These are the world’s narrowest residential buildings: Thin but iconic



The world has seen a number of remarkable innovations in the field of architecture. Some buildings are known for being tall, some for unique architecture and then there are the thinnest buildings where people actually love! And by thin, we mean super thin. From Poland to Japan, architects across the globe have answered two questions: How small can a home be? and how narrow can a building be for livable conditions? Therefore these buildings have become globally famous for pushing the limits of design creativity and showing space efficiency.

These buildings are extraordinary and are a living example of how residential design can keep changing. It depends on the factors such as:

Urban density where maximizing living space in scarce land.

Historical parceling where unique architectural designs are created.

Creative engineering

All these buildings hold some global records. On this note, here we have five of the most stunning and bewildering thinnest or narrowest residential buildings:
(Canva)



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7 islands ruled by animals: From pigs and cats to monkeys and deadly snakes |


7 islands ruled by animals: From pigs and cats to monkeys and deadly snakes

Not all of Earth belongs to humans. It seems some islands are ruled by creatures great and small. From pigs to snakes, cats to seals, there are places where animals call the shots. Humans might visit, snap a few photos, and maybe leave some food. But really? The locals are in charge. Some of these islands are tiny, some larger. Some are famous, others nearly unknown. Each has its own story. It appears the animals thrive because humans either left long ago or simply cannot compete. Curious travellers might be drawn in, but it’s easy to forget who really rules here.Check below 7 islands where humans are visitors, and animals hold the crown.

Animal-owned islands around the world

Pig Island

Pig Island

Big Major Cay is also known as Pig Island, uninhabited. Just pigs and sand. Experts say the pigs were either left by sailors or survived a shipwreck. Either way, they’ve adapted. They swim out to boats, hoping for handouts. Tourists come for the photos and the novelty. But watch your fingers. The pigs are bold. They might jump right into your boat for food. It seems they’re less shy than humans in some ways.

Cat Island

Cat Island

Tashirojima is a small Japanese island where cats outnumber people. The population once numbered about 1,000. Now? Around 100 humans remain. Cats have steadily increased. Visitors reportedly leave food, admire the felines, and even stay in cat-shaped lodgings. Cats here are considered good luck. They roam freely. The tourists keep the cats pampered. Some might find it charming, others a little eerie. Either way, it’s clear who rules.

Rabbit Island

Rabbit Island

Ōkunoshima, or Rabbit Island, has a darker past. During World War II, it was home to a poison gas factory. The rabbits were used in experiments, reportedly. Today, the bunnies hop freely among the ruins. Hunting is prohibited. Cats and dogs are banned. It seems the rabbits have claimed the island entirely. Visitors come to feed them and explore the eerie remnants of the factory. The contrast is striking: soft, innocent rabbits among historical remnants of war.

Assateague Island

Assateague Island

Assateague Island is 37 miles long. Split between Maryland and Virginia. The real residents? Wild ponies. Some say they survived a shipwreck. Others? A mystery. Chincoteague, Virginia, rounds up their half of the ponies each year. People can buy them or return them to the wild. Maryland? They leave the ponies to roam freely. It seems these ponies set the pace for life here.

Seal Island

Seal Island

South African Tourism

Seal Island is more rock than land. Covered with Cape Fur Seals. No vegetation. Humans tried once; a radar during World War II but the elements won. The seals thrive. But the waters are dangerous. Great White Sharks patrol the area, circling like predators in a deadly dance. Any seal straying too far risks becoming a meal. Nature here is brutal, efficient. Humans might visit by boat. Mostly to watch. Not to intervene.

Monkey Island

Monkey Island

Source: Forbes

Cayo Santiago hosts around 950 rhesus monkeys. Brought from India in 1938 for research. Now? They roam freely. The island remains a research site. But casual visitors can only view the monkeys from the water. The monkeys move in groups, climb, and interact. It seems the humans’ presence is minimal. The monkeys? The real rulers.

