environment 8 - The Latremie Post

Flood-like situation after heavy rains in three Marathwada districts

“It was like a cloud burst in some of these areas,” a revenue official said. The two dams were almost full, and water discharge was underway from them due to continuous inflow, he added.

Javlala and Ramoda areas in the catchment of the Majalgaon dam received 160 mm and 120 mm of rainfall, respectively, since Monday night, the official reported. Similarly, the areas of Gangapur (46 mm), Paithan (92 mm), and Bhendala (52 mm) in the catchment area of the Jayakwadi dam also recorded rainfall.

As a result, water discharge from the Jayakwadi and Majalgaon dams into the Godavari river reached 1.03 lakh cusec (cubic feet per second) and 1.15 lakh cusec, respectively, on Tuesday morning.

Moreover, excess rainfall was recorded in Ghansawangi and Ambad talukas of Jalna, as well as Gevrai taluka in Beed. This led to swelling of the Godavari river and caused a flood-like situation in several villages across Chhatrapati Sambajinagar, Jalna, and Beed districts.

Heavy Rains in Solapur, Marathwada: CM Asks Water Resources Dept to Coordinate with Collectors

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday directed the local administration to coordinate closely with the State Water Resources Department to take necessary measures in view of the heavy rainfall in Solapur district and Marathwada.

Many talukas of Solapur district and surrounding areas, along with Dharashiv, Beed, and Jalna in Marathwada, are currently experiencing heavy rainfall, according to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office.

“The CM is keeping an eye on the situation and is in constant contact with the local administration. Additionally, he has instructed the Water Resources Department to monitor the situation carefully, take necessary precautions, and maintain ongoing coordination with district collectors,” the statement added.

Fadnavis also emphasized the importance of maintaining constant coordination with officers of the Maharashtra Krishna Valley Development Corporation and the Godavari Marathwada Irrigation Development Corporation to effectively manage the situation.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/maharashtra-flood-like-situation-after-heavy-rains-in-three-marathwada-districts-23595374

World Ayurveda Day 2025: 4 Reasons Ayurveda Is The Natural Option For Health & Nature

These days, staying healthy can be challenging because so many options are processed or artificial. The environment is also affected by these choices. In this situation, Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medical system, offers a holistic and natural way to care for both your health and the planet.

**World Ayurveda Day**
September 23 is celebrated as World Ayurveda Day to promote the goodness of Ayurveda for people. The theme for 2025 is **‘Ayurveda for People and Planet’**. It highlights the Indian government’s vision of promoting Ayurveda as a viable and conscience-based healthcare option that benefits both people and nature.

Let us explore how Ayurveda benefits your health and the environment, while discovering the organic and Ayurvedic options offered by Patanjali.

—

### All About Ayurveda

Ayurveda is a traditional Indian medical system that focuses on the overall well-being of your mind, body, and soul. The word *Ayurveda* means “knowledge of life,” and it uses natural methods to support your health as a whole.

Ayurveda believes that the body and nature are interconnected and considers a person’s **Prakriti** (body constitution) and **Doshas** (life forces) that preserve the body’s balance. This holistic approach looks at every aspect of a person’s life to identify the root causes of health issues and develop enduring solutions.

Ayurveda includes the use of herbal medicines to treat imbalances, lifestyle choices tailored to the individual’s Doshas, and supportive practices such as Yoga, meditation, and exercises. Mindfulness is also a key component.

Founded by Acharya Charaka, Ayurveda presents a comprehensive system that supports healthy living while caring for the environment.

—

### 4 Benefits of Ayurveda for Health and Nature

**1. Holistic Healing**
Ayurveda promotes long-term health by treating the mind, body, and soul together, rather than focusing on isolated symptoms. It encourages healing on all levels for sustained well-being.

**2. Natural Ingredients**
Ayurvedic remedies rely on natural herbs, oils, minerals, and traditional processes. These natural products have minimal side effects and can be safely used over time.

**3. Eco-Care**
By using organic and natural options, Ayurveda supports environmental sustainability. Its treatments have a low carbon footprint and promote ecological balance.

**4. Eco-Friendly Lifestyle**
Ayurveda emphasizes living in harmony with nature’s cycles. This includes seasonal eating and adapting lifestyle choices according to the climate to ensure overall wellness and environmental care.

—

### Patanjali: Ayurveda in Action

Patanjali operates within the framework of Ayurveda, offering a wide range of organic and Ayurvedic products that promote a healthy lifestyle.

– **Patanjali Organic Virgin Coconut Oil (Jar) (300 ml and 500 ml)**
Rich in antioxidants, minerals, and healthy fats, this coconut oil can be used for cooking as well as beauty treatments.

