other means available even now that are not only environment-friendly but also sustainable such as solar energy," Radha Behan concluded. |
||
|
Analysis
Dehradun, August 30 For Nishank, the bypoll is a veritable litmus test after he was appointed CM of the state in June this year in place of BC Khanduri. Nishank has already undertaken several tours of the area and announced various developmental schemes much before the election date was out. He has also been able to win over local leaders of rival Congress party into the BJP camp. It was Munna Singh Chauhan, then in BJP, who had won the seat in 2007 assembly polls. However, Munna deserted the party and resigned to contest the recently held Parliamentary election from Tehri Garhwal on a Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) ticket. Notably, if the BJP is able to secure a win in the by-election, it can get a majority of its own in the 70-member Uttarakhand assembly. The BJP already has 35 seats, in addition to the support of three Uttarakhand Kranti Dal (UKD) legislators. This time, the BJP has fielded Kuldeep Kumar, a local advocate, as its candidate against Congress party's Navparbhat, a former state Forest and Urban Development Minister, and Munna Singh Chauhan, who is contesting as an Independent. Meanwhile, senior leaders of both BJP and the Congress, including legislators and ministers, would be camping in Vikasnagar during the next week to supervise the election campaign. For the Congress, a win from Vikasnagar after a clean sweep of all the five Lok Sabha seats would prove to big morale booster as far as 2012 state assembly elections are concerned. |
||
|
Corbett tourist operators oppose online booking
Dehradun, August 30 Submitting a memorandum, to the district magistrate, addressed to the Chief Minister, the Corbett Forest and Employment Protection Committee, which comprises locals engaged in tourism related business, alleged that the online booking would put an adverse impact on their business. Led by president of Local Gypsy Operators Union Satyaprakash Sharma, the protesters argued that online booking was completely against the spirit of community participation in the forest and the wildlife conservation and livelihood efforts. He said such system would only add to locals’ apathy towards the forests and the wildlife. “With the locals losing their jobs due to on-line bookings, they would also be forced to look into for alternative source of employment and could end up becoming party to anti-wildlife elements active in the region,” said Sharma. Sharma alleged that while online booking would benefit the bigger entrepreneurs in business, the small-time tourist operators will be at a loss in process. Corbett Park authorities have issued tenders towards the start of online booking process in the park. The online booking is aimed to facilitate the tourists interested in visiting Corbett National Park. Continuing with their opposition, local tourist operators, hotel owners and others staged a dharna at the Corbett Reservation Centre today. Led by Jagmohan Singh Bisht, a Bhartiya Janata Yuwa Morcha leader, the protesters on the occasion today pledged to continue their agitation till the plan to introduce online booking was completely shelved. Bisht said such arrangements system would only make the local tourist operators jobless. Meanwhile, BSP leader Rajiv Agarwal also supported the ongoing anti-online booking arrangements protest. |
||
|
Meanwhile, e-tickets at Haridwar depot
Haridwar, August 30 e-Ticketing machines are being allotted to the conductors. The fair will be displayed after mentioning the name of the destination and passengers will get a computerised slip as a ticket. According to ARM H S Dabral the depot has been allotted 90 machines and the distribution work has started. By September conductors of the Haridwar depot will start following the new procedure. The new format will reduce the possibilities of pilferage on the part of the bus conductors, which effects the transport corporation exchequers. “The e-ticketing will reduce the burden on conductors and ensure fool proof data about the route,” said a bus conductor. |
||
|
With rain, MC claims go down the drain
Haridwar, August 30 Sudden downpour after a clear sky in the morning caught the residents unawares even as the ongoing sewer line work for the Maha Kumbh caused a lot of inconvenience. The local bus stand was waterlogged, which also caused a lot of problems for commuters. “It is disgusting that an internationally renowned city like Haridwar doesn’t have a concrete bus terminal and no shelter or water-ejecting technique. My grandmother couldn’t step down from the bus and I had to request the driver to take us out from the waterlogged terminal. I am worried how things will be during Maha Kumbh,” said Vinod Pawar a contractor on a visit here from New Delhi. Waterlogging caused major traffic snarls at other areas of the city, including Bhagat Singh Chowk, Ranipur Mod, Devpura, Moti Bazaar, Lal Taura bridge, Bhoopatwala, Kankhal, Jwalapur, Sector 2 Barrier etc. The condition was worst at Bhoopatwala on the Dehradun-Haridwar National Highway where Kumbh-related construction work has narrowed down the lane. With so much construction on, mud and stones choke the drains, which leads to accumulation of water on roads. Locals opined that such preparations should be planned in a proper manner. “These projects should be time-bound and carried out in such a way that locals don’t face problems. These should be planned with an eye on the future,” said a local resident. |