Snake Island

Snake Island

And then there’s Snake Island, named Ilha de Queimada Grande is infamous. Home to the Golden Lancehead Viper, one of the deadliest snakes in the world. Experts estimate one to five snakes per square metre. Humans are forbidden to land. Any step ashore could be fatal. The snakes here hunt birds, their main prey. It seems this island is absolute animal territory. Humans are simply not welcome.



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India’s first Musical Road opens in Mumbai; plays ‘Jai Ho’ as vehicles pass


India’s first Musical Road opens in Mumbai; plays ‘Jai Ho’ as vehicles pass

Imagine driving through a road and suddenly music starts to play on the road. Sounds interesting and unique, right? Well brace yourself for the unique experience as India has got its first ever Musical Road on one of Mumbai’s most iconic routes, the coastal road. As tires run through the road, a familiar tune plays from the road. So, on 11 February 2026, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) introduced a 500-metre stretch on the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Coastal Road. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were also present during the unveiling event. In fact, they also took a drive along the stretch to experience the musical effect firsthand.This is not your normal road anymore as it literally sings the globally-famous melody of “Jai Ho” as you drive over it. Let’s find more about this new musical update:Where is the magic happening?The musical magic is taking place on the carriageway between Nariman Point and Worli. As the tyres of the vehicle roll over the grooves at the right speed (around 70–80 km/h), the interaction creates vibrations.Those vibrations turn into sound waves and the tune plays inside your car cabin!It completely depends on speed and tyre friction. If you go too slow or too fast, the tune will fade.Why “Jai Ho”?The music isn’t a random choice. It was chosen for its patriotic theme and global recognition. Jai Ho is composed by Academy Award-winning artist A.R. Rahman for ‘Slumdog Millionaire’. In fact, the music maestro himself drove and made a video on the road. He shared his experience on X and wrote:India’s First Musical road ⚠️ Mumbai’s got a new “musical road” grooves carved in just right to play #JaiHo song when cars zip over at the perfect speed. FeaturesSignboards are put before the musical strip so that drivers can adjust their speed. It encourages safer driving habits.The idea of musical roads has roots in other countries like Japan, Hungary, South Korea and the UAE. These countries too have musical roads.This road is an engineering marvel. Experience It’s an interesting experience. When your vehicle is at the right speed, suddenly your car becomes a musical instrument on wheels. The tires are grooving, creating joyful music. There’s something surreal about this musical road. Whether you’re a Mumbaikar or just a curious traveller, this is one drive you can’t miss out on.Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: It is suggested to visit when the traffic is lighter. Preferably early mornings or late evenings as you can hear the tune nice and clear.Exact location: Right after emerging from the Nariman Point → Worli tunnel on the northbound Coastal Road.Mumbai’s musical road is more than just a gimmick or an offbeat attraction. The road also celebrates engineering creativity. So next time you are in Mumbai, do not forget to drive on this musical road!

RGV Breaks Silence, Sparks Speculation Over Jai Ho Controversy With AR Rahman



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5 Vastu-suggested wind chimes to hang at home for attracting love and luck



Every sound carries an energy with which we can relate to. It is also counted among the most powerful medium for activating and balancing energy. Among the infinite types of sounds in the world, there is the sound of wind chimes which when used correctly, are believed to instigate vibrations and remove negativity. These sounds are also believed to enhance harmony. According to Vastu-Shahtra, wind chimes can align the five elements and attract love and luck. But before bringing any wind chime inside your house, it is important to know that not all wind chimes work similarly. Most of the things depend on the material of the wind chime, and the placement direction.

Let’s have a look at five Vastu-suggested wind chimes that are known for inviting love, luck and fortune.

(Canva)



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Dubai ruler’s surprise at Qudra Lakes leaves kids smiling and the internet emotional |


Dubai ruler’s surprise at Qudra Lakes leaves kids smiling and the internet emotional
A leisurely family excursion to Qudra Lakes in Dubai took an extraordinary turn when they encountered Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The Prime Minister’s heartfelt engagement, from blessing the youngsters to enjoying cold coffee together, transformed their day into an unforgettable experience.

