#Urban Road Safety Measures

[townpostin]

Jamshedpur Admn Launches Road Safety Campaign Targeting Youth

Officials Educate Young Drivers On Traffic Rules And Responsible Behavior Initiative aims to reduce accidents and promote safe driving practices among Jamshedpur’s youth. JAMSHEDPUR – The district administration has launched a comprehensive road safety awareness campaign in urban areas, following directives from District Magistrate Ananya Mittal. "Our goal is to instill a sense of responsibility…

[nnctales]

Exploring the Diversity of Roads: A Comprehensive Guide to Different Types of Roads

Introduction: Roads are the arteries of a nation, connecting cities, towns, and villages, facilitating the movement of people and goods. They play a crucial role in the socio-economic development of a country. However, not all roads are created equal. They come in various types, each designed for specific purposes and conditions. In this article, we will delve into the diverse world of roads,…

[misfitwashere]

The American oligarchy is back, and it’s out of control

It’s the third time in the nation’s history that a small group of hyper-wealthy people have gained political power over the rest of us. Here’s what we must do. 

ROBERT REICH

DEC 20

Friends,

Today we don’t know if the United States government will shut down tomorrow because, first, Elon Musk followed by his co-president Donald Trump, persuaded House Republicans to vote against a compromise bill, and then, last night, Republicans couldn’t summon enough votes for a stripped-down continuing resolution because Trump insisted that it contain a measure lifting the debt ceiling. 

This is not governing. Trump and the Republicans are not a governing party.

What’s the back story to all this? It’s the oligarchy that put Trump into the presidency.

A half-century ago, when America had a large and growing middle class, those on the “left” wanted stronger social safety nets and more public investment in schools, roads, and research. Those on the “right” sought greater reliance on the free market. 

But as power and wealth have moved to the top, everyone else — whether on the old right or the old left — has become disempowered and less secure. 

Today the great divide is not between left and right. It’s between democracy and oligarchy.

The word “oligarchy” comes from the Greek words meaning rule (arche) by the few (oligos). It refers to a government of and by a few exceedingly rich people or families who control the major institutions of society — and therefore have most power over other peoples’ lives. 

So far, Trump has picked 13 billionaires for his administration. It’s the wealthiest in history, including the richest person in the world. They and Trump are part of the American oligarchy, even though Trump campaigned on being the “voice” of the working class. 

America’s two previous oligarchies

America has experienced oligarchy twice before. Many of the men who founded America were slaveholding white oligarchs. At that time, the new nation did not have much of a middle class. Most white people were farmers, indentured servants, farm hands, traders, day laborers, and artisans. A fifth of the American population was Black, almost all of them enslaved.

A century later a new American oligarchy emerged comprised of men who amassed fortunes through their railroad, steel, oil, and financial empires — men such as J. Pierpont Morgan, John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, Cornelius Vanderbilt, and Andrew Mellon. It was called the Gilded Age. 

They ushered the nation into an industrial revolution that vastly expanded economic output. But they also corrupted government, brutally suppressed wages, generated unprecedented levels of inequality and urban poverty, pillaged rivals, shut down competitors, and made out like bandits — which is why they earned the sobriquet “robber barons.”

World War I and the Great Depression of the 1930s eroded most of the robber barons’ wealth, and much of their power was eliminated with the elections of Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1932 and Democratic majorities in the House and Senate. 

America demanded fundamental reforms — a progressive income tax, corporate taxes, estate taxes, limits on the political power of large corporations, antitrust laws, laws enabling workers to form unions and requiring that employers negotiate with them, Social Security, the forty-hour workweek, unemployment insurance, civil rights and voting rights, and Medicare. 

For the next half-century, the gains from growth were more widely shared and democracy became more responsive to the needs and aspirations of average Americans. During these years America created the largest middle class the world had ever seen. 

There was still much to do: wider economic opportunities for Black people, Latinos, and women, protection of the environment. Yet by almost every measure the nation was making progress.

America’s current oligarchy

Starting around 1980, a third American oligarchy emerged. 

Since then, the median wage of the bottom 90 percent has stagnated. The share of the nation’s wealth owned by the richest 400 Americans has quadrupled (from less than 1 percent to 3.5 percent) while the share owned by the entire bottom half of America has dropped to 1.3 percent, according to an analysis by my Berkeley colleagues Emmanuel Saez and Gabriel Zucman. 

The richest 1 percent of Americans now has more wealth than the bottom 90 percent combined.

The only other country with similarly high levels of wealth concentration is Russia, another oligarchy. 

All this has been accompanied by a dramatic increase in the political power of the super-wealthy and an equally dramatic decline in the political influence of everyone else. 

While the Biden administration sought to realign America with its ideals, it did not and could not accomplish nearly enough. Trump’s lies and demagoguery exploited the anger and frustration of much of America — creating the false impression he was a tribune of the working class and an anti-establishment hero — thereby allowing the oligarchy to triumph. 

In 2022, Elon Musk spent $44 billion to buy Twitter and turn it into his own personal political megaphone. Then, in 2024, he spent $277 million to get Trump elected, also using Twitter (now X) to amplify pro-Trump, anti-Harris messages. 

These were good investments for Musk. Since Election Day, Musk’s fortune has increased by $170 billion. That’s because investors in Tesla and SpaceX have pushed their value into the stratosphere. 

Trump has put Musk (and another billionaire, Vivek Ramaswamy) in charge of gutting government services in the name of “efficiency.” Musk’s investors assume that Musk will eliminate the health, safety, labor, and environmental regulations that have limited the profits of Musk-owned corporations, and that Trump will put more government money into SpaceX and xAI (Musk’s artificial intelligence company). 

Unlike income or wealth, power is a zero-sum game. The more of it at the top, the less of it anywhere else.

The power shift across America is related to a tsunami of big money into politics. Corporate lobbying has soared. The voices of average people have been drowned out. 

The American oligarchy is back, with a vengeance. 

Not all wealthy people are culpable, of course. The abuse is occurring at the nexus of wealth and power, where those with great wealth use it to gain power and then utilize that power to accumulate more wealth. Today’s robber barons include Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Peter Thiel, David Sacks, Charles Koch, Jeff Yass, Ken Griffin, and Rupert Murdoch. 

What the new oligarchy wants

This is how oligarchy destroys democracy. As oligarchs fill the coffers of political candidates and deploy platoons of lobbyists and public relations flaks, they buy off democracy. Oligarchs know that politicians won’t bite the hands that feed them. 

As long as they control the purse strings, there will be no meaningful response to the failure of most people’s paychecks to rise, nor to climate change, nor racism, nor the soaring costs of health insurance, pharmaceuticals, college, and housing, because those are not the main concerns of the oligarchy.

The oligarchs want lower taxes, which is what Trump, Musk, and other oligarchs are planning — an extension of the 2017 Trump tax cut, with an estimated price tag of at least $5 trillion. 

They want no antitrust enforcement to puncture the power of their giant corporations. Instead, their corporations will grow larger, able to charge consumers even more. Trump is replacing Lina Khan, the trustbusting chair of the Federal Trade Commission, with a Trump crony. 

There will be no meaningful constraint on Wall Street’s dangerous gambling addiction. The gambling will only increase. 

Wall Street is already celebrating Trump’s victory. The stock market has reached new heights. But the stock market is inconsequential for most people, because the richest 1 percent own over half of all shares of stock owned by Americans while the richest 10 percent own over 90 percent. 

There will be no limits to CEO pay. Wall Street hedge fund and private equity managers will also rake in billions more. Government will dole out even more corporate subsidies, bailouts, and loan guarantees while eliminating protections for consumers, workers, and the environment. 

