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As the sun began to set on the picturesque park, Zhao Liying, her son, and Lin Gengxin went their separate ways, each carrying with them the memory of a chance encounter that brought a touch of magic to their day. In a world where celebrity sightings are a common occurrence, this simple yet profound moment stood out as a testament to the power of warmth, sincerity, and human connection.Kolkata: Bus rides in and around the city, including Howrah Station, is set to become easier this month as commuters can now purchase tickets for state-run buses using the ''Yatri Sathi'' mobile application. This smartphone application also allows users to book yellow, blue, and white taxis. The application launched years ago has now introduced a new digital ticketing feature for state-run buses. According to a Times of India report, State Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty stated on Tuesday that the service initially began on 12 routes, including S10 (Airport-Nabanna), AC23A (Rajchandrapur-New Town), EB12 (Karunamoyee-Barasat), AC39D (Airport-Howrah Station), S23A (Rajchandrapur-Karunamoyee), AC2 (Barasat-Howrah), and S66 (Howrah-Barrackpore), which connect the airport. Gradually, the service will be expanded. The Minister said, "The launch of the Yatri Sathi digital ticketing system represents a significant advancement in Kolkata's public transportation infrastructure. This innovative solution marks a substantial improvement in how commuters access and utilise the city's transport services," as quoted by TOI. The report added that commuters using the application need to choose their route and make UPI payments to receive a QR-coded ticket. Conductors will scan the QR code to verify it. However, a pre-booked ticket does not guarantee a seat, as seats are still available on a first-come, first-served basis. Currently, AC bus services between the airport and Howrah Station (AC39 and VS-2) operate from 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and until 10 p.m. on weekends. Bus services to Tollygunge (V1) wrap up even earlier, by 8 p.m. daily. Other routes offering AC bus services include Garia (AC37A), Golf Green (AC43), and Esplanade (VS-1). The last buses for Garia, Golf Green, and Esplanade depart the airport even earlier, at 6:15 p.m., 6:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m., respectively. The Minister further added, "This move will enhance commuter convenience. With a cashless system, it simplifies payments and promotes digital adoption," as quoted by TOI. Transport Secretary Saumitra Mohan highlighted that this advancement places Kolkata among select Indian cities utilizing technology to enhance public transport efficiency, the report added. ''Yatri Sathi'', an application developed by the West Bengal government's IT and ITeS department, functions primarily as a ride-booking service with thousands of AC and non-AC cabs registered. Moreover, it offers digital ticketing facilities for various Kolkata attractions, including the Alipore Zoo, Alipore Jail Museum, Nicco Park, Eco Park, Eco Urban Village, Aircraft Museum, and Rabindra Tirtha, the report noted. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Kolkata and around the world.
The first signal of the policy shift came during the recent meeting of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. In a rare move, top leaders explicitly mentioned the need to adopt a more "proactive" fiscal policy and a more "prudent" monetary policy. This departure from the previous rhetoric of "stability" and "control" caught many by surprise and signaled a clear intention to steer the economy towards a more flexible and growth-oriented direction.Title: Messi's Revenge: Dembélé's Determined Stance Heightens Conflict with Barcelona
The New York Yankees agreed to a one-year contract worth $5 million with outfielder Trent Grisham on Friday to avoid arbitration, according to ESPN's Jorge Castillo . Per Castillo, Grisham can make an additional $250,000 in bonuses that are tied to plate appearances as part of the deal. The Yankees are also still attempting to re-sign Juan Soto, as the team's meeting with the star outfielder on Monday went "very well" (via Jon Heyman of the New York Post ). This article will be updated soon to provide more information and analysis. For more from Bleacher Report on this topic and from around the sports world, check out our B/R app , homepage and social feeds—including Twitter , Instagram , Facebook and TikTok .I’m A Celeb fans convinced they’ve worked out star who will snap and quit first – but it’s not DeanOpenAI Officially Launches Sora: A Breakthrough in Video Generation
One of the driving forces behind the surge was a series of positive economic data releases that suggested a stronger-than-expected recovery for the Chinese economy. The latest figures on industrial production, retail sales, and fixed-asset investment all exceeded analysts' forecasts, fueling optimism about the country's growth prospects.One of the key highlights of HKC's 6.67-inch Micro LED direct display panel is its direct-viewing capability. Unlike traditional displays that require backlighting or color filters, Micro LED technology allows each pixel to emit its own light, resulting in vibrant colors, high contrast ratios, and wide viewing angles. This direct-viewing feature not only enhances the visual experience but also enables the display to be used in a variety of applications, including automotive displays, AR/VR devices, and wearable technology.
