Tamil Nadu Seeks Larger Planes On Key Routes

19 Aug 2025 CW Team

Tamil Nadu Industries Minister T R B Rajaa has urged Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu to press IndiGo into deploying Airbus A320 aircraft on intra-state routes between Chennai–Thoothukudi and Chennai–Tiruchy.

In a post on X, Rajaa said all IndiGo flights on these routes consistently operate at full capacity, yet passengers remain confined to smaller ATR aircraft, which he described as “horrendous” and unsuitable for a state central to India’s economy. He argued that while ATRs may suffice for tier-three connectivity, Tamil Nadu attracts a large volume of business travellers who face uncomfortable, hot and crowded flights.

Highlighting frequent complaints, the minister pointed to poor air-conditioning, turbulence-prone aircraft, and hard landings that have led many regular passengers to avoid these services. “Opening swanky new airports is futile if larger, more stable aircraft are deliberately kept out,” he stated.

Rajaa further called the situation “gross negligence and wanton disregard” for travellers, especially in light of the high fares charged, and appealed to the Centre and IndiGo to take corrective action.

Infrastructure Transport

09 Sep 2025

Patna Metro Trials Successful, Red Line Priority Corridor to Launch This Month

Patna is set to roll out its first metro rail service later this month, with successful trial runs conducted on the Red Line priority corridor, the Patna Metro Rail Corporation announced.On 7 September, a metro train completed a test run between the Patna depot and Bhootnath station. Officials said the trials involved rigorous checks of rolling stock fitness, overhead electrification (OHE), and track alignment and stability to ensure operational safety and performance.The corridor from the New Pataliputra Bus Terminal to Bhoothnath has been designated as the priority stretch and will be the fi..

India and Israel Sign Bilateral Investment Agreement to Boost Economic Ties

The Government of India and the Government of Israel signed a Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA) in New Delhi today, marking a significant milestone in strengthening economic relations between the two nations. The agreement was signed by Union Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman and Israel’s Finance Minister HE Bezalel Smotrich.The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from both governments. The BIA is expected to encourage bilateral investments, provide greater certainty for investors, and promote trade by ensuring transparent regulations, safeguards against expropriation..

President Murmu Graces EEPC India’s Platinum Jubilee in New Delhi

President of India, Droupadi Murmu, attended the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations of the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) India in New Delhi on September 8, 2025. She highlighted India’s historic role in trade and knowledge and urged EEPC to lead efforts in strengthening the nation’s position in the global economy.The President noted that India’s engineering exports have grown from USD 70 billion to over USD 115 billion in the last decade, despite global trade challenges. She commended EEPC for its role in this achievement and emphasised its importance as a bridge between interna..