||
|
Seminar: Vocabulary expert Gautam guides CAT aspirants
Dehradun, August 30 The seminar titled - Billi 6 - discussed the important issues pertaining to CAT and the students were guided by Aakash Gautam, a Limca Book Record holder for excellence in English vocabulary, who spoke on ‘how best to prepare for cracking new online CAT Entrance examination’. Under a two-hour long seminar, six main mantras to crack one of the toughest examinations of the world were discussed. Getting accustomed to online reading, planning and time management, innovation, positive thinking, along with regular online testing and strong vocabulary, were some main points which were discussed for the new online CAT entrance, beginning from the next session. The examination will be conducted online without any alterations done to the old set pattern of the CAT examination. The allocated banks under CAT will provide vouchers, which will provide code for taking the online examination. “The online examination is convenient and at the same time the chances of paper leaking and cheating remain nil,” said Pankaj Kanaudia, business head operations, Career Launcher, Dehradun. The form for the CAT examination cost Rs 1,400 and to maintain quality, without any changes in the paper. The students will be scrutinised by the online invigilators. “However, to motivate students about the new method of examination we organised ‘Billi 6’ seminar today and we are preparing students to get as much as information about it,” said
Kanaudia. |
|
Jodhaa-Akbar designs draw huge crowds
Dehradun, August 30 The exhibitor had come down from Delhi, Karol Bagh market, which is famous for having some of the best jewellery showrooms in the country. “This is the second time we have come to Dehradun because the women in the city are very fond of jewellery. After getting a positive response, we are opening our showroom in the city next month,” said VK Verma, jeweller. Jewellery studded with emeralds, ruby and other precious stones along with diamonds were priced between Rs 10,000 to Rs 2 lakhs here. From daily wear bangles to bridal jewellery everything is available here in the exbhition. Most of the women were interested in buying traditional jewellery after getting inspired by the film Jodhaa Akbar and daily sops on television. “Women want to enhance their Indian side with traditional Indian pieces. “We are showcasing stone jewellery, designes inspired by Jodhaa Akhar movie and also the Victorian designs,” said BK Verma, jeweller. |
|
Suicide: Nursing students demand probe, block highway
Dehradun, August 30 The one-hour jam was lifted after HIHT authorities gave a verbal assurance that an inquiry would be initiated to ascertain facts surrounding the death of Renu Parmar. The father of the deceased Narian Singh Parmar, resident of Gumanwala Shyampur (Rishikesh), has alleged that her teacher Kanchan Bala mentally tortured Renu. “The classmates of my daughter informed us that during her viva the teacher humiliated her and said she had poor intellectual capacity. Hurt by the remarks, she took the extreme step,” said the deceased’s father. The family members also alleged that the Institute officials did not even bother to inform them about the reasons behind the death of Renu. Twenty-six-year old final-year nursing student Renu’s body was found hanging from the ceiling fan of her room yesterday. The police officials investigating the case said fear of failure drove her to suicide. “She had performed poorly at the practical examination and feared reprisal from her parents,” said Doiwala inspector BS Negi. Meanwhile, the brother of the deceased Naveen Narian said that a FIR has been registered against the teacher and they would not hesitate to approach the Chief Minister if justice is denied. |
|
Kaladhungi: New ASP for Nainital
Nainital, August 30 The Chief Minister had ordered the transfer of additional SP Mukesh Kumar and vigilance officer T D Joshi after studying a report by director general of police Subhash Joshi, official sources said. The government had also suspended four police officials - deputy superintendent of police Harishchandra Sati, and SHO Ramkishore Saklani and two constables at Kaladunghi police station, in connection with the incident. Balwant Singh, head of Kotabagh block, was shot dead allegedly by BSP constituency in charge Neeraj Tiwari on August 22 in the police station, sparking violent protests that left a policeman dead and nearly a dozen people injured. The CM has already ordered a magisterial inquiry.
— PTI |
|
Adamant councillors still on protest
Dehradun, August 30 Leader of the opposition and senior Congress councillor Ashok Verma sought a clarification as to why the post of Chief Executive Officer of the corporation was lying vacant. He said while the incumbent officer has been transferred the new one was yet to take charge. He also reminded that the sole executive engineer working with the MC has also been assigned a new responsibility for the forthcoming Maha Kumbh.
