As per a report from open-source intelligence monitor OSINT Defender, a new tactical symbol has appeared on Russia's tanks and armoured vehicles which have been deployed near Ukraine's Kharkiv, amid the ongoing offensive.

As per a report from open-source intelligence monitor OSINT Defender, a new tactical symbol has appeared on Russia's tanks and armoured vehicles which have been deployed near Ukraine's Kharkiv, amid the ongoing offensive. This symbol reportedly hints at a major scale-up in the military activities of Russia. The new symbol has a central square along with two overlapping diagonal crosses. Over the last several days, the marking has started appearing on Russian equipment. According to OSINT Defender's report, the new symbol can be related to the renewed border offensive by Russia in northeast Ukraine. Russian armoured assault groups have been trying to breach Ukrainian defences, especially around Vovchansk, where Russian forces were seen entering the border town. A “Theatre Tactical Symbol” which was not previously seen has begun to appear on Russian Tanks, Armored Vehicles, and other Equipment seen over the last 48-72 Hours during Offensive Operations against the Kharkiv Region of Northeastern Ukraine, with this being another Indicator… pic.twitter.com/YS7GEacZj9 — OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) May 11, 2024 × Such symbols generally serve as identification friend or foe (IFF) measures in conflict zones. Also Read: New front opens in Russia-Ukraine war as Moscow launches surprise offensive After the Ukraine invasion in 2022, the most prominent marking was the 'Z' which appeared on various Russian armoured vehicles and later became a symbol for Russians to express their support towards the war effort. Retired U.S. Marine Lieutenant Colonel Michael Pursell, while speaking to Newsweek, said, "Markings are crucial in combat to distinguish between friendly and enemy vehicles, especially in conflicts like the one in Ukraine where both sides might use similar equipment." How has carrying district symbols on armoured vehicles become a common norm in Russia? The district symbols were introduced on its armoured vehicles by the Russian military just before the 2022 invasion. According to the conflict's database website, Russo-Ukrainian Warspotting along with Russia-aligned militia in Donbas, was assigned distinct signs. More than 10 different symbols which were used by the Russian army on the battlefield have been tracked by the website, including the white 'Z.' In some cases, Russian vehicles carried signs of districts that they didn't belong to. Watch: Russia's Putin to meet Xi Jinping in Beijing. What's on the agenda? "Adaptations to markings may be made to improve clarity and effectiveness, including considerations for drone visibility. But in this case, it seems that the implementation has never been particularly meticulous," Pursell said while speaking to Newsweek. As Ukraine continues to wait for the US military's much-needed aid, a renewed assault has been launched by the Russian forces into Kharkiv and the Ukrainian military has been rushing additional resources to the northeastern border. As per the Ukrainian officials, Moscow has made "tactically significant gains" in the northeast region's areas, where Kyiv has less defences. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Mysterious new symbol appears on Russia’s military equipment. Here’s what it is

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, reacting to the US' warning of "potential risk of sanctions" over India signing a 10-year agreement to run the Chabahar Port in Iran, said the entire region would benefit from the project.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, reacting to the US' warning of "potential risk of sanctions" over India signing a 10-year agreement to run the Chabahar Port in Iran, said the entire region would benefit from the project. He added that the United States had praised Chabahar Port's larger relevance in the past. The external affairs minister was addressing an interaction during the book launch of the Bangla edition of 'Why Bharat Matters' in Kolkata on Wednesday (May 15). Reacting to the remarks made by the US, Jaishankar said, "I did see some of the remarks which were made, but I think it's a question of communicating, convincing and getting people to understand, that this is actually for everyone's benefit. I don't think people should take a narrow view of it." "They (US) have not done so in the past. So, if you look at the US' own attitude towards the port in Chabahar, the US has been appreciative of the fact that Chabahar has a larger relevance...we will work at it," he stated. Also Read: Flip-flop seen over US stance on Chabahar port "We have had a long association with the Chabahar Port, but we could never sign a long-term agreement. The reason was...there were various problems on the Iranian end...the joint-venture partner changes, the condition changed," said the foreign minister. What did the US say on India-Iran's Chabahar deal? The United States on Tuesday (May 14) had warned that "anyone" who is planning to sign business deals with Tehran should be aware of the "potential risk of sanctions." US State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel said, "I would just say...US sanctions on Iran remain in place and we will continue to enforce them." Watch: US responds to India-Iran Chabahar deal, warns of sanctions "Any entity, anyone considering business deals with Iran, they need to be aware of the potential risk they are opening themselves up to, potential risk of sanctions," he stated. India's Indian Ports Global Limited (IPGL) and Iran's Port & Maritime Organisation (PMO) on Monday (May 13) signed the Long-Term Bilateral Contract on Chabahar Port Operation which started the operation of Shahid-Behesti port, as part of the Chabahar Port Development Project, for 10 years. (With inputs from agencies)

