Local Round-up: Noida's Jungle Safari to Pune's Bridge Collapse

From nature-inspired developments to policy shifts and emergencies, India’s news cycle continues to mirror its dynamic reality. This week, Noida welcomes a jungle-themed night safari park, while Maharashtra and Uttarakhand reel from tragic accidents. Meanwhile, policy tweaks in cooling standards, taxation, and transport regulation draw public scrutiny across multiple states.

1. Noida’s Jungle Trail to Offer Night Safari Experience from July

Over 700 animal sculptures and a 2.5km eco-trail come alive after dark in Noida’s Rs. 22 crore Jungle Trail project. Noida’s Jungle Trail, built from waste materials, opens in July with animal sculptures, a night safari, and immersive lighting. Spread across 8.5 acres in Sector 95, it features camels, lions, and more—inviting visitors of all ages. Designed to promote eco-tourism and green aesthetics, the trail aims to blend conservation with entertainment.

2. Iron Bridge Collapse in Pune Kills Two, Injures 32

Tragedy unfolds in Pune district as old bridge collapses during evening hours, injuring dozens near Kundamala village. A 90-year-old iron bridge over the Indrayani River collapsed near Maharashtra’s Kundamala village, killing two and injuring 32, six critically. The incident occurred during routine pedestrian use, prompting immediate rescue efforts by NDRF teams. Maharashtra’s CM announced an inquiry, while affected families await compensation and support amid growing infrastructure safety concerns.

3. Helicopter Crash in Remote Uttarakhand Leaves Seven Dead

Chopper carrying pilgrims and crew crashes in remote terrain, highlighting aviation safety concerns in hilly regions. A helicopter carrying passengers crashed in a remote part of Uttarakhand, killing all seven onboard. The cause is under investigation, though adverse weather and terrain are suspected factors. This marks a grim reminder of ongoing challenges in mountain aviation during pilgrimage season, drawing calls for tighter regulation and improved safety checks.

4. Firefighting Efforts Continue for Days off Kerala Coast

Singaporean vessel MV WAN HAI 503 remains ablaze, Indian Coast Guard deploys 8 ships in massive response effort. A major fire onboard the MV WAN HAI 503 container vessel off Kerala’s coast entered its fifth day, with firefighting operations still underway. Indian Coast Guard vessels and aerial surveillance have been deployed to control the flames. While crew have been evacuated, environmental and logistical concerns are growing with every passing hour.

5. India Distances Itself from SCO Statement on Israel-Iran Conflict

In diplomatic balancing act, India does not endorse SCO's criticism of Israel amid Iran tensions. India officially distanced itself from a joint SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation) statement condemning Israeli airstrikes on Iran. The External Affairs Ministry cited the country’s independent foreign policy stance and regional sensitivities. Analysts suggest this reflects New Delhi’s effort to maintain neutral credibility amid Middle Eastern volatility and global geopolitical tensions.

6. North India Scorched as Temperatures Cross 46°C

After unusually wet May, heatwave tightens grip across Punjab and Haryana with no respite in sight. Severe heatwave conditions gripped northern India as temperatures soared beyond 46°C in several regions including Bathinda, Amritsar, and Ludhiana. After a brief monsoonal spell in May, the return of scorching heat has led to health advisories and water concerns. The IMD warns the heatwave may persist for several more days.

7. New Rule: ACs Must Have Minimum Cooling Set to 20°C

Government mulls energy-saving regulation to prevent excessive cooling below 20°C in air conditioners. The Indian government may soon mandate a minimum temperature setting of 20°C in all air conditioners sold across the country. This move aims to curb power consumption and promote sustainable cooling habits. Manufacturers and consumers alike are preparing for the shift, as the policy could influence both pricing and preferences.

8. Anti-Terror Squad Deployed at Valley of Flowers

Security intensified in Uttarakhand tourist zone following attack on pilgrims in Pahalgam. In a first, an anti-terror squad has been stationed in Uttarakhand’s Valley of Flowers following the recent Pahalgam attack. The picturesque but remote location is now under increased surveillance. Authorities say the deployment is preventive, not reactionary, as the region braces for the peak tourist season amid heightened security concerns.

9. Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom Space Mission Postponed

Liquid oxygen leak causes delay in Indian astronaut’s AX-04 mission, new launch date set for 19 June. Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s private space mission AX-04 with Axiom Space was postponed after a liquid oxygen leak was detected. The issue has since been resolved, and the new launch date is set for 19 June. The delay has drawn mixed reactions, though excitement remains high for India’s private space ambitions.

10. Indian Railways Plans Auto-Closing Doors on Mumbai Locals

After several passengers fall from overcrowded trains, Indian Railways explores tech-based safety fixes. In response to recurring fatalities on Mumbai’s suburban trains, Indian Railways is piloting automatic door-closing mechanisms. The move comes after alarming incidents of passengers falling off moving trains. While critics raise concerns about ventilation and cost, officials argue safety must take precedence in one of the world’s busiest transit systems.

11. Karnataka Demands Bigger Share of Central Tax Revenue

State seeks Rs 1.15 trillion boost for Bengaluru infrastructure, citing revenue contribution disparity. Karnataka has formally requested a higher share from the central tax pool, asking for Rs. 1.15 trillion to support Bengaluru’s growing infrastructure needs. State officials argue the allocation doesn’t reflect Karnataka’s economic contributions. This has reignited federal finance debates, with other states expected to follow suit in upcoming fiscal negotiations.

12. Karnataka High Court Upholds Ban on Bike Taxi Services

No interim relief for aggregators as High Court refuses to stay enforcement of bike taxi ban in state. The Karnataka High Court declined to stay the state government’s ban on bike taxi services, effective from 16 June. The ruling affects app-based operators who have long battled regulatory uncertainties. While the government cites public safety concerns, commuters and gig workers warn the move may severely impact last-mile transport access.