＜社会｜科学・環境＞
【独自】三つの光、玄海原発原子炉接近か 推定飛行ルート判明、正体は不明
2025年10月9日 21:00（10月9日 21:01 更新）
［有料会員限定記事］
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西日本新聞meとは？
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九州電力玄海原発（佐賀県玄海町）の上空で、今年7月に目撃された「三つの光」について、原発周辺の推定飛行ルートを記した地図を9日までに共同通信が入手した。
地図によると、「三つの光」は敷地内外を旋回しつつ、廃炉作業中の1号機と2号機に接近している様子が確認されている。
しかしながら、この「三つの光」の正体はいまだ明らかになっていない。
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この記事は有料会員限定です。
残り816文字をお読みいただけます。
7日間無料トライアル実施中。1日37円で読み放題。年払いならさらにお得。
https://www.nishinippon.co.jp/item/1409528/
Bollywood director Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri has taken to social media to voice his concerns over the escalating noise pollution caused by the Mumbai Metro. Urging authorities to take immediate action, he highlighted the issue that is affecting millions of residents across the city.
In a post addressed to Ashwini Bhide, Managing Director of the Mumbai Metro Corporation, the filmmaker pointed out the severe impact of noise levels that reportedly exceed permissible decibel limits, disrupting the lives of Mumbaikars. Through his message, Vivek emphasized the plight of vulnerable groups, including the elderly, sick, and children, who are facing difficulties in sleeping and studying due to the incessant noise.
“I am writing to you because every other citizen’s attempt with the Mumbai Metro Corporation has failed. As you are fully aware, the Metro in Mumbai has become a curse for millions of residents due to the dangerously high sound levels, far exceeding permissible decibel limits. The noise pollution created by the Metro is depriving people of sleep and making it impossible for children to study. The elderly and the sick are especially affected,” he wrote.
The filmmaker added, “Thousands of Mumbaikars have been trying to bring this issue to the attention of the Mumbai Metro Corporation, but there has been nothing but total indifference and apathy, like any government department, as though the citizens suffering from the Metro’s illegal and inhuman sound pollution simply do not matter.”
Questioning the balance between development and residents’ quality of life, Vivek posed several important questions:
1. Why can’t sound-filtering walls be erected along the Metro line and around hubs located in residential areas?
2. If we are building world-class infrastructure, why can’t we demonstrate world-class empathy and concern for a citizen’s basic right to peaceful sleep and health?
3. Who is responsible and answerable for these faulty designs, and why is there apathy towards citizens’ well-being?
“Being an inspiring and concerned leader with great ethics, I am sure at least you won’t disappoint,” he added.
As of now, Ashwini Bhide has not responded to the filmmaker’s post.
Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri is known for being vocal about various social and civic issues in the country. He frequently shares his unfiltered views on different topics through social media.
On the professional front, Vivek is gearing up for the release of *Parva – An Epic Tale Of Dharma*, which is said to be based on the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. In October 2023, he shared the first look of the film.
Additionally, he has begun work on his upcoming film, *The Delhi Files*, which is slated to hit the big screens on August 15, 2025.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/curse-for-millions-of-residents-vivek-agnihotri-criticises-illegal-inhuman-noise-pollution-caused-by-mumbai-metro
MANILA, Philippines – Now that we have finally enacted the Enhanced Fiscal Regime for Large-Scale Metallic Mining (under Republic Act No. 12253), I want to explain why I fought so hard for one particular element of this law: transparency.
As governor of Albay, I stood firmly against irresponsible mining. I was a supporter of Alyansa…
https://business.inquirer.net/551622/the-wealth-beneath-our-soil-should-serve-the-filipino-people
Indore (Madhya Pradesh): The Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) council meeting, scheduled for Thursday at Atal Bhawan around 11 pm, will deliberate on 38 agenda items focusing on civic infrastructure, water supply, waste management, and cultural development to enhance urban living and community engagement.
A key highlight of the meeting is the expansion of the Narmada Water Supply Scheme’s third phase. The project is designed for a 363 MLD capacity to meet the city’s water needs for the next three years. The proposal also includes a comprehensive operation and maintenance contract to ensure sustainable water delivery.
Infrastructure development will take center stage as well, with plans for a new cement concrete road linking Chandan Nagar to Airport Road. Additionally, the council will discuss upgrades to bridges, footpaths, and stormwater lines. Another important proposal involves shifting existing electric lines to improve urban mobility and enhance public safety.
In the waste management sector, the council will consider selecting agencies to set up a 30 TPD plastic pyrolysis plant under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This initiative aims at sustainable waste treatment and reuse. Another significant proposal is the establishment of a 50 TPD waste-to-pellet plant, which will convert municipal waste into usable fuel materials, furthering Indore’s commitment to the circular economy.
Additional initiatives on the agenda include on-demand waste collection under the “Quicksaaf” programme, along with improved disposal systems for textile and animal waste. These steps will strengthen the city’s progress toward achieving its Swachh Bharat Mission goals.