Don't take a 'narrow view': India's Jaishankar on US sanction warning over Chabahar port deal

7 Places On Earth Which Appear To Be On Another Planet 

This extraordinary cave in Mexico glitters with crystals. The Cave of Crystals, also known as Cueva de los Cristales, was discovered by drilling nearly 1000ft below ground in the Naica mine. 

The Lastarria Volcano, which is located in South America's Atacama Desert, develops yellow, sulphur fumaroles. It appears like a place belonging to an inhospitable alien planet. 

The Wave is a stunning and rare rock formation in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness' Coyote Buttes area in northern Arizona. It famously changes its vibrant colours throughout the day and the year. 

The Door to Hell is a huge and fiery crater located in the Karakum Desert of Turkmenistan. This is a natural gas field which has continued to burn continuously since it was set on fire accidentally in 1971. 

This rare pink lake looks like a perfect host for some space explorers. Lake Natron in Tanzania has this colour due to its composition of salt and soda. 

Danakil Depression is a place which bursts with hydrothermal activity as water literally boils from the ground.


The Namibian desert's salt pans appear to be situated on another planet. One can see these pans in the Etosha National Park. 

7 Places On Earth Which Appear To Be On Another Planet

5 Ayurvedic Herbs Which Increase Blood Circulation And Avoid Blood Clots


Poor blood circulation in the body means that the blood isn't satisfactorily moving across veins, vessels, and supply routes. Here are five herbs which can increase blood circulation and stop blood from clotting, according to Ayurveda. 

Turmeric is believed to be Ayurvedic medicine's crown jewel. It works as a natural blood thinner, decreases inflammation and helps in smoother blood flow. 

Ginger is a universal solution for all health problems across different cultures. It stimulates circulation, keeps the body warm from within and promotes blood flow. It is filled with anti-inflammatory properties. 

Garlic is filled with allicin which helps in promoting healthy blood flow. It decreases cholesterol naturally and reduces plaque buildup in arteries. 

Arjuna has been used for ages for heart-related issues. Arjuna strengthens heart muscles, promotes unobstructed flow and reduces blood pressure. It works as an antioxidant and decreases the risk of artery-clogging. 

Guggul decreases cholesterol and triglycerides and improves overall circulatory health. It provides anti-inflammatory benefits. 

The content provided on the website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.


5 Ayurvedic Herbs Which Increase Blood Circulation And Avoid Blood Clots

Iran's acclaimed filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof announced that he had fled from his country to Europe after he was given a prison sentence by a court on national security charges.

In an Instagram post, Rasoulof criticised the Iranian government and called it a tyrannical and oppressive regime. He also shared a video which showed him crossing the mountainous border of the country.

“If geographical Iran suffers beneath the boots of your religious tyranny, cultural Iran is alive in the common minds of millions of Iranians who were forced to leave Iran due to your brutality and no power can impose its will on it. From today, I am a resident of cultural Iran,” Rasoulof said.

In another statement on May 12, Rasoulof stated that he would be escaping from Iran after his lawyers informed him about his prison sentence getting implemented on short notice.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/risk-of-sanctions-us-cry-foul-as-india-iran-ink-10-year-agreement-over-chabahar-port-721129">'Risk of sanctions,' US cries foul as India, Iran ink 10-year agreement over Chabahar port</a>

“I had to choose between prison and leaving Iran. With a heavy heart, I chose exile,” the filmmaker said in that statement, which was released by a spokesperson.

