22, Jun 2026
Lucknow Coaching Centre Fire: 13 Dead, Several Injured as Blaze Engulfs Building in Aliganj
Lucknow, June 22: At least 13 people were killed after a massive fire broke out in a building housing a coaching centre in the Aliganj area of northwest Lucknow on Monday, officials said. Several others were injured as panic gripped the area and some students attempted to escape by jumping from the building.
According to initial reports, the fire erupted suddenly inside a three-storey commercial building that housed a coaching institute along with a pet shop and other commercial establishments. The blaze spread rapidly, trapping students and staff inside the premises.
Eyewitnesses said thick smoke filled the building within minutes, making evacuation difficult. In desperation, several students reportedly jumped from the first floor to escape the flames, with at least one person sustaining serious injuries.
Fire and emergency services rushed to the spot and carried out intensive rescue operations. The blaze raged for over an hour before being brought under control. After the fire was doused, officials recovered at least 13 bodies from the building, while rescue teams continued searching for any remaining trapped individuals.
A video circulating from the site showed chaotic scenes, including individuals attempting to escape through broken windows and falling while trying to reach safety.
Police and administrative officials, including senior officers, reached the spot to oversee rescue and relief operations. The building has been cordoned off and a detailed investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire.
Expressing grief over the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also directed officials to reach out to affected families and ensure proper medical treatment and assistance for the injured.
Further details are awaited as rescue and identification efforts continue.
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- By Neel Achary
22, Jun 2026
Railways Enforce Stricter Onboard Discipline Under Jan Vishwas Act; Fines Up to INR 5,000 for Violations
New Delhi, June 22: The Ministry of Railways has implemented stricter penalty provisions under the Jan Vishwas Act, introducing enhanced enforcement measures to curb nuisance activities and ensure a safer and more orderly travel environment across trains and railway stations.
Under the revised framework, several passenger-related violations will now attract on-the-spot fines and stricter action by railway authorities and the Railway Protection Force (RPF).
Unauthorized hawking, including the sale of goods without a valid railway-issued license, will attract a fine of ₹2,000, with repeat offenders liable for higher penalties and possible legal action, including imprisonment.
Begging on trains and railway premises has been strictly prohibited. Individuals found engaging in such activities may be removed from coaches and penalised as per rules.
For nuisance and misbehaviour, including the use of abusive language, creating disturbances, or travelling under intoxication, offenders may face fines of up to ₹1,000, along with possible removal from the train.
The ministry has also reinforced strict action against smoking in prohibited areas, with violators liable to pay a fine of ₹2,000.
In a move to strengthen passenger safety, male passengers found travelling in women-only coaches or berths will be fined ₹2,500 and de-boarded immediately.
Railway officials stated that these measures aim to improve discipline, ensure passenger comfort, and enhance overall safety standards across the railway network.
Passengers have been encouraged to report violations or seek assistance through the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and official railway helplines during their journey.
22, Jun 2026
Odisha CM Announces Rs 4 Lakh Ex-Gratia for Families of Workers Killed in Tamil Nadu Gas Leak
Bhubaneswar, June 22 (UDN): Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each for the next of kin of Odia workers who lost their lives in the tragic ammonia gas leak incident at a seafood processing and export unit in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur district.
The financial assistance will be provided from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF), according to an official statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
Expressing profound grief over the incident, Chief Minister Majhi conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of all possible support from the State Government during this difficult period.
“The Odisha Government stands firmly with the affected families and is committed to extending all necessary assistance,” the Chief Minister said.
In a bid to coordinate rescue, relief and rehabilitation measures, the State Government has deputed a three-member team to Tamil Nadu. The team has already reached the affected site to assess the situation and facilitate support for the affected Odia workers.
According to the CMO, the Odisha Government is maintaining constant communication with the Tiruvallur district administration and the Tamil Nadu Government to monitor rescue operations, treatment of the injured and other relief measures.
On the direction of the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary Anu Garg also held discussions with her Tamil Nadu counterpart to ensure proper medical treatment and necessary assistance for the affected Odia workers.
The tragic incident occurred on Sunday following an ammonia gas leak at a private seafood processing and export unit in Tiruvallur district, affecting several migrant workers, including many from Odisha.