GOP senators signal they’re open to Patel leading FBI
In recent times, the A-share market in China has been a subject of great interest and speculation. With the global economic landscape facing uncertainties and challenges, investors are eager to understand how the future trends of A-shares will unfold. Amidst this backdrop, the latest policy measures and their potential impact on the market have become a focal point for market participants. Let's delve into the prospects of the A-share market and how policy initiatives could serve as a catalyst in boosting market confidence.Sosuke Aizen, the former captain of the Fifth Division in the Gotei 13, is a master manipulator and one of the most formidable villains in the Bleach universe. With his trademark glasses and calm demeanor, Aizen's intelligence and power are unmatched, making him a captivating and complex character that fans love to hate.
WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday named Pam Bondi, the former attorney general of Florida, to be U.S. attorney general just hours after his other choice, Matt Gaetz, withdrew his name. Bondi is a longtime Trump ally and was one of his lawyers during his first impeachment trial when he was accused — but not convicted — of abusing his power as he tried to condition U.S. military assistance to Ukraine on that country investigating then-former Vice President Joe Biden. She has been a chair at the America First Policy Institute, a think tank set up by former Trump administration staffers. Bondi is from Tampa and spent more than 18 years as a prosecutor. She was Florida's first female attorney general. Gaetz withdrew Thursday amid continued fallout over a federal sex trafficking investigation that cast doubt on his ability to be confirmed as the nation's chief federal law enforcement officer. The announcement capped a turbulent eight-day period in which Trump sought to capitalize on his decisive election win to force Senate Republicans to accept provocative selections like Gaetz, who had been investigated by the Justice Department before being tapped last week to lead it. The decision could heighten scrutiny on other controversial Trump nominees, including Pentagon pick Pete Hegseth, who faces sexual assault allegations that he denies. "While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition," Gaetz, a Florida Republican who one day earlier met with senators in an effort to win their support, said in a statement. "There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle, thus I'll be withdrawing my name from consideration to serve as Attorney General. Trump's DOJ must be in place and ready on Day 1," he added. Hours later, Gaetz posted on social media that he looks "forward to continuing the fight to save our country," adding, "Just maybe from a different post." Trump, in a social media post, said: "I greatly appreciate the recent efforts of Matt Gaetz in seeking approval to be Attorney General. He was doing very well but, at the same time, did not want to be a distraction for the Administration, for which he has much respect. Matt has a wonderful future, and I look forward to watching all of the great things he will do!" He did not immediately announce a new selection. Last week, he named personal lawyers Todd Blanche, Emil Bove and D. John Sauer to senior roles in the department. Another possible contender, Matt Whitaker, was announced Wednesday as the U.S. ambassador to NATO. The withdrawal, just a week after the pick was announced, averts what was shaping up to be a pitched confirmation fight that would have tested how far Senate Republicans were willing to go to support Trump's Cabinet picks. The selection of the fierce Trump ally over well-regarded veteran lawyers whose names had circulated as possible contenders stirred concern for the Justice Department's independence at a time when Trump has openly threatened to seek retribution against political adversaries. It underscored the premium Trump places on personal loyalty and reflected the president-elect's desire to have a disruptor lead a Justice Department that for years investigated and ultimately indicted him. In the Senate, deeply skeptical lawmakers sought more information about Justice Department and congressional investigations into sex trafficking allegations involving underage girls, which Gaetz has denied. Meanwhile, Justice Department lawyers were taken aback by the pick of a partisan lawmaker with limited legal experience who has echoed Trump's claims of a weaponized criminal justice system. As Gaetz sought to lock down Senate support, concern over the sex trafficking allegations showed no signs of abating. In recent days, an attorney for two women said his clients told House Ethics Committee investigators that Gaetz paid them for sex on multiple occasions beginning in 2017, when Gaetz was a Florida congressman. One of the women testified she saw Gaetz having sex with a 17-year-old at a party in Florida in 2017, according to