A weekend outing at Qudra Lakes in Dubai turned into a memory of a lifetime for one family. According to a social media post shared by Sourabh Jain, the family unexpectedly spotted His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum passing by.What followed was not just a greeting. The post recounts a heartwarming incident in which the prime minister of the United Arab Emirates blessed the kids and even gave them cold coffee. The small gesture turned a typical family day into something incredibly memorable and intimate.Moments like this are about more than just meeting a leader for a lot of parents. They are about what children learn from such encounters.

An unexpected encounter at Qudra Lakes

Qudra Lakes is known as a peaceful weekend escape. Families visit to relax, cycle, and enjoy nature. The user also wrote that this meeting was completely unplanned.The Prime Minister’s presence in a public space, interacting casually with families, stood out. A blessing and a shared drink may seem small, but in a child’s memory, such gestures often grow into lifelong stories.Public figures are seen from a distance. Here, the distance seemed to disappear.

The power of small gestures

The most talked-about detail in the post was not security, status, or ceremony. It was cold coffee.Offering something as simple as a drink to children reflects approachability. It signals comfort and ease. For young minds, this moment may shape how they understand leadership.Children remember feelings more than facts. They remember how someone made them feel. A calm smile. A kind word. A blessing. These are not political acts. They are human ones.

How social media responded

The comment section quickly filled with reactions. Many users expressed admiration and affection using heart emojis, fire emojis, and clapping hands.Comments such as “Lucky kids,” “This is the dream of millions,” and “Great & Ideal Ruler!” reflected pride and joy. Several users wrote blessings in Arabic, wishing the Prime Minister good health and long life.One comment read, “Really lucky.” Another said meeting him was a “longtime wish.”The emotional tone was clear. Most reactions were filled with warmth, excitement, and gratitude.

What children learn from moments like this

Children see leaders only in textbooks or on television. Meeting one in real life changes that picture.It shows them that leaders are people too. It also teaches them that respect flows both ways. When a leader shows warmth to children, it reinforces values of humility and care.Parents can use such moments as conversation starters. What makes a good leader? Is it power, or is it kindness?The answer becomes clearer when children see kindness in action.

Why these stories matter at home

This story is not only about meeting Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It is about what families carry back home after such encounters.Children may remember the day as “the time we met him.” But parents can gently shape the lesson. They can highlight respect, gratitude, and the importance of staying grounded no matter how successful someone becomes.In a world where children often chase fame, moments like this show a softer side of influence. Leadership is not always loud. Sometimes, it is simply a shared drink and a blessing.That is what makes the memory special.



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Why Dr Mickey Mehta says parents must look beyond marks, medals, and milestones


Why Dr Mickey Mehta says parents must look beyond marks, medals, and milestones
In his insightful approach, Dr. Mickey Mehta encourages parents to pivot from a focus on achievements to a more nurturing direction centered around ‘purusharth’ – the journey of inner development and intentional living. He highlights that children are reflections of their parents, needing thoughtful guidance to cultivate awareness and harmony, rather than simply enforcing discipline.

Parenting today feels like a race. Good schools, busy schedules, and constant pressure to raise “successful” children. In this rush, the deeper purpose of parenting can slip away. Holistic health expert Dr Mickey Mehta offers a very different lens. He reminds parents that raising a child is not only about achievement, but about direction. According to him, every child deserves guidance towards purusharth, a core idea rooted in Indian civilisation that focuses on inner growth, balance, and conscious living. His words invite parents to pause and reflect on what they are truly preparing their children for.

Parenting is not just care, it is a sacred responsibility

Dr Mehta begins with a powerful reminder. Bringing a child into the world is an intentional act, and with it comes responsibility. A child’s life should feel like a blessing, not a burden. He explains that children are not separate beings but an extension of their parents. When a child enters the human world, it becomes a parent’s duty to ensure that the child grows with awareness and purpose. This idea moves parenting beyond daily routines and places it in the space of values, meaning, and conscious effort.

