The Bengaluru Commute Podcast. Weekend News update : Bengaluru Airport cancels flights due to Bandh; Bannerghatta elephant corridor; Namma Metro updates; BBMP update; IISc Bengaluru news; Cleanliness Drive; Nipah virus updates; Air India; USA news; Argen

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Transcript:
Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru.
Here are the top stories of the week that went by. 

Bengaluru Local news
1. Amidst a state-wide bandh in Karnataka, numerous protests erupted, leading to the cancellation of 44 flights to and from the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. Flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Mangaluru were affected. The airport's Public Relations Officer advised passengers to stay updated on alerts from airlines and officials due to the disruptions. Pro-Kannada groups organized protests outside the airport, resulting in several detentions.
2. In other headlines, the Karnataka state government allocated Rs 75 crore, the third instalment, to the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board for Mysuru Airport's runway expansion and upgrades. The original plan required 240 acres, but now only 206.22 acres need acquisition. The extended runway, now set at 3.5 km, will accommodate larger aircraft, benefiting Mysuru's future growth. The Airport Authority of India will oversee the project once land is acquired.
3. In some more news, the forest department, Bengaluru Urban, ordered the removal of encroachments on five acres of elephant corridor in the Kaggalipura range, allocated for a resort. Within 30 days, structures must be demolished, and the area restored to its green zone status. This land is crucial for elephant movement between Bannerghatta and Savanadurga. In 2014, it was designated a deemed forest. Satellite data revealed illegal tree cutting and land alteration for Fantasy Falls View Resort, prompting notices.
4. Up next, the KR Pura-Baiyappanahalli stretch of BMRCL awaits passenger operations approval from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety. The unopened 2.1-km purple line could have alleviated severe traffic congestion on the Outer Ring Road recently, causing hours-long delays for tech professionals. The delay in opening the stretch has sparked public frustration, urging swift action from BMRCL. ORRCA President, Manas Das, emphasized the need for comprehensive information on metro services for effective public adoption.
5. Now, onto other news, Bengaluru neuroscientists have made breakthroughs in chronic pain treatment, unveiling a potential drug target and an AI-based animal behaviour model to enhance painkiller testing. This Indian Institute of Science study pioneers automated analysis of mice behaviour for chronic pain experiments. The scientists used machine learning to refine behavioural analysis, paving the way for more effective painkillers. They combined AI with optogenetics to study pain-processing neurons in the brain.
6. Moving on, smaller OBC Development Corporations like Savita Samaja, Madivala, Vishwakarma, and Ambiga have struggled to utilize funds from the Arivu education scheme. Technical glitches in the Seva Sindhu portal and the prolonged pandemic delayed fund release for the Arivu scheme. For instance, in the 2022-23 fiscal year, Savita Samaja Development Corporation allocated Rs 1.3 crore for 130 beneficiaries, but none were covered. Madivala Machideva Development Corporation allocated Rs 79 lakh but only identified 13 beneficiaries for loan renewal.
7. Meanwhile, from October 9th to the 13th, between 9 am and 1 pm, St John’s General Surgery Department will hold a free screening camp for patients with piles and fistula. The initiative includes complimentary consultations and screenings. Those diagnosed and in need of surgery during the camp can avail of it at a subsidized cost of Rs 20,000 from October 11 to 27.
8. On a different note, nature photographer and visual artist, M N Jayakumar, invited visitors to delve into his wildlife photo exhibition at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath. Featuring 231 images of mammals, birds, and reptiles from around the globe, the exhibit offers a rich biodiversity experience. The display is part of Karnataka Forest Department's National Wildlife Week celebrations, running until October 8. Additional activities, including panel discussions, workshops, and screenings, are scheduled from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

National News
1. Moving on to the national news. Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged nationwide participation in a cleanliness drive on October 1 at 10 a.m., emphasizing Swachh Bharat as a collective responsibility. He stated, "A Swachh Bharat is a shared responsibility, and every effort counts." The initiative, 'Ek Tareekh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath', aligns with Gandhi Jayanti celebrations. Citizens, organizations, and government sectors will engage in cleanliness events, supported by a dedicated portal for participation and photo uploads.
2. Meanwhile, the Afghan embassy in India purportedly conveyed its intent to cease operations, while Ambassador Farid Mamundzay remains absent. New Delhi is scrutinizing the communication for authenticity. The embassy's internal strife and diplomats seeking asylum in third countries have reportedly fueled this decision. The embassy has informed the Ministry of External Affairs about its closure plan. Earlier, a power struggle ensued when the Taliban reportedly appointed a new charge d'affaires, contested by the existing leadership.
3. In more news, four individuals, including a nine-year-old child, receiving treatment for Nipah virus in Kozhikode, have successfully recovered, announced Health Minister Veena George. The recovered patients tested "double negative" after being tested twice. The district recorded six Nipah cases, with two fatalities. The Kerala government lifted containment measures and restrictions, having reported no new Nipah cases since September 16, but authorities advised continued vigilance, social distancing, mask-wearing, and sanitization.
4. Shifting our focus, Air India, under Tata Group ownership will collaborate with fashion designer Manish Malhotra to create new uniforms for employees. The initiative aligns with Air India's global brand overhaul in its ongoing modernization drive. The new uniforms are set to debut by the end of 2023. Malhotra will engage with frontline staff for tailored designs reflecting the airline's brand, heritage, and operational needs. CEO Campbell Wilson anticipates a fresh, culturally resonant look for the reimagined Air India.
5. In a general weather update for the country, a brewing low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal is set to bring heavy rainfall to Gangetic West Bengal over the weekend, according to the India Meteorological Department. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are also slated for widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning. Squally weather conditions are expected in the region. Gangetic West Bengal and Odisha are on alert for significant rainfall and thunderstorms from September 30 till October 2nd.