– **Patanjali Traditional Whole Wheat Atta (5 Kg)**
Made from the finest whole wheat, this natural flour retains the bran, germ, and endosperm for maximum nutrition.

– **Patanjali Unpolished Mix Pulses (500 g and 1 Kg)**
These unpolished pulses are more nutritious and tastier than polished varieties and serve as a high source of protein.

—

Celebrate **World Ayurveda Day** on September 23 by embracing the Ayurvedic way of life. Choose natural, organic products from Patanjali and live a healthier, longer life—mindfully caring for both yourself and the planet.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/world-ayurveda-day-2025-4-reasons-ayurveda-is-the-natural-option-for-health-nature

Long-Term Interest Rates in Japan Rise to 17-Year High

Long-term interest rates in Japan, which influence fixed mortgage rates, rose to their highest level in 17 years. The yield on 10-year government bonds briefly reached 1.665 percent during trading on September 22nd, marking the highest level since 2008.

In an innovative approach to electricity demand control, frozen tuna stored at minus 60 degrees Celsius are now being used as a cooling agent. By temporarily shutting down refrigeration units and utilizing the fish itself to maintain storage temperatures, companies are beginning to reduce power consumption effectively.

The Consumer Affairs Agency has announced that Ajinomoto and Inglewood are suspected of engaging in stealth marketing practices related to their frozen home-delivery meal brand, “Aete.” The companies allegedly asked individuals to post on social media in exchange for free products and later republished those posts on their sales sites.

Seven-Eleven Japan has completed a large-scale overhaul of the store system used by approximately 21,000 outlets nationwide. This milestone comes five years after the project was first conceived. The new system marks a significant step in digital transformation, replacing the company’s traditional infrastructure with a cloud-based model designed to enhance efficiency and service.

On September 19th, the Bank of Japan decided to maintain its policy interest rate at 0.5 percent, marking the fifth consecutive meeting without a rate change. This decision, supported by a majority of the Policy Board, comes as the central bank closely monitors the impact of U.S. tariffs, commonly referred to as the Trump tariffs.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146971.php

Breadfruit: A superfood worth trying

**Breadfruit: A Superfood Worth Trying**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 22, 2025, 04:42 pm*

—

**What’s the story?**
African breadfruit is making waves as a sustainable superfood, celebrated for its impressive nutritional benefits and positive environmental impact. This versatile fruit can be incorporated into a variety of dishes and serves as a rich source of essential nutrients. As more people seek eco-friendly food options, African breadfruit is emerging as a promising and sustainable solution.

—

### Nutritional Benefits of African Breadfruit

African breadfruit is packed with vitamins and minerals that support overall health. It is a rich source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and aids in collagen production. The fruit also provides potassium, essential for heart health and muscle function. Additionally, its dietary fiber content promotes healthy digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Thanks to this nutrient profile, African breadfruit makes a valuable addition to any balanced diet.

—

### Environmental Impact of Cultivation

The cultivation of African breadfruit has a relatively low environmental footprint compared to many other crops. It thrives in poor soil conditions and requires less water, making it well-suited for regions prone to drought. Its growth doesn’t rely heavily on fertilizers or pesticides, which supports soil health and biodiversity. Encouraging the growth of this fruit offers farmers a way to engage in more sustainable agricultural practices.

—

### Economic Opportunities for Communities

Growing African breadfruit creates promising economic opportunities for local communities. The fruit can be processed into various products such as flour and snacks that appeal to both local and international markets. This diversification not only boosts income but also creates jobs in processing and distribution. Investing in African breadfruit cultivation and processing can thus enhance economic stability for many communities.

—

### Culinary Versatility of African Breadfruit

African breadfruit is celebrated for its culinary versatility. When cooked, its texture is similar to that of a potato, making it perfect for soups, stews, or roasting. Its mild flavor easily absorbs spices, enhancing the overall taste of dishes without overpowering other ingredients. This adaptability makes it a favorite among chefs who are eager to incorporate sustainable and innovative ingredients into their menus.

—

In summary, African breadfruit stands out as a nutritious, eco-friendly, and economically valuable superfood. Its ability to support sustainable farming, boost community incomes, and enrich culinary experiences makes it a food worth trying and promoting worldwide.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/african-breadfruit-a-sustainable-superfood/story

Environment Minister Calls for Restraint on Mega-Solar Project

Environment Minister Keiichiro Asao has expressed his view that the construction of large-scale solar panel projects in the Kushiro Wetlands of Hokkaido should be restrained. The minister’s comments highlight growing concerns over the environmental impact of such developments in this ecologically sensitive area.