What ‘Purusharth’ really points to

The word purusharth is often misunderstood as ambition or achievement. Dr Mehta gives it a deeper meaning. He links it to being complete, aligned with nature, and guided by higher awareness. According to this thought, a person who only follows impulses becomes restless, but a person who understands balance becomes fulfilled. Parenting, then, is about helping children move from impulse to awareness. It is not about controlling them, but about helping them discover inner direction.

Spiritual symbols as universal human values

Dr Mehta depends on characters like Ram and Krishna as eternal symbols rather than merely historical references. These values are present in all ages and cultures, he explains. His use of names like Buddha, Christ, or Muhammad conveys a message of human progression rather than religious comparison. Qualities, not labels, should be encouraged by parents. Helping kids develop into considerate, responsible, and caring people is the aim.

Balance between discipline and creativity

A key insight from Dr Mehta’s message is balance. He speaks of Ram’s sense of duty and Krishna’s creativity as two energies that shape a complete human being. Parenting leans too heavily on discipline or, at times, complete freedom. Both extremes can harm growth. Children need structure to feel safe and creativity to feel alive. Teaching them responsibility along with imagination allows them to grow without losing their individuality.

Nourishing the mind and spirit, not just the body

Modern parenting pays great attention to physical health and academic success. Dr Mehta urges parents to look beyond this. Mental clarity and emotional strength need equal care. Values, reflection, silence, and conversations all have a significant impact on how a child develops their inner world. Children who have a healthy mind and spirit are better able to deal gracefully with relationships, disappointment, and life transitions.

What parents can learn from this perspective

The goal of parenting is not to shape kids into the ideals of their parents. The goal is to help them in reaching their full potential as human beings. Parents themselves must be patient, self-aware, and put in some inner work. Youngsters frequently imitate what they see. Children naturally pick up balance, curiosity, and responsibility from their parents. The path to purusharth starts at home with everyday actions and beliefs.Disclaimer: This article is based on the views and interpretations shared by Dr Mickey Mehta. The content is meant for awareness and reflection and does not replace professional parenting, psychological, or medical advice. Parents are encouraged to apply insights in ways that suit their family values and circumstances.



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What is the EXILE Act? A look at the bill that seeks to end the H-1B visa programme |


What is the EXILE Act? A look at the bill that seeks to end the H-1B visa programme

A new bill has been introduced in the US Congress that seeks to terminate the H-1B visa programme, in a move that comes amid a wider political push on immigration policy in the United States. Republican Representative Greg Steube of Florida has unveiled the Ending Exploitative Imported Labour Exemptions (EXILE) Act, which, if passed, would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the H-1B non-immigrant visa category. Representative Steube framed the legislation as a response to concerns about American workers being displaced by foreign labour. “Prioritising foreign labour over the well-being and prosperity of American citizens undermines our values and national interests,” Steube said in a statement. “Our workers and young people continue to be displaced and disenfranchised by the H-1B visa programme that awards corporations and foreign competitors at the expense of our workforce. We cannot preserve the American dream for our children while forfeiting their share to non-citizens. That is why I am introducing the EXILE Act to put working Americans first again.”

EXILE act

What the EXILE Act would do

The proposed EXILE Act is designed to eliminate the H-1B visa altogether by removing it from the Immigration and Nationality Act. Under current law, employers can petition for H-1B visas on behalf of foreign workers to fill specialised positions in the United States. The legislation would revoke that authority, effectively ending the programme. Steube and supporters of the bill argue that doing so would protect American jobs and reduce what they describe as unfair competition for employment. Critics of the H-1B programme have long said it allows companies to hire foreign labour at lower wages and displace domestic workers.Read more: H-1B visa under threat: US lawmaker introduces EXILE Act; what it means for Indian applicants

