ヒグマ被害の町、再び出没跡 〜北海道・福島の市街地〜
2025年10月9日 22:54（2025年10月9日 22:55 更新）
※この記事は有料会員限定です。
7月にヒグマによる死亡事故が発生した北海道福島町で、9日、市街地に設けられたごみ置き場が荒らされる事件がありました。近くの家庭菜園でも囲いの網が破られているのが確認されています。
道警松前署や町によると、これらの現場にはクマの痕跡が見つかっており、再びヒグマの出没が懸念されています。
詳細な情報は有料会員限定での配信となります。
Category Archives: environment
トカラ、火山活動に関連か 諏訪之瀬島近く地震調査委
科学・環境 トカラ、火山活動に関連か 諏訪之瀬島近く地震調査委
（2025/10/09 20:45 更新）
[有料会員限定記事]
政府の地震調査委員会は9日、6月から続いている鹿児島県のトカラ列島での群発地震について議論しました。
地震調査委員会の平田直委員長（東京大学名誉教授）は会合後の記者会見で、9月には諏訪之瀬島付近での地震が増加したことを指摘し、「トカラ列島の地震は火山活動に関連している可能性がある」と述べました。
現在、詳しい原因や今後の影響については調査が進められており、さらなる注視が必要とされています。
この記事は有料会員限定です。 残り367文字を含む全文は、7日間無料トライアル（1日37円で読み放題、年払いならさらにお得）でご覧いただけます。
Between June-September, rain-related incidents claimed 458 lives in Jharkhand
**Rain-Related Incidents in Jharkhand Claim 458 Lives Between June and September**
*By Chanshimla Varah | October 9, 2025, 5:19 PM*
Jharkhand has witnessed its worst monsoon in a decade, with heavy rains from June to September claiming at least 458 lives. The season’s severe weather not only led to tragic fatalities but also caused extensive damage to homes and farmlands across the state.
**Casualties and Causes**
According to official data, lightning strikes were responsible for the deaths of 186 people, while 178 others drowned in various rain-related incidents. Additional casualties resulted from floods, landslides, and house collapses triggered by the intense rainfall.
**Impact on Housing and Agriculture**
The monsoon devastation extended beyond loss of life. A total of 467 houses were completely destroyed, and over 8,000 others suffered partial damage. Farmlands were severely affected as well, with crop losses reported across 2,390 hectares in districts such as Ranchi, Gumla, Lohardaga, and Simdega.
In Sahibganj district, rising water levels in the Ganga River displaced approximately 20,000 people, further highlighting the season’s widespread impact.
**Record-Breaking Rainfall**
The Ranchi Meteorological Centre recorded a total rainfall of 1,199.5 mm between June 1 and September 30 this year, marking an 18% increase over normal levels. Abhishek Anand, director of the center, explained that this was the highest rainfall the region has experienced in a decade. He attributed the unusual intensity to climate change and rising sea surface temperatures in the Bay of Bengal.
**Districts Most Affected**
Unusual meteorological activity in the Bay of Bengal contributed to repeated heavy downpours, especially in eastern and southeastern parts of Jharkhand. East Singhbhum recorded the highest rainfall at 1,669.5 mm, followed closely by Ranchi with 1,550.2 mm and Saraikela-Kharsawan at 1,526.3 mm. Each of these districts received more than 50% above normal rainfall for the season.
**Weather Outlook**
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted a “pink cold” or mild winter around Diwali and Chhath Puja celebrations. However, the severity of the upcoming winter season will depend on global factors such as the La Niña phenomenon and shifts in wind patterns.
While rainfall activity is currently declining, isolated moderate rain showers accompanied by thunder and lightning are expected to continue until October 12. Following this period, dry conditions are anticipated as the monsoon gradually withdraws.