[Story by Staff Reporter]
https://www.freepressjournal.in/indore/indore-news-municipal-corporation-council-meeting-on-thursday-with-38-items-on-agenda
**Your Asthma Inhaler Might Not Be Good for the Environment**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025, 08:03 pm*
A recent study has revealed that inhalers used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Conducted by scientists from the University of California and Harvard University, the research found that these devices produce annual emissions equivalent to those of over half a million petrol-powered cars in the US alone.
The study’s findings were published in the *Journal of the American Medical Association* and highlight an often-overlooked environmental impact of common medical treatments.
### Metered-Dose Inhalers: The Biggest Culprit
The research examined global warming pollution from three types of inhalers between 2014 and 2024. It found that metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), which use hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) propellants to deliver medication, are the most damaging. These devices accounted for a staggering 98% of inhaler-related emissions over the decade.
In total, US patients with commercial insurance and government programs such as Medicaid and Medicare produced an estimated 24.9 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent during this period—highlighting a significant environmental footprint.
### Eco-Friendly Alternatives Exist but Are Not Widely Used
Unlike metered-dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers (DPIs) and soft mist inhalers do not use propellants. DPIs rely on a patient’s breath to release medicine, while soft mist inhalers convert liquid medication into a fine spray. Both alternatives have a much lower environmental impact.
William Feldman, lead author from UCLA, emphasized that only a small portion of patients actually require metered-dose inhalers for their treatment. Despite this, the adoption of these greener alternatives remains limited.
### Barriers to Adoption: Insurance and Market Challenges
Feldman pointed out that most patients could switch to dry powder or soft mist inhalers. However, insurance coverage and market barriers have slowed their uptake in the United States.
For instance, a dry-powder version of albuterol—the most commonly used inhaler drug—is available but typically not covered by insurance. Additionally, budesonide-formoterol, a drug widely sold in dry powder form across Europe, is not presently available in the US market.
### Calling for Policy and Pricing Reform
Feldman stressed that this research is not about blaming patients but rather a call for policy reform to make lower-emission inhalers more accessible. A related commentary in *JAMA* by Alexander Rabin of the University of Michigan echoed this sentiment, urging insurers and policymakers to ensure that environmentally friendly inhalers are affordable and accessible to everyone.
As awareness grows about the environmental impact of medical devices, policy changes and improved insurance coverage could play critical roles in reducing the carbon footprint of asthma and COPD treatments while maintaining patient care quality.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/asthma-inhalers-pollute-as-much-as-half-a-million-cars/story
**Rhinos Drown, Roads Turn Rivers: Bengal Floods Leave Trail of Destruction**
*By Snehil Singh | October 6, 2025, 5:13 PM*
Heavy, unabating rains in West Bengal have caused significant destruction, claiming the lives of at least 28 people and leaving dozens reported missing. The worst-hit area is Darjeeling, where the town of Mirik alone has witnessed 13 deaths, with many others still missing as rescue operations continue.
The severe downpours across North Bengal have triggered landslides, causing roads to collapse and stranding numerous tourists during the Durga Puja vacation period.
**Wildlife Impact**
A heartbreaking viral video from near Jaldapara National Park shows rhinos floating in floodwaters and even chasing people. Jaldapara is renowned for its population of the one-horned rhinoceros and other endangered species, many of which are severely affected by the floods.
The devastating weather has not spared neighboring Nepal either. According to *The Kathmandu Post*, water-induced disasters there have resulted in 47 deaths and nine people missing.
**Rescue Efforts**
In the midst of the chaos, elephants have emerged as unexpected heroes. Ravikant Jha, Assistant Wildlife Warden of Jaldapara, shared how elephants are aiding rescue efforts by transporting stranded tourists after a wooden bridge near a lodge collapsed. “Our elephants have brought 2-4 tourists across the river because the bridge broke due to rain,” he said.
Additionally, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been actively involved in flood and water rescue operations. They have successfully rescued over 160 people from the affected areas—105 by boat and another 55 either airlifted or pulled across using zip lines in Jalpaiguri. During these operations, one deceased individual was also recovered.
**Weather Forecast**
The India Meteorological Department has forecasted that scattered light to moderate rains will continue in the sub-Himalayan regions until October 12. Isolated thunderstorms, gusty winds reaching 30-40 km/h, and lightning are expected to persist until Tuesday morning.
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The ongoing rains and floods continue to wreak havoc on both human lives and wildlife, highlighting the urgent need for sustained rescue efforts and disaster preparedness in the region.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/floods-and-landslides-devastate-darjeeling-rhinos-float-in-floodwaters/story
By Snehil Singh | Oct 06, 2025 | 05:13 PM
Heavy, unabating rains in West Bengal have caused widespread devastation, resulting in at least 28 deaths and leaving dozens missing. The worst-hit region is Darjeeling, where Mirik alone has reported 13 fatalities, with many more still unaccounted for as rescue operations continue.
The intense downpours in North Bengal have triggered landslides, causing roads to collapse and stranding numerous tourists during the Durga Puja vacations. Infrastructure damage and disrupted transportation have further complicated relief efforts.