Understanding the H-1B Visa programme

H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa allowing US employers to temporarily hire foreign workers in specialty occupations, especially those involving technical skills in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Recipients are permitted to live and work in the United States for up to six years on an initial term that can be extended under certain conditions. The programme is subject to an annual cap: only 85,000 new visas can be issued each fiscal year, including 65,000 under the regular cap and an additional 20,000 reserved for individuals with advanced degrees from US institutions. Statistically, a majority of H-1B visa holders come from India and China, with a strong concentration in the technology sector. Younger workers are often prioritised in the lottery system used to allocate visas when applications exceed the annual cap.Read more: 6 successful conservation stories from India, and why they are such great news

Context of broader immigration measures

Steube’s bill emerges at a time when immigration policy has been a focus of the Trump administration. In recent years, visa vetting procedures have been tightened across several categories, including H-1B. US consular officers have been instructed to review applicants’ social media activity as part of the screening process, in an effort to identify posts perceived as hostile to the United States. Representative Steube has cited past corporate use of H-1B visas in arguing for the bill’s necessity. He pointed to cases where companies allegedly replaced American workers with foreign hires to cut costs. Among the examples Steube highlighted was an instance involving FedEx, where he claimed the company’s use of H-1B visa workers contributed to the closure of more than 100 facilities. He also referenced a 2015 Disney layoff in which 250 employees were replaced with foreign workers hired under the H-1B programme. Steube has additionally criticised Indian outsourcing firms’ use of the visa category. He referenced a 2014 event in which Southern California Edison reportedly fired 540 workers and replaced them with H-1B workers from two Indian firms.

Implications

Supporters of the EXILE Act argue that ending the H-1B visa would protect domestic workers, lower unemployment in certain sectors, and encourage companies to invest in American talent. They say the programme has been exploited to fill positions that could be taken by US citizens and residents. Opponents of the bill caution that eliminating the H-1B visa could have significant negative effects on sectors that rely heavily on specialised foreign labour, particularly technology, healthcare and research. They argue that it could reduce the competitiveness of US companies globally and restrict innovation by limiting access to international expertise. Nevertheless, as Congress continues to deliberate on the bill, the question of the future of the H-1B visa assumes a political status within the wider arena of American politics and policies.



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Meet the daughter of Kim Jong Un, Kim Ju Ae, who is likely to be the next leader of North Korea |


Meet the daughter of Kim Jong Un, Kim Ju Ae, who is likely to be the next leader of North Korea
North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un is reportedly grooming his young daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as his successor. The 13-year-old has made increasingly prominent public appearances, signaling a potential shift in the country’s patriarchal leadership. Intelligence agencies are closely monitoring these developments for clues about the future of the secretive state.

In a country where power rarely shifts outside one family, a striking change is unfolding. Kim Ju Ae, the young daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has stepped into the public eye. South Korea’s National Intelligence Service has told lawmakers that she is now likely being prepared as the next leader. Here’s everything you need to know about the daughter of North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un.

A child the world barely knew

For years, Kim Jong Un’s family life stayed hidden. That changed in 2013, when former basketball star Dennis Rodman mentioned holding a baby named Ju Ae during a visit to North Korea. At the time, it sounded like a strange footnote. Today, that same child is believed to be around 13 years old and is at the centre of global attention.

First steps into the spotlight

Kim Ju Ae appeared on North Korean state television for the first time in 2022. She was shown holding her father’s hand while inspecting an intercontinental ballistic missile. Since then, her appearances have grown more frequent. She has been seen at major military anniversaries and solemn state rituals, including visits to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun. In North Korea, such appearances are never casual. Each image is carefully chosen to send a message.

Why intelligence agencies are watching her

South Korea’s spy agency says it looks at patterns, not single moments. Kim Ju Ae’s steady presence at high-level events, her position beside her father in photographs, and signs that she may be voicing opinions on state matters have all raised flags. Lawmakers were recently told she has moved from being “trained” to being “designated” as a successor. The upcoming Workers’ Party congress is now being closely watched for further signals.

