Latest news today (January 17): Presenting FE’s Breaking News today. We will keep you updated on all major news, views and much more throughout the day.

Sand taxi system to be launched soon in J’khand: Official

The Jharkhand government will soon implement a sand taxi system similar to that of Telangana in order to provide sand to consumers at affordable rates, an official said on Wednesday. This move is aimed at combating illegal sand mining and sand mafias. According to officials, the state’s mines and geology department will soon create a sand taxi portal where trucks, tractors, and other vehicles from across the state will be registered. (PTI)

3 killed and 77 injured in massive blast caused by explosives in Nigeria

A powerful explosion in Nigeria’s Ibadan city claimed three lives and left 77 injured. The blast damaged over 20 buildings, triggering panic among residents. Rescue operations are underway to locate potential survivors trapped in the rubble. Security forces secured the area, and medical teams stand by for emergency response.

Pakistan recalls ambassador from Iran, bars Iranian envoy from returning to post

Pakistan has recalled its ambassador from Iran and the Iranian ambassador to Pakistan who is visiting Iran will not be allowed to come back, Pakistan’s foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday. (Reuters)

ISRO develops second-generation distress alert transmitter for fishermen

ISRO has developed a second-generation ‘Distress Alert Transmitter’ (DAT), incorporating advanced satellite communication and navigation capabilities that allow fishermen at sea to send emergency messages from fishing boats and get acknowledgement in real time. The DAT has been operational since 2010 and more than 20,000 of them are currently in use, the space agency said. (PTI)

Patnaik inaugurates Rs 800-cr heritage corridor project around Puri’s Jagannath temple

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday inaugurated the Rs 800-crore heritage corridor project around the historic Sri Jagannath Temple in Puri. The Srimandir Parikrama Prakalpa was officially unveiled by Patnaik in presence of Gajapati Maharaja of Puri Divyasingha Deb and representatives of around 90 temples and thousands of devotees. “The project has been possible due to the blessings of Lord Jagannath,” the CM said. (PTI)

Mahua Moitra receives third notice to vacate government residence

TMC leader Mahua Moitra faces her third eviction notice from the Directorate of Estate in New Delhi, following her expulsion from the Lok Sabha in the ‘cash-for-query’ case. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs demands she vacate her official bungalow in Delhi. (READ MORE)

Over 170 flights affected, 20 trains delayed due to fog

The national capital continues to grapple with biting cold and fog, impacting visibility and causing delays and cancellations in flight and train operations on Wednesday morning.

Teenager dies after being electrocuted while flying kite

Police reported that a teenager in Telangana’s Rangareddy district allegedly died from electrocution while flying a kite. The incident occurred in the Mailardevpally police station area of Rangareddy on Tuesday, leading to the registration of a case.

Earthquake hits Assam

An earthquake with a magnitude of 3.5 on the Richter Scale hit Darrang, Assam today at 7.54 am: National Centre for Seismology

Mercury drops to 4 degrees Celsius in Delhi as coldwave continues

The national capital woke up to yet another freezing day as the minimum temperature dropped to 4 degrees Celsius. Several flights departing from the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport were delayed.

Extended cold wave, fog grips North India; minimal western disturbances expected: IMD

India Meteorological Department (IMD) Scientist Soma Sen addressed the prevailing weather conditions in Delhi and North India, highlighting the minimal change expected in the minimum temperature on Tuesday.

8 firearms, 15 live bullets seized in Mumbai; two arrested 

The Mumbai Police have arrested two individuals allegedly involved in the possession of illegal arms and ammunition and seized eight firearms and 15 live bullets, said the police on Wednesday.

Lucknow District Magistrate declares winter break; schools closed till Jan 18

Due to the rising cold temperatures, Lucknow District Magistrate Surya Pal Gangwar has declared school holidays for all classes up to Grade 8 until January 18. However, schools for classes 9 to Intermediate will remain open with regular hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.