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Stay tuned for updates and precautionary advisories as the season progresses.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/between-june-september-heavy-rainfall-claimed-458-lives-in-jharkhand/story
Mumbai News: Byculla Zoo To Build New Reptile House Featuring 13 Snake Species Including Indian Cobra And Rock Python
**Byculla Zoo to Introduce New Reptile House Featuring 13 Snake Species**
Mumbai: Following the crocodile trail, Byculla’s Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo is set to introduce a new reptile house showcasing 13 species, including the Indian cobra, rock python, and striped keelback.
The ground-plus-one structure is currently in the final planning stages, with tenders expected to be floated within the next month. Construction will commence after the tender process, and the facility is slated to open to visitors within two years.
At present, the reptile enclosure at Byculla Zoo, once home to a variety of snakes, houses only two species — the Indian rock python and the rat snake. Due to the declining number of species, the existing enclosure will be dismantled and rebuilt to better accommodate the current reptiles and allow for the addition of more species in the future.
The Central Zoo Authority has already approved the project. The new reptile house is proposed to be constructed opposite the hippopotamus exhibit within the zoo.
This new enclosure will feature 13 indigenous and exotic snake species, with a pair of each species. Informative display boards will be installed throughout the facility to help visitors identify and learn about the reptiles.
Spread across 500 square meters, the habitat is being designed by a consultant who is currently finalizing the layout. Once the plans are completed, tenders will be invited.
“The tender will be floated within a month,” said Dr. Sanjay Tripathi, Director of Byculla Zoo.
The new enclosure will be developed to house various snake species, including the cobra, Indian rock python, checkered keelback, Russell’s viper, sea snake, and others. Each species will be kept in a separate glass enclosure designed to replicate its natural habitat.
These enclosures will include naturalistic features such as rocks, trees, grass, and water to ensure a suitable and enriched environment for the snakes, enhancing both animal welfare and visitor experience.
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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-news-byculla-zoo-to-build-new-reptile-house-featuring-13-snake-species-including-indian-cobra-and-rock-python
Nissan Bets on All-New Leaf to Drive Its Corporate Revival
“The new Leaf has evolved in every aspect—performance, comfort, and efficiency,” said Nissan Japan Marketing Chief Zen Sugimoto.
The most notable feature is its extended driving range: over 700 kilometers on a single charge, roughly 40% longer than the previous model. Charging time has also been significantly reduced, allowing the car to travel up to 250 kilometers after just 15 minutes of charging. With government subsidies applied, the price will be around 3.5 million yen.
For Nissan, the Leaf is a symbolic vehicle. As the world’s first mass-produced electric car, it once shocked the global automotive industry. Former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi commented at the time, “I’m confident it will spread as we move toward a society free from oil dependence.” Former CEO Carlos Ghosn also declared, “As a zero-emission leader, Nissan Leaf marks the first step toward a new era.”
However, the early bet on EVs faced challenges—charging infrastructure lagged behind, and the driving range fell short of consumer expectations. During that time, Tesla rapidly expanded with innovative production methods and cutting-edge technology, rising to dominance in the EV market.
Now that electric vehicles are gradually becoming mainstream in Japan, competition has intensified. Honda recently introduced a mini EV, Suzuki plans to enter the market with a compact EV, and China’s BYD is set to launch its own mini electric model in Japan next year.
Meanwhile, Nissan has been struggling financially, reporting massive net losses, closing seven factories, and cutting 20,000 jobs as part of restructuring measures. The Leaf now represents the company’s hope for revival.
“We take pride in leading Nissan’s brand through electric vehicles,” Sugimoto said. “With this Leaf, we aim to create a world that embodies Re: Nissan.”
Whether the new Leaf can become the symbol of Nissan’s resurgence remains to be seen.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/147200.php
Maharashtra Rolls Out Rooftop Solar Scheme For Low Users, 90–95% Subsidy To Help Slash Electricity Bills To Zero
**Maharashtra Government Launches Major Rooftop Solar Subsidy Scheme for Low-Income Households**
Mumbai: In a significant move to promote clean energy and reduce electricity costs for disadvantaged families, the Maharashtra government has introduced the Swayampurna Maharashtra Residential Roof Top (SMART) Solar Scheme. This ambitious initiative aims to provide a substantial subsidy of 90 to 95 percent for eligible consumers to install rooftop solar panels, helping them cut their power bills to nearly zero by harnessing solar energy.
