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Uttarakhand govt intensifies food safety measures on Char Dham Yatra routes
The Uttarakhand government has intensified its actions against food adulteration and launched a cleanliness campaign along the Char Dham Yatra routes to ensure clean, safe, and high-quality food for pilgrims and the general public, said R Rajesh Kumar, Commissioner of Food Safety and Drug Administration Department, on Thursday. He said that the state government has prepared a special action plan to maintain food safety at Char Dham Yatra and tourist places. Permanent food safety officers have been deployed in districts like Haridwar, Nainital, Dehradun, Tehri, and Udham Singh Nagar. Additional officers will be deployed from other districts like Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, and Pithoragarh. He further said that hotels, dhabas, restaurants, sweet sellers, and food vendors on travel routes and major pilgrimage sites will be regularly inspected. Food safety teams will be deployed on highways and travel routes through mobile testing labs. Rajesh Kumar said that under no circumstances will unhygienic and adulterated food items be served to passengers. Strict action will be taken against those who violate food safety standards. Products like milk products, spices, oil, flour, maida, sweets, soft drinks and packed food will be tested in the laboratory. If adulteration is found, legal action will be taken under the FSSAI Act 2006. Direct action will be taken against those doing food business without a license and registration. Special instructions have been given to food traders to maintain cleanliness and quality, he said. He said that a complete ban on single-use plastic will be imposed. Separate dustbins for wet and dry waste will be made mandatory on travel routes. Strict garbage management rules will be applicable in hotels, dhabas, and restaurants. Used edible oil will be recycled under the RUCO (Re-Purpose of Used Cooking Oil) campaign. The government has appealed to passengers to buy food items only from FSSAI-licensed establishments. Complaints about unhygienic or suspicious food items can be made on helpline number 18001804246. It will be mandatory for food businesses to follow hygiene standards. Legal action will be taken against those selling adulterated and poor-quality food items. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
21 March,2025 04:01 PM IST | Uttarakhand | ANI
Mount Fuji hikers to be charged over Rs 2300 on all trails from this summer
Hikers attempting any of Mount Fuji's four main trails will be charged an entry fee of 4,000 yen ($27) from this summer, after local authorities passed a bill on Monday. A record influx of foreign tourists to Japan has sparked alarm about overcrowding on the nation's highest mountain, a once-peaceful pilgrimage site. Last year, Yamanashi region -- home to Mount Fuji -- introduced a 2,000 yen ($14) entry fee plus an optional donation for the active volcano's most popular hiking route, the Yoshida Trail. A cap on daily entries and online reservations were also brought in on that trail by officials concerned about safety and environmental damage on Fuji's majestic slopes. The Yoshida Trail fee will be doubled for this year's July-September climbing season, while neighbouring Shizuoka region passed a bill on Monday to also charge 4,000 yen for its three trails, which were previously free. Thanks in part to the new restrictions, the number of climbers who tackled Mount Fuji declined to 204,316 last year, from 221,322 in 2023, environment ministry data shows. Although climber numbers continue to be eclipsed by pre-pandemic levels, "200,000 hikers is still huge", Natsuko Sodeyama, a Shizuoka prefecture official, told AFP. "There is no other mountain in Japan that attracts that many people in the span of just over two months. So some restrictions are necessary to ensure their safety." Mount Fuji is covered in snow for most of the year, but during the summer hiking season many trudge up its steep, rocky slopes through the night to see the sunrise. The symmetrical mountain has been immortalised in countless artworks, including Hokusai's "Great Wave". It last erupted around 300 years ago. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
17 March,2025 05:27 PM IST | Japan | AFP
Japan: Mount Fuji climbers may have to pay increased entry fee
Japan's Yamanashi prefectural government plans to raise the entry fee for climbers of Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest mountain, from the current 2,000 yen to a range of 3,000 to 5,000 yen, local media reported. The proposed hike would merge the entry fee with the existing voluntary conservation cooperation charge of 1,000 yen per climber. Local communities have criticised the voluntary payment system as confusing and overly complicated, Jiji Press cited informed sources as saying. Entry policies of Mount Fuji, which straddles Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures, may see similar changes on the Shizuoka side. The Shizuoka prefectural government is considering implementing a mandatory entry fee of 3,000 to 5,000 yen starting next summer, replacing its voluntary conservation payment system, Xinhua news agency reported. Yamanashi officials have presented three potential fee increase plans to local stakeholders, proposing new entry fees of 3,000, 4,000, or 5,000 yen per climber. The changes aim to streamline payments and enhance funding for the mountain's conservation and management. Also Read: Pompeii in Italy aims to combat mass tourism with daily visitor limit This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
