Govt tightens rules for weddings, public congregations in Karnataka

News Network
March 13, 2021

Bengaluru, Mar 13: In the wake of the emergence of new Covid-19 clusters and fear of a second wave, Karnataka has capped the number of people who can congregate in public places and celebrations.

A circular to this effect was issued by the Additional Chief Secretary, Health, Jawaid Akhtar on Friday.

Previously, social and cultural events like marriages, birthday celebrations, death ceremonies/burials had a cap of 500 people. As many as 376 people were allowed for every 1,000 sq meter area with 3.25 sq meter per person. Previously, for a 500 sq m area, a maximum of 158 people were allowed.

Now, with the same 3.25 sq meter per person area, 500 people are being allowed at marriages if it is an open space. However, only 200 are allowed if it is a hall or a closed space. For birthday celebrations, 100 are allowed in open spaces, and 50 in closed spaces. At funerals, 100 people are allowed if it is an open space, 50 if closed. At cremations and burials, however, only 50 are allowed. For all other congregations, only 100 are allowed if the hall can accommodate.

For religious gatherings, 500 are allowed in open spaces, and in political gatherings 500 are allowed if the space is open. The State has also enhanced the testing targets of various districts sharing border with Maharashtra and Kerala.

While Belagavi has a target of 4,000 tests/day, Bengaluru and BBMP together have 40,000 tests' target per day, Dakshina Kannada 3,000 tests/day, Mysuru 5,000 tests per day, Kodagu 1,000 tests/day, Udupi 2,000 tests/day, Tumakuru 3,500 tests/day, and Vijayapura 2,000 tests/day.

Among these districts Dakshina Kannada has many international arrivals, and Tumakuru has many daily travellers who travel to Bengaluru. These targets are lesser than what the State Covid-19 Technical Advisory Committee had recommended for the border districts. As opposed to the previous testing of at least 10 contacts for every positive case, 20 high risk contacts of every positive positive have to be tested.

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News Network
January 22,2025

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Yellapura: A devastating accident occurred early Wednesday morning in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka, leaving at least nine people dead and several others critically injured. The tragedy unfolded near the Kageri petrol station in Yellapur when a truck carrying fruits and vegetables plunged into a valley and overturned.

The truck, which was transporting over 40 traders, was en route from Savanuru in Haveri district to Kumta market in Uttara Kannada. Among the passengers were fruit vendors heading to the Yellapura fair to sell their produce. The accident occurred on the Savanur-Hubballi road, as confirmed by M. Narayana, the Superintendent of Police of Uttara Kannada.

“At approximately 5:30 a.m., the truck driver attempted to give way to another vehicle and veered too far to the left, causing the truck to fall into a valley approximately 50 meters deep,” said SP Narayana.

Victims Identified:

Fayaz Imam Saab Jamkhandi (45)

Wasim Virullah Mudageri (35)

Ijaz Mustak Mulla (20)

Sadiq Bhasha Farash (30)

Ghulam Hussain Jawali (40)

Imtiaz Mamajafar Mulakeri (36)

Alfaaz Jafar Mandakki (25)

Jilani Abdul Jakhati (25)

Aslam Babuli Benny (24)

Immediate Response

Upon receiving information about the accident, police rushed to the scene and coordinated the rescue operations. The injured were swiftly transported to KIMS Hospital in Hubballi for treatment. Tragically, eight individuals died on the spot, while another succumbed to critical injuries shortly after. The absence of a protective wall on the road in the valley has been highlighted as a contributing factor.

“Many passengers sustained serious injuries, and the death toll could rise,” said police officials. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Community in Mourning

This tragic incident has left the local community in shock, as families and friends mourn the loss of lives. Authorities are urging caution and have reiterated the need for safety measures on roads in vulnerable areas. Further updates on the condition of the injured are awaited.

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News Network
January 17,2025

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Dubai: Air Kerala, India’s newest airline supported by UAE investors, has selected Kochi International Airport as its primary operational hub. The airline announced this decision early Thursday, revealing plans for its inaugural domestic flight from Kochi in June this year, followed by a UAE launch in 2027. 

The announcement was made at a press conference in Kochi recently in the presence of several members of the Kerala government, including Industries, Law, and Coir Minister P. Rajeve.

P. Rajeve expressed, "Air Kerala’s establishment marks a proud moment for the state, promising to enhance connectivity, generate employment, and boost tourism."

Chairman Afi Ahmed, a Dubai-based entrepreneur, highlighted, "Choosing COK as our base underscores our confidence in Kerala's potential to emerge as a key aviation hub. We are eager to contribute to and connect the state's growth with the world."

Aircraft Acquisition:

CEO Harish Kutty announced that the initial phase will utilize five leased aircraft, each with a 76-seat capacity. An agreement has been finalized with an Irish lessor for these planes. Over the next two years, the airline plans to acquire an additional 20 new aircraft.

Air Kerala aims to expand its services internationally, connecting major cities and reaching smaller towns across South India.

Economic Impact and Growth:

According to Ahmed, as Kerala’s first airline, Air Kerala is poised to significantly impact the state's economy. "The airline’s operations will create 750 direct and indirect job opportunities in its first year," he stated.

The airline also anticipates a boost to Kerala's tourism sector. Ahmed noted, "With affordable fares and accessible routes, Air Kerala aims to attract global tourists eager to explore Kerala."

Harish Kutty emphasized the airline's commitment to operating as a true ultra-low-cost carrier, making air travel affordable for all. "We aim to convert bus and train passengers into air travelers with our competitive fares and superior service," he affirmed.

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coastaldigest.com news network
January 16,2025

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Mangaluru, Jan 16: In an unimaginable twist of fate, the vibrant life of 19-year-old K Ahmed Shaheem was abruptly cut short on the evening of January 15, as he collapsed and passed away while enjoying a game of badminton with friends at Falnir, Mangaluru.

Shaheem, the beloved son of Shareef, originally from Addoor and currently residing at Ivory Tower, Attavar, Mangaluru, was in the prime of his youth. 

A student pursuing his graduation at a local private college, Shaheem had a bright future ahead, filled with dreams and ambitions. His sudden death has left family, friends, and the entire community in shock and grief.

Witnesses recount the heart-wrenching moment when Shaheem, in the middle of an energetic game, suddenly fell to the ground. His friends, devastated by the sight, rushed him to the hospital in the hope of saving his life. But tragically, doctors confirmed that he had passed away by the time he arrived.

Shaheem was not only a student, but also a passionate individual deeply involved in various social organizations, where he touched many lives with his kindness and commitment. His sudden departure has left a void that can never be filled, and his memory will remain forever etched in the hearts of all who knew him.

As his family mourns the loss of their precious son, the community stands in solidarity, deeply moved by the untimely loss of a young life that had so much promise.

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