It will become a government for, of, and by the oligarchy.

The biggest divide in America today is not between “right” and “left,” or between Republicans and Democrats. It’s between democracy and oligarchy. The old labels — “right” and “left” — prevent most people from noticing they’re being shafted.

The propagandists and demagogues who protect the oligarchy stoke racial and ethnic resentments — describing human beings as illegal aliens, fueling hatred of immigrants, and spreading fears of communists and socialists. 

This strategy gives the oligarchy freer rein: It distracts Americans from how the oligarchy is looting the nation, buying off politicians, and silencing critics. It causes Americans to hate each other so we don’t look upward and see where the wealth and power have really gone. 

The necessary agenda

The way to overcome oligarchy is for the rest of us to join together and win America back, as we did in response to the oligarchy that dominated America’s last Gilded Age. 

This will require a multiracial, multiethnic coalition of working-class, poor, and middle-class Americans fighting for democracy and against concentrated power and privilege. 

It will require that the Democratic Party, or a new third party, tell the truth to the American people: that the major reason most peoples’ wages have gone nowhere and their jobs are less secure, why most families have to live paycheck to paycheck, why CEO pay has soared to 300 times the pay of the typical worker, and why billionaires are about to run our government, is because the market has been rigged against average working people by the oligarchy. 

The agenda ahead is simply stated but it will not be easy to implement: We must get big money out of our politics. End corporate welfare and crony capitalism. Bust up monopolies. Stop voter suppression. 

We must strengthen labor unions, give workers a stronger voice in their workplaces, create more employee-owned corporations, encourage worker cooperatives, fund and grow more state and local public banks, and develop other institutions of economic democracy.

This agenda is neither “right” nor “left.” It is the bedrock for everything else America must do.

It may seem an odd time in our history to suggest such reforms, but this is the best time. Trump and his oligarchy will inevitably overreach. The lesson from the last Gilded Age is that when the corruption and ensuing hardship become so blatant that they offend the values of the majority of Americans, the majority will rise up and demand real, systemic change.

It’s only a matter of time. A government shutdown that hurts average people, engineered by the richest person in the world, might just hasten it. 

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Robert Reich:

Friends, Today we don’t know if the United States government will shut down tomorrow because, first, Elon Musk followed by his co-president Donald Trump, persuaded House Republicans to vote against a compromise bill, and then, last night, Republicans couldn’t summon enough votes for a stripped-down continuing resolution because Trump insisted that it contain a measure lifting the debt ceiling. This is not governing. Trump and the Republicans are not a governing party.

What’s the back story to all this? It’s the oligarchy that put Trump into the presidency.

A half-century ago, when America had a large and growing middle class, those on the “left” wanted stronger social safety nets and more public investment in schools, roads, and research. Those on the “right” sought greater reliance on the free market. But as power and wealth have moved to the top, everyone else — whether on the old right or the old left — has become disempowered and less secure.

Today the great divide is not between left and right. It’s between democracy and oligarchy.

The word “oligarchy” comes from the Greek words meaning rule (arche) by the few (oligos). It refers to a government of and by a few exceedingly rich people or families who control the major institutions of society — and therefore have most power over other peoples’ lives. So far, Trump has picked 13 billionaires for his administration. It’s the wealthiest in history, including the richest person in the world. They and Trump are part of the American oligarchy, even though Trump campaigned on being the “voice” of the working class.

America’s two previous oligarchies

America has experienced oligarchy twice before. Many of the men who founded America were slaveholding white oligarchs. At that time, the new nation did not have much of a middle class. Most white people were farmers, indentured servants, farm hands, traders, day laborers, and artisans. A fifth of the American population was Black, almost all of them enslaved. A century later a new American oligarchy emerged comprised of men who amassed fortunes through their railroad, steel, oil, and financial empires — men such as J. Pierpont Morgan, John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, Cornelius Vanderbilt, and Andrew Mellon. It was called the Gilded Age. They ushered the nation into an industrial revolution that vastly expanded economic output. But they also corrupted government, brutally suppressed wages, generated unprecedented levels of inequality and urban poverty, pillaged rivals, shut down competitors, and made out like bandits — which is why they earned the sobriquet “robber barons.” World War I and the Great Depression of the 1930s eroded most of the robber barons’ wealth, and much of their power was eliminated with the elections of Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1932 and Democratic majorities in the House and Senate. America demanded fundamental reforms — a progressive income tax, corporate taxes, estate taxes, limits on the political power of large corporations, antitrust laws, laws enabling workers to form unions and requiring that employers negotiate with them, Social Security, the forty-hour workweek, unemployment insurance, civil rights and voting rights, and Medicare. For the next half-century, the gains from growth were more widely shared and democracy became more responsive to the needs and aspirations of average Americans. During these years America created the largest middle class the world had ever seen.

Robert Reich wrote a solid piece that the American oligarchy is back in full force.

[rayspookyhistory]

𝜗𝜚Kuchisake Onna𝜗𝜚

Kuchisake Onna, also known as “Slit Mouthed Woman” (口裂け女、Kuchisake Onna) is a terrifying urban legend from Japan that primarily targets anyone walking the streets alone- mainly children or men.

Kuchisake Onna is a beautiful young woman that wears a long trench coat and a hospital face mask, which is not unusual as in Japan (especially after Covid) as tons wear them. However, under the mask, her mouth has cuts from ear-to-ear. Her voice tends to be quite raspy.

Kuchisake Onna primarily targets children and men but she will take anyone walking the streets of Japan alone.

She walks up to a person by themselves on a road and asks them, “Am i pretty”.

If you answer no, she will kill you with a pair of scissors. If you answer yes, she will peal back her face mask and ask again: “Am I pretty now?”. No matter how you answer this time, you will die.

Origin of the Legend

Back in ancient Japan, lived a pretty woman. All the folk was appealed by her charms, and she was married to a samurai. The samurai was furious when he had discovered that she was having an affair. He pulled her aside, knife in his hands. On her knees, he tore the knife from her mouth ear-to-ear asking, “Who will think you’re pretty now?” She died and has allegedly returned as a vengeful spirit.

Protective Measures and Rituals

A group of children discovered a way to distract Kuchisake Onna long enough to run. One way is that you can throw sweets on the ground (particularly bekko ame) and she will pause to pick them up.

Another way of distracting Kuchisake Onna is by responding with “average” to her questions. It is said to confuse her long enough for you to be able to run.

One way is to respond with “I am running late”, to where she bows her head and leaves you be.

Cultural Implications and Meanings

In popular culture, Kuchisake-onna has been featured in movies, manga, anime, video games, and even the news! And her story has been retold in various forms.

The legend taps into fears presented as a child, such as the fear of stranger danger, and the supernatural. It also reflects societal concerns about the safety of children and the ever-present threat of danger in a seemingly safe environment.

Popular Story Example

In the late 1970s, Kuchisake-onna was said to haunt a small suburb just outside of Tokyo. One night, a group of teenage boys decided to go to a local park to drink and party. As they were walking back to their homes, one of the boys, named Jun, heard a soft, whispering voice coming from the bushes. As he approached closer, he saw a figure shrouded in a white scarf, holding a pair of scissors. Jun froze in fear as he realized it was Kuchisake-onna. She lifted her scarf to reveal her scarred face and asked, "Am I pretty?"

Jun, in a panic, managed to stammer out a quick "yes" and began to back away. Kuchisake-onna then lowered her face again and asked, "How pretty do you think I am?"

Jun, now shaking, replied, "You are the most beautiful woman in the world."

