koraput

koraput residents are urging the railway ministry to name the new koraput-Puri train 'Deomali Express', celebrating regional identity. They also advocate for direct rail links to New Delhi, citing the absence of such a vital connection despite the district's significant institutions. This move aims to boost regional development and improve travel for thousands.

A significant fire erupted at the Machkund Hydroelectric Project in koraput, causing panic and leaving four employees critically affected by suffocation. Rescued by colleagues and emergency responders, the injured workers were rushed to a community health center for treatment. Firefighting operations are ongoing as the cause of the blaze remains under investigation.

The BJD has accused postal department employees in koraput and Nabarangpur of a Rs 50 crore scam under MGNREGS and welfare schemes. They allege fraudulent transactions and manipulation of beneficiary records. The ruling BJP dismissed the claims as politically motivated, promising a fair investigation and action against any guilty parties.

Jeypore police intensified their crackdown on illegal activities, seizing five tractors involved in unauthorized sand transportation from the Kolab riverbed. In a separate operation, 82 cattle being smuggled to Uttar Pradesh were rescued, with three individuals apprehended. Authorities are maintaining a zero-tolerance policy against such unlawful practices.

Police have arrested four more individuals in the murder of Nikhil Hadapa, bringing the total to 16 accused. The latest arrests were made in an inter-state operation across Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The victim was allegedly abducted and shot dead over a gambling-related dispute.

Andhra Pradesh organised a health camp at the disputed Kotia gram panchayat headquarters, escalating tensions with Odisha. Odisha officials intervened, prompting the Andhra team to withdraw. This incident highlights ongoing attempts by Andhra Pradesh to expand its influence in the region, which has been a subject of a decades-long territorial dispute.

Tragedy struck at Ambadala railway station as an SBI employee, Dilip Kumar Sabat, 35, died after falling from a moving train. He reportedly slipped while attempting to disembark the Bhubaneswar–Junagarh Express after oversleeping. Rescued and admitted to a local hospital, his condition worsened, leading to his death during transfer for advanced care.

Satyanarayan Pattnaik

Tribal villagers have approached the Orissa High Court, alleging the state government's prolonged inaction in implementing the PESA Act, 1996. They seek directions to frame and enforce long-pending rules, arguing the delay deprives gram sabhas of self-governance and protection of community resources, leading to exploitation of tribal lands and resources.

Tribal organizations are taking a stand by petitioning the Orissa High Court, claiming the state's chronic delays in enforcing the PESA Act, 1996. Despite being enacted almost three decades ago, Odisha has not put into place the necessary legislation, resulting in tribal Gram Sabhas lacking the constitutional authority needed for self-rule and the safeguarding of their resources.

Odisha is set to introduce a new land leasing policy for short-term tourism projects like tent cities and glamping. The state government is exploring leases of up to 30 years, moving away from the traditional 99-year model. This initiative aims to boost innovative, eco-friendly tourism and optimize land use, encouraging investment in flexible, experience-based accommodations across the state.

Odisha braces for continued intense heatwave with red warnings issued for Sambalpur, Balangir, and Boudh districts. Several other areas face orange and yellow alerts until May 29. Coastal regions will experience hot and humid conditions. Thunderstorm activity is also anticipated. Relief is not expected until after May 29, with a slight temperature drop forecast thereafter.

Vigilance officials unearthed extensive landed and immovable assets belonging to executive engineer Bhubaneswar Sabar in Kalahandi district. Searches revealed 68 plots of land, five multi-storey buildings, two farmhouses, a market complex, and vehicles. Sabar, facing allegations of disproportionate assets, joined government service in 1999.

A 34-year-old man, Laxmikanta Panda, has been arrested in Rourkela for allegedly defrauding victims of approximately Rs 1 crore since 2016. Police investigations revealed his involvement in fraud cases across multiple districts, promising subsidized loans and financial assistance. Valuables worth Rs 20 lakh were recovered during his apprehension.

Eco-tourism development around Rayagada's Bada Nala reservoir is gaining momentum as the forest division initiates a preliminary review. Following a proposal highlighting the scenic potential, officials are conducting feasibility studies and field verifications. This project aims to boost the local tribal economy and showcase the region's natural beauty.

A recent study reveals significant shortcomings in fungal disease diagnosis across Odisha. Most medical colleges lack dedicated staff for mycology, leading to underdiagnosis. Advanced testing and quality assurance are missing. This situation hinders timely treatment for millions affected by fungal infections globally and in India. Experts urge investment in laboratory capacity and staff training to improve patient outcomes.