Former Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi has announced her candidacy in the upcoming Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership election, which is set to be officially declared next week. Takaichi unveiled a platform centered on bold growth investment, aiming to revitalize Japan’s economy. Notably, her policy package incorporates some proposals from opposition parties, signaling an openness to potential collaboration across the political spectrum.

Marking the 94th anniversary of the Mukden Incident, which triggered the Manchurian Incident, China released the film *731* on September 18. The film focuses on Unit 731, a former Japanese military unit allegedly involved in the development of biological weapons during World War II. This release has drawn fresh attention to anti-Japan sentiment in China, coinciding with a date that also marks the 80th anniversary of what China frames as its victory in the war against Japan. These events have raised concerns for Japanese residents and businesses in China amid escalating tensions.

In a separate development, an initiative to reuse soil generated during decontamination work in Fukushima Prefecture—following the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident—has started at central government ministries in Kasumigaseki, Tokyo. This effort aims to promote sustainable practices in managing contaminated materials.

On the legal front, the first hearing for former House of Councillors member Ohno Yasumasa and his secretary was held at the Tokyo District Court on September 10. Both are charged with violating the Political Funds Control Act over an alleged slush fund tied to Liberal Democratic Party fundraising parties. Ohno pleaded not guilty, stating, “I have never committed a crime.”

Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party is currently entering a leadership contest amid deepening factional infighting. The outcome of this contest is expected to significantly influence the government’s approach to inflation and the complexities of minority governance.

Meanwhile, opposition parties are preparing to invoke Article 53 of the Constitution to demand an extraordinary Diet session. They argue that a prolonged political vacuum is unacceptable and are pushing for urgent parliamentary deliberations to address pressing national issues.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146967.php

Pakistan PM Sharif to meet US President Trump with select Muslim leaders

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump alongside a select group of Muslim leaders on the sidelines of the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, it was announced on Sunday.

The Prime Minister will visit the United States from September 22 to 26, leading a delegation to attend the 80th Session of the UNGA in New York. He will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, other ministers, and senior officials.

According to a statement from the Foreign Office (FO), “The Prime Minister will also participate in a meeting of select Islamic leaders with US President Trump to exchange views on issues pertaining to regional and international peace and security.”

During his address to the General Assembly, Prime Minister Sharif will urge the international community to resolve prolonged global issues. He will particularly draw attention to the grave crisis in Gaza and call for decisive action to end the suffering of the Palestinians.

The Prime Minister will also highlight Pakistan’s perspective on the regional security situation, as well as other key issues of international concern, including climate change, terrorism, Islamophobia, and sustainable development.

In addition to his speech, the Prime Minister will attend several high-level events on the sidelines of the UNGA Session. These include important meetings of the UN Security Council, the High-Level Meeting of the Global Development Initiative (GDI), and a Special High-Level Event on Climate Action, among others.

Prime Minister Sharif will hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders and senior UN officials to exchange views on issues of mutual interest. He will emphasize Pakistan’s commitment to working with all UN Member States to uphold the UN Charter, prevent conflict, foster peace, and promote global prosperity during Pakistan’s current tenure as a member of the Security Council.

“The Prime Minister’s participation in this largest annual gathering of global leaders will showcase Pakistan’s strong commitment to multilateralism and the United Nations, highlighting Pakistan’s longstanding contribution towards the shared objectives of peace and development,” the FO added.

*Note:* This story is sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove content at their absolute discretion without prior notice.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-to-meet-us-president-trump-with-select-muslim-leaders-on-unga-sidelines-23595118

Gatwick second runway plan approved by transport secretary

**Gatwick Second Runway Plan Approved by Transport Secretary**

*By Katy Austin, Transport Correspondent and Jamie Whitehead, BBC News*

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has approved plans for a second runway at London Gatwick Airport, marking a significant step as the government seeks new opportunities for economic growth.

The £2.2 billion privately-financed project essentially involves moving the current Northern Runway 12 metres to bring it into regular use, alongside other developments including terminal expansions. The airport says the plans will create jobs and boost the local economy.

Gatwick currently handles around 280,000 flights annually. The new plan would increase this number to approximately 389,000 flights by the late 2030s. A government source described the plan as a “no-brainer for growth,” adding that it is possible planes could be utilising a new full runway at Gatwick before the next general election.

Located in West Sussex, London Gatwick is currently Europe’s busiest single-runway airport, serving over 40 million passengers a year. The approved plans would add 40,000 more flights before the second runway opens, rising to 70,000 additional flights—nearly 190 per day—once the runway is fully operational. This expansion could see passenger numbers rise to as many as 80 million.