### Who Will Benefit from the Scheme?
The SMART Solar Scheme primarily targets Below Poverty Line (BPL), Scheduled Caste (SC), and Scheduled Tribe (ST) households that consume less than 100 units of electricity per month. Under this program, these families will pay only a small fraction of the installation cost, with the central and state governments covering the rest.
For instance, the cost of a 1KW solar system is approximately Rs 50,000. Here’s how the subsidy breaks down:
– **BPL Households:** Central government subsidy of Rs 30,000 + State government subsidy of Rs 17,500, with the consumer paying just Rs 2,500.
– **SC/ST Households:** Total subsidy of Rs 45,000, leaving the consumer responsible for Rs 5,000.
– **Other Low-Usage Consumers (below 100 units, not BPL/SC/ST):** Subsidy of Rs 40,000, with a consumer contribution of Rs 10,000.
### Budget and Implementation Plans
The Maharashtra government has allocated Rs 330 crore for the financial year 2025–26 and Rs 325 crore for 2026–27 to support this scheme. Implementation will be handled by the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL), funded through the state budget.
Officials expect the scheme to benefit at least 5 lakh families, including approximately 1.5 lakh BPL users and 3.5 lakh other low-usage households. After installation, the solar system supplier will manage maintenance for a period of five years, ensuring hassle-free operation for beneficiaries.
### Priority for Remote and Needy Areas
Special emphasis will be placed on remote and tribal regions such as Melghat, Nandurbar, and Gadchiroli, where affordable electricity access remains a challenge. The government hopes that by promoting rooftop solar power in these areas, not only will families receive inexpensive and reliable electricity, but they may also generate additional income by selling surplus solar energy back to the grid.
This initiative marks a critical step toward sustainable energy adoption and economic upliftment for some of Maharashtra’s most vulnerable communities.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/maharashtra-rolls-out-rooftop-solar-scheme-for-low-users-9095-subsidy-to-help-slash-electricity-bills-to-zero
Karnataka Weather: Moderate Rainfall With Thunderstorms Likely In Many Districts Including Bengaluru
**Bengaluru Weather Update: Moderate Rainfall and Thunderstorms Expected**
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that Bengaluru and its surrounding areas are likely to experience generally cloudy skies accompanied by moderate rainfall. This rainfall is expected to be accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds, providing relief from the recent dry spell.
**Temperature Forecast**
The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 29 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may drop to approximately 20 degrees Celsius.
**Rainfall Predictions Across Karnataka**
Moderate rainfall is forecasted in several districts, including Kalaburagi, Bidar, Vijayapura, Raichur, Koppal, Gadag, Haveri, and Yadgir. Additionally, rainfall is expected in Bellary, Bengaluru, Chamarajanagar, Chikkaballapur, Chikkamagaluru, Chitradurga, Davangere, Hassan, Kodagu, Kolar, Mandya, Mysore, Ramanagara, Shivamogga, Vijayanagar, and Tumkur districts of South Interior Karnataka.
**KSNDMC Weather Report**
The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) shared a weather update on X, stating:
“Scattered light to moderate rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms are likely across the state, with isolated heavy rains from October 8 to 10.”
**Air Quality and Humidity**
Humidity levels are expected to be around 71%, contributing to the damp conditions. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is anticipated to remain steady at around 49, indicating good air quality in Bengaluru and its neighboring areas throughout the day.
**Upcoming Days’ Forecast**
Bengaluru is likely to experience light to moderate rainfall until October 15, 2025. The wet conditions are expected to include thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, temperatures are forecasted to range between a minimum of 20 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 28 degrees Celsius.
Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather reports and take necessary precautions during periods of heavy rain and storms.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/karnataka-weather-update-for-october-7
Concern over delays on riverside path
The planning approval for the 255-home Meridian Waterside scheme in Southampton included important public realm improvements, such as the extension of a local park and the creation of a new waterfront walkway along the River Itchen. However, with one of the three blocks of flats still incomplete, the Southampton Commons and Parks Protection Society (SCAPPS) has raised concerns about the lack of progress on these promised public space enhancements.
Speaking at the recent court leet ceremony held at the Civic Centre, Graham Linecar of SCAPPS addressed the issue, highlighting the stalled work on the riverside path and green space.
Inland Homes, the original developer of the former Meridian site, went into administration some time ago. Although the planning permission clearly included the construction of a landscaped riverside path and public green space, no progress has been made on these key features. The site’s administrator arranged for an alternative developer to complete the remaining housing, but the riverfront path and green space improvements have yet to be started.
Mr. Linecar’s presentment called on the city council to clarify what steps they have taken—and plan to take—to ensure the delivery of this significant public realm enhancement. SCAPPS and other local stakeholders had believed these improvements were guaranteed as part of the planning permission.
The proposed walkway would run along the west bank of the River Itchen, starting just north of Northam Bridge and extending towards the Itchen Riverside Broadwalk.
Inland Homes entered administration two years ago with one of the three blocks of flats still unfinished. Last year, estate agent Savills was marketing the partially constructed Southern House with an asking price of £7 million. This building, anticipated to contain 104 apartments featuring one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes, remains covered in scaffolding and incomplete.
The entire regeneration project is taking place on the site formerly occupied by Meridian TV studios.
Mr. Linecar’s presentment regarding the riverside path issue will be reviewed by council leaders and is expected to receive a formal response in the coming months. He also questioned whether lessons have been learned about attaching effective conditions to planning permissions to prevent similar situations from arising in the future.
http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25521993.southampton-riverside-path-upgrade-facing-delays/?ref=rss
Mumbai Entrepreneur Launches ‘Quiet India’ To Combat Noise Pollution As Public Health & Economic Threat
Mumbai Social Entrepreneur Launches Quiet India: The Nation’s First Large-Scale Movement Against Noise Pollution
Savitha Rao, a social entrepreneur from Mumbai, has launched Quiet India, the country’s first large-scale national movement aimed at tackling noise as a significant public health and economic concern. This initiative seeks to reframe silence not as mere absence, but as a necessary foundation for health, dignity, and national development.
Citizen-led Movement for National Impact
India Positive Citizen, which promoted grassroots participation in nation-building, says Quiet India aspires to unite fragmented efforts across the country into a cohesive movement. Unlike previous initiatives targeting specific festivals, neighbourhoods, or isolated sources, Quiet India takes a holistic approach.The movement brings together citizens, health professionals, urban planners, law enforcement, and policymakers to address noise pollution as both a public health emergency and an economic liability.
Alarming Noise Levels in Urban India
According to Quiet India, noise levels in urban centres such as Mumbai have crossed alarming thresholds. Estimates indicate that Mumbai had 4.6 million vehicles on its roads by the end of 2023, generating millions of honks daily.
In many areas, noise regularly exceeds the World Health Organization’s recommended limits of 55 decibels during the day and 40 decibels at night.
Speaking to The Free Press Journal, Rao said, “Noise is the pollution we have normalised. Quiet India is about making silence our right, not our luxury. It is about reclaiming silence as a shared inheritance, and building a soundscape worthy of the India we aspire to be.”
Health Consequences of Noise Pollution
Medical experts warn that prolonged exposure to high decibel levels is linked to elevated stress hormones, high blood pressure, heart disease, and cognitive impairments.
Dr. Mickey Mehta, a wellness expert and member of Quiet India’s advisory panel, explains, “Silence is nourishment. Without it, the body cannot heal, the mind cannot focus, and immunity is weakened. A calm soundscape is as critical as clean water or nutritious food. The sound of stillness brings bliss and wellness.”