17 March,2025 02:16 PM IST | Japan | IANS
Holi 2025: Here's where Indians are headed this Holi long weekend
As people celebrate Holi this weekend, this year, the universe (and the calendar) have aligned to bring you a long weekend that’s practically begging to be turned into an escape. According to Skyscanner’s Wanderlost Report, almost half (49%) Indians were already plotting their next getaway for 2025 in the month of January. In fact, Skyscanner data shows that 13 March and 15 March are currently the most popular dates Indians are travelling on, so why not make the most of this festive long weekend with a getaway that mixes tradition with a touch of adventure? And it’s no surprise - Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2025 report found that 91 per cent of Indian travellers believe that vacations help them unwind and recharge. So whether you’re a colour-slinging champion, a serial gujiya muncher, or just someone who wants to swap pichkaris (water guns) for passport stamps, Skyscanner has got you covered with some travel recommendations. From India’s most iconic Holi hotspots to serene escapes where the only colours are vibrant sunsets and lush landscapes, we’re here to help you make the most of this long weekend—your way. 1. Vrindavan and Mathura, Uttar Pradesh If you’ve ever dreamed of celebrating Holi in the most spectacular way possible, the twin cities of Vrindavan and Mathura are the places to be. Here, Holi is celebrated as a multi-day spectacle, steeped in history, devotion, and an explosion of colour. From Barsana’s ‘Lathmar Holi,’ where women playfully chase men with sticks, to ‘Phoolon wali Holi’ at the Banke Bihari Temple, where petals replace coloured powder, every ritual carries a story centuries in the making. The streets are awash with vibrant hues of gulal, the aroma of freshly made malpuas wafting through the air, temple courtyards packed with devotees, and the lovely tunes of "Rang Barse Bhige Chunar Wali" playing in every corner. It is an experience that draws thousands of travellers every year. If you’re thinking of being part of the grand festivities this year, you're not alone Skyscanner data shows a 353 per cent surge in searches for flights to the nearest airport, Agra, for March 12, compared to the same day in February. Even more striking, searches for March 11 alone spiked 417 per cent as compared to the previous day. If you’re ready to make this Holi special, here are some flights to get you to Agra: 1. Flight prices from Delhi (DEL) to (AGR) start at Rs 23,0291 2. Fight prices from Mumbai (BOM) to (AGR) start at Rs 17,876 3. Fight prices from Bangalore (BLR) to (AGR) start at Rs 19,374 2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Holi in Varanasi is pure magic! So it is no surprise that Varanasi ranks second among the most searched destinations for travel between 12th and 18th March*—proof that more and more travellers are eyeing the perfect flight to celebrate here without missing a moment of the action. If you are planning a trip to the city, here’s a pro tip: aim for a flight that lands late the night before or early on Holi morning for the ultimate experience. Use Skyscanner’s departure time filter to easily find flights that align with your ideal arrival and departure windows. Once you’re there, watching the sunrise over the Ganges, as the first light washes over the river, is a must—especially for those who love the quiet moments before the city wakes up. Then, experience the main Holi festivities at the Dashashwamedh Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath Temple, where the fusion of tradition, music, and colours creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. And as the day winds down, witness the evening Ganga Aarti with its chants and flickering lamps –the perfect way to end the day, soak in the energy and embrace the spirit of the Holy City of India. Here are some of the best deals to get you there: 1. Flight prices from Delhi (DEL) to (VNS) start at Rs 11,8962 2. Fight prices from Mumbai (BOM) to (VNS) start at Rs 11,560 3. Fight prices from Bangalore (BLR) to (VNS) start at Rs 11,831 3. Goa, India When you say long weekend, India hears Goa! This year, the party mode is already on, and the numbers don’t lie! Ranked No. 4 among the most searched destinations during the Holi weekend, it is clear that Goa isn’t just a summer escape—it’s a festive hotspot. You can dance your way through beachside parties or explore its famous forts and churches in the golden morning light. Alternatively, take a day trip to experience Holi at temples in Ponda or Vasco to add a local twist to your celebrations. And if you extend your trip by a few days, you might just catch the grand Shigmo parades, a spectacle of elaborate floats, traditional Goan folk dances, and drum processions that make the celebrations uniquely Goan. So, pack your bags, grab your shades (and maybe some extra sunscreen), and get ready to dive into a celebration that’s as colourful as it gets. For those heading to Goa for the long weekend, planning your travel smartly can help you make the most of your trip. You can mix and match your flights—instead of booking a return ticket with the same airline, try flying out with one and back with another, or even consider different airports for departure and return. This simple hack can unlock better fares, making your Holi escape easier on the wallet. 