Currently, the Northern Runway is used only for taxiing or as a backup. The new second runway will primarily serve short-haul flights, while freeing up capacity on the main runway for more long-haul services.

The decision to approve the expansion was anticipated in February, when the transport secretary expressed that she was “minded to grant consent” for the Northern Runway planning application. Planning inspectors had raised concerns about the potential impact of the proposals on the surrounding area, including traffic congestion and noise pollution.

In response, in April Gatwick Airport agreed to implement stricter noise controls, an enhanced insulation scheme for nearby residents, and a target of having 54% of air passengers use public transport before the Northern Runway opens. To achieve this, the airport acknowledged that third parties, including the Department for Transport, would need to support the delivery of necessary infrastructure improvements—such as reinstating the full Gatwick Express rail service.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the Gatwick Express offered four non-stop trains per hour between the airport and London Victoria. This was reduced to two trains per hour in 2022.

To address road congestion concerns, Gatwick Airport has also proposed a cap on cars on the road if the 54% public transport target is not met prior to the runway’s first use. If neither the target nor the road traffic limit can be achieved, the runway plans would be delayed until £350 million in road improvements are completed. The airport stated this would ensure additional traffic flows can be accommodated without causing congestion.

A government source said, “This government has taken unprecedented steps to get this done, navigating a needlessly complex planning system, which our reforms will simplify in future.” They added, “Any airport expansion must be delivered in line with our legally binding climate change commitments and meet strict environmental requirements.”

However, there is strong opposition to the expansion, particularly from climate campaigners. Following the approval announcement, new Green Party leader Zack Polanski called it a “disaster for the climate crisis.”

In February, Greenpeace UK policy director Douglas Parr argued the extension would not drive economic growth. “The only thing it’s set to boost is air pollution, noise, and climate emissions,” he said.

Alex Chapman, senior economist at the left-leaning think tank New Economics Foundation, also contended the expansion would not create new jobs but rather shift them from other parts of the country. “People are already perfectly able to catch cheap flights on holiday or travel for business,” he added.

Unite the Union general secretary Sharon Graham voiced support for Gatwick having a second runway but cautioned it must come with “guarantees of well-paid, unionised jobs and proper facilities for workers.”

—

*This article will be updated as further developments occur.*
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9v7rz24z23o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss

Bear Attacks Surge as Fatality Rate Reaches 24%

Autumn is the most dangerous season in Japan as bears become highly active in search of food before winter hibernation. The country is home to two bear species: the brown bear, or higuma, found in Hokkaido, and the Asiatic black bear, or tsukinowaguma, which lives in Honshu and Shikoku.

A large brown bear can stand nearly three meters tall and possesses enough strength to break a horse’s neck with a single blow. Remarkably, they can sprint 100 meters in as little as six seconds, while black bears cover the same distance in about eight seconds. The fatality rate for victims attacked by brown bears is 24 percent, compared to just 2.3 percent for black bears.

Between April and August 2025, 69 people were injured or killed by bears—matching the pace from two years earlier, when an acorn shortage triggered the worst year on record for bear-related incidents.

Surveys conducted since 2018 by the Environment Ministry have confirmed new areas of bear habitation, with populations expanding across Japan except in Shikoku. Hokkaido’s brown bear population has more than doubled over the past 30 years, while black bears have expanded their range by 1.4 times. Today, Chiba Prefecture remains the only part of Honshu without wild bears, and the species is extinct in Kyushu.

The surge in bear numbers is linked to shifts in human society. During the early 20th century, widespread hunting for pelts and gallbladders—used in traditional medicine—threatened bear populations with extinction in some regions. However, following the introduction of a new protection framework in 1999, combined with population decline and abandoned farmland providing more food, bear populations rebounded rapidly.

As their habitats have extended closer to towns and villages, many bears have lost their natural fear of humans. This has led to more frequent appearances in residential areas, increasingly referred to as “urban bears.”

Experts emphasize that both population management and deterrence measures are essential. Mayumi Yokoyama, a professor at the University of Hyogo, highlights the need to capture not only bears that enter towns but also those living near homes to reduce overall numbers. At the same time, food sources such as persimmons and garbage should be controlled, and electric fences installed around farmland to deter bears.

In 2024, the government removed bears from its list of protected species and reclassified them as managed wildlife, alongside deer and wild boar. This change permits more aggressive population control through concentrated hunting. Since September, municipalities have also been authorized to permit the use of hunting rifles in urban areas.

Bears have long been familiar figures in Japanese folklore—from legends of Kintaro wrestling a bear to tales of coexistence with nature. Yet, the growing frequency of bear encounters underscores the need for modern solutions.