Kuchisake-onna seemed satisfied with the answer and disappeared into the dark of the night. Jun ran home as fast as he could, and never forgot that encounter.

BEWARE THE WRATH OF KUCHISAKE ONNA

also sorry for another late post, theyll be all on time from now on :3

[dailyanarchistposts]

Cars & People: The Road Safety Myth

Until the 1930s road safety was not seen as a problem caused by motorists. But as traffic increased in volume and speed, people began to get concerned. Road safety ideas were brought in based on education, engineering and enforcement. Ever since, ‘road safety’ has been the territory of professionals such as road safety officers, road and vehicle engineers, traffic police, doctors, lawyers and the Department of Transport. The road safety lobby has succeeded in suppressing the earlier anger and hostility against motorisation by legitimising the danger it creates and then creating an industry dedicated to reducing the number and severity of accidents.

Because of their pro-car bias, many ‘road safety’ measures in fact produce the opposite effect: “Everything that supposedly produces more danger in fact produces more safety… and everything that is supposed to produce more safety produces more danger… Better roads, better sight lines, fewer bends and blind corners, less traffic; better lighting, better weather conditions… make greater danger… because every “nonrestrictive” safety measure, however admirable by itself, is treated by drivers as an opportunity for more speeding, so that the net amount of danger is increased”. The lobby’s method is to use excessive detail to obscure the human and economic costs of motorisation. The real cost of motorisation is at least £30 billion more than motorists pay. While costs for congestion, accidents, road-building and maintenance are included, the loss of revenue to public transport, the business and health costs of stress, air pollution and noise are not. The health dis-benefits of mass car use dwarf the numbers injured and killed on roads; they are not included in road safety research and discussion. The rules of the game are biased in favour of the motorist and against the rest of society. Although speed is a major cause of accidents, the DoT regards speed reduction as bad because it creates frustrated motorists who act “aggressively and irresponsibly”. Pedestrians “may take liberties with slow-moving traffic that they would not take with faster traffic. A mother who would never dream of wheeling her pushchair across an urban freeway may be tempted to do just that in a city street”. What a cheek – a pedestrian trying to cross the road! The DoT’s motor bias leads it to stand truth on its head. It says, “Travelling by car or bus is safer than walking”. Safer for whom? In 1990, three other road users were killed in accidents involving pedestrians. Cars killed 1014 pedestrians.

[elegantgardenerhideout]

Portland’s Roadways: Analyzing Trends in Traffic Accidents and Safety Measures

Introduction

Portland, Oregon, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and innovative transportation systems. However, like any urban area, it faces challenges related to roadway safety. The increasing number of vehicles on the road has led to a rising trend https://www.moseleycollins.com/portland-personal-injury-lawyers.html in traffic accidents. This article delves deep into Portland’s Roadways: Analyzing Trends in Traffic Accidents and Safety Measures, exploring the underlying causes of these incidents and the measures being taken to enhance safety.

Portland’s Roadways: Analyzing Trends in Traffic Accidents and Safety Measures

Traffic accidents are an unfortunate reality for many cities, including Portland. According to recent statistics from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), the number of reported traffic accidents has been on the rise over the past few years. The reasons behind this trend can be multifaceted—ranging from distracted driving to poor weather conditions and inadequate infrastructure.

Understanding Traffic Accident Statistics in Portland Current Trends in Traffic Accidents

In 2022 alone, Portland saw a significant uptick in vehicular accidents compared to previous years. With factors such as population growth and increased tourism contributing to more cars on the road, understanding these trends is crucial.

Yearly Data: Recent data shows that there were approximately 3,000 traffic accidents reported in Portland last year. Fatalities and Injuries: Among these accidents, there were over 150 fatalities and thousands of injuries requiring medical attention.

These figures highlight a pressing concern for city planners and residents alike.

Common Causes of Traffic Accidents Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of traffic accidents is distracted driving—this includes texting or using mobile devices while driving. Speeding: Exceeding speed limits can significantly increase both the likelihood and severity of accidents. Driving Under Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment continues to play a critical role in many serious collisions. Weather Conditions: Rainy weather is common in Portland; wet roads contribute to a higher incidence of accidents. The Role of Infrastructure in Traffic Safety Road Design and Maintenance

A well-designed road system plays an essential role in minimizing traffic accidents. In Portland:

Many roads lack adequate signage. Some intersections are poorly lit or designed without proper visibility.

Improving infrastructure by adding features such as roundabouts, bike lanes, and pedestrian crossings could help reduce accident rates significantly.

Public Transportation Improvements

Enhancing public transportation options can alleviate congestion on city roads, reducing potential accident risks. Initiatives like expanding bus routes or improving light rail accessibility encourage residents to choose alternative transportation methods over personal vehicles.

Safety Measures Being Implemented Enforcement of Traffic Laws

Local law e

[dsp-consultants]

Acoustic Consultancy Services in Saudi Arabia: Enhancing Comfort and Luxury

Acoustic consultancy is vital in optimizing noise levels and creating comfortable, serene environments. As Saudi Arabia rapidly develops its infrastructure, maintaining the comfort and well-being of residents and occupants has become a key priority. Proper acoustic design can elevate a luxurious space to perfection, while poor acoustics can easily diminish its appeal.

At DSP Consultants, we understand the unique needs of each project and offer tailored acoustic consultancy services to meet diverse requirements. With experience serving over 100 clients, we ensure compliance with government regulations, deliver within your budget and timeline, and bring expertise across a variety of sectors.

Key Acoustic Consultancy Services

Noise Impact Assessments

Comprehensive evaluations of potential noise impacts from proposed developments, ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding environment.

Environmental Noise Surveys

Accurate measurement of ambient noise levels in urban, residential, and industrial areas to guide project planning.

Architectural Acoustics

Expertise in designing and constructing spaces with optimal sound quality, whether for residential, commercial, or public use.

Noise Control Engineering

Custom solutions to mitigate noise emissions from mechanical systems, industrial processes, or other specific sources.

Community Noise Assessments

Evaluating and addressing noise levels in neighborhoods, parks, and community spaces to enhance quality of life.

Occupational Noise Assessments

Monitoring workplace noise levels to ensure compliance with occupational health and safety standards.

Transportation Noise Studies

Specialized analysis of noise from roads, railways, airports, and ports, with strategies to minimize its impact.

Noise Monitoring and Measurement

Precise on-site noise measurement services to assess compliance with regulatory requirements and ensure project success.

Expert Testimony and Regulatory Compliance

Guidance and representation in legal proceedings involving noise disputes, along with compliance assurance with Saudi regulations.

Noise Awareness and Education

Workshops and programs to promote awareness about noise management and its importance in various environments.

Why Choose DSP Consultants?

When selecting an acoustic consultant, three critical factors should be considered: experience in similar projects, adherence to budgets and timelines, and compliance with government standards. DSP Consultants excels in all these areas, offering unmatched expertise and bespoke solutions. Our team is committed to helping you create acoustically optimized environments, whether for luxurious residential projects, industrial facilities, or vibrant public spaces.

For more information or to discuss your project needs, contact us at info@dsp-consultants.com.

[thepackersmovers-blog1]

Moving to Electronic City: Embrace the Tech and Culture

Moving to a new place with the help of Packers and Movers Lucknow to Bangalore or by yourself is an exciting adventure, especially when you are moving to Electronic City. This dynamic tech hub is home to numerous IT parks, start-ups and a diverse community. The city is blessed with incredible weather and clean air. The electronic city welcomes people from all over India.  In this blog, we will discuss things you should consider before making the transition.