Symbols that speak louder than words

In North Korean media, placement matters. Kim Ju Ae is shown walking beside her father, not behind him. These details may seem small, but in a system built on symbols, they suggest special status and future authority.

A daughter in a patriarchal system

North Korea is deeply male-dominated, which makes this moment puzzling. As per South Korean intelligence, Kim Jong Un is believed to have an older son, though the child has never been shown publicly. Choosing a daughter instead challenges long-held assumptions. Still, there is a precedent. Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, holds real power within the ruling party. Her influence shows that women can command authority in the regime, even at the highest levels.

What her rise could mean for the future

Kim Jong Un is still young and appears healthy, so the early focus on a teenage successor raises questions. It may be about stability, legacy, or control. As for Kim Ju Ae herself, little is known about her personal views. Many once hoped Kim Jong Un would open North Korea to the world, hopes that did not come true. Whether his daughter would choose a different path remains unknown, but one day she may hold the power to shape the lives of millions.Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available reports and statements from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service and lawmakers. North Korea remains a highly secretive state, and many details about its leadership plans cannot be independently verified. Information may change as new facts emerge.



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Scenic rail travel in Kashmir gets boost as Vistadome coach added to Budgam–Katra special; service extended to Katra |


Scenic rail travel in Kashmir gets boost as Vistadome coach added to Budgam–Katra special; service extended to Katra

In a major boost to tourism, the Jammu Division has introduced a Vistadome coach on the extended service. The coach features a glass roof and large panoramic windows, allowing passengers uninterrupted views of Kashmir’s mountains, rivers, valleys and tunnels along the route, as per ANI reports. Passenger amenities in the Jammu Division of Northern Railway have been expanded with the extension of special train No. 04688/04687 from Budgam to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. The train, which earlier terminated at Banihal, will now operate up to Katra, improving rail connectivity within the region.

J-K: Vistadome coach introduced on Budgam-Katra special train; Service extended to Vaishno Devi Shrine

J-K: Vistadome coach introduced on Budgam-Katra special train; Service extended to Vaishno Devi Shrine

The move is intended to boost travel prospects for residents of the place and augment access for tourists visiting Kashmir. For example, by transporting passengers to Katra, which is a major travel hub in Jammu and Kashmir, the railway has improved access to both the Kashmir Valley and the Jammu region.

Introduction of Vistadome coach

Vistadome coaches, intended to improve scenic rail travel, already exist on tourist routes such as the Konkan Railway and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Their deployment within Kashmir will represent a new kind of improvement in terms of sightseeing possibilities, as there has never been a Vistadome coach in the Valley.

Vistadome train

The Kashmir rail route traverses through mountain ranges, rivers, valleys, and numerous tunnels, thus making it one of the most scenic train routes in the country. The Vistadome coach allows the train passengers a more direct exposure to the views of the route, thus turning the train ride into a sightseeing experience.Read more: European Commission unveils first-ever EU Visa Strategy: What it means and how it could affect travel

Focus on connectivity

According to Principal Chief Commercial Manager of Northern Railway, Parveen Panday, the initiative aligns with Indian Railways’ service-oriented approach. Speaking to ANI, Panday said the extension is intended to provide better connectivity for local residents, particularly in areas where road access is limited. He stated that Indian Railways operates with a principle of service and that the extended train service will enable people to connect between stations more easily. He also noted that several stations in the region face challenges in road connectivity, and the rail link offers a dependable alternative. Panday further said that the move is expected to boost tourism in the region. The improved connectivity and addition of the Vistadome coach stand to greatly enhance the travel experience for visitors.Read more: Guess the place: There are no traffic lights in this capital city

