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A goods train carrying diesel caught fire near Tiruvallur on Sunday morning, prompting immediate action from railway authorities. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported. Fire tenders were dispatched to the scene, and as a precaution, the overhead power supply for train services was suspended. Southern Railway announced the temporary suspension of local train services, alongside the cancellation of eight express trains, the diversion of five others, and the short-termination of eight additional trains. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, according to a railway official. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in railway operations, as authorities work to manage the situation and minimize disruption to services. 
Published: Jul 13 2025, 9 ameznews.inIndia's tax administration has seen a remarkable transformation over the past decade, with taxpayer refunds soaring by 474% from ₹83,008 crores in 2013-14 to ₹4,76,743 crores by 2024-25, significantly outpacing the 274% increase in gross direct tax collections. The average time to process refunds has dramatically decreased from 93 days to just 17 days, reflecting the success of digital modernization efforts, including end-to-end online filing and automated processing. The number of income tax returns filed has also surged, rising from 3.8 crores to 8.89 crores, indicating a growing formalization of the economy. Officials attribute this growth to increased voluntary compliance and enhanced tax payment mechanisms. The rise in refunds and their expedited processing not only improves cash flow for taxpayers but also signals a more engaged participation in India's formal economy, marking a significant milestone in the country's tax ecosystem.
Published: Jul 13 2025, 5 pmeznews.inThe sales volume of used cars in India is projected to exceed 6 million units this fiscal year, driven by increasing consumer demand, digital adoption, and improved financing options, according to a report by Crisil Ratings. The used-to-new car sales ratio has risen to 1.4 from below 1 five years ago, with used vehicle sales growing at 8% last fiscal and expected to reach 10% this year. The market value of used cars is estimated at ₹4 lakh crore, nearly matching new car sales. Despite high operational costs and ongoing cash losses for organized players, revenue growth is anticipated to lead to breakeven at the operating profit level within 12-18 months. The report highlights that India's used-to-new ratio still lags behind mature markets, indicating significant growth potential. Enhanced access to vehicle finance and a diverse range of models for first-time buyers are expected to further support this market's resilience.
Published: Jul 13 2025, 4 pmeznews.inVRL Logistics, based in Hubballi, Karnataka, is actively addressing the severe driver shortage plaguing the transport industry by promoting driving as a viable profession. The company is visiting villages to dispel negative perceptions associated with driving, a challenge highlighted in its latest Annual Report. With a workforce of 22,236 employees, including a significant number of drivers, VRL is committed to recruiting full-time drivers and providing them with comprehensive training and benefits. Chairman Vijay Sankeshwar acknowledged the various challenges faced by the logistics sector, including unhealthy competition and adverse weather conditions, while emphasizing a cautious approach to fleet expansion. As of March 2025, VRL operated 6,115 vehicles and reported a 10% increase in revenue to ₹3,186 crore, with net profit soaring 105% year-on-year to ₹183 crore. The company is also modernizing its fleet, having added 457 vehicles in line with its growth strategy.
Published: Jul 13 2025, 4 pmeznews.inIn a bid to bolster the reliability and efficiency of renewable energy projects, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has mandated the installation of automatic weather stations (AWS) at wind and solar plants with capacities of 50 MW or more. This directive, outlined in a notification dated July 7, aims to address the challenges posed by inaccurate weather forecasts, which can lead to financial penalties under the Deviation Settlement Mechanism. The CEA has developed guidelines requiring these stations to be integrated into bid documents for renewable energy projects. Each AWS must be strategically located to accurately reflect local weather conditions, with specific requirements for solar and wind installations. The stations will measure critical meteorological parameters, enhancing generation predictability and grid stability. The initiative follows an advisory issued in February promoting the co-location of energy storage systems with solar projects to improve cost efficiency and grid stability.
Published: Jul 13 2025, 3 pmeznews.inThe Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) is set to host the 2nd Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Ports Conclave on July 14-15, 2025, aimed at enhancing regional maritime connectivity. Themed “Navigating the Future: Blue Economy, Innovation & Sustainable Partnerships,” the two-day event will gather ministerial delegations, port authorities, and maritime experts from BIMSTEC member countries, including India, Bangladesh, and Thailand. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal will inaugurate the conclave, which aligns with India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. Discussions will focus on green ports, smart logistics, and cross-border collaboration, fostering investment and innovation. As a leader in green and smart port initiatives, Visakhapatnam is positioned to redefine the Bay of Bengal as a global trade hub, reinforcing India’s strategic maritime role in the Indo-Pacific region.