1. Understanding the Locale

Electronic City is divided into three phases. The Phase 1 is the most developed. So, it's important to familiarize yourself with the area, as each phase has its own unique characteristics and amenities.

2. Connectivity

One of the biggest advantages of living in an Electronic City is its connectivity. The area is well-connected to main parts of Bangalore via the NICE Road and the Outer Ring Road. Public transport options include buses and the upcoming metro extension, making commuting easier.

3. Cost of Living

The cost of living in Electronic City can be different based on your lifestyle and housing choice. Housing is generally more affordable than in central Bangalore, but prices can differ significantly between phases. Be sure to research and compare rental options.

4. Housing Options

From apartments to gated communities, Electronic City offers a range of housing options. There are some factors you should consider before choosing the options, like proximity to your workplace, safety, and other amenities. There are some popular residential areas as well, such as Ayyappa Nagar and Neeladri Nagar.

5. Employment Opportunities

Electronic City is a major IT hub, hosting companies like Infosys, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra. If you're in the tech industry, you'll find ample job opportunities in this city. Networking events and meetups are common, so take advantage of these to expand your professional circle.

6. Lifestyle and Amenities

The area has a variety of amenities, including shopping malls, restaurants, and recreational facilities. The nearby Forum Mall and other local markets can easily fulfil your shopping needs. For food lovers, there's a mix of local eateries and international cuisine options as well.

7. Education and Healthcare

Electronic City is home to several reputable schools and colleges, making it suitable for families. Healthcare facilities are also easily accessible, with hospitals like Narayana Hrudayalaya and Columbia Asia nearby.

8. Cultural Diversity

It has a blend of professionals from different parts of India and the world; Electronic City offers a rich cultural experience. Engage in local festivals, events, and community gatherings to connect with new people.

9. Weather and Environment

Bangalore has a moderate climate, but Electronic City can be warmer due to urban heat. Ensure your living space has adequate ventilation and cooling systems. Green spaces and parks, like the nearby Electronic City Park, provide a nice escape from the hustle and bustle.

10. Safety and Security

Electronic City is relatively safe, but it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. You can take suggestions from your friends or Packers and Movers in Electronic City, as they have complete knowledge of the local area. It will help you in choosing residential areas with good security measures and stay informed about local news and community updates.

Conclusion

Moving to Electronic City can be a rewarding experience, especially for those in the tech industry. By understanding the local environment, amenities, and lifestyle, you can make a smooth moving and enjoy everything this dynamic area has to offer.

[bnvrrr]

Golf Island Dwarka - Luxury 4 BHK Apartments in Dwarka

Nestled in the heart of Dwarka, Golf Island stands as a symbol of opulence and sophisticated living. Offering a unique blend of luxury and comfort, these 4 BHK apartments redefine upscale living in one of Delhi's most sought-after locales.

Prime Location and Connectivity

Strategically located in Dwarka, Golf Island enjoys proximity to major landmarks and conveniences. The area boasts excellent connectivity with the rest of Delhi through a network of roads and metro lines. Residents can easily access shopping centers, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and entertainment hubs, making daily life convenient and enjoyable.

Architectural Excellence

Golf Island’s 4 BHK apartments are a marvel of contemporary design and architectural brilliance. The project emphasizes spacious layouts, high ceilings, and abundant natural light, creating an airy and welcoming atmosphere. Each apartment is crafted to perfection with meticulous attention to detail, offering an unparalleled living experience.

Luxurious Interiors

Step inside and experience the epitome of luxury. The interiors of Golf Island's apartments are designed to offer both style and functionality. The living spaces are adorned with premium finishes, including high-quality flooring, elegant fixtures, and bespoke cabinetry. The open-plan design seamlessly integrates the living, dining, and kitchen areas, making it ideal for both entertaining guests and relaxing with family.

State-of-the-Art Amenities

Golf Island doesn’t just offer luxurious living spaces; it also provides a range of amenities designed to enhance residents’ lifestyles. The property features a well-equipped fitness center, a serene swimming pool, and beautifully landscaped gardens. For families, there are dedicated play areas for children, and the community is secured with advanced safety measures to ensure peace of mind.

Sustainable Living

Golf Island is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The development incorporates eco-friendly practices and features such as rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient lighting, and waste management systems. This focus on sustainability not only benefits the environment but also helps residents enjoy a healthier and more economical lifestyle.

Investment Potential

Investing in Golf Island Dwarka presents an excellent opportunity due to its prime location, luxurious offerings, and the overall growth potential of Dwarka as a residential hub. The project promises not just a comfortable home but also a valuable asset that is likely to appreciate over time.

Golf Island Dwarka’s 4 BHK apartments are more than just homes—they are a lifestyle choice for those who seek the best in luxury living. With its prime location, exquisite design, and comprehensive amenities, it represents the pinnacle of modern urban living.

[desertsafari67]

Top Desert Adventures in Dubai for 2024

Dubai, a dazzling gem of the United Arab Emirates, is renowned for its opulent lifestyle and futuristic skyline. However, beyond its urban splendor lies a stunning natural wonder—the desert. The vast expanse of golden sands offers an array of thrilling adventures that make for an unforgettable experience. As we step into 2024, Dubai’s desert scene is more exciting than ever, with new activities and refined experiences promising adventure seekers an unparalleled journey into the heart of the desert.

1. Dune Bashing: A High-Octane Thrill

One of the most exhilarating desert activities is dune bashing. This high-octane sport involves driving a 4x4 vehicle over the undulating sand dunes, creating a thrilling roller-coaster-like experience. In 2024, the experience has been enhanced with state-of-the-art vehicles and advanced safety measures. Expert drivers navigate the dunes, providing passengers with an adrenaline-pumping ride.

For those looking to combine dune bashing with other activities, many tour operators offer packages that include sandboarding, camel rides, and more. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned adventurer, dune bashing remains a must-do in Dubai’s desert landscape.

2. Sandboarding: Glide Through the Sands

For a more serene yet equally thrilling experience, sandboarding is an excellent choice. Much like snowboarding, sandboarding involves riding a board down sand dunes. The sport has gained popularity due to its accessibility and the unique sensation of gliding over sand.

In 2024, sandboarding in Dubai offers new equipment and enhanced safety features. Some operators provide guided sandboarding experiences on the highest and most picturesque dunes. It’s an ideal activity for families, solo travelers, and adventure enthusiasts alike.

3. Camel Riding: A Timeless Desert Experience

Camel riding is a traditional desert experience that provides a taste of ancient Bedouin culture. These majestic creatures, often referred to as the “ships of the desert,” offer a slow, swaying ride that allows you to take in the serene desert landscape.

In 2024, camel riding experiences have been upgraded with comfort and safety in mind. Operators now offer camel safaris that include cultural insights, traditional attire, and the chance to enjoy a desert sunset. It’s a peaceful and picturesque way to connect with the desert’s timeless beauty.

4. Overnight Desert Safaris: A Starry Escape

For those seeking an immersive desert experience, overnight desert safaris are a perfect choice. These safaris typically include a range of activities, such as dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and a sumptuous barbecue dinner under the stars.

In 2024, overnight safaris have become even more luxurious, with upgraded camp amenities. Many tours now feature deluxe tents with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and plush bedding. The evening is filled with entertainment, including traditional dance performances and stargazing opportunities. It’s a unique way to experience the desert’s tranquility and beauty.

5. Hot Air Ballooning: A Bird’s Eye View

For a breathtaking view of the desert landscape, hot air ballooning is a must-try adventure. Rising with the sun, you’ll float above the vast expanse of golden dunes, taking in panoramic views of the desert as it wakes up.