International News
1. Turning our attention to international news, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan acknowledged significant strides in bilateral relations. They explored avenues for further collaboration. Jaishankar's meeting with Sullivan marks his first official bilateral engagement in Washington DC. Discussions also encompassed trade ties and dispute resolutions at the WTO. Jaishankar engaged with US Trade Representative Katherine Tai and had a productive roundtable with think tanks in DC, focusing on global transformations.
2. In ongoing news, the self-declared republic of Nagorno-Karabakh will dissolve next year, following its defeat to Azerbaijan. President Samvel Shahramanyan issued a decree calling for the dissolution of all state institutions and organizations from January 1, 2024. This marks the end of decades of conflict and potentially the Armenian presence in the region. Nagorno-Karabakh, within Azerbaijan's borders, operated autonomously for years. Azerbaijan reclaimed control after a 24-hour offensive, prompting an exodus of ethnic Armenians.
3. In a recent development, Argentina's Congress passed a bill to eliminate income taxes for almost all formal workers, exacerbating the fiscal deficit and 124% inflation ahead of October’s presidential elections. Economy Minister Sergio Massa advocated the legislation, which President Alberto Fernandez is expected to sign. Argentines vote on Oct. 22. The move comes after Massa temporarily exempted 99% of salaried workers from income taxes. The legislation permanently removes income taxes, with only high-earning workers affected.
4. In some other news, NASA reported that New York City is sinking under its weight, with LaGuardia Airport, Arthur Ashe Stadium, and Coney Island facing devastating consequences. NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab and Rutgers University identified sinking locations, notably LaGuardia and Arthur Ashe, which are sinking faster than the city's average rate. From 2016 to 2023, these areas sank 3.7 and 4.6 millimetres annually. Rising sea levels compound the threat, necessitating increased efforts to protect the city.

Business News
1. Let's now look at some business stories. The NSE reported that over the past eight months, new investor registrations on its platform reached one crore, bringing the total to over eight crore. Notably, 45 per cent of these new registrations come from cities beyond the top 100. The NSE stated, "Approximately five crore unique households in India, around 17 per cent, are directly investing in the Indian stock market."
2. In more business news, Air India has acquired India's inaugural Airbus A350-900 through a finance lease with HSBC, marking the first transaction from its record-setting order for 470 aircraft. This achievement also designates Air India as the first scheduled carrier in India to obtain an aircraft from an entity registered in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City). The transaction was facilitated by Air India subsidiary AI Fleet Services Limited, operating as a finance company in GIFT IFSC.
3. Next up, in some tech news. At the Meta Connect conference held recently, the Mark Zuckerberg-owned Meta unveiled the Meta Quest 3 mixed-reality headset. They also introduced their own AI assistant, Meta AI, similar to ChatGPT and Bing. It offers real-time information, image generation, and more. Additionally, Meta presented 28 AI avatars, including public figures like Dwayne Wade and Kendall Jenner, for conversations in WhatsApp, Instagram, and Messenger.
4. Moving on, Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy secured a Rs 1,535 crore EPC project contract for 300 MWac from NTPC Renewable Energy at Khavda RE Power Park, Gujarat. This marks the third order in a year, adding to their existing 2.47 GWac portfolio in Khavda. Amit Jain, Global CEO of Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Group, highlighted this win's significance in leveraging the current low module price environment. Year-to-date order bookings now total Rs 3,100 crore.
5. In market news, the Sensex saw an increase of 431.63 points or 0.66 per cent, reaching 65,939.95, while the Nifty rose by 145.40 points or 0.74 per cent to 19,668.90. Among the stocks, 2053 showed advancement, 1007 witnessed a decline, and 102 remained unchanged. The Indian Rupee gained strength due to a weakened US Dollar index and a drop in crude oil prices.