<h2>Why was Rasoulof given a prison sentence?</h2>

The lawyers of Rasoulof last week, informed The Associated Press that the director was given&nbsp;an&nbsp;eight-year prison sentence, and orders had been given for the confiscation of his property by the Islamic Republic, as well as for&nbsp;flogging.

Rasoulof's attorney Babak Paknia said that the filmmaker was given a sentence for signing statements and making films.

A letter was co-signed by Rasoulof and other artists appealing to authorities to put down their weapons as protests continued over a building's collapse in 2022 which killed at least 29 people in the&nbsp;southwestern city of Abadan.

Watch:&nbsp;India, Iran set to ink 10-year Chabahar port deal

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His latest film "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" is set for a release and will premiere in Cannes on May 24.

"Knowing that the news of my new film would be revealed very soon, I knew that without a doubt, a new sentence would be added to these eight years," Rasoulof said.

"I didn’t have much time to make a decision. I had to choose between prison and leaving Iran. With a heavy heart, I chose exile. The Islamic Republic confiscated my passport in September 2017. Therefore, I had to leave Iran secretly," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's acclaimed filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof announced that he had fled from his country to Europe after he was given a prison sentence by a court on national security charges.

Iran's acclaimed filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof announced that he had fled from his country to Europe after he was given a prison sentence by a court on national security charges. In an Instagram post, Rasoulof criticised the Iranian government and called it a tyrannical and oppressive regime. He also shared a video which showed him crossing the mountainous border of the country. “If geographical Iran suffers beneath the boots of your religious tyranny, cultural Iran is alive in the common minds of millions of Iranians who were forced to leave Iran due to your brutality and no power can impose its will on it. From today, I am a resident of cultural Iran,” Rasoulof said. In another statement on May 12, Rasoulof stated that he would be escaping from Iran after his lawyers informed him about his prison sentence getting implemented on short notice. Also Read: 'Risk of sanctions,' US cries foul as India, Iran ink 10-year agreement over Chabahar port “I had to choose between prison and leaving Iran. With a heavy heart, I chose exile,” the filmmaker said in that statement, which was released by a spokesperson. Why was Rasoulof given a prison sentence? The lawyers of Rasoulof last week, informed The Associated Press that the director was given an eight-year prison sentence, and orders had been given for the confiscation of his property by the Islamic Republic, as well as for flogging. Rasoulof's attorney Babak Paknia said that the filmmaker was given a sentence for signing statements and making films. A letter was co-signed by Rasoulof and other artists appealing to authorities to put down their weapons as protests continued over a building's collapse in 2022 which killed at least 29 people in the southwestern city of Abadan. Watch: India, Iran set to ink 10-year Chabahar port deal His latest film "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" is set for a release and will premiere in Cannes on May 24. "Knowing that the news of my new film would be revealed very soon, I knew that without a doubt, a new sentence would be added to these eight years," Rasoulof said. "I didn’t have much time to make a decision. I had to choose between prison and leaving Iran. With a heavy heart, I chose exile. The Islamic Republic confiscated my passport in September 2017. Therefore, I had to leave Iran secretly," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's acclaimed filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof flees country to avoid prison and flogging sentence

Amid the intensified protest against the Pakistan government in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday reiterated India's stand on merging the illegally occupied region and said that "one day we will end the illegal occupation of the POK and the POK will join with India.