— TNS |
|
Classic
Dehradun, August 30 Ran (“chaos” or “revolt”) is a Japanese period drama depicting the fall of Hidetora Ichimonji, an ageing Sengoku-era warlord who decides to abdicate as ruler in favour of his three sons. The story is based on legends of the Daimyo Mori Motonari, as well as on the Shakespearean tragedy King Lear. Ran was Kurosawa’s last epic. With a budget of $12 million, it was the most expensive Japanese film ever produced up to that time. The film was hailed for its powerful images and use of colour. Costume designer Emi Wada won an Academy award for her work on Ran. Members of the REACH Talkies and other film lovers graced the screening. REACH Talkies shows movies by renowned film directors every week on Sundays at 4 pm at the KDMIPE mini auditorium in ONGC, Kaulagarh Road campus. ‘Life is Beautiful’ by Roberto Benign - will be screened next Sunday (on September 6) at the same venue. |
|
Lyricist Joshi honoured
Dehradun, August 30 Uttarakhand Chief Minister Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank called on lyricist Prasoon and lauded his role in the creative world. Chief Minister said the people from Uttarakhand have always excelled in the sphere of literature and music. He said the state due to its pristine natural beauty keeps big potential in filmmaking. Dr Nishank also sought Prasoon Joshi’s suggestions in this regard. He also held that the state government was undertaking all efforts towards promotion of art and culture. Dr Nishank also discussed possibility of establishment of an international-level media institute in the state. |
|
Yankies Club down Sarvodaya
Dehradun, August 30 Both teams played a slow game. Sarvodaya team created an attack from the right flank and almost earned their first goal. But it was good work by Yankies Club keeper, who punched the ball over the bar. In the 15th minute, Sarvodaya Club created another good move from the right. The move died half way as the defender of the team managed to clear the ball off their half. Yankies team managed to create a counter attack in the 20th minute to score a goal. It was Yankies team forward Piyush who skillfully dodged the defenders to place the ball in the Sarvodaya Club net. In the second half, Sarvodaya Club tried hard to score a goal, but due to poor finishing they failed. In the end Yankies won the match by a solitary goal. Meanwhile, in the second match, Doon Eagle team beat Khukri Club by 3-0. Doon Eagle team scored their first goal in the 2nd minute to take their opponent by surprise. It was Doon Eagle forward Anshul who earned their first goal. Doon Eagle team managed to maintain the lead in the first half. In the second half, Khukri Club team got their second jolt through Anurag in the 41st minute of the match. It was Doon Eagle team’s Anurag to helped his team take 2-0 lead. Anurag scored his second goal in the 55th minute of the match to make it 3-0 in the end. |
|
Badminton: Dehradun, U’khand Police enter final
Dehradun, August 30 Results: In u-19 Single’s: Diksha of Udham Singh Nagar beat B Gautaum of Haridwar 21-15, 21-15. Ujjawal Bahuguna of Dehradun defeated Abhinav of Udham Singh Nagar 21-13, 21-16. Mohit of Udham Singh Nagar beat Jigyasu by 21-14, 21-15. In u-19 Girls Single’s: Diksha of Udham Singh Nagar beat Ayushi of Dehradun 21-4, 21-6. Vineeta of Almora beat Kuhoo of Uttarakhand Police by 21-11, 21-15. S Nagarkoti of Almora beat Divya of Dehradun 21-7, 21-6. In Men’s Open Team Championship semifinal: In the first team event semifinal: Ashish of Dehradun beat B Gautum of Haridwar 24-22, 21-18. Vikas Singh of Dehradun beat Ashirwad 22-20, 21-9. Aman and Ashish of Dehradun beat Anurag and Ramallah 21-18, 20-22 and 21-12. In the second team event semifinal: Vikas Rana of Uttarakhand Police beat Vasu Pandey of Almora 18-21, 21-17. Deepak Bisht of Uttarakhand Police beat Lokesh Negi of Almora 21-7, 21-6. Vasu and Bhaskar of Uttarakhand Police beat Deepak and Vijay of Almora 21-12, 21-15. Rohit of Uttarakhand Police beat Bhaskar of Almora21-16, 15-21 and 21-12. |
|
|
Summer Valley win u-17 category
Dehradun, August 30 Results: In u-17 team final: Akshay Dabral outplayed Yash 11-8, 11-1, 11-2. Suraj Rana beat Ujjwal 11-5, 11-3, 11-3. Sarthak Chaudhari beat Abhinav 11-4, 11-4, 11-8. In u-17 final: Sarthak beat Suraj Rana 7-11, 11-3, 12-10, 11-4. In u-14 final: Akshay beat Suraj Rana 11-8, 11-9, 9-11, 10-12, 11-5. Chief guest Iqbal Wasu distributed the prizes to the winners. Other present on the occasion were principal of Summer Valley School Ashok Wasu, Prince Vipin SAI coach. Meanwhile, in the Inter-House Table Tennis final played at Doon Girls School, Robbin House emerged the winner. In the final, Robbin House outplayed Koyel House by 3-1. In the individual championship, Robbin House beat Cuckoo House. |
|
| HOME PAGE | |
Punjab | Haryana | Jammu & Kashmir |
Himachal Pradesh | Regional Briefs |
Nation | Opinions | | Business | Sports | World | Letters | Chandigarh | Ludhiana | Delhi | | Calendar | Weather | Archive | Subscribe | Classified | Suggestion | E-mail | |