Rail operations during snowfall

Asserting the need for railway infrastructure in the region, Panday referred to past winters when heavy snowfall led to disruptions in connectivity in Kashmir. He said that during such periods, access to the Valley was affected and movement of goods and passengers became difficult. However, he noted that recently, rail services have ensured the transportation of both passengers and a substantial quantity of goods to the region. This, he indicated, demonstrates the growing reliability and resilience of railway operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

Strengthening the travel experience

The extension of train No. 04688/04687 to Katra and the introduction of the Vistadome coach together represent a combined effort to strengthen regional connectivity and improve passenger amenities. The additional advantage for the residents is the facility of a more direct and convenient rail link, and for the tourist, especially going towards Kashmir or the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, it gives the advantage of another mode of transportation but in a better and more pleasant way. Now, with the Vistadome coach attached to the train, the passengers can witness the picturesque views of the Kashmir Valley, and the journey itself would be a vital part of the tourism experience. It may be perceived that the development represents the railways taking an important step towards developing passenger facilities within the Jammu Division, as well as reinforcing its position within the region.



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Watch: What happened when 300 people came together to clean an ancient stepwell in Andhra |


Watch: What happened when 300 people came together to clean an ancient stepwell in Andhra
teluguabbayikanth1/Instagram

For years, an ancient stepwell in Andhra Pradesh’s Peapully Mandal lay buried under layers of garbage. What was once an important water structure had slowly turned into a dumping ground, choked with plastic waste, discarded food wrappers, coconut shells, turmeric sachets, leaf plates, and flower garlands from temple offerings.The gradual erosion of the heritage site might have gone unseen, had it not been for the social influencer Abbayi Kanth. Frustrated by the state of the old well, Abbayi decided to create a video, not just pointing out the filth, but also pointing out the erosion of a historical site. His appeal worked.Within days, over 300 volunteers came forward under the banner of the Poorva Sampada Rakshaka Sena, an organization whose core activity is heritage protection. What followed was not a symbolic clean-up, but a coordinated restoration effort. People turned up with gloves, tools, and they climbed into the stepwell, clearing out heaps of waste and debris that had accumulated over the years.

stepwell

Telugu Abbayi Kanth/ Instagram

Teams worked in shifts, ensuring the cleaning was not confined to a single day. Plastic and organic waste were removed systematically. The stone steps, once hidden beneath dirt and refuse, gradually began to reappear. Videos circulating online showed villagers and youth groups washing the steps with water, carefully restoring the structure’s original form.For many in the Nandyal district, the stepwell had long been part of the landscape but not part of daily concern. With the passage of time, neglect had normalised its condition. The revival effort changed that narrative. Local residents, first-time volunteers, and youth groups were seen working alongside Kanth, united by a shared purpose: to reclaim a piece of their history.Read more: Guess the place: There are no traffic lights in this capital cityWhat stands out in this initiative is that it was driven not by official directives, but by community will. The restoration was a citizen-led movement, proving how quickly collective action can reshape neglected spaces when people decide something matters.The work did not end with the removal of garbage. To ensure the stepwell does not slip back into neglect, organisers have begun spreading awareness among locals and visitors. Community engagement drives are being conducted to emphasise responsible waste disposal and respect for heritage spaces. Signage is being introduced around the site to remind people that preservation is a shared duty. The transformation has drawn widespread attention on social media, where many users praised the volunteers for their efforts. Comments described the group as “unsung heroes” and celebrated the initiative as a hopeful example of community spirit. The story quickly went viral, striking a chord with those who see heritage conservation as a collective responsibility rather than a task reserved for authorities.Read more: European Commission unveils first-ever EU Visa Strategy: What it means and how it could affect travelThese step wells have historically provided essential water supplies and community meeting places in many areas of India. Additionally, these buildings symbolize ingenuity and continuity in Indian culture. Therefore, the degradation of these wells is not only physical but also symbolic.A renewed Peapully stepwell is also a reminder that conservation may begin with awareness. The once disappearing structure, covered and buried under waste, is now visible again, not just as a renewed structure, but as a sign of what can actually happen when people unite.



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