In 2024, hot air ballooning in Dubai has become even more accessible with improved safety standards and more frequent flights. Balloon rides typically include a light breakfast and a celebratory toast upon landing. It’s a serene yet exhilarating experience that provides a unique perspective of the desert’s beauty.

6. Quad Biking: An Off-Road Adventure

For those who prefer a more hands-on approach to desert exploration, quad biking offers an exciting off-road adventure. Quad bikes allow you to navigate the rugged desert terrain, providing a thrilling ride across the dunes.

In 2024, quad biking experiences are more advanced, with new and improved bikes that offer greater control and safety. Many operators provide guided tours that lead you through the most scenic and challenging areas of the desert. It’s an ideal choice for thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts looking for a more active experience.

7. Desert Yoga: Serenity in the Sands

For a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, desert yoga offers a serene escape in the heart of the desert. Practicing yoga against the backdrop of golden sands and endless skies is a calming and rejuvenating experience.

In 2024, desert yoga has become more popular, with experienced instructors offering sessions tailored to various skill levels. The practice often includes meditation and mindfulness techniques, enhancing the overall experience. It’s a perfect way to reconnect with nature and find inner peace amidst the desert’s vast expanse.

8. Cultural and Culinary Experiences: Taste of Tradition

Dubai’s desert adventures also extend to cultural and culinary experiences that provide insight into Bedouin life and traditional Emirati cuisine. Many desert tours include visits to authentic Bedouin camps, where you can enjoy traditional dishes, partake in cultural performances, and learn about desert life.

In 2024, these cultural experiences have been enhanced with more interactive and immersive activities. You might find yourself participating in traditional crafts, learning to cook Emirati dishes, or enjoying live music and dance performances. It’s a delightful way to experience the rich heritage of the desert.

9. Astronomy Tours: Stargazing in the Desert

The clear, unpolluted skies of the desert make it an ideal location for stargazing. Astronomy tours offer a fascinating way to explore the night sky, with expert guides providing insights into the constellations and celestial phenomena.

In 2024, astronomy tours in Dubai’s desert have become more sophisticated, featuring advanced telescopes and interactive experiences. These tours often include educational presentations and opportunities to observe planets, stars, and galaxies. It’s an enchanting way to connect with the cosmos while enjoying the desert’s serene ambiance.

10. Desert Racing: Speed and Skill

For those with a competitive spirit, desert racing offers an adrenaline-pumping challenge. Desert racing events, including dune races and rally-style competitions, test speed and skill on the challenging desert terrain.

In 2024, desert racing in Dubai has gained international recognition, with more events and improved facilities. These races attract top drivers from around the world, making for an exciting spectator sport. If you’re a racing enthusiast or looking to participate, Dubai’s desert racing scene is more thrilling than ever.

Conclusion

Dubai’s desert offers a diverse range of adventures that cater to every type of thrill-seeker and nature lover. From the adrenaline rush of dune bashing to the serenity of desert yoga, the experiences available in 2024 promise to be unforgettable. Whether you’re looking to explore the desert’s natural beauty, immerse yourself in its cultural heritage, or simply enjoy a luxurious escape, Dubai’s desert adventures have something for everyone. So, gear up and get ready to discover the magic of Dubai’s desert in 2024.

[townpostin]

Truck Crash at Sonari Marine Drive, Major Accident Averted in Jamshedpur

Iron barricade prevents vehicle from plowing into nearby restaurant Swift action and safety measures prevent potential tragedy in Jamshedpur’s Sonari area. JAMSHEDPUR – A truck lost control near the Domukhani River in the Sonari police station area, resulting in a minor accident. The incident occurred when the vehicle veered off course at a bend in the road, colliding with a roadside…

[astri-non]

Kind of left the chapter titles be, but each of them actually is a railway term in some form or another, and I did my best to ensure that it had something to do with the corresponding chapter's content. The following definitions are directly copied from a number of glossaries, so these aren't my own words, but if anyone's curious, here are the meanings I was working with:

Event Recorder: "A device that continuously captures analog and digital train systems information and stores that data for a minimum of 48 hours."

Buffer Stop: "The barrier installed at the end of a dead-end track to prevent rail vehicles from proceeding further."

Derailment: "The condition of a locomotive or railway car in respect of being off the rails."

Refuge: "A place of safety in tunnels and alongside high speed lines where employees can stand in safety"

Lineup: "To have switches aligned correctly before a move."

Catch Point: "A type of turnout which acts as a railway safety device by guiding cars from a dangerous route onto a safer track."

Running the Red: "An event in which a train passes a signal to stop without authorization to do so."

Shoofly: "Temporary track used to avoid an obstacle that blocks movement on the normal track section."

Timetable: "A table giving the times of starting and arrival at each station of the daily trains of an given road (or train line)."

Whistle Stem: "It is the point at which the engineer should begin sounding the whistle or horn."

Relay: "An electro-mechanical switching device used in many types of signalling systems; it “relays” instructions to signals and points."

Steam Whistle: "A steam whistle is a device used to produce sound in the form of a whistle using live steam."

Failsafe: "The capability of an item or a system to ensure that any failure in a predictable or specified mode will result only in that item or system reaching and remaining in a safe condition."

Nest of Eggs: "A portable device with lamps to test whether the conductor rail is still energised." (This one was mostly just for Galvantula)

Dark Territory: "A section of track without block signals." (Again, this was more for the vibes in regards to the Cofagrigus fakeout)

Curfew: "A time period scheduled in advance when no trains operate, allowing maintenance employees to work on track or signals."

Leaf Fall: "Approximately five weeks in the autumn when leaves fall on the track requiring measures to assure adhesion."

In Transit: "A term that refers to commuter rail operations, usually hauling passengers from urban to suburban settings and vice-versa for the means of getting to and from work."

Branch Line: "A secondary railway line that splits off from a main line."

Switchback: "A method of climbing and descending steep gradients, where shallow-gradient track reverses direction for a while, and then reverses again."

Passenger Car: "Railway vehicle for use in passenger trains."

Bellmouth: "A widening of an underground rail tunnel, in preparation for future connection or expansion of service"

Trainset: "A group of rolling stock that is permanently or semi-permanently coupled together to form a unified set of equipment."

Roll-by: "Visual inspection of railroad equipment while it is in motion."

Facing Point: "A turnout in a facing direction, which may diverge onto either of the two routes."

Bilevel Train Car: "A type of rail car that has two levels of passenger accommodation, as opposed to one, increasing passenger capacity."

Trailing Point: "When travelled in a trailing direction, two routes converge onto each other."

Bulletin Order: "This term describes notifications (typically on paper) given to railroad employees informing them of a train movement or operational change."

Embargo: "Usually refers to when a railroad company (although a regulatory agency, like the FRA, is also capable of doing this) temporarily shuts down a rail line to all forms of train movements for some kind of outstanding reason."

Joint Station: "A railway station at which tracks and facilities are shared by two or more railways."

Turn: "A local freight train that makes a round trip, returning to originating station."

Roundhouse: "A circular or semi-circular structure used for storage and running maintenance of locomotives."

Signal: "A device that indicates the condition of the line ahead to the driver of a train."

Blue Flag: "A sign or light that indicates a train car is being worked on."

Head Code: "A term for the Train Reporting Number. A unique code to identify each train."

Railway Terminal: "A building for passengers at the end of a railway line."

Bardic Lamp: "A battery operated lamp with a coloured filter which could be rotated to show white, red, yellow or green aspects."

Eighth Notch: "The eighth notch of a locomotive throttle control, indicating full power."

Pulled Tail: "The colloquialism referring to the act of a guard or conductor of a railway to apply the emergency brakes when something unexpected has been noticed."