Amid the intensified protest against the Pakistan government in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday reiterated India's stand on merging the illegally occupied region and said that "one day we will end the illegal occupation of the POK and the POK will join with India." "These days, a lot of things are going on at the POK. You must have seen some incidents happening there. Now we (the Modi government) are very clear on this...POK is a part of India...it was always part of India, it will be part of India," EAM said during a media interaction at a seminar on Indian Capital Markets 'Roadmap for Viksit Bharat' at the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in Mumbai. "And we have this intention. that one day we will end the illegal occupation of the POK and it will join with India. Now you see that the opposition is in the opposite direction," he added. The minister also questioned those "who wanted to run Article 370, who was interested in it" referring to the criticism over the abrogation of the article by the BJP-led government in August 2019. "If I talk about the record, then in the last five years, one of our great achievements was on Article 370. We will also say that the NDA's record and its thinking. The Modi government's thinking is how to integrate Kashmir with the country and how to further develop it. On the other hand, you see who wanted to run Article 370, and were interested in it. So this is also a clear choice in front of the country," he said. Also Read: EAM Jaishankar recalls 1998 Pokhran test, says ‘decision ensured national security’ He also commented on former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah's remarks that "they (Pakistan) are also not wearing bangles" and will attack us. "Farooq Abdullah reminds us not to talk about POK because Pakistan has nuclear weapons. We are proud of India's nuclear weapons. On the contrary, Pakistan's nuclear weapons seem to be more important. If it is Manish Shankar Iyer or Farooq Abdullah, they are so afraid of Pakistan's nuclear weapons that they think that we should not talk about POK. The situation remained tense in PoJK on Monday as the total strike against high prices of wheat flour and inflated electricity bills and taxes entered its fourth day, with the Pakistan government stepping up efforts to de-escalate the situation following deadly clashes between security forces and protesters. Amid a wheel-jam strike persisting for the fourth consecutive day in PoJK, a long march spearheaded by the Awami Action Committee (AAC) set off for the PoJK capital, Muzaffarabad, Geo News reported. Watch: Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer rarrives in India, to hold bilateral talks with S Jaishankar Protesters have already initiated sit-ins, effectively shutting down the Kohala-Muzaffarabad Road at various points along its 40-kilometer stretch, which connects Kohala town with Muzaffarabad in PoJK. Their route from Dhirkot is expected to lead them to the capital. The PoJK government deployed Rangers and police following clashes between law enforcement and demonstrators in Mirpur. These clashes resulted in the death of a police officer and left over 70 others injured. Heavy police contingents have been stationed at key points and sensitive areas, while markets, trade centres, and educational institutions remain shuttered, and transportation services remain suspended. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for a high-level meeting to address the ongoing situation in PoJK, as negotiations between protesters and the state government reached an impasse, according to Geo News.

India's EAM reiterates 'Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir' will always be part our country

The massive hoarding that collapsed in India's Mumbai and killed at least 14 people was once recognised as India's largest billboard in Limca Book of Records, but did not have proper clearances, it has emerged.

The massive hoarding that collapsed in India's Mumbai and killed at least 14 people was once recognised as India's largest billboard in Limca Book of Records, but did not have proper clearances, it has emerged. The billboard was put up without authorisation from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), reports said. An FIR, or first information report, is being launched against Ego Media, the ad agency responsible for the hoarding. The agency had erected the hoarding on a plot leased to the Police Welfare Corporation by the Police Housing Division of the Maharashtra government. In the premises, four hoardings were set up by Ego Media, one of which collapsed on Monday evening (May 12). Even though Ego Media had taken permission for all four hoardings, which included the one that collapsed from the Assistant Commissioner of Police (Railways), the BMC had not given any authorisation or No Objection Certificate (NOC) before their installation. Also Read: Mumbai: 14 killed, more than 70 injured as massive billboard collapses in Ghatkopar amid rains, gusty winds The BMC allows a maximum hoarding size of 40 x 40 square feet. The billboard which collapsed measured 120 x 120 square feet. Now, the BMC has issued notices to the Railway Police's ACP and the Railway Commissioner, seeking cancellation of all permissions granted by the Railways. Hoarding fell on Petrol Pump in Mumbai. Around 100 people are feared to be trapped underneath. pic.twitter.com/XFBPUcSmoA — Cow Momma (@Cow__Momma) May 13, 2024 × BMC's Additional Commissioner Ashwini Joshi gave the order to remove the rest of the hoardings as per the Disaster Management Act. The Government Railway Police has accepted the order. How a billboard collapse killed 14 people The huge billboard, located opposite a fuel station in Mumbai's Ghatkopar area, crashed down with massive force amid a wild storm in the west Indian megapolis. CCTV captured the structure crashing through the roofs of several cars before falling on the ground. Two teams were dispatched by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to assist the Mumbai Fire Brigade and other agencies in the rescue operation. "A total of 88 people were rescued, of whom 14 were declared dead by doctors and 31 were discharged," said NDRF assistant commandant Nikhil Mudholkar. "The problem is that we are unable to use our gasoline-based cutting equipment because there is a petrol pump here," he added. Watch: Massive billboard falls during dust storm Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reached the accident site. He said the government will carry out a structural audit of all hoardings present in the city. "The hoardings, if found illegal and dangerous, would be removed immediately," Shinde said. "It is a very unfortunate incident. The government will probe it, and the people responsible will face action. I have also asked the BMC commissioner to conduct a structural audit of all the hoardings in the city. Those found illegal and dangerous will be removed," the chief minister added. He announced an aid of Rs 5 lakhs (approx $5987) for the families of those killed in the incident. (With inputs from agencies)