Published: Jul 13 2025, 3 pmeznews.inIndia's recent push for electric trucks (e-trucks) has drawn criticism from transport experts who argue that the initiative could hinder the country's net-zero goals. They contend that e-trucks are impractical for most commercial freight due to their limited range of approximately 150 kilometers, compared to the extensive capabilities of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) vehicles, which can cover up to 2,400 kilometers on major highways. The existing CNG infrastructure, with 24/7 availability across 25 states, further enhances its viability for long-haul operations. Additionally, the cost disparity is significant, with e-trucks priced around ₹58 lakh, even after incentives, versus ₹15 lakh for CNG trucks. Experts advocate for a shift in focus towards proven CNG/LNG technologies, which have been effective for over 15 years, to achieve meaningful emissions reductions and support India's clean freight movement ambitions.
Published: Jul 13 2025, 3 pmeznews.inRetail inflation in India, as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), is projected to have fallen below 2.8% in June, marking the second consecutive month below 3% and the fifth month under the Reserve Bank of India's medium-term target of 4%. The anticipated decline is attributed to easing food prices, particularly following a robust spring harvest, despite some upward pressure on vegetable prices due to uneven monsoon conditions. The year-on-year inflation rate for food, based on the Consumer Food Price Index, dropped to 0.99% in May, the lowest since October 2021. However, core inflation, excluding food and fuel, is expected to rise to 4.5% in June, driven by increased prices for gold and other items. The government will officially release the inflation data on Monday, but analysts suggest that this trend may not prompt further rate cuts by the Monetary Policy Committee in August.
Published: Jul 13 2025, 3 pmeznews.inIndia's non-leather footwear sector is attracting significant interest from Taiwanese and Vietnamese companies, with the Council for Leather Exports (CLE) emphasizing the need for government support to facilitate their investments. CLE Chairman RK Jalan highlighted that these firms import essential components from countries like China and are eager to establish manufacturing facilities in India. The country's exports are on an upward trajectory, with a target of $7 billion in shipments by 2025-26, up from $5.75 billion in 2024-25. The United States remains the largest market for Indian exports, accounting for 20% of shipments. Jalan noted that an 18% growth is anticipated this year, driven by enhanced manufacturing and job creation. He also called for the implementation of a focused product scheme to boost productivity and competitiveness in the sector, while industry leaders like Yadvendra Singh Sachan see vast investment opportunities in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar due to their affordable labor.
Published: Jul 13 2025, 12 pmeznews.inThe Goa government is set to launch its inaugural Roll-on-Roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferry service on Monday, connecting Chorao Island to the capital city of Panaji via the Mandovi River. This new service, which replaces traditional ferry boats, will significantly reduce travel time from 30 minutes to just 12 minutes, according to State River Navigation Department Minister Subhash Phal Desai. The Ro-Ro ferries, named Gangotri and Dwarka, can accommodate 40 two-wheelers and 15 cars, and feature a 360-degree maneuverability for emergencies. Each ferry includes safety equipment such as life jackets and offers a separate air-conditioned compartment for up to 50 passengers. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant will inaugurate the service, which will be free for passengers and two-wheelers, while cars will incur a nominal fee of ₹15. The ferries are built by Goa-based Vijai Marines Shipyards and will operate under a Built-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model.
Published: Jul 13 2025, 1 pmeznews.inIn New Delhi, light to moderate rainfall on Sunday morning provided much-needed relief from the oppressive heat and humidity that had gripped the city. The showers, which began on Wednesday evening, have been welcomed by commuters, although they have also led to waterlogging and traffic disruptions in various areas, including Firoz Shah Road. Heavy rains on Saturday and Friday exacerbated these issues, prompting Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to call for immediate action from city officials to address the waterlogging. This year's monsoon arrived eight days early, bringing significant rainfall and flooding to several regions, disrupting daily life. The India Meteorological Department has forecast continued cloudy skies and moderate rain for the national capital in the coming days, as residents adapt to the challenges posed by the monsoon season.
Published: Jul 13 2025, 1 pm
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