Knock Down: "To pass an absolute signal and thereby change its aspect to stop."

NIMBY: "A derisive acronym for "not in my backyard" describing residents who are opposed to trains running through their neighborhoods."

Runaround: "The practice of detaching a locomotive from its train, driving it to the other end of the train and re-attaching it, to allow the train to proceed in the direction it has just come from."

Crossing Loop: "A length of track connected to the main line by switches at both ends to provide a facility that permits trains to both cross and pass each other."

Run By: "Unauthorised passing of a signal at danger, or overshooting a station or designated stopping point."

Interchange: "Any track or yard where rail cars are transferred from one carrier to another."

Rough Ride: "A term used when a member of the train crew reports a “bumpy” ride at a given location."

Junction: "A point at which two lines or separate routes diverge from each other."

Drag: "A long, heavy freight train moving at low speed."

First Trick: "Refers to the day's first work shift between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m."

Guard Rail: "A double rail section of track, sometimes found in train yards and on bridges to prevent derailments."

Bail Off: "To release the locomotive brakes while the train brakes are applied, to permit smoother handling."

Mothballed: "A track that is still serviceable but no trains are running on them."

Eight and Sand: "Term used to wish train crews well wishes and quick uneventful journey."

Dwell Time: "The time a train spends at a scheduled stop without moving."

Slack: "A temporary speed restriction to protect, for example, sections of track in poor condition and awaiting repair."

Outlawed: "Train crew members who have reached their daily 12-hour maximum of hours worked and must cease working due to regulations."

Ruling Gradient: "A term usually used as a synonym for "steepest climb" between two points on a railroad."

Hot Rail: "Any section of track over which a train movement is imminent."

Tractive Effort: "The pulling or pushing force exerted by a locomotive or other vehicle."

All Black: "Signals an "all clear," meaning there are no defects that can be seen against the black running gear."

Quiet Zone: "A designation that removes the requirement for train operators to sound their horn"

Run Through Power: "Locomotives that remain attached to a manifest or unit train from their home rails over the tracks of a receiving railroad until the train reaches its final destination."

Slow Order: "A local speed restriction below the track's normal speed limit."

Terminal Station: "A station sited where a railway line or service ends or terminates"

En Routes: "Count of trains destined to a particular yard or terminal that need to be switched." (This is another thematic one)

Dispatcher: "A communications worker who receives and transmits information to coordinate operations of other personnel."

As a bonus, I'll give you something that may or may not be relevant in the future:

Per Diem: "An authorized living expense payment for some workers forced away from their home terminal."

[cleanwaterchronicles]

Road salt, a stealthy pollutant, is damaging Michigan waters

In a dim hangar outside of Traverse City, towering piles of white crystals cast a glow in the twilight. 

Salts like those stored at the Grand Traverse County Road Commission maintenance facility keep Michigan roads, parking lots, and sidewalks clear of ice in the winter, a prudent safety measure for motorists and pedestrians. The mobility benefits of salt for a car-centric society, though, have an undesirable environmental side effect that has built up over decades of use: extensive damage to ecosystems and infrastructure.

Chloride -- the catch-all term for salts -- does not discriminate. It hurts mayflies and freshwater mussels, taking out species at the base of the freshwater food chain. It acts as a chemical instigator, loosening metals and nutrients that are otherwise bound in sediment and freeing them to flow downstream, thus feeding toxic algae in troubled places like Lake Erie. As with sun on skin, excess salt accelerates infrastructure aging. The metals and concrete in bridges, roads, and cars deteriorate faster when exposed to salts.

The state issued its first water quality standards for chloride in 2019. Not written with infrastructure in mind, the standards are intended to protect fish, insects, and other freshwater species. But the state has not yet translated those standards into a plan for limiting chloride in the eight stream sections that already exceed the limit.

Developing those pollution diets takes years. In the interim, state regulators this year are directly asking municipalities with storm sewer systems to outline steps for controlling salt runoff from roads. Roads, however, are only part of the problem. Salt applied to parking lots and sidewalks also enters streams and groundwater. But regulators say that municipalities do not have the staff or budgets to oversee salt application on private property. In part, this is a consequence of state court rulings that have deterred cities from creating agencies to manage pollutants that are flushed from paved surfaces.

The best way to deal with salt pollution is to bar it entry -- not to allow it in the water in the first place. By and large, that outcome will rely on the widespread and voluntary adoption of salt-reducing practices by road agencies, shopping mall owners, apartment complex managers, and homeowners. Reducing salt use also hinges on societal shifts: public acceptance in urban areas of slower winter driving speeds and less driving in hazardous weather.

“You can think of chloride as a permanent pollutant in the water,” said Christe Alwin of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. “Once it’s there, there’s very little opportunity to treat it.”

 

(Photo © J. Carl Ganter/Circle of Blue)

Last year marked the 50th anniversary of the Clean Water Act, the landmark federal law that intended to give new life to waterways that were fouled by all manner of chemical and bacterial pollutants. The goal was to make rivers and lakes fishable and swimmable once again. The law, part of a package of national environmental reforms in the early 1970s, was transformative. By mandating pollution controls on wastewater treatment plants and industrial facilities, it marked a new era of environmental stewardship -- an era in which rivers and lakes were viewed not as dumping grounds but as civic assets that fostered recreation, ecological rebirth, and economic development.

Despite undeniable progress, substantial impediments to clean water remain. The law did little to stanch the flow of dispersed pollution that comes from roads, lawns, and farms. More waters today are fishable and swimmable, particularly in major metropolitan regions. But many, especially streams and rivers that drain agricultural regions, still are not. The consequences are measured in toxic algal bloom dead zones, human sickness, and the rising cost of water treatment. 

Urban Areas on a High-Sodium Diet

A little salt can cause a lot of harm. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends water quality standards for rivers and lakes to prevent death and damage to fish, mussels, insects, and other aquatic species. For chloride, the EPA determined the threshold at which long-term damage could occur to be 230 milligrams per liter. That equals about one teaspoon of salt in five gallons of water.

Michigan has been slow to react to the salinization of its fresh water. The Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy finalized water quality values for chloride only in 2019, three decades after the federal EPA published guidelines. Based on the numbers, EGLE determined last year that eight stream sections exceed the state threshold for chronic exposure, which is 150 milligrams per liter. 

Those streams -- largely in the urban areas of southeast Michigan -- include the Shiawassee River (Genesee County), Thread Creek (Genesee County), Sashabaw Creek (Oakland County), Bishop Creek and the Upper Rouge River (Rouge River watershed), Belle River (St. Clair County), Rush Creek (Ottawa County), and County Line Drain (Arenac/Iosco County), which also exceeded the sulfate standard.

The next step for those stream sections is a regulatory tool known as a total maximum daily load, or TMDL, which caps pollution discharges. However, there is no timeline yet for developing the pollution diet for those streams, according to Kevin Goodwin, an aquatic biology specialist at EGLE.

It’s no mystery where most of the salts are coming from. Water softeners and fertilizers are sources of chloride, but the major contributor, Goodwin and others said, are the salts spread on roads, parking lots, and sidewalks to keep the pavement free from ice.

Salinization of streams is a problem across the United States, where at least 20 million tons of salt were used in 2021 for highway deicing. The U.S. Geological Survey studied 19 streams in eight states and the District of Columbia, including five Great Lakes states. The researchers found that chloride levels related to road salt increased in 84 percent of sampled streams. Increases were especially notable in urban areas with a large percentage of paved surfaces.