Mumbai hoarding collapse: India's largest as per Limca Book of Records, the billboard wasn't cleared by BMC

Parts of the collapsed Baltimore bridge broke into pieces after a controlled blast was carried out and made the way for the complete return of shipping via one of the busiest sea routes in the United States.

On March 26, a ship hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge which led to its collapse and killed six construction workers.

The demolition carried out on Monday (May 13) broke some chunks of the collapsed bridge. Over the weekend, the operation was delayed because of the bad weather.

A cargo ship, named Dali, had lost power and went off course after which it hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge and led to its collapse. Because of the collision, nearly 4,000 tonnes of debris fell into the Patapsco River.

<h2>How did the blast take place?</h2>

The officials had placed small explosive devices throughout the entire bridge and within a few seconds, all of them were detonated.

At points where the explosives were placed,&nbsp;cuts were made in the steel and they were covered with what appeared like heavy-duty tape.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltimore-key-bridge-collapse-shipping-vessel-had-an-all-indian-crew-704493">Baltimore Key Bridge collapse: DALI ship’s all-Indian crew ‘doing fine’, firm’s rep tells WION</a>

When the explosion took place, it sounded like fireworks and those in 2,000 yards had to wear hearing protection.

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We were live on <a href="https://twitter.com/wjz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wjz</a> as the Key Bridge explosive charges were detonated. The operation, we understand, was successful. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> <a href="https://t.co/PEiApDIFlR">pic.twitter.com/PEiApDIFlR</a>
— Mike Hellgren (@HellgrenWJZ) <a href="https://twitter.com/HellgrenWJZ/status/1790129086641094883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The US Army Corps of Engineers said that this was the "safest and swiftest" way to remove thousands of tonnes of wreckage which was lying over the massive ship.

The crew members were on the ship when the blast occurred.&nbsp;

"They're staying on board because they're part of the ship. They are necessary to keep the ship safe and operational," Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath&nbsp;from the US&nbsp;Coast Guard said.

<h2>What is the next step?</h2>

According to the officials, the next step in the cleanup process is to carry out an assessment of some trusses on Dali’s bow and ensure none of the underwater wreckage is stopping the ship from being refloated.

The officials will need a couple of days to remove the ship and open the channel.

Watch:&nbsp;Baltimore Bridge Collapse: All-Indian crew aboard vessel that collided with Baltimore bridge safe

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"Once the wreckage falls into the channel, we will have the vessel refloated," said Colonel Estee Pinchasin, from the US&nbsp;Army Corps of Engineers.&nbsp;

"Our salvors already have the equipment ready to retrieve the wreckage just as we have over the last seven weeks. They're going to have to either lift it with the grabber and remove it after cutting it down some more," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Parts of the collapsed Baltimore bridge broke into pieces after a controlled blast was carried out and made the way for the complete return of shipping via one of the busiest sea routes in the United States.