the attorney, Joel Leppard. Leppard has said that his client testified she didn't think Gaetz knew the girl was underage, stopped their relationship when he found out and did not resume it until after she turned 18. The age of consent in Florida is 18. "They're grateful for the opportunity to move forward with their lives," Leppard said Thursday of his clients. "They're hoping that this brings final closure for all the parties involved." Gaetz has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. The Justice Department's investigation ended last year with no charges against him. Gaetz's political future is uncertain. He had abruptly resigned his congressional seat upon being selected as attorney general, a move seen as a way to shut down the ethics investigation into sexual misconduct allegations. He did win reelection in November for the new Congress, which convenes Jan. 3, 2025, but he said in his resignation letter last week to House Speaker Mike Johnson that he did not intend to take the oath of office. He transmitted a similar letter to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis as the state launched a special election process to fill the vacancy. Republicans on the House Ethics Committee declined this week to release the panel's findings, over objections from Democrats in a split vote. But the committee did agree to finish its work and is scheduled to meet again Dec. 5 to discuss the matter. As word of Gaetz's decision spread across the Capitol, Republican senators seemed divided. Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin, who served with Gaetz in the House, called it a "positive move." Maine Sen. Susan Collins said Gaetz "put country first and I am pleased with his decision." Others said they had hoped Gaetz could have overhauled the department. Florida Sen. Rick Scott, a close ally of Trump, said he was "disappointed. I like Matt and I think he would have changed the way DOJ is run." Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul said he hoped that Trump will pick someone "equally as tenacious and equally as committed to rooting out and eliminating bias and politicization at the DOJ." Gaetz is not the only Trump pick facing congressional scrutiny over past allegations. A detailed investigative police report made public Wednesday shows that a woman told police that she was sexually assaulted in 2017 by Hegseth, the former Fox News host now tapped to lead the Pentagon, after he took her phone, blocked the door to a California hotel room and refused to let her leave. "The matter was fully investigated and I was completely cleared," Hegseth told reporters Thursday at the Capitol, where he was meeting with senators to build support for his nomination.In a surprising turn of events, China's leaders have recently made the first mention of "loosening" in the country's economic policies in 14 years. This significant shift in policy attitude has sent shockwaves through the financial markets and sparked intense speculation about the implications for China's economy. Let's delve into the three major signals of this dramatic policy reversal.
Trenton Water Works' Pennington Avenue Reservoir, which holds about 100 million gallons of water, has been in service since 1899. The long-troubled water utility supplies about 29 million gallons of drinking water to about 200,000 people daily in Trenton, Ewing, Hamilton, Hopewell, and Lawrenceville. (Dana DiFilippo | New Jersey Monitor) Residents of Trenton and its suburbs received a letter last week from their local water utility that informed them an employee had been fired for falsifying drinking water data for 15 months — meaning the water went unmonitored for contaminants for over a year. The news might otherwise have earned a shrug from the 200,000-plus customers of Trenton Water Works, long used to the mismanagement, money problems, and staffing shortages that have made the utility frequent headline fodder. But the letter came two years after the state assumed oversight of the utility in New Jersey’s capital city and just a month after state environmental officials blasted its “serious ... continued noncompliance” with the state’s Safe Drinking Water Act — and levied a $235,000 penalty. It also came almost a year after the employee in question last falsified drinking water data. “There’s a section on the letter that says: ‘What do you need to do now?’ It happened a year ago! Do I buy a time machine and go back and not drink the water?” said Michael Ranallo, a longtime Trenton resident. Trenton officials deny that the falsified data means the water was tainted. Instead, it was a monitoring violation, not a water quality violation, said Michael Walker, the utility’s chief of communications and community outreach. The falsified data was “an inexcusable event,” but the employee rightfully got fired and referred to authorities for possible criminal charges, Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora said. A spokesman for the state Attorney General’s Office said an investigation remains ongoing. “We have a couple hundred employees, and unfortunately, one of the water testers, criminally, in my opinion, did not perform his duties and stayed home and fabricated test results . Totally serious violation. Doesn’t mean necessarily that there would have been water violations found,” Gusciora said. Residents and public officials in the suburbs the utility serves remain skeptical. “While TWW claims there is no immediate public health risk, I share the frustration and mistrust felt by many Ewing residents and our neighboring communities,” Ewing Mayor Bert Steinmann said in a statement. Steinmann called for more transparency, accountability, and “swift corrective actions.” “Falsified data and inadequate testing for contaminants erode public confidence and raise serious questions about the utility’s ability to provide safe, reliable drinking water,” he said. On the Facebook page Trenton Orbit, which Ranallo co-founded, Ranallo urged customers to challenge their bills and press the state Board of Public Utilities to intervene. A board spokesman did not respond to a request for comment. “Would you pay your cable company if your signal was scrambled for a month?” Ranallo said. He also complained that local and state officials “made a bigger deal when Starbucks left than anyone has over ~220,000 people’s water.” The Starbucks closure prompted Gov. Phil Murphy to intervene, unsuccessfully. Trenton Water Works serves all sorts of people and facilities, including restaurants and health care facilities, Ranallo told the New Jersey Monitor. “If you were to look back over that time, how many people got sick and didn’t even think that it could be the water? We’ll never know,” he said. While political leaders haven’t said much, state Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette was clear in his concerns about the utility in an order he issued in late October. “The Department has determined that conditions continue to exist at the System that may present an imminent and substantial endangerment to the health of persons, and that this (order) is necessary to protect public health,” LaTourette wrote. The order indicates the department will continue its operational oversight of the utility and informs Trenton Water Works it will hire staff to manage its water treatment plant and other operations. The department is now soliciting bids from firms that can help operate, manage, maintain, and repair the utility over at least a two-year period . Gusciora said the city welcomes the state’s oversight and help in filling staffing gaps that he blamed in part for the 200-year-old utility’s water monitoring lapses and other ongoing problems. “We’re the second oldest water company in the nation, and it has a lot of historical problems that we’ve been addressing since the get-go,” Gusciora said. He also blamed the state’s failure to invest in improvements or otherwise support the city. The utility got just $6 million a year in state aid during the Christie administration, compared to $47 million this year , while state property in Trenton is tax-exempt, leaving the 7-square-mile city struggling financially to fill that property-tax gap, he said. “They drain a lot of our resources and take up space that otherwise would be choice development,” Gusciora said. Walker estimated the utility has $500 million to $1 billion in capital needs, with projects underway to remove lead from water lines, update the filtration plant, replace its reservoir with decentralized storage tanks, and otherwise modernize operations. Trenton Water Works ranked 25th in the Natural Resources Defense Council’s recent ranking of water systems with the most lead lines nationally, with more than 23,000 lines known to contain lead in need of replacement. The utility hasn’t raised rates since 2020 but will have to do so annually, beginning next year, to help cover modernization costs, Walker said. He defended the delay in alerting the public about the employee — one of three water testers — who falsified water data for 15 months, saying the utility is required first to report such things to the state Department of Environmental Protection and follow their directions on community notifications. “We love our customers, including the ones which are not happy with our performance,” Walker said. “We understand that we need to do a better job of communicating why we do what we do, what it costs, and how it benefits the health and well-being of our consumers. At the end of the day, we are very passionate about what we do, about producing one of the finest drinking water products in the world. We want a stronger relationship with our service area customers, and we will get there.” Ranallo doesn’t believe it. “I haven’t had a drop of that water in years,” he said. “I buy bottled water. I don’t consume water from the utility because I don’t trust it.” SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