Enforcement and Citizen Responsibility
Traffic authorities in Mumbai acknowledge the challenge but stress enforcement limitations.
Prashant Pardeshi, Mumbai South’s Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), stated, “We penalise offenders and run awareness drives, but no amount of enforcement can succeed unless citizens themselves reduce needless honking. Road discipline is as much about culture as compliance.”
Economic Implications of Noise Pollution
The campaign focuses not only on improving quality of life but also on enhancing India’s global competitiveness. The movement highlights that high noise levels reduce urban livability, deter foreign investment, and decrease workforce productivity—factors that could undermine Mumbai’s aspirations as a global financial hub.
Sandeep Bajoria, Quiet India’s advisory board chairman, said, “Noise pollution directly impacts India’s economic growth. A quieter Mumbai is better for its citizens, and it makes the city more attractive for investors, businesses, and global talent.”
Multi-Pronged Solutions for a Quieter India
Quiet India promotes a range of solutions from technology to citizen action. Key focus areas include:
- Changing behaviour by reducing habitual honking
- Limiting loudspeakers
- Respecting quiet zones
- Advocating for stricter regulations on construction noise and modified vehicle exhausts
- Controlling night-time disturbances
- Implementing noise barriers and strategic zoning
- Increasing green spaces to absorb noise pollution
Innovative tools like Google’s experimental ‘noise ratings’ for restaurants—introduced following Rao’s suggestion—aim to make quietness a valued metric in public spaces.
Noise and Accessibility
Social leader Raju Waghmare, who is visually impaired, explained how noise affects dignity and independence.
“The blind depend on auditory cues to navigate the city. Unnecessary honking and noise drown out those signals. Noise doesn’t just hurt, it takes away independence,” he said.
Research and Publications
Rao’s latest book, Noise in Our Nation, outlines the hidden costs of unchecked noise on health, education, the environment, and the economy. It also provides practical recommendations for stakeholders at every level.
Learn More
To find out more about Quiet India and how you can contribute, visit the official website: https://quietindia.in/
‘Will stay in jail until judicial inquiry launched’: Sonam Wangchuk
**Will Stay in Jail Until Judicial Inquiry Launched: Sonam Wangchuk**
*By Snehil Singh | Oct 05, 2025, 02:14 PM*
Sonam Wangchuk, the detained climate activist and education reformer, has announced that he will remain in Jodhpur Central Jail until an independent judicial inquiry is launched into the recent killings in Ladakh.
### Background
Wangchuk was detained last month under the National Security Act (NSA) following violent protests demanding Sixth Schedule protections for Ladakh. The protests tragically resulted in four deaths due to police firing.
### Message from Prison
On Friday, Wangchuk’s lawyer, Mustafa Haji, and his elder brother, Ka Tsetan Dorjey Ley, met with him and conveyed his message to the people of Ladakh and India. Wangchuk expressed gratitude for the widespread concern and prayers, assuring everyone that he is doing well both physically and mentally.
He also extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the recent violence in Leh.
### Call for Independent Inquiry
Sonam Wangchuk has called for a transparent and independent judicial probe into the killings. He emphasized his readiness to continue staying in jail until such an inquiry is initiated and completed.
Reiterating his support for the Apex Body Leh and Kargil Democratic Alliance’s (KDA) demands, Wangchuk voiced his strong backing for Sixth Schedule status and full statehood for Ladakh. He stated, “Whatever actions Apex Body takes in the interest of Ladakh, I am with them wholeheartedly.”
### Controversy Surrounding Detention
Wangchuk’s detention has sparked widespread criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups. The Ladakh police have accused him of having links to Pakistan, and the Home Ministry has canceled his NGO’s Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) license.
Additionally, a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry is currently pending against him.
Meanwhile, Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, has raised concerns that she has not been allowed to meet or speak with her husband since his detention.
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*Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/will-stay-behind-bars-until-sonam-wangchuk-from-jodhpur-jail/story