1. Flight prices from Delhi (DEL) to (GOI) start at Rs 15,8963 2. Fight prices from Mumbai (BOM) to (GOI) start at Rs 11,790 3. Fight prices from Bangalore (BLR) to (GOI) start at Rs 8,446 4. Kolkata, West Bengal In Kolkata, you will witness Holi as a work of art in motion—with folks rejoicing in colours during the Dol Jatra! Ranked among the top Holi getaways, the City of Joy brings its own artistic flair to the festival. Picture this: the streets of Shantiniketan come alive with Basanta Utsav, a mesmerising display of Rabindranath Tagores’s legacy, where people dressed in vibrant yellows sing, dance, and welcome spring in the most poetic way possible. Back in Kolkata, you can soak up the festive spirit in College Street and Nakhoda Masjid Road, where colours fly high, and the energy is electric. Looking for a more laid-back celebration? Park Street’s Holi parties offer the perfect mix of revelry and relaxation. And let’s not forget the food—malpua, thandai, and sandesh are all part of the experience. For travellers looking to maximize time and savings, you can set up Skyscanner’s Price Alerts to track fare prices and grab the best deals! • Flight prices from Delhi (DEL) to Kolkata (CCU) start at Rs 14,4814 • Fight prices from Mumbai (BOM) to Kolkata (CCU) start at Rs 10,378 • Fight prices from Bangalore (BLR) to Kolkata (CCU) start at Rs 12,013 5. Mumbai, Maharashtra Known for its Holi bashes and events across the city, Mumbai is all about Bollywood beats and colour-soaked streets during the festival! The city definitely knows how to celebrate in style, with high-energy parties, foot-thumping music, and a festival spirit that’s truly infectious. If you’re looking for classic Mumbai Holi vibes, Juhu Beach and Chowpatty are where the action is—expect crowds, colours, and the Arabian Sea adding to the magic. Want to take it up a notch? The city’s Bollywood-style Holi parties are legendary, featuring DJs, rain dances, and enough gulal to turn the city into a canvas of colour. And if you’re looking to keep the party going, Martin Garrix at DY Patil Stadium is set to take the celebrations to another level with an electrifying night of music and energy. Of course, no Holi in Mumbai is complete without indulging in puran poli, bhang, thandai, and jalebis from the city’s famous street stalls. So, grab your sunglasses, put on your festival whites, and get ready for a Holi that’s as vibrant as Mumbai itself.
14 March,2025 10:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Travelling to Goa now? Experience the vibrance of Shigmo, its spring festival
Goa’s most awaited spring festival, Shigmo, is set to bring the streets alive with a spectacular display of culture, tradition, and celebration. As the festival unfolds from March 15 to March 29, various towns across the state will witness processions of vibrant floats, traditional folk dances, and immersive performances that showcase Goa’s rich heritage. The festivities will commence in Ponda on March 15, followed by Margao on March 16, Quepem on March 17, and Curchorem on March 18. On March 19, the celebrations will reach Shiroda, continuing to Calangute and Bicholim on March 20, Vasco on March 21, and Panaji on March 22. The streets of Mapusa and Sanguem will come alive on March 23, while Canacona and Cuncolim will host grand parades on March 24. The vibrant processions will then move to Pernem on March 25, Dharbandora on March 26, Valpoi on March 27, Sanquelim on March 28, and finally conclude in Mandrem on March 29. With each passing day, different locations will host grand parades, offering visitors a chance to experience the essence of Goan festivities in a unique way. From the lively beats of the traditional musical instrument like dhol, tashe to the mesmerizing performances of folk artists in traditional attire, every moment of Shigmo is a spectacle to behold. Tourism Minister of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte stated, “Shigmo is a time when Goa’s cultural essence comes alive through folk performances, music, and stunning float parades. It is an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in authentic Goan traditions while exploring the beauty of our state. We encourage travellers to be part of this unique celebration and discover the many facets of Goa beyond its beaches." Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik said,"Shigmo is not just a festival; it is a reflection of Goa’s vibrant traditions and community spirit. Every year, it brings together artists, performers, and visitors to celebrate our rich heritage. We welcome everyone to experience this grand spectacle and witness Goa in its most colourful and joyous form."Tavellers from across the globe can witness the grandeur of Shigmo 2025, a spectacular festival that showcases the state’s rich cultural heritage. With the joyous energy of Shigmo filling the air, visitors can also take this opportunity to explore Goa’s scenic landscapes, heritage sites, and delectable cuisine. Whether it's your first time in Goa or a return to familiar shores, whether you are a culture enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, this festive season promises a blend of tradition and celebration that stays with you long after the festivities end.