Those findings have been replicated at the state and local level. EGLE found chloride hot spots that align with high concentrations of highways and housing developments. The Huron River, a 900-square-mile watershed in southeast Michigan that flows through Ann Arbor, is one such area. For the last two decades the Huron River Watershed Council has tested streams for pollutants. Volunteers and staff now regularly take water samples from about 40 or 50 sites in the watershed, according to Ric Lawson, a watershed planner. 

“We see that we have much higher [chloride] levels in our urban drainages,” Lawson said. 

Following up on its stream samples, the Huron River Watershed Council did additional investigation at sites with abnormally high chloride levels. Were those salts coming from a particular source? Were there, as Lawson put it, any “smoking guns?”

In short, the council didn’t find any -- no leakage from a salt storage facility, no obvious surface runoff. No smoking guns. “So it does appear it’s been broad-based, long-term application,” Lawson said, referring to the salt source. “And probably, the salts moving through groundwater are how it's getting to the surface waters.”

Broad-based is the classic definition of non-point pollution. It’s the type of threat that the Clean Water Act, which focused on pollution coming from a pipe, is not at all equipped to address. The law exempts most sources of such pollution from regulation and oversight. That’s why non-point pollution is a long-term problem. Curbing it requires, in the case of salt, a voluntary change in practices.

Less Bounce, Less Scatter

Michigan’s ground transportation network is a lattice of roughly 122,000 miles of roads. To maintain these surfaces, the state’s road agencies balance three competing objectives, said Gregg Brunner, director of the Bureau of Field Services for the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). Mobility, cost, and environmental protection.

Salt -- the sodium chloride form, in fact -- is the cheapest, most effective deicing agent available, Brunner said. On that measure it beats out magnesium chloride and potassium chloride.

A non-chloride option -- calcium magnesium acetate -- is on the market. But it costs about 40 times more than sodium chloride, which is mined locally, from deposits beneath Lake Erie.

The primary objective for MDOT and other road maintenance agencies is to use less of it. In pursuit of that goal, they participated in a work group to help EGLE develop salt management guidelines. Published in 2021, the guidelines are a compilation of voluntary “best management practices” that road agencies should strive to implement. The County Road Association of Michigan, which represents the 83 county road agencies, published a similar guide based on a survey of its members.

Read the complete article here

Source: Bridge Michigan

[ivan-infra-projects]

Luxurious Gated Community Plots for Sale in Vijayawada | Ivan Infra Projects

In the bustling city of Vijayawada, where urban living is on the rise, finding the perfect balance between tranquility and convenience can be a challenging task. However, Ivan Infra Projects presents an excellent solution for those seeking an elevated lifestyle amidst nature's serenity — their gated community plots for sale in Vijayawada. Boasting a harmonious blend of modern amenities, security, and scenic surroundings, these plots offer a unique opportunity to build your dream home in a prestigious location.

Unraveling the Beauty of Ivan Infra Projects:

Prime Location:

Situated in the heart of Vijayawada, Ivan Infra Projects' gated community plots are strategically located to provide easy access to major transport hubs, educational institutions, healthcare centers, and entertainment zones. The convenience of nearby essentials ensures a hassle-free lifestyle for residents.

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure:

Ivan Infra Projects takes pride in providing top-notch infrastructure that meets the highest standards. The gated community features well-planned internal roads, street lighting, and underground electrical lines, enhancing the overall aesthetics and functionality of the development. Additionally, the plots are meticulously designed, providing ample space for landscaping and personalization.

Unparalleled Security:

Safety is a paramount concern for any homeowner, and Ivan Infra Projects understands this well. Their gated community in Vijayawada is equipped with advanced security systems, including CCTV surveillance, manned entrances, and secure boundaries. Residents can enjoy a peaceful living environment with round-the-clock security monitoring.

Luxury Amenities:

Ivan Infra Projects believes in elevating the living experience for its residents. The gated community offers an array of luxury amenities that cater to every aspect of a modern lifestyle. From well-maintained parks and landscaped gardens to jogging tracks, children's play areas, and fitness centers, every amenity is thoughtfully designed to promote health, recreation, and community engagement.

Eco-Friendly Living:

In today's world, sustainable living is of paramount importance. Ivan Infra Projects is committed to environmental conservation and incorporates eco-friendly practices in its gated community. The project includes rainwater harvesting systems, sewage treatment plants, and green spaces that promote a clean and green environment.

If you aspire to live in a secure and luxurious environment while staying connected to all the conveniences of urban living, look no further than Ivan Infra Projects' gated community plots for sale in Vijayawada. With their prime location, state-of-the-art infrastructure, unmatched security measures, and a host of luxury amenities, these plots offer an unparalleled living experience. Embrace the opportunity to build your dream home in one of Vijayawada's most prestigious developments and immerse yourself in the perfect blend of nature, comfort, and convenience. 

For More Info:

Call: +91 9502267654

Visit: https://www.ivaninfra.com/about

[wa-swa]

Is Electrifying Vehicles Urgent for Sustainable Urban Mobility: Case Study of Jakarta, Indonesia

1. Introduction

The population in Jakarta reached more than ten and half million people in 2021 in an area sized 664 km2 (BPS DKI Jakarta, 2023a; 2023b). Being the biggest city in Indonesia, the city accommodates many economic activities and has been becoming the economic centre of the country. The growing activities in the city further expanded the region into a metropolitan area named Jakarta-Bogor-Depok-Tangerang-Bekasi (Jabodetabek) with more than 29 million people in the area (InfoJabodetabek.com, 2020). By the growing population and activity centred in Jakarta, the city has been facing a problem with its transportation.

The national and local governments have been trying to address the transportation issues through some measures, including odd-even road control, progressive private vehicle taxation, and public transport improvement (Pergub DKI No. 88 Year 2019; Perda DKI No. 2 the Year 2015; see BPTJ, 2020). Through these measures, the city succeeded in reducing congestion by 19% from 2019-2022 (Tomtom, 2022). However, this reduction does not mean fewer environmental issues caused by transportation. The city environmentally experiences air pollution caused mostly by transportation. IQ Air on May 2022 considered the air quality of the city five times worse than the WHO standards. According to Vital Strategies and Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) (2020), the major source of air pollution in the city came from vehicle exhaust, coal combustion, construction activities, open burning, and paved road dust, as well as secondary aerosol and sea salt. The Provincial Department of Environment also confirmed that transportation contributed to around seventy-five per cent of the air pollution in the city (Naufal, 2022). Without any heavy measures taken, the condition in Jakarta will cause multiple problems, including individual and public health. Even some reports show that air pollution is one of the major factors reducing people’s life expectancy (Greenstone and Fan, 2019; Mantalean, 2019).

The measures which the government has been taking on transportation issues have been ineffective in managing the environmental consequences. For instance, the odd-even policy is not significant in improving the air quality in the province (Zulkarnain & Al, 2021). Moreover, the system has not succeeded in controlling the ownership of private vehicles in Jakarta as the percentage of the bus is much fewer than other private vehicles, such as cars and motorbikes (BPS DKI Jakarta, 2023c). Not only has the government failed to control the amount of private motorised vehicles, but the national government also aims to provide subsidies to purchase and shift to private electric vehicles (EVs). Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs explained the incentive to private EVs came from the aim of the energy transition to greener energy which has been implemented in some countries in Europe and Thailand (Putra, 2022). Looking at the condition, the strategy to subsidise private EVs becomes questionable as to what extent it can accommodate the needs for sustainable mobility in urban areas, such as Jakarta.