Parts of the collapsed Baltimore bridge broke into pieces after a controlled blast was carried out and made the way for the complete return of shipping via one of the busiest sea routes in the United States. On March 26, a ship hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge which led to its collapse and killed six construction workers. The demolition carried out on Monday (May 13) broke some chunks of the collapsed bridge. Over the weekend, the operation was delayed because of the bad weather. A cargo ship, named Dali, had lost power and went off course after which it hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge and led to its collapse. Because of the collision, nearly 4,000 tonnes of debris fell into the Patapsco River. How did the blast take place? The officials had placed small explosive devices throughout the entire bridge and within a few seconds, all of them were detonated. At points where the explosives were placed, cuts were made in the steel and they were covered with what appeared like heavy-duty tape. Also Read: Baltimore Key Bridge collapse: DALI ship’s all-Indian crew ‘doing fine’, firm’s rep tells WION When the explosion took place, it sounded like fireworks and those in 2,000 yards had to wear hearing protection. We were live on @wjz as the Key Bridge explosive charges were detonated. The operation, we understand, was successful. #BREAKING pic.twitter.com/PEiApDIFlR — Mike Hellgren (@HellgrenWJZ) May 13, 2024 × The US Army Corps of Engineers said that this was the "safest and swiftest" way to remove thousands of tonnes of wreckage which was lying over the massive ship. The crew members were on the ship when the blast occurred. "They're staying on board because they're part of the ship. They are necessary to keep the ship safe and operational," Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath from the US Coast Guard said. What is the next step? According to the officials, the next step in the cleanup process is to carry out an assessment of some trusses on Dali’s bow and ensure none of the underwater wreckage is stopping the ship from being refloated. The officials will need a couple of days to remove the ship and open the channel. Watch: Baltimore Bridge Collapse: All-Indian crew aboard vessel that collided with Baltimore bridge safe "Once the wreckage falls into the channel, we will have the vessel refloated," said Colonel Estee Pinchasin, from the US Army Corps of Engineers. "Our salvors already have the equipment ready to retrieve the wreckage just as we have over the last seven weeks. They're going to have to either lift it with the grabber and remove it after cutting it down some more," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Collapsed Baltimore bridge blown up in controlled blast: Watch

The moment when a Delta flight caught fire and led to total evacuation at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport recently was caught in a shocking video. In the video, which was released by KOMO News, a fireball is seen exploding after which black smoke rises from the Airbus jet's nose, just below the cockpit after it landed on April 6.

The moment when a Delta flight caught fire and led to total evacuation at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport recently was caught in a shocking video. In the video, which was released by KOMO News, a fireball is seen exploding after which black smoke rises from the Airbus jet's nose, just below the cockpit after it landed on April 6. At around 9:35 pm local time, Delta Flight 604 arrived at the Washington airport from Cancun, Mexico safely. However, after plugging the aircraft into the electrical network of the terminal, the accident occurred. Also Read: Air India Express chaos: Nearly 300 crew go on 'mass sick leave', more than 80 flights cancelled Electric sparks were generated after the plug-in shorted out and a fireball directly below the Airbus A321 aircraft's cockpit, said a spokesperson for SEA Perry Cooper. Delta Flight 604 on Monday last week caught on fire starting in the nose of the aircraft. It had just landed and taxied to a stop in Cancun, Mexico. The plane then had to be evacuated. 00:18 Fire 01:55 Evactuation Did Delta’s DEI policies cause this? 🎥 @JeremyHarrisTV pic.twitter.com/gehB2VV3oq — Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) May 14, 2024 × He stated that the pilots got the smell of the smoke and asked the crew to open the emergency exit slides. Passengers panic amid emergency evacuation Speaking to KOMO News, one passenger said that the fliers freaked out after they learned about being evacuated. A Seattle software engineer, who was accompanied by his wife, Ashwin Menon said, “I think people responded to that with panic, there was a little bit of jostling in the aisles to get to the exit. But overall it was a pretty smooth evacuation process.” In the surveillance footage, the passengers were seen walking out onto the plane's wing before hopping on the inflatable chutes from where they slid safely onto the tarmac. “It was like just jump out, jump onto the slides, and within a couple of minutes everyone was out. I was calmer than I thought I would be. I’m quite afraid of flying," Menon said. The crew evacuated nearly two-thirds of the 189 passengers via the slides, while the remaining already had exited through the passenger loading bridge, said Cooper. Watch: Air India Express cancels 70 flights due to alleged crew protest Reacting to the incident, Delta Airlines said, “Out of an abundance of caution, slides were deployed and passengers still on board deplaned via the rear of the aircraft. Passengers were fully evacuated, and those deplaned to the ramp returned to the terminal via the ramp stairs." “The aircraft has been removed from service for inspection and maintenance," the statement added. According to the KOMO News, the electrical cord which had shorted has been repaired and started operating normally. “Kudos to the airline crew who reacted as trained with an abundance of caution,” said Cooper, in a statement to The New York Post. “Rather have a little inconvenience than something that could have turned worse," he added. An investigation into the incident is being carried out. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Fireball explodes on Delta jet, passengers evacuated through emergency slides