22, Jun 2026
RBI Likely to Keep Repo Rate Unchanged Amid Economic Uncertainty: Report
Mumbai, June 22: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to keep the repo rate unchanged in its upcoming monetary policy review, according to recent reports.
The central bank is likely to continue with a cautious approach as it balances the need to support economic growth while keeping inflation under control amid ongoing global and domestic uncertainties.
Maintaining the current rate is expected to provide stability to financial markets and ensure steady borrowing conditions for businesses and consumers. It may also help the RBI assess incoming economic data before making any future policy changes.
The decision is being closely watched by markets, businesses, and policymakers for signals on the future direction of monetary policy.
22, Jun 2026
BSCL Transforms Janpath into Climate-Resilient Green Urban Corridor
Bhubaneswar, June 22: The Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited (Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited) has initiated a comprehensive beautification and greening project along Janpath, aimed at transforming the major city artery into a climate-resilient, greener, and more pedestrian-friendly urban corridor.
Climate-Focused Urban Revitalisation
The initiative places strong emphasis on reducing urban heat and improving environmental conditions through large-scale plantation and landscape redesign. Shade-giving trees are being planted along the corridor to mitigate rising temperatures, enhance comfort for pedestrians, and improve overall air quality.
Officials noted that the project is aligned with broader efforts to address the Urban Heat Island effect and promote sustainable urban infrastructure.
Enhanced Green Infrastructure
The redevelopment plan incorporates the replacement of select hard surfaces with green landscaping zones designed to improve water absorption and ecological sustainability.
A diverse range of plant species has been introduced, including:
- Tabebuia rosea for seasonal pink flowering displays
- Rudrapalash (Spathodea) for bright red blooms
- Amaltas for yellow floral accents
- Shrubs such as Hamelia and Acalypha
- Groundcover plants like Rhoeo
These additions are expected to enhance both the ecological value and visual appeal of the corridor.
Development of Community Public Spaces
As part of the project, 10 public plazas are being developed at strategic locations, including Ekamrakshetra, Master Canteen traffic islands, Rajmahal Flyover underside, IDCO Tower front, and OPTCL front.
These plazas will function as cultural and social interaction spaces, supporting community engagement and hosting events such as Patha Utsav and other local gatherings.
Towards a Sustainable Urban Future
The initiative reflects BSCL’s commitment to developing sustainable, people-centric urban infrastructure that integrates environmental resilience with public utility.
The project is scheduled for completion by August and is expected to serve as a model for future urban greening initiatives in Bhubaneswar.
22, Jun 2026
Major Maoist Arms, Explosives Cache Recovered in Koraput
Koraput, June 22 (UDN): In a significant breakthrough in anti-Maoist operations, security forces have recovered a huge cache of arms, ammunition and explosives from a Maoist dump concealed in the dense forests of Badlipahad under Boipariguda police station limits in Odisha’s Koraput district.
The recovery was made during an intensive search operation conducted by the District Voluntary Force (DVF), Koraput, on the basis of specific intelligence inputs received from surrendered Maoist cadres. The operation was launched in the forested areas bordering Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, a region considered vulnerable to Maoist activities.
During the combing operation, security personnel unearthed the hidden dump at around 5.30 am on Monday.
The seized materials include one INSAS rifle, one country-made firearm, six Claymore mines weighing approximately 18 kg, multiple tiffin bomb-based Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) weighing around 14 kg, a Maoist kit bag, Maoist literature, medicines and food items.
According to police, the recovered cache is suspected to belong to cadres of the banned Andhra-Odisha Border Special Zonal Committee (AOBSZC). The arms and explosives were allegedly stockpiled for use in attacks against security forces and civilians.
Officials described the seizure as a major success that has dealt a significant blow to Maoist activities in the region and may have averted potential threats.
The operation assumes significance as Koraput district continues its efforts to achieve the goal of becoming completely Naxal-free by March 31, 2026. Security forces, including the Special Operations Group (SOG), District Voluntary Force (DVF) and Border Security Force (BSF), have intensified anti-Maoist operations and are carrying out regular combing and area domination exercises to prevent any resurgence of extremist activities.
