Bird Population Study Aims to Strengthen Conservation Efforts in Coastal Mangroves

Kendrapara, Apr 29 (BNP): A census of the Mangrove Pitta was conducted across five ranges of the Rajnagar Mangrove Forest Division, covering important coastal mangrove habitats in Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur districts.

According to Divisional Forest Officer Vardhraj Gaonkar, the survey was carried out using both direct and indirect observation methods across multiple mangrove patches in the region. The exercise was conducted to assess the presence and distribution of the species in its natural habitat.

A total of 70 trained enumerators, organised into 35 teams, participated in the census exercise conducted on Sunday.

The primary objective of the study was to collect scientific data on the bird’s distribution, habitat conditions, breeding patterns, and behavioural traits. The survey will also serve as a baseline for future population monitoring and conservation planning.

Officials said such assessments are important for understanding biodiversity trends in fragile mangrove ecosystems and for strengthening long-term conservation strategies in coastal Odisha.

The data collected is expected to support ongoing efforts to protect wetland and mangrove habitats that are crucial for a variety of bird species, including the Mangrove Pitta.

Global Supply Risks May Increase Pressure on India’s LPG Costs

New Delhi, April 29: India’s LPG under-recoveries are expected to rise sharply and could reach nearly ₹80,000 crore in FY2027, driven by volatility in global energy markets and ongoing disruptions in West Asia, according to a recent assessment by ICRA.

The report notes that geopolitical tensions in key oil and gas-producing regions have tightened global supply conditions, leading to higher import costs for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This is expected to widen the gap between import prices and regulated domestic retail prices.

Under-recoveries occur when fuel retailers sell LPG at government-controlled prices that are lower than their actual procurement cost. When international prices rise, the financial burden on oil marketing companies increases.

ICRA highlighted that continued instability in global energy supply chains may keep LPG pricing under pressure in the medium term, especially if crude oil prices remain elevated.

Despite global uncertainties, domestic LPG demand in India remains steady, supported by household consumption and policy measures aimed at ensuring affordable access to clean cooking fuel.

Analysts said future trends in LPG under-recoveries will depend on global crude movements, geopolitical developments, and adjustments in domestic pricing mechanisms.

Overall, the outlook indicates continued fiscal pressure in the energy sector, with LPG cost gaps likely to remain a key concern for policymakers.

Ganga Expressway Set to Drive Growth, Connectivity and Industrial Expansion in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh, Apr 29 (BNP): The Ganga Expressway, a major infrastructure project in the state, is expected to significantly improve connectivity while supporting industrial growth, logistics development, agricultural marketing, and regional economic balance.

The 594-km expressway connects western and eastern Uttar Pradesh through a high-speed corridor designed to reduce travel time, improve transport efficiency, and strengthen economic linkages across districts.

 Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the expressway will play an important role in accelerating development and improving connectivity between rural and urban areas. He described it as a key project that will benefit farmers, youth, and entrepreneurs by improving access and reducing travel distances.

The expressway passes through 12 districts, including Meerut, Hapur, Bulandshahr, Amroha, Sambhal, Badaun, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Unnao, Rae Bareli, Pratapgarh, and Prayagraj. It is designed for high-speed travel of up to 120 kmph and is expected to make movement of people and goods faster and safer.

Modern safety and traffic systems have been installed along the corridor, including intelligent traffic management systems, CCTV surveillance, emergency response units, ambulance services, and highway patrol teams.

A 3.2-km airstrip near Shahjahanpur has also been developed for emergency landing of Air Force aircraft, adding strategic importance to the project.

Integrated Manufacturing and Logistics Clusters (IMLCs) are being developed along the expressway to support warehouses, cold storage facilities, and food processing units. These are expected to attract investment and generate employment opportunities.

The expressway is also linked with other major road corridors in the state, creating a wider expressway network that will improve regional connectivity and support economic growth.

Officials said the project will help boost investment, improve agricultural market access, strengthen logistics, and create both direct and indirect employment opportunities across Uttar Pradesh.

Bihar Shocker: Executive Officer Shot Dead, Municipal Chairman Critical in Brazen Bhagalpur Office Attack!

Bhagalpur, Apr 29 (BNP): In a brazen daylight attack, armed assailants stormed the office of the Sultanganj Nagar Parishad in Bihar’s Bhagalpur district on Tuesday, killing Executive Officer Krishna Bhushan Kumar and critically injuring Municipal Chairman Raj Kumar Guddu.

The shocking incident occurred at around 4:00 PM, when both officials were in their respective chambers attending official work. According to eyewitnesses, a group of three to five armed criminals arrived on motorcycles, entered the civic office premises, and opened indiscriminate fire, triggering panic among staff members and visitors.

Eyewitness Ranjit Kumar said several people, including standing committee members, were present inside the office when the attackers barged in and began shooting randomly. Both injured officials were immediately rushed to hospital by staff and locals.

Senior Superintendent of Police Pramod Yadav said Executive Officer Krishna Bhushan Kumar displayed exceptional courage by confronting the attackers and attempting to stop them. CCTV footage reportedly shows him struggling with the assailants before being shot multiple times.

Kumar was hit by three bullets and succumbed to his injuries while being taken to Mayaganj Hospital. Municipal Chairman Raj Kumar Guddu remains in critical condition and is undergoing treatment.

Police suspect the incident may be linked to long-standing personal rivalry within the local municipal administration, though all angles are being investigated.

The SSP confirmed that special teams have been formed to identify and arrest those responsible. CCTV footage has reportedly captured at least two of the attackers.

The incident has sparked sharp political reactions, with Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav criticising the Nitish Kumar government over deteriorating law and order in the state.

Heavy police deployment, barricading, and additional reinforcements have been put in place across Sultanganj to prevent any escalation of tension.