A viral video from near Jaldapara National Park shows rhinos floating helplessly in floodwaters and even chasing people. The park is known for its population of the famous one-horned rhinoceros and other endangered species, raising concerns about the safety of wildlife amid the floods.
Severe weather has also severely affected neighboring Nepal, where water-induced disasters have claimed 47 lives, with nine more reported missing, according to The Kathmandu Post.
Elephants have emerged as unlikely heroes in the rescue operations. Ravikant Jha, Assistant Wildlife Warden of Jaldapara, shared that elephants have been used to transport stranded tourists after a wooden bridge near a lodge collapsed due to heavy rain. “Our elephants have brought 2-4 tourists across the river because the bridge near the lodge broke,” he said.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been actively involved in flood and water rescue operations. So far, the NDRF has rescued over 160 people from affected areas. Of these, 105 were rescued by boats, while another 55 were either airlifted or pulled across rivers using zip lines in Jalpaiguri. Rescue teams also recovered one deceased individual during their operations.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast continued scattered light to moderate rain in the sub-Himalayan regions until October 12. Thunderstorms, gusty winds reaching 30-40 km/h, and isolated lightning strikes are expected until Tuesday morning, signaling the need for ongoing caution and preparedness.
Stay safe and follow official advisories as relief and rescue efforts continue across the region.
Mumbai Wakes Up to Bright Sunshine and Pleasant Breeze Following Light Showers
Mumbai experienced bright sunshine and a pleasant breeze on Monday morning after light to moderate showers soaked parts of the suburbs late Sunday night. The first week of October signals a retreat in monsoon activity along the Konkan coast, with rainfall intensity gradually decreasing across the region.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), weather conditions across Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts have largely stabilized following several days of intermittent drizzle and moderate rain. As of October 6, no weather alerts have been issued for any district in the Konkan belt, providing some much-needed respite to residents after weeks of unsettled weather.
Weather Update for Mumbai & MMR
In Mumbai, Thane, and Navi Mumbai, Monday morning saw mostly stable weather characterized by cloudy but dry conditions. The IMD has ruled out chances of heavy rainfall throughout the day. Maximum temperatures are expected to reach around 31°C, while minimum temperatures will hover near 25°C. Despite the clear skies, humid conditions are likely to make the day feel warmer and slightly uncomfortable, especially for outdoor commuters.
In Palghar district, the weather is expected to fluctuate between bright sunshine and occasional light drizzle in some pockets, with other areas remaining completely dry. Morning skies remained partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging between 29°C and 31°C. The high humidity is anticipated to cause mild discomfort during the afternoon hours.
Further south along the Konkan coast, in Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts, calm weather prevailed following several days of light rainfall. The day is expected to remain largely dry with gentle to moderate sea conditions. Temperatures in these districts are likely to stay close to 30°C. Residents along the coastal belt may experience humid and slightly warm conditions, especially during midday hours.
Light Rains Expected From Tomorrow
The IMD has forecasted that light rain may return to some parts of the Konkan and interior Maharashtra starting October 7, marking a brief revival of post-monsoon showers. However, for now, Mumbaikars can expect relatively dry and stable weather over the next 24 hours. Clear skies, moderate humidity, and calm winds will offer a brief but welcome break from the persistent rains experienced throughout September.
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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-weather-update-city-wakes-up-to-clear-skies-after-overnight-showers-no-rainfall-alert-issued
MIAMI (AP) — Tropical Storm Priscilla formed in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Mexico on Saturday, according to the Miami-based National Hurricane Center.
Priscilla is a large tropical storm, with tropical storm-force winds extending as far as 140 miles (220 kilometers) from its center. The storm’s maximum sustained winds reached 45 mph (75 kph). At the time of the report, Priscilla was located about 285 miles (455 kilometers) southwest of Manzanillo and was moving northwest at 3 mph (6 kph).
A tropical storm watch has been issued for part of the southwestern coast of Mexico, from Punta San Telmo to Punta Mita. Tropical storm conditions are possible in this area on Sunday and Monday.
Priscilla is forecast to reach hurricane status by Sunday night or early Monday and is expected to move generally parallel to the coast over the coming days.
Meanwhile, another tropical storm in the Pacific, Octave, is meandering far from shore with no landfall forecasted. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect for Octave. The storm’s maximum sustained winds have strengthened slightly to 65 mph (100 kph).
The Associated Press.
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/tropical-storm-priscilla-forms-pacific-211418782.html
Several activists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla have accused Israeli forces of mistreatment following the interception of the fleet. Among the allegations are claims that Israel provided little food and water to the detainees and placed them in cells “infested with bugs.”
One activist recounted a particularly distressing incident, stating, “They dragged little Greta by her hair.”
The Global Sumud Flotilla included prominent activists such as Swedish environmental advocate Greta Thunberg and Brazilian activist Thiago Avila. Both were aboard a vessel en route to Israel when their group was intercepted.
The image released on October 2, 2025, shows Greta Thunberg and Thiago Avila seated on the vessel during their journey as part of the flotilla.
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-869405