13 March,2025 12:04 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Buddha statue's torso found nearly 100 yrs after head was found at Angkor temple
Archaeologists in Cambodia are celebrating an unexpected find at the country's centuries-old Angkor temple complex: the torso of a statue of Buddha that matches a head found nearly a century ago at the same site. The torso, believed to be from the 12th or 13th century, was discovered during a dig by a team of Cambodian and Indian experts last month at Angkor's Ta Prohm temple. It was found along with 29 fragments that appeared to be part of the same statue, archaeologist Neth Simon said this week. It stands at 1.16 meters (3 3/4 feet) tall and is in the Bayon art style, associated with Angkor's Bayon temple. It was a big surprise when we unearthed this sculpture because all we'd found so far were small pieces, Neth Simon told The Associated Press by phone from Siem Reap province. She described the statue's design as displaying carved jewellery and robe and sash, with a unique left-hand gesture across the chest, an uncommon representation in Khmer (Cambodian) art. The statue's presumed head was discovered at the same temple in 1927 during the French colonial era, and is currently kept at Cambodia's main National Museum in the capital Phnom Penh. Neth Simon said the torso was found about 50 meters (yards) away from the site where the head was discovered, and that an optical electronic scan confirmed they were a match. A near-complete reconstruction of the status is possible, Neth Simon added, now that only the right hand of the statue remains missing. Her team will ask the Minister of Culture and Fine Art for approval to reattach the head and body of the sculpture to make it whole for public display. The Angkor site sprawls across some 400 square kilometers (155 square miles), containing the ruins of capitals of various Cambodian empires from the 9th to the 15th centuries. Scholars consider it to be one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. The site is Cambodia's most popular tourist attraction and in 2024 attracted about a million international tourists, according to Cambodia's Tourism Ministry. The excavations aim to organize and preserve the numerous art objects scattered throughout the Ta Prohm complex, highlighting the ongoing efforts to protect and understand Cambodia's rich cultural heritage, the Apsara Authority says. Neth Simon said she would be delighted if the statue's pieces could be reassembled after being far apart from each other for a century. As an archaeologist, I would be really happy," she said.
13 March,2025 11:30 AM IST | Phnom Penh | AP
Nearly 2.44 cr tourists visited Assam in last 4 years: Tourism Min Ranjeet Kumar
Nearly 2.44 crore tourists, including more than 60,000 foreign tourists, visited Assam in the last four years, said Assam Tourism Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass in the state assembly. Replying to a question of MLA Akhil Gogoi, Assam Tourism Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass said in the state assembly that, more than 2.43 crore domestic tourists and 60,306 foreign tourists visited Assam in last four years. "17,01,701 domestic tourists and 1231 foreign tourists had visited the state in 2021-22; 98,12,195 domestic tourists and 18,946 foreign tourists visited the state in 2022-23. 70,41,206 domestic tourists and 26,129 foreign tourists visited Assam in 2023-24," Ranjeet Kumar Dass said. The Assam Minister further said that, in 2024-25 till December 57,48,772 domestic tourists and 14,000 foreign tourists visited the state. During the period, more than 41 lakh domestic and foreign tourists had visited Kamakhya temple in Guwahati. The Minister further said that, the state government has implemented several schemes, projects for development of the tourism sector of the state. Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said in the state assembly on Tuesday that Assam is one of the five fastest-growing states in the country. "We are consistently clocking growth rates of 14-15%, which is much more than the national growth of 9-10 per cent. Assam is one of the 5 fastest-growing states of the country, and the resounding success of Advantage Assam 2.0 speaks volumes about our growth journey," Sarma said on Tuesday. According to the state government's data, in 2021-22, Assam's GSDP growth rate was 21 percent, in 2022-23, it was 17 percent, in 2023-24, it was 19 percent, and in 2024-25, it was 13 percent, which is higher than the national average. The Assam Chief Minister further said that Assam's capital expenditures have seen a significant rise, from Rs 2,951 crore in 2015-16 to Rs 24,964 crore in 2024-25. "With such growth, the state is poised to become one of the leading states in terms of capital expenditures," CM Sarma added. The Assam Chief Minister also said, "Assam's debt-to-GDP ratio stands at 25 per cent. Additionally, 17 public sector undertakings are profitable, contributing to a collective net wealth of approximately Rs 40,000 crore. The state also has Rs 58,000 crore in assets that can be encashed at any given time." According to the data, Assam's debt-to-GSDP ratio in FY 2023-24 is 24.3%. The Assam Chief Minister also said, "This is a new Assam, an Assam that aims for the sky and reaches it. This is my Assam." This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