The economic advisor to Nepal’s president on Sunday (May 12) submitted his resignation, nearly a week after criticising the decision of the government to issue currency notes which depicted the new map of the country with areas in India.

The economic advisor to Nepal’s president on Sunday (May 12) submitted his resignation, nearly a week after criticising the decision of the government to issue currency notes which depicted the new map of the country with areas in India. Chiranjibi Nepal, who is also the central bank's former governor, while speaking to The Indian Express said that the step to include Indian areas of Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani in the map of Nepal was “unwise”. Meanwhile, speaking with BBC Nepali Service, Nepal called the decision an “irresponsible diversion” and one that made "more problematic comments regarding sovereignty”, as per a joint statement issued by a group of civil society leaders. “I oppose the move as a former Governor of the Rastra Bank, and not as an adviser to the President,” said Nepal, just after the map on the notes was made public on May 4. Also Read: Nepal's Supreme Court orders government to limit Everest climbing permits “Nepal being in dispute with India over certain parts of territory is one thing, but printing in the currency a map that is different from what the international bodies, including two neighbours, have recognised is unwise," he added. The comments of the economic advisor were criticised by the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist's KP Sharma Oli. Nepal's Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal said that he has spoken to President Ram Chandra Poudel about the comments. The Office of the President issued a press statement in which they confirmed that Nepal's resignation was accepted by President Paudel on Sunday (May 12). President Paudel extended his thanks to economic advisor Nepal for the service provided by him as an economic expert. Nepalese leaders call for the removal of economic advisor Many leaders had appealed for the removal of Nepal from the post, including former chief of Nepal’s anti-graft body Surynath Upadhyay and Sushil Pyakurel, former ambassador to India Nilambar Acharya, adviser to former president Bidya Devi Bhandari. A group of civil society leaders had also demanded Nepal's removal over the remarks. Watch: Nepal-India territorial row returns: New currency revives old issue "The irresponsible public comments of Mr Nepal have damaged the propriety and position of Nepal’s constitutional head-of-state. Given that the Office of the President has been silent on the matter, we are forced to consider that Mr Nepal is speaking on behalf of President Ram Chandra Poudel when he describes the government’s decision as being “against international values” and “unwise”," read the statement. "In order to keep the position of the President of the Republic above controversy, we demand an immediate retraction from the Office of the President and the removal of Chiranjeevi Nepal from his responsibilities as advisor," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Nepal president's advisor resigns after criticising inclusion of Indian areas in map on new currency

After the recent discovery of the possibility of green pastures and grasslands in the Sahara Desert nearly 4,000 years ago, scientists are now trying to understand if the Earth will undergo a dramatic transformation like northern Africa.

