City Police has banned certain activities ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections, the UK Visa application center has been shifted to Agora Mall, the Meteorological Department forecasts a drop in temperature, and more. Stay updated on what’s happening in the city with this Ahmedabad News Roundup.
City Police bans certain activities ahead of Lok Sabha Elections
To ensure the peaceful and safe conduct of the Lok Sabha elections, the Ahmedabad Police has issued prohibitory orders against certain activities during campaign rallies, meetings, or processions.
The order, effective from April 17 to May 7, prohibits the unfurling of black flags or cloth, the display of inflammatory banners and placards, and the raising of inflammatory slogans “against anyone.” These measures are aimed at maintaining harmony during the election process.
UK Visa application center shifted to Agora Mall
The UK Visa Application Center near Parimal Garden has relocated to Agora Mall near Bhat Circle on SP Ring Road. Canada’s visa application center will soon follow suit, moving from Paldi to Agora Mall.
Annually, approximately 1 lakh people, including students and tourists, travel to Canada from Ahmedabad, with about 50 thousand heading to the UK. Applicants are now required to submit their documents at the new location.
Meteorological department forecasts drop in temperature
According to the Meteorological Department’s forecast for the next few days, the maximum temperature across the state may decrease by two to three degrees within the next 24 hours. The prevailing northerly winds over Gujarat have shifted to northwesterly and northern directions, leading to a partial decrease in temperature.
Ahmedabad and surrounding areas are experiencing partly cloudy weather, with scattered clouds in the sky since early morning.
Orders to ensure drinking water at gardens & parks
The Municipal Corporation has initiated a Heat Action Plan to alleviate the effects of scorching summer temperatures on citizens. Instructions have been issued to provide drinking water facilities in all gardens. Despite this, 17 gardens still lack adequate drinking water. In a review meeting, the Municipal Commissioner directed officials to ensure drinking water facilities are available at all gardens and public places.
Study indicates slight improvement in Ahmedabad’s average air quality
A recent study conducted by researchers from the New York and New Delhi centers of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) highlights a modest improvement in Ahmedabad’s average air quality. Despite previous concerns about air pollution levels, the study focusing on PM2.5 pollution suggests a 7.2% annual improvement, potentially resulting in 1,600 fewer deaths annually.
Data from 2018 to 2022 shows a slight decrease in PM2.5 levels, attributed in part to the COVID-19 years, with levels dropping from 63.4 to 56.2 micrograms per cubic meter (g/m3).