Entertainment News
1. Over to news from the entertainment world. The newly released teaser for Vikas Bahl's action epic, "Ganapath - A Hero Is Born," presents a dystopian future where Tiger Shroff's character, Ganapath, showcases intense combat skills. Kriti Sanon portrays a fighter alongside Tiger, and Amitabh Bachchan features as a wise figure. Fans lauded the teaser's impressive elements, expressing excitement for the October 20 release. Presented by Pooja Entertainment and Good Co, the film will be released worldwide in multiple languages.
2. In news from Hollywood, following the passing of actor Michael Gambon, famously known for his role as Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films, lead star Daniel Radcliffe shared fond memories. He praised Gambon's brilliant acting but cherished his playful, irreverent, and humorous nature on set, noting the immense fun they had working together. The Harry Potter community has been mourning Gambon's loss, with some seen outside Universal Studios raising wands to the sky as tributes.
3. Meanwhile, in some news from regional cinema, Prabhas's Salaar is set to clash with Shah Rukh Khan's Dunki this Christmas at the box office. Trade analyst Manobala Vijayabalan confirmed "that Salaar Part 1: Ceasefire" will hit screens worldwide on December 22, 2023, the same day as Dunki's release." Originally set for September 28, technical issues postponed "Salaar." Touted to be an action thriller, the film marks the first collaboration between Prashanth Neel and Prabhas.

Sports News
1. In sports news, the Indian women's squash team, comprising Joshna Chinappa, Tanvi Khanna, and Anahat Singh, secured bronze at the Asian Games, falling 1-2 to Hong Kong in the semifinals. While Tanvi and Anahat struggled, experienced player Joshana Chinappa triumphed 3-2. Despite Tanvi's defeat, Joshana's five-game battle kept India in the running. After a resilient performance, Anahat ultimately conceded the match 0-3.
2. In more sports updates, Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been named as a replacement for the injured Axar Patel in India's 15-member squad for the 50-overs World Cup. Ashwin, with a recent impressive ODI performance, was drafted in for his experience. The move came ahead of the September 28 deadline. Axar's recovery from a left quadriceps strain will take another three weeks. The World Cup campaign starts on October 5th.
3. Wrapping up sports news, WWE has inked a media rights deal to exclusively broadcast its premium live events in Japan on the streaming platform ABEMA starting in October. Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and future premium events will be available for free with Japanese commentary after their initial US telecast. On-demand viewing will also be offered for Raw, SmackDown, and NXT. 

Bengaluru Buzz
Switching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week
1. Join a fun & relaxing art class with the exclusive "Brunch & Brushes Painting workshop" conducted by the Crimson Petal Art School, happening at the Dialogues Cafe, Koramangala 4th Block on the 1st of October at 11.30 am.
2. Catch popular comic Gaurav Kapoor as he headlines his latest stand-up special - "Chaman Chatora", performing live at the MLR Convention Centre, JP Nagar on the 30th of September at 4.00 pm & 7.00 pm.
3. Enjoy a fun musical night with the "Theatre Of Techno ft Baba Robijn", happening live at the Magique, Ejipura on the 1st of October at 7.00 pm.
4. Interested in a candle-making workshop? Here's something for you! Join a beginners' class in an exclusive "Aromagic - Candle crafting workshop", happening at the Smallworld, ST Bed, Koramangala on the 1st of October at 1.00 pm.
5. You can also catch the incredible Aashish Solanki as he returns to the city with his latest stand-up special - "Good Boy, Better Show", performing live at the Long Boat Brewing Co, Marathahalli on the 1st of October at 6.00 pm & 8.30 pm.

Podcasts
1. Podcasts to listen to over the weekend: Enjoy the latest episodes of the "Studio 1886" podcast, where host Sukhoon brings you all things at work, fun and more, happening inside the BGSW campuses!
2. You can also listen to the latest episodes of the "Flight Path with Alok", where host Alok talks to experts and gives you a closer look into the global aviation business.
3. If travelling to new places is your thing, then check out the latest episodes of "Meri Duniya with Veraa" as she travels around the country, exploring new places, experiencing different cultures and quite literally taking listeners on a soulful ride!

Bengaluru Weather
1. And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. Over the weekend, Bengaluru can anticipate afternoon storms accompanied by thunder and lightning. It is expected to have minimal precipitation. Temperature-wise, it will range from a warm high of 27°C to a comfortable low of 20°C. Factoring in humidity, the maximum heat index is estimated to be 29°C, aligning with September's average high of 28.3°C.

That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favourite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Make your commute truly extraordinary. The Bengaluru Commute podcast skill is now available on Alexa! All you have to do is to download the skill from your Alexa app and look for the Bengaluru commute podcast.

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Credits:
Produced by Spooler
Producer: Anupama Rajarathnam
Audio producer: Caanu Zaza
Voiceover: Anupama Rajarathnam
Script: Prathiksha Nehru

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