Local Roundup: Flash Floods in Jammu, 3D-Printed Bunkers in Leh, Flamingo Comeback and More Big Headlines from Last Week

Local Round-up brings you what's happening across the country in travel, food, infrastructure, and sports. We have curated the updates from the weekend and the beginning of this week for you. So, read these below. 

Flash Floods Wreak Havoc in Jammu-Kashmir’s Ramban, Over 100 Rescued

Heavy rains triggered flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district, damaging several houses and blocking the strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. Over 100 people, stranded in different areas, were successfully rescued by teams of the police, NDRF, and SDRF. The flooding also led to significant traffic disruptions, and emergency measures were swiftly put into place to prevent further casualties. Authorities have advised caution for travelers and residents as rainfall in the region is expected to continue.

Cheetahs Prabhash and Pavak Moved from Kuno to Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary

After two years at Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park, South African cheetahs Prabhash and Pavak have been relocated to the newly prepared Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary. Officials from Project Cheetah said the move aims to ensure better space and habitat management for the animals. Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary, with its larger landscape, is expected to provide a more sustainable environment for cheetah conservation efforts in India.

Uttar Pradesh Village Builds Its Own Bridge After 58 Years of Waiting

In a heartening story of determination, villagers in Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, crowdfunded and constructed a bridge over the river Magai after waiting 58 years for government action. For decades, villagers struggled to cross the river, risking their lives daily. The new bridge has now connected the isolated community to the rest of the region, significantly improving access to education, healthcare, and markets. It's a striking example of collective willpower overcoming official inertia.

Pakistan Women's Cricket Team Will Not Travel to India for ODI World Cup

The Pakistan women's cricket team will not travel to India for the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup. Instead, their matches will be held at a neutral venue. Citing security concerns, Pakistan Cricket Board officials confirmed the decision after discussions with the ICC. This development mirrors the continuing diplomatic tensions between the two nations and may impact tournament dynamics.

Urvashi Rautela Sparks Controversy Over 'Personal Temple' Claim Near Badrinath

Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela stirred controversy after claiming that a temple near Badrinath was named after her. Priest groups and local communities expressed outrage, urging authorities to take legal action against the misinformation. Religious leaders have emphasized the sanctity of historic temples and denounced attempts to misappropriate cultural heritage for personal fame.

Flamingos Return to Mumbai's DPS Lake After Three Years

Flamingos made a stunning comeback to Mumbai’s DPS Lake after a three-year hiatus, thanks to partially restored water flow. Environmentalists celebrated the return of the migratory birds, which had disappeared due to poor water management. The event highlights the critical role of habitat conservation efforts and offers renewed hope for Mumbai’s dwindling urban biodiversity.

Jinnah House Renovation Awaits MEA Nod After Heritage Clearance

Mumbai’s iconic Jinnah House, the 1936 bungalow of Pakistan’s founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, has received heritage clearance for renovation. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is expected to approve the next phase soon, which includes internal aesthetic changes. Officials hinted at the possibility of repurposing the structure into a diplomatic enclave while preserving its historical significance.

IIT-Hyderabad Builds World's Highest On-Site 3D-Printed Military Bunker in Leh

IIT-Hyderabad researchers, in collaboration with the Indian Army, have built the world's highest on-site 3D-printed military bunker at 11,000 feet in Leh. Using Simpliforge technology, the project marks a breakthrough in quick, cost-effective military infrastructure. The success is being hailed as a potential game-changer for defence strategies in harsh terrains.

Sourav Kothari Defeats Pankaj Advani to Win World Billiards Title

Sourav Kothari clinched the IBSF World Billiards Championship title by beating Indian billiards legend Pankaj Advani in an intense final. The win marks a major milestone in Kothari’s career and reinforces India's strong global presence in the cue sports arena.

Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra Added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register

Two foundational Indian texts — the Bhagavad Gita and the Natyashastra — have been inscribed into UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. The move recognises their historical, cultural, and philosophical importance on a global stage. Scholars hailed it as a proud moment for India's intangible heritage.

Silkyara Tunnel to be Named After Local Deity Baba Baukhnag

The Silkyara Tunnel in Uttarakhand, where 41 trapped workers were rescued last year, will be named after Baba Baukhnag, a revered local deity. The naming honours local faith and acknowledges the deity’s perceived role in the miraculous rescue operation, blending folklore and modern engineering triumph.

Indian Street Foods Shine: Parotta, Amritsari Kulcha, Chole Bhature Among World's 50 Best

Indian favourites — Parotta, Amritsari Kulcha, and Chole Bhature — have been ranked among the world's 50 best street foods by TasteAtlas. The list spotlights India's rich and diverse street culinary tradition, reinforcing its growing influence on global food culture.

Indian Railways Conducts First-Ever On-Board ATM Trial Between Manmad and Mumbai

In a first, Indian Railways successfully trialed an on-board ATM service between Manmad and Mumbai. Passengers could withdraw cash during the journey, marking a major step toward enhancing onboard services and financial accessibility for travelers.

1 in 5 iPhones Sold Globally Now 'Made in India'

India’s smartphone manufacturing sector achieved a major milestone as Apple revealed that 1 in 5 iPhones sold globally is now made in India. With production hitting $22 billion, this signifies India’s growing role as a key hub in the global tech supply chain.

MS Dhoni Creates History with 200 IPL Dismissals

MS Dhoni, the former Indian cricket captain, has become the first player to record 200 dismissals in the IPL. The historic feat further cements Dhoni’s legacy as one of cricket’s greatest wicketkeepers and most impactful leaders.