 2. Sustainable Urban Mobility

The concerns about connectivity in urban areas become more pressing as the number of people living in cities is around 56% (World Bank, 2022). In balancing the different aspects of connectivity, urban mobility has transformed to meet the needs of sustainability. Some institutions defined the matrixes or indicators to understand sustainable urban mobility. WBCSD (2018) has developed a set of tools to measure the sustainability of urban mobility. With 19 indicators, the tools encapsulate the principles of access, inclusion, environment, people, area use, safety, and comfort. Additionally, ITDP (2017) published the Transit-oriented Development (TOD) Standards to maximise the benefits of public transit and non-motorised mobility which emphasises the users, the people. The standards underline the inclusivity of mobility which is a necessary foundation for long-term sustainability, equity, shared prosperity, and civil peace in cities. In general, sustainable urban mobility puts importance on people, the planet, the economy, land use, accessibility, and safety. Using this concept, this article will scrutinise the scenario of providing subsidies to EVs in the case of Jakarta on different dimensions: environmental, land use, and people inclusion.

 3. Environmental Considerations of Electrifying Vehicles in Jakarta

The global demand for greener energy has pushed many countries to shift their sources of energy to be more renewable. Not only impacting the energy sector, but the sustainability aspect also influences the need for greener transportation, including the use of less carbon emission EVs. The Indonesian government has confirmed their intention to launch a subsidy policy for EVs to fit with its target of electrifying fifteen million vehicles by 2030 (CNN Indonesia, 2022). Without a doubt the policy will target big cities, including Jakarta, to use more EVs. However, this decarbonising vehicle strategy has not counted the reality that it is possible carbon emissions from other processes surrounding the use of EVs. Regardless of more adoption of private EVs on the road, other aspects, such as manufacturing and fuel processes, may emit more gas emissions in Indonesia (Padhilah, 2023). The strategy to prioritise private electronic vehicles can encounter another problem in the effort to decarbonise transportation. Indonesia is one of the countries that use fossil fuels and coal as the primary sources of its energy, accounting for around 60% of its total energy source in 2021 (Ritchie et al, 2022). Specifically, the electricity of the country is mostly generated by coal until 2020 with around 69%. The ambition toward environmentally friendlier electricity generation has not made significant progress in 2014-2020 (BPS, 2023). Regardless of the fewer fossil fuels used by private vehicles, the country still needs to work much harder to turn the table in decarbonising from privatisation. The energy combusted from the power plant will still emit carbon, or even more due to the need for higher electricity to power up the private vehicles.

In the context of Jakarta, the current promotion of private EVs will still pose threat to public health and the environment. Coal combustion, mostly from the coal-generated power plant around the city, has been becoming one of the major air pollution sources in the city (Vital Strategies & ITB, 2020). Along with the higher demand for electricity energy, the government needs to be more realistic in realising its ambitious goal to create a greener Jakarta. As long as the threats to the environment and health still exist, the promotion of environmentally friendlier technologies, including private EVs.

 4. Land Use: Is Jakarta only for Vehicles?

Sustainable urban mobility highlights the importance of densifying the lands to match the growing density. The dense population needs to have a balance between high residential and job densities to support high-quality transit, local services, and public space activity. In other words, the idea of sustainable urban mobility requires having less zone for private motorised vehicles in the city (ITDP, 2017). This idea does not resonate well with some areas in Jakarta. The government does not turn the strategic locations for high dense population residential areas, such as promoting more affordable housing closer to the economic centres (see more Hakim, 2022) or any proper public spaces in the city. In terms of public commuting, the government still focuses on building roads than public transit or other public spatial facilities. For example, the Ministry of Public Works and Housing still lists the inner-city flyover highway with a length of 40 km in its work (SimpulKPBU, 2021).

Aside from the focus on toll road construction works, Jakarta still cannot accommodate a safer and more walkable sidewalk. Many of them are narrow, broken, or even used for vehicle parking. The situation further comes with safety issues since many pedestrians must walk along with many vehicles on the road and the sidewalks (Nababan, 2022). Sustainable urban mobility promotes fewer motorised vehicles and a safer and more comfortable sidewalk for people. With the same situation or more vehicles on the street, there would not be any safer and more comfortable for people. Even further it will incentivise people to keep using motorised vehicles because there is no guarantee that pedestrians to walk around. Therefore, land use for transit-oriented development in Jakarta needs to change the perspective of urban mobility which is not a private-vehicle-oriented focus.

 5. Inclusivity of the Policy Plan

The current urban socioeconomic landscape in Jakarta tends to favour the urban rich. This population tend to live in the city centre, meanwhile, it is otherwise for the urban poor. According to this situation, the urban poor has fewer opportunities to enhance their livelihoods as they need to commute longer than the urban rich. Mobility inequality in Jakarta has been neglected as people have a higher dependency on private vehicles to have safer and more comfortable mobility (Janssen, et al. 2022; Hidayati, et al, 2019; Hidayati, et al. 2021). Considering that urban development will remain to emphasise the use of private vehicles as one of the strategies to combat climate change, there is a high possibility Jakarta will maintain its status quo. The possibility of subsidies of up to five trillion rupiahs for EVs (CNN Indonesia, 2022) will not create an inclusive strategy for many people, especially the marginalised community, living in Jakarta. People will still have to commute using their private vehicles and limit their mobility compared to the urban rich.

Sustainable urban mobility highlights the importance of social inclusionary and will not burden the marginalised poor in commuting. The poor should not have a major burden to spend the most time and money on their commute (ITDP 2017). Nikitas, Thomopoulos, and Milakis (2021) explain that EVs can become an enabling system for sustainable urban mobility as long as their usage focuses on their nexus between connectivity and multimodality whereas the key is public transit. The government needs to promote the importance of transit in Jakarta and improve their strategy to attract people to use public transport instead of private vehicles. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt behavioural changes policies and environment-making by limiting the use of private vehicles. However, the economic-focused EV subsidy (BBC Indonesia, 2022) will block the nudging of public transport adoption in the city while the government also neglects the points to adopt sustainable mobility for the city that can benefit many people. On the other hand, the promotion of more EVs for public transport will benefit in many aspects socially: improving social mobility, especially for the urban poor, improving safety in public spaces and making them more liveable and diverse, and more inclusion considerations for marginalised urban communities (e.g., gender minority, differently-abled people) (ITDP, 2017). Rather than nudging people to use public transport, the government needs to nudge people to see public transport as a comfortable, safe, and reliable transport means to counter the current perspectives on public transit (Tjahjono, et al, 2020). Furthermore, there needs coverage expansion of public transport in Jakarta to eradicate the social exclusion for certain groups in areas not integrated globally (Hidayati, et al. 2019). The article by Gaduh, Gracner, and Rothenberg (2021) also supports the claim that the city needs to consider the increasing quality of the corridor expansion in improving the population’s welfare.

 6. Conclusion

Global demand for cleaner energy and less carbonising vehicles pushes the government of Indonesia to improve the energy sector, including subsidising EVs for cleaner transport. However, there have been many issues with this policy plan, especially concerning the idea of creating sustainable urban mobility in Jakarta. Firstly, the plan to subsidise EVs will create greener and fewer carbon emissions from the vehicles. However, it will remain unsustainable since the electricity sources will most likely still source from unsustainable sources (i.e., coal and oil). This situation will remain to have the same threats to the city ecosystem environmentally, such as air pollution from power plants. Secondly, more spaces will still be dedicated to personal vehicles and neglect the importance of spaces for people. Thirdly, the subsidy will most likely target the urban rich and continue the mobility inequality in the city. The government needs to consider their investment on a more sustainable basis, such as public transit. Overall, the government needs to rethink the investment in private electric vehicles as a way to manage transport-related problems in Jakarta.

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