The Silkyara tunnel in Uttarakhand, where workers were recently rescued after being trapped post-collapse, had witnessed around 19-20 minor to medium cave-ins earlier while under construction over 5 years. NHIDCL officials attribute it to challenging area geology containing brittle rocks, terming collapses normal though impact was greater this time with workers trapped. A 160-260 meter stretch was marked as high-risk 'red zone'. An anonymous official confirmed past cavity collapses and rock issues posing construction hurdles, as noted by the European designing consultant too. Ultimately rescuers broke through to workers stuck for 17 days and brought them out through an escape pipe passage. 

After being trapped in a collapsed tunnel in Uttarakhand for 17 days, all 41 rescued workers have been declared medically fit by AIIMS-Rishikesh. The workers were admitted to the hospital on Wednesday and underwent extensive health evaluations. The medical bulletin stated that no injuries were found and all workers were physically normal and clinically stable. 40 workers have been discharged, while one worker stayed for treatment of a pre-existing heart condition not related to the tunnel collapse. Officials gave clearance for all workers to return home, ending their life-threatening ordeal. The complex rescue operation saved the lives of all 41 workers, who thanked the rescue teams. AIIMS advised the workers to consult doctors if they experience any mental changes in the coming days.

India's Taj Mahal is experiencing an unusual winter phenomenon as green stains reappear on its walls, attributed to the poop of an insect named Goeldichironomus. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials note that while greening is an annual occurrence since 2015, the staining in October, during winter, is unprecedented. Despite thorough cleaning, the stains returned in November, raising concerns. Experts link the insect's presence to river pollution, emphasizing its bio-indicator role. ASI aims to combat the insect menace to preserve the Taj's pristine appearance amid worries that frequent occurrences may impact its iconic white color.

A video shared on Twitter showing water dripping from overhead compartments on an Air India flight has gone viral. Posted by user @baldwhiner, it depicts passengers crowded onto one side of the aisle while the other side lies vacant. The flight captain can also be seen addressing travelers in the clip. Since being shared on November 29, the tweet has amassed over 700,000 views and 5,000 likes, sparking many comments. The incident has highlighted air safety and passenger discomfort issues, bringing the state-run carrier under criticism. Social media users have weighed in with their own theories on what caused the alarming water leakage inside the airplane cabin during the flight.

Actor-comedian Kapil Sharma slammed IndiGo airlines on Twitter after his flight was delayed for nearly 90 minutes on Wednesday night. Venting frustration, he revealed passengers were stuck in a transit bus for 50 minutes with no updates and were later told the pilot was stuck in traffic, questioning if flyers would ever take IndiGo again. His complaint came hours after director Vivek Agnihotri faced a similar ordeal, with his IndiGo flight delayed by nearly 2.5 hours sans any information. He slammed the airline for passenger indifference and arrogance, filthy plane toilets and lack of basic provisions like water. Both incidents highlight indifference and mismanagement, sparking outrage on social media over India's largest airline's service quality.

Doctors have said the 41 workers rescued after being trapped for 17 days inside Uttarakhand's collapsed Silkyara tunnel are healthy and could be discharged from medical watch on Thursday. AIIMS Rishikesh executives monitoring them post the stressful ordeal said their vital signs, blood pressure, oxygen levels are normal and preliminary checks show electrolytes and parameters are fine. Further cardiac and psychological evaluations will be done but medically the workers seem absolutely normal. The successful conclusion of the 17-day multi-agency rescue has ensured there are no immediate health alarms though long-term mental impact will be checked. 

Ninety passengers aboard the Bharat Gaurav Yatra Special train suffered from food poisoning after consuming dinner provided by the IRCTC's catering contractor. The train, en route from Chennai to Palitana, made an emergency stop at Pune station as passengers experienced vomiting and diarrhea. Medical teams from Pune and Ruby Hall Clinic provided necessary treatment, and all 99 patients were declared clinically stable. The incident raises concerns over food safety, and authorities assure action against the private contractor responsible. The train resumed its journey after a 50-minute halt, emphasizing the need for improved catering standards.

In an article, PM Modi reflects on India's G20 presidency priorities as it completes one year. He says India sought to shift global consensus from GDP-centric to human-centric progress and a fundamental reform of multilateralism. Inclusivity, integrating African Union and Global South voices was key. Domestically, Jan Bhagidari involved all states and UTs. Progress on SDGs was advanced including via Digital Public Infrastructures based on India's successes with Aadhaar and UPI. Environmental sustainability aims were ambitious - renewable energy capacity tripling target, Global Biofuels Alliance, push for Green Hydrogen and sustainable lifestyle solutions. As the presidency concludes, India leaves a decisive legacy. Click on the link below to read full article.

The Silkayra tunnel project, part of the Char Dham road project, will continue after a safety audit following the successful rescue of 41 workers trapped inside the collapsed portion. A road ministry official said necessary precautions will be taken and work on the 4.5 km tunnel will resume after repairs. The 17-day rescue effort concluded on Tuesday with all workers being brought out safely after over 400 hours buried nearly 200 feet underground. Project head Harpal Singh cited poor geology study, inadequate ground support, construction issues and supervision errors as possible reasons for the collapse. He said all tunnels should have escape tunnels and learning from this incident can prevent future accidents.

The IMD has forecast heavy rains in Chennai and neighbouring districts over the next few days, prompting authorities to announce school closures on November 30. An orange alert was issued for Chennai indicating likelihood of very heavy rains. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned of more intense rainfall from December 2-4. The IMD also noted a low pressure area over Southeast Bay of Bengal that may concentrate into a cyclonic storm. Amid downpours, TN CM Stalin directed officials to provide assistance in rain-hit areas. GCC advised Chennai residents to stay indoors given the heavy rains. Fishermen were advised not to venture into sea due to rough conditions.