Delhi CM could be targeted on Republic Day
What's the story
An email addressed to Arvind Kejriwal said that he could be attacked by four men on Republic Day. Delhi Police and other security agencies have tightened security across the capital given that there have been many intelligence-inputs concerning attacks on Republic Day. 50,000 security personnel will be guarding Central and New Delhi tomorrow. To read what all is making news in Delhi, tap in!
Metro
Delhi metro in for a steep hike
Metro fares were last increased in 2009. Since 2009 electricity fares increased by 90% and electricity bill accounts for 30% of metro's operating expenses. NITI Aayog has strongly recommended a steep hike to ensure "high quality service and maintenance" and to avoid deterioration in services. Metro fare committee recommends increase in minimum prices from Rs.8 to Rs.10 and maximum prices from Rs.30 to Rs.50.
R-Day
Anti-drone technology to prevent attacks
There are intelligence inputs that terror groups like LeT may launch aerial attacks by the use of choppers or charter flights. Therefore, Delhi Police is using anti-drone technology to thwart attacks and tackle suspicious flying objects. Security personnel will also be positioned on tall buildings armed with anti-aircraft guns. Landings and take-off of commercial flights has also been stopped for 2 hours.
Infrastucture
Pragati Maidan to be finally revamped
Pragati Maidan's revamp has been cleared by cabinet committee on economic affairs. If implemented, Pragati Maidan, will have a large convention centre, underground parking, exhibition halls, huge hotel on its premises by mid-2019. Statutory permissions will be applied for and the bidding process may start in 4-5 months. Pragati Maidan's redevelopment plan was conceived in 2006 and work will be spread over 2 phases.
Administration
Municipal bodies pay crores to 'ghost pensioners'
While auditing accounts of Delhi's municipal bodies, it was discovered that Rs.1,942.82 crores was paid to pensioners without determining if beneficiaries were still alive. The payments were made over 18 years via Punjab National Bank and UCO Bank. These irregularities were brought to concerned department's attention but there was no inquiry initiated. AAP legislators and Congress in the opposition have questioned silence of corporations.
Greater Noida
Massive fire in Greater Noida market
Greater Noida's vegetable market went up in flames early today morning. 100 kiosks of groceries, fruits, vegetables and garments were gutted however no casualties were reported. Early estimates suggest the damage to property is around Rs.70 lakh. Residents nearby reported the fire and 11 fire tenders were rushed to the spot. It is believed that a short circuit likely caused the fire.
Sushant Lok
'Pigs' troubling Sushant Lok residents
Residents of upscale Sushant Lok are perturbed by pigs roaming nearby. Nearby grounds have become garbage dumps leading to a massive increase in population of pigs: residents put the number at 1500. Multiple complaints have been made as there have also been accidents due to pigs jumping in front of vehicles at night. Residents are desperate for civic agencies to take action.
Noida
Improving last mile connectivity
Feeder buses will be started by Noida Metro Rail Corporation to improve last-mile connectivity in Noida Extension and Sector 73. The service will likely start by January end and dozen buses will be added to the existing fleet of buses. Noida's far off sectors were bereft of transport options and these feeder buses will especially mitigate their transportation woes.