As experts warn, only by combining careful population management with preventive measures can people and bears continue to coexist in today’s Japan.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146950.php

Over 7,000 Farmers Hit As August Rains Ravage 4,000 Hectares In Nashik

**Nashik: Heavy Rains Bring Mixed Blessings to Farmers and Dams**

The continuous rains in Nashik district since May have filled the dams to the brim, bringing a sense of satisfaction to many. However, for farmers, the story is quite different. The relentless downpour, especially in August, has caused extensive damage to standing crops, resulting in significant financial losses for middle-class farmers.

According to administrative statistics, August’s heavy rains have severely impacted agriculture. In 40 villages across the district, a total of 4,014.32 hectares of crops have been damaged, affecting 7,108 farmers. Seasonal crops such as onion, soybean, and maize, along with grape and pomegranate orchards, have suffered substantial losses.

### Financial Assistance and Government Response

In response to the damage, the district administration has submitted a proposal requesting financial assistance amounting to Rs 3.81 crore from the state government. The affected farmers are eagerly awaiting government aid, with hopes pinned on a positive and swift response.

The administration, in collaboration with the agriculture department, has completed panchnamas (official damage assessments) in the impacted areas. These reports, detailing the extent of crop loss and farmer distress, have been forwarded to the state authorities for further action.

### Overflowing Dams and Abundant Rainfall

While the rains have caused crop damage, they have also led to overflowing dams across the district. The Gangapur Dam, a primary water source for Nashik city, currently has a water storage level of 98.56%, prompting continuous discharge to manage the excess.

Overall, dam water storage this year is 9% higher than the previous year. Rainfall data reveals that Dindori taluka has recorded the highest precipitation at 152% of its average. Other talukas such as Deola, Baglan, Nandgaon, Chandwad, Niphad, and Yeola have also experienced over 100% of their normal rainfall.

—

As Nashik grapples with the dual realities of overflowing dams and damaged crops, farmers await timely government intervention to help recover their losses and rebuild their livelihoods.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/over-7000-farmers-hit-as-august-rains-ravage-4000-hectares-in-nashik

Mumbai News: BMC To Revamp 10 Dry Waste Centers Across City To Reduce Burden On Dumping Grounds

BMC to Revamp 10 Dry Waste Centers in Mumbai with Advanced Technology

Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to modernise 10 of its existing 41 dry waste centers across the city. Tenders for the revamp, covering the first two phases of the project, will be invited in October. This move aims to ease the burden on Mumbai’s two major dumping grounds at Kanjurmarg and Deonar.

Current System Unorganised; New Technology to Be Introduced

At present, dry waste segregation at these centers is largely unorganised and predominantly managed by informal groups, with minimal mechanisation involved. To bring in efficiency and streamline waste processing, the BMC will introduce conveyor belts and advanced waste segregation units.

The sites identified for Phase 1 include Wadala, Marol-Andheri, Dahisar East, and Borivali West. Phase 2 will cover facilities located in Colaba, Agripada (Byculla), and Andheri West.

Focus on Larger Sites and Improved Worker Conditions

Dr. Ashwini Joshi, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Solid Waste Management), emphasized, “Priority is being given to sites with an area of at least 2,000 sq ft. The central ministry is encouraging such initiatives, with partial funding support available. Our goal is also to divert more waste away from the dumping grounds.”

The revamp will not only enhance working conditions for waste workers but also promote better utilisation of recyclable materials, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable Mumbai.

Long-Term Vision: Mechanise All 41 Dry Waste Centers

The BMC’s long-term plan includes mechanising all 41 dry waste centers to more effectively manage Mumbai’s growing daily waste and reduce the pressure on existing dumping sites.

As a step forward, a dry waste segregation and processing center was inaugurated in Andheri six months ago. Operating under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, this facility processes 10 metric tons of waste every day using scientific methods. According to officials, “The center is running successfully.”

Special Disposal System for Sanitary and Biomedical Waste

In compliance with Central Pollution Control Board guidelines, sanitary pads, diapers, and similar waste are disposed of through eco-friendly incinerators and designated biomedical waste centers.

In the last two months, over 4,000 institutions have registered with the BMC using a QR code system, generating approximately 2.5 tons of such waste daily.

Each administrative ward currently has dedicated vehicles with a capacity of 0.6 tons for waste collection. “Moving forward, the system will be upgraded with yellow bags, bins, and additional transport equipment to ensure more efficient handling,” added Dr. Joshi.

For more updates on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai and surrounding areas, visit budgetproperties.in.

https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-news-bmc-to-revamp-10-dry-waste-centers-across-city-to-reduce-burden-on-dumping-grounds