After the recent discovery of the possibility of green pastures and grasslands in the Sahara Desert nearly 4,000 years ago, scientists are now trying to understand if the Earth will undergo a dramatic transformation like northern Africa. A recent study has explained how grasslands, forests and lakes disappeared and the Sahara desert expanded due to which humans were forced to retreat to the mountains, the Nile valley, the oases, and the delta. This geographical transition from the "African humid period", which existed from 15,000 to 5,500 years ago, led to the creation of current dry conditions in northern Africa, which scientists are now seeing as the best example of a climate tipping point in recent geological history. Also Read: Has Sahara Desert always been barren? A 4,000-year-old rock art holds the answer Climate tipping points are thresholds which once passed through lead to a dramatic climate change setting up of a new stable climate. Climate flickering in Africa According to a new study, which was published in Nature Communications, it was revealed that before the dry out of northern Africa, its climate "flickered" between two stable climatic conditions before permanently tipping. For the first time, it has been observed that such flickering took place in the past on Earth. For scientists in today's world, the biggest concern is whether humans will get any warnings of climate tipping points. According to the scientists, after crossing the global warming of 1.5˚C, the most obvious tipping points are the collapsing ice sheets in Antarctica or Greenland, abrupt thawing of Arctic permafrost or tropical coral reefs dying off. According to some, the Earth is likely to give warning signs of these major climate shifts. However, it will depend on what is the type of tipping point, and hence, it is difficult to interpret these signals. One of the major questions is if tipping points will be characterised by flickering or if the climate will appear to be very stable before suddenly tipping over. Watch: Climate change fuels global floods An international team of scientists to further study the climatic shifts went to the basin of Chew Bahir in southern Ethiopia. They found the existence of an extensive lake in this region during the last African humid period. The existence of the lake has been recorded by the deposits of sediment which are underneath the lake bed. The lake has today largely disappeared and the deposits can be cheaply drilled by the people. (With inputs from agencies)

Will Earth turn as arid as Sahara Desert? Here's what disappearance of grasslands hint at

NASA's International Space Station captured a rare image of an unusual crater or caldera which gets created on the Mount Nemrut volcano in Turkey. The image captured showed how the entire area gets split into two halves - a solidified lava region and a lake - like a yin-yang symbol from Chinese philosophy.

NASA's International Space Station captured a rare image of an unusual crater or caldera which gets created on the Mount Nemrut volcano in Turkey. The image captured showed how the entire area gets split into two halves - a solidified lava region and a lake - like a yin-yang symbol from Chinese philosophy. How was this unusual crater formed? Mount Nemrut, which has been named after the biblical figure King Nimrod, is 9,672 feet (2,948 metres) in height and is located at the intersection between the Eurasian and the Arabian tectonic plates. According to NASA's Earth Observatory, in 1650, the dormant stratovolcano had majorly erupted for the last time. Also Read: A volcano eruption 74,000 years ago could have wiped out humans, here’s how some survived The large caldera of the volcano is around 5.3 miles (8.5 kilometres) from its widest point and is nearly 2,000 feet (610 metres) deep. According to a study conducted in 2012, it was largely carved around 250,000 years ago after a single massive eruption took place. The eruption also led to the release of a huge lava flow which blocked off a river and led to the formation of Turkey's largest lake, Lake Van, which is located at the east side of the mountain. Smaller eruptions continued after that from vents in the eastern half of the caldera and led to the creation of solidified lava which flows on one side of the crater. After some time, the caldera's other side was filled with water and led to the formation of a crater lake. The stark difference between the two sides of the volcano's peak is most visible when snow covers the mountain. When this occurs, it is generally seen as the yin-yang symbol from Chinese philosophy. Watch: Mount Ruang Eruption: Indonesia’s Mount Ruang volcano erupts again, authorities evacuate over 12,000 people The snow coverage also created folds in the lava flows, which are called pressure ridges. These were formed by the molten rock's flowing and cooling. These ridges are very different in size and thickness because of the differences in the lava's viscosity across various eruptions, as per the Earth Observatory. The maximum depth of Nemrut's crater lake is around 577 feet (176 m) and it covers similar lava flows from earlier eruptions. This is, however, not the only lake present in the caldera. Another smaller lake, which is 36-foot-deep (11 m), is located between a series of lava flats close to the centre of the caldera's northern edge. The lake is fed by hot springs which reflect the presence of life beneath the caldera even though the volcano is dormant. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA captures divine ‘yin-yang’ symbol sitting atop Turkish volcano

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