22, Jun 2026
NHAI Directs Wayside Amenities to Prioritise Vehicle Repair Facilities on Highways
New Delhi, June 22: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued comprehensive directions to all wayside amenities along national highways to prioritise the development and operational readiness of vehicle repair and breakdown assistance facilities.
The directive is aimed at significantly strengthening roadside support infrastructure across India’s national highway network and ensuring timely assistance to commuters in the event of vehicle breakdowns or emergencies.
Strengthening Roadside Safety and Support
NHAI stated that the availability of reliable and prompt repair services is a critical component of highway safety and user convenience. With increasing traffic density and rising long-distance travel, the authority has emphasized the need for robust and accessible roadside support systems.
The initiative is expected to reduce travel disruptions, minimize traffic congestion caused by stalled vehicles, and improve overall efficiency in highway operations.
Key Focus Areas
Under the directive, wayside amenities are encouraged to:
- Ensure availability of dedicated vehicle repair and maintenance services
- Provide trained personnel capable of handling common breakdown situations
- Maintain essential spare parts and emergency repair equipment
- Facilitate towing and emergency assistance services where required
- Strengthen coordination mechanisms for faster response times
Enhancing User Experience
The authority highlighted that improving roadside service infrastructure is essential for enhancing the overall travel experience on national highways. Reliable breakdown assistance not only improves commuter confidence but also contributes to smoother traffic movement and reduced accident risks.
Part of Broader Highway Modernisation Effort
The initiative forms part of NHAI’s ongoing efforts to modernize highway infrastructure and upgrade user amenities across the country. These measures are aligned with the broader vision of developing safer, more efficient, and more commuter-friendly national highways.
The authority reiterated its commitment to continuously improving service standards and ensuring that highway users have access to essential support services throughout their journeys.
22, Jun 2026
West Bengal Budget 2026–27 Focuses on Tax Simplification and Revenue Growth
Kolkata, June 22: The Government of West Bengal has presented its Budget for the financial year 2026–27, with a strong focus on tax simplification and measures aimed at boosting revenue growth.
The budget outlines initiatives to streamline tax processes, improve compliance, and make the taxation system more efficient and taxpayer-friendly. The reforms are intended to reduce complexity and enhance ease of doing business across sectors.
The government has also emphasized widening the tax base and strengthening revenue collection mechanisms to improve fiscal stability and support long-term development priorities.
Officials stated that these measures are designed to ensure better transparency, improved efficiency in financial management, and sustained economic growth in the state.
The budget reflects the government’s continued commitment to strengthening public finances while supporting economic activity and investment in West Bengal.
22, Jun 2026
Dedicated Freight Corridor Boosts Gujarat’s Logistics Capacity Ahead of VGRC
Gandhinagar, June 22: Ahead of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC), the Dedicated Freight Corridor has emerged as a major driver in enhancing Gujarat’s logistics infrastructure and overall cargo handling capacity.
The improved freight connectivity is expected to significantly reduce transit time, lower logistics costs, and improve efficiency in goods movement across key industrial and port-linked routes in the state.
Officials highlighted that the Dedicated Freight Corridor is strengthening integration between industrial zones, logistics parks, and major ports, thereby streamlining supply chains and supporting faster movement of goods.
The development is anticipated to further reinforce Gujarat’s position as a leading industrial and logistics hub, attracting investment and supporting export-oriented growth.
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to modernize India’s freight infrastructure and improve competitiveness in global trade networks.
22, Jun 2026
Government Approves INR 270 Crore Kavach Deployment on 631 Route km of East Coast Railway
New Delhi, June 22: The Government of India has approved a ₹270 crore project for the deployment of the indigenous train collision avoidance system, Kavach, across 631 route kilometres of the East Coast Railway.
The initiative is aimed at significantly enhancing railway safety by reducing the risk of signal passing at danger (SPAD), train collisions, and other operational hazards. The deployment forms part of Indian Railways’ ongoing efforts to modernize and strengthen its safety infrastructure through indigenous technological solutions.
Kavach is designed to improve operational efficiency and provide automated protection to trains by enabling real-time communication between locomotives and signalling systems.
Railway officials stated that the implementation of Kavach will enhance passenger safety, improve network reliability, and support safer train operations across the East Coast Railway zone.
The project marks another step forward in the government’s commitment to adopting advanced safety technologies within the railway network.