12 March,2025 01:17 PM IST | Guwahati | ANI
From Udaipur to Dubai, popular destinations for Holi 2025 long weekend
Holi, the festival of colours, is round the corner and apart from enjoying its vibrancy, people are also looking forward to travel as the festival falls on a Friday this year, making it a long weekend. Indian travellers are maximising the extended weekend by opting for a blend of colourful domestic celebrations which offer cultural immersion, and quick international getaways that offer global experiences. Domestic getaways According to data by Booking.com, Udaipur, Mumbai and Rishikesh lead as the most searched domestic destinations during the festive period. Destinations renowned for their vibrant Holi celebrations like Vrindavan, Mathura, Pushkar, Jaipur, Shantiniketan and Hampi are also witnessing a surge in searches during this period. From the traditional rituals in the temples of Mathura and Vrindavan to the processions of Rajasthan, these regional celebrations offer a diverse range of experiences that are capturing the attention of travellers across the country. Simultaneously, the allure of peaceful escapes is also drawing travellers to serene coastal towns and hill stations such as Puducherry, Lonavala and Ooty. Top 10 most searched domestic destinations by Indian travellers travelling between March 13 and 16 (Source: Search data from Booking.com) 1. Udaipur 2. Mumbai 3. Rishikesh 4. Jaipur 5. New Delhi 6. Varanasi 7. Vrindavan 8. Puducherry 9. Puri 10. Lonavala International destinations Alongside domestic getaways, a long weekend is also a perfect opportunity for a quick international trip. This Holi, Indians are also looking beyond borders, exploring a diverse range of destinations ranging from bustling urban hubs to leisure getaways. Destinations offering simplified visa procedures are also experiencing increased interest. Dubai emerges as travellers' favourite short-haul destination followed by Singapore and Bangkok. Beach destinations like Phuket and Abu Dhabi are also gaining traction. Mecca, Kuala Lumpur, London, Tokyo and Paris round out the top ten, showcasing a blend of iconic city experiences and spiritual journeys. Top 10 most searched international destinations by Indian travellers travelling between March 13 and 16 (Source: Search data from Booking.com) 1. Dubai 2. Singapore 3. Bangkok 4. Mecca 5. Phuket 6. Abu Dhabi 7. Kuala Lumpur 8. London 9. Tokyo 10. Paris Also Read: Srinagar: Asia's largest tulip garden set to open for the season
10 March,2025 11:40 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Kedarnath & Hemkund Sahib ropeway projects approved: What it means for visitors
To enhance tourist infrastructure in Uttarakhand and facilitate a convenient journey for pilgrims, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recently approved ropeway projects for two spiritual sites: Sonprayag to Kedarnath and Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji. The projects, at a total cost of Rs 6,811 crore, will help significantly reduce the travel time to the pilgrimage sites and boost tourism. The construction of these two ambitious projects is likely to be completed in 4-6 years. Kedarnath ropeway project Kedarnath is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas in India, situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. The temple is open for pilgrims for about 6 to 7 months in a year from Akshaya Tritiya (April-May) to Diwali (October-November). In 2025, the gates to the temple will open for devotees on May 2. The journey to Kedarnath temple is a challenging 16-km uphill trek from Gaurikund and is currently covered on foot or by ponies, palanquins and helicopter. The proposed ropeway is planned to provide convenience to pilgrims visiting the temple and ensure all-weather connectivity between Sonprayag and Kedarnath, reported PTI. "The ropeway project will be a boon to the pilgrims visiting Kedarnath as it would provide an environment-friendly, comfortable and fast connectivity and reduce travel time in one direction from about 8 to 9 hours to about 36 minutes," an official release said. In 2024, Kedarnath Dham had welcomed 16,52,076 pilgrims between May 10 and November 3, according to Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee. Also Read: Over 30 lakh pilgrims visit Badrinath and Kedarnath during 2024 Yatra: Report Hemkund Sahib ropeway project Hemkund Sahib Ji is a highly revered pilgrimage site situated in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The Gurudwara established at the holy site is open for about 5 months in a year between May and September. The trek to Hemkund Sahib Ji also serves as the gateway to the famous Valley of Flowers, a national park recognised as UNESCO World Heritage site, located in the pristine Garhwal Himalayas. Currently, the journey to Hemkund Sahib Ji is a challenging 21-km uphill trek from Govindghat and is covered on foot or by ponies or palanquins. The proposed ropeway is planned to provide convenience to pilgrims visiting the Hemkund Sahib Ji and the tourists visiting the Valley of Flowers, and will ensure all-weather last-mile connectivity between Govindghat and Hemkund Sahib Ji, reported PTI. Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed that 1.77 lakh people went to Hemkund Sahib Ji last year. The ropeway is expected to increase the number of people visiting there by 10 times. This infrastructure push comes in light of continued focus on spiritual tourism in the country, including but not limited to the development of temple corridors and enhanced connectivity to spiritual sites. (With inputs from PTI)
06 March,2025 07:34 PM IST | Uttarakhand | mid-day online correspondent
Srinagar: Asia's largest tulip garden set to open for the season
Preparations are in full swing at Asia's largest Tulip Garden, nestled between Dal Lake and Zabarwan Hills, ahead of its annual opening later this month, officials said on Thursday. The garden, formerly known as Siraj Bagh, will be open to visitors later this month when the tulip bulbs start to bloom. The Floriculture department plants the tulip bulbs in a phased manner so that the flowers remain in the garden for a month or more. Asif Ahmad, Assistant Floriculture Officer of the Tulip Garden, said the preparations for the garden's opening this year were in full swing. "This is an important tourist attraction. It will be opened for visitors in the coming days," he said. Officials mentioned that workers and employees of the department were busy giving the garden its final touches. Ahmad said the department had added two new varieties of tulips to the garden this year. "We try something new for the tulip garden every year. We are coming with a new color scheme this year. We have added two new varieties of tulips, bringing the total number of varieties to 74," he added. The officer also mentioned that other spring flowers, such as hyacinths, daffodils, muscari, and cyclamens, would also be on display to add variety to the garden's colors and flowers. About 1.7 million tulip bulbs have been planted in the garden, which spans 55 hectares of land. "We have 1.7 million bulbs this year, and the tourists will be able to see them bloom. The extension of the garden has almost reached its full capacity," he added. The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden was established by then-Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad in 2007 to extend the tourist season in Jammu and Kashmir, which was previously limited to summers and winters. The garden started on a small scale with 50,000 tulip bulbs imported from Holland. It quickly gained popularity among tourists and has steadily grown each year, both in terms of the number of visitors and the tulips that bloom there. More than 4.65 lakh visitors, both domestic and foreign, visited the garden last year, while in 2023, it saw a footfall of 3.65 lakh people. "Last year, 4.65 lakh visitors came to the garden during its short window of 25 to 30 days. This year, we hope the numbers will exceed last year's. We extend our invitation to people from across the country and abroad to come here and witness this flower extravaganza," Ahmad added. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
06 March,2025 05:00 PM IST | Srinagar | PTI
Looking for a pet-friendly ride? 'Uber Pet' service expanded to Mumbai and Delhi
Are you a pet parent? It can often be challenging to find a suitable ride to travel with your pet for purposes like a visit to the veterinarian, a walk in the park or just a day out. Mumbaikars and Delhiites can now take their pets along on rides as Uber is expanding its 'Uber Pet' service to these cities, making it easier for users to travel along with their furry family members. The service was introduced in Bengaluru last year, and is now available in three cities in India. This feature is available both on-demand and as a Reserve option, enabling users to book rides with their pets instantly or in advance. Commenting on the expansion, Shweta Mantri, Head, Rider Verticals, Uber India and South Asia, said, “We’re excited to bring Uber Pet to Delhi and Mumbai, offering even more flexibility for pet owners to travel with their furry friends. After listening to the feedback from pet parents, we’re now offering the option to book Uber Pet on-demand, making travel with your pets easier than ever.” Steps to book the service Open the Uber app and enter your destination in the ‘where to’ box. Select Uber Pet at the bottom of the screen. Review booking details and tap confirm. Also Read: Srinagar: You can now book shikara rides on Dal Lake through Uber
06 March,2025 02:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent