G plus Volume 2 Issue 30 by G Plus

9 Surprising PG 15 Reasons to Get More Sleep

MOBILE APP ON DISASTER to be launched soon by ASDMA PG 08

Khloé Kardashian Says Gym Was Her Refuge

Page 24

VOLUME 02 | ISSUE 30 MAY 02 - MAY 08 , 2015

PRICE `10

SPECIAL

Special

Citizen falls prey to

4g tower fraud

HOW QUAKE PROOF IS

GUWAHATI ?

Amit Shah’s visit ignites protest

vows to implement fare meter

for auto PG rickshawS 03

10 GUWAHATI LACKS READING HABIT

SOCIETY

DTO

POLITICKING

Installation of telecom towers is seemingly a lucrative business - both for the people erecting them and also for the people leasing out their lands for the erection of these towers as it becomes a regular source of income. The arrival of 4G has given birth to a new fraud system that fools land owners into parting with huge amounts of security money in return for a tower to be installed in their property. Interestingly a few citizens have already fallen prey to this deception. CONTD. IN PAGE 02

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Leas Story

Citizen falls prey to

4g tower fraud

Rahul Chanda

t is a common sight in Guwhati to see owners of a plot of land or a building to allow telecom companies install telecom towers on their property for which they get monthly rentals and it becomes a source of income. Reliance Jio is expected to set up a pan India telecom infrastructure to provide fourth generation 4G LTE TDD high speed wireless internet and mobile communication services which may be launched by June 2015. The company is in the process of setting up the 4G LTE infrastructure which will also be an enabler for a portfolio of rich multi-media digital services including education, healthcare, entertainment, payment and cloud services for millions of individuals, homes and businesses across the country. The service will also come to Guwahati and Assam for which the company is expected to install towers at various places of the state. But, G Plus during its investigation discovered that some gangs have started cheating people of huge amount of money in the name of security fees for installing towers on their land or building.

Luring the owners According to Kedar Nath, a resident of Jyotikuchi area, a woman named Pooja Meheta has been calling him from Kollkata (Pooja’s number – 9831162058) since last two

months to register himself with their company which will help him earn a huge amount of money every month. Kedar said, “A female named Pooja Meheta called me and said that she is working as senior manager with Reliance and they have surveyed and identified my plot of land at Jyotikuchi as an appropriate spot for installing a Reliance 4G tower for which I will get a rent of `40,000 every month. The money for one year will be paid in advance but for doing so, I will have to pay a security amount of `54,000 to them.” He further said that Pooja told him that they are based in Kolkata and their head offices are in Mumbai and as they have not opened any office in Guwahati till date, Kedar Nath will have to send the money by a cheque in the name of BAJ to a Kolkata based address (Ms Pooja Meheta, Sr Manager, Reliance IC, Cimsys Tower, 1st floor, Y-13, EP Block, Opposite South City Pinnacle Building, Sector 5, Salt Lake City, Kolkata -700091). Nath said that he was lured by the deal but wanted to meet the company officials first before going for any kind of deal. He asked her to send someone from Reliance to his place after which he will think about the deal. Pooja gave him the number of one Rubul Burman (9007303839) who, according to her, takes care of all the work happening in Assam. Interestingly, after a while Rubul called

up Kedar Nath from the same number and said that he is in Jorhat now as the installation work of towers is going on in Jorhat and after few days it will start in Guwahati.

The victim Nath discussed the matter with some of his close friends and discovered that one of his close friend Sitaram Sharma had provided Nath’s phone number to Pooja as a reference of a land owner in Guwahati. Then, Kedar Nath and Sitaram Sharma came to G Plus and narrated their story. Sitaram Sharma said, “I received a similar call from Pooja Meheta around eight months back and was lured by the deal where I would be getting `40,000 per month as a rental once they install a 4G tower on my plot of land at Govind Nagar in Lal Ganesh area of Guwahati. Pooja said that many owners back off after the paper works are done and therefore, they need to pay a security of ` 54,000. I paid the amount through check and after few days I was again asked to make a payment of `30,000 which I did. Since last five months they have been postponing the date of installing the tower on my land as every time I ask them over the phone, they tell me that it is taking some time because of technical requirements.” He further added that the

“I received a similar call from Pooja Meheta around eight months back and was lured by the deal were I would be getting `40,000 per month as a rental once they install a 4G tower on my plot of land at Govind Nagar in Lal Ganesh area of Guwahati. Pooja said that many owners back off after the paper works are done and therefore, they need to pay a security of `54,000. I paid the amount through check and after few days I was again asked to make a payment of `30,000 which I did. Since last five months they have been postponing the date of installing the tower on my land as every time I ask them over the phone, they tell me that it is taking some time because of technical requirements.”

last date given to him for installing the tower on his land was 14th March 2015, and although he has been trying their number, they do not receive his calls. Very recently Pooja called him and told him to wait for 15 more days and the tower will be installed.

The investigation A team of G Plus called both the numbers and enquired about the company. Pooja Meheta said that they do not have any office in Guwahati and the survey of the land is being done through satellite, whereas Rubul Burman told G Plus that they have an office at Ulubari and when the address was asked Rubul disconnected the call and did not receive any more calls made to him by G Plus. G Plus then visited the office of Reliance Jio at Lachit Nagar to extract the truth. An official of Reliance Jio Infocom Limited said, “We do not have any team in Kolkata to call up people in Assam. These kind of activity is totally fraudulent and we are nowhere related to such incidents. We have a dedicated team in Guwahati which makes physical visits to the selected lands and talks to the owners. All the expenses are also

taken care by our company and we do not take any security money from the owners of the land or building where we erect the 4G towers.” The official further said that the public should not pay any security to anyone for installing towers as it is totally the company’s responsibility to install tower, make legal agreement with the owners and also provide rents per month with a proper negotiation. The official said that once a site is selected, the Reliance Jio team physically visits the sight and talks to the owner. The rent is then negotiated and once settled, the legal agreement is made and the expense for the legal agreement is also paid by the company itself. The official said. “I request the public not to be duped by anyone for towers and not to pay any money as security or bribe for getting the towers installed in their land or building.” Sitaram is planning to file a case with the police against Pooja and Kedar has decided that he will not pay to anyone for towers, but how many people like Sitaram made payments to Pooja Meheta and will they ever get their money back? rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

DIStrict transport officer

In The News

vows to implement fare meter for auto rickshawS

Juthika Baruah

uto-rickshaws have always been a matter of contention among the city denizens, creating furoe amongst the citizens with their stubborn behaviour and exhorbitant fare has compelled the public to go for other options rather than hire an auto for travelling. Repeated complaints from the public, senior citizens and tourists compelled the District Transport Office, Kamrup (M) to organize a meeting under the chairmanship of DTO (Registration & Licensing) Gautam Das as per the direction of the Assistant Deputy Commissioner of Regional Transport Authority M. Angamuthu as to why the auto-rickshaw association has not asked the auto drivers to use fare meter for smooth implementation of auto service for the people. The DTO organized the meeting with the Auto-Rickshaw Owners’ Association Coordination Committee, Legal Metrology, Transport Department, District Administration, Police department to start the auto-rickshaw service in a free and fair means. “The auto service in the city is a very old service but it seems that public dislike the auto service because of their bad behaviour with the commuters and increase of fare to unexpected levels. The Gauhati High Court, in a recent verdict, said that the auto-rickshaws should install fare meter immediately and that the auto-rickshaw owners’ association coordination committee should implement the government rate i.e. Rs. 30 for the first 2km against the meter reading of Rs 10 and Rs. 3 for subsequent 200 meter or part i.e. Rs. 15 for subsequent 1km. The waiting charge should be Rs. 3 for every 5 minutes i.e. Rs 36 for every one hour. The fare in night time i.e. from 10 pm to 5 am will increase 50 per cent than the normal fare,” said Das. Assistant Commissioner of

Transport, Gunadhar Das said that the transport department wants to solve the problem of the auto-rickshaws and said that the colour scheme for the autos will be implemented. He said that commuters often complain about the manners and behaviours of the auto drivers. DTO (Enforcement) Munin Das said that in Greater Guwahati, the auto service is the oldest and although there were no trekker or cab service, there were no fare problems either. But now-a-days, the fare has been increased to such a level that public refuse to take auto service. During 2014-15, the Transport de-

partment collected a fine of Rs. 15 lakhs from the autos from not having fitness certificates, pollution certificates, besides, seizing many autos. There are almost 9,000 autos in Kamrup (M). On the other hand, the AutoRickshaw Owners’ Association Coordination Committee alleged that the government has fixed the rate at Rs 10 per km in 2002 and for ten years the rate has not been increased, although the price of petrol is increasing. “In 2012, the rate has been increased by Rs.2 only and there is only one service centre in the city at Silpukhuri where the spare parts are also not available,”

said Pabitra Kumar Baishya, Working Secretary of the Coordination Committee while speaking to G Plus. Earlier, the Advisory Committee has given recommendations that the government may refix the fare as per the costing formula already submitted by the Commissioner of Transport while the auto-rickshaw association demanded that the fare should be fixed at Rs 50 for first 2km and Rs 4 for additional 200 meter. But DTO Gautam Das countered saying that earlier the price of petrol was Rs 76 when the rate was Rs. 30 for 2 km but now since the price of petrol has decreased, the rate should also be

nominal. Baishya also stated that if the government would not fulfil the demand of the auto-rickshaw association, they will go for democratic protest. The meeting held on 29th April, 2015 formed an Inspecting Team for auto-rickshaws comprising of Legal Metrology, Transport Department, District Administration, Police Department, Auto-Rickshaw Owners’ Association Coordination Committee and Bajaj Company which will inspect whether the auto-rickshaws have installed fare meters, the government fixed rate, the problems of the auto-rickshaws, whether it has the fitness certificate, pollution control certificate etc. DTO (Registration & Licensing) Gautam Das also informed that there are 18 numbers of service centres and that they want to make the service better. On the other hand, DTO Kamal Das said that the auto drivers want to maximise their earnings at one go during the day, even though they spend the whole day sitting idle but even then they won’t ride their autos at a nominal rate which is beneficial for them. If they follow the government rules and norms than they can earn more but it is due to their stubborn behaviour that they are losing their source of livelihood. A commuter, Rita Das said, “One have to think twice before hiring an auto-rickshaw as they charge so much that it becomes difficult for a middle class family to afford riding in one. If they would only charge the nominal fare, people won’t think before hiring an auto. If anyone can call for a cab, then they can also take an auto at the same price but the autodrivers’ behaviour and exhorbitant charge tends to encourage people to go for other options.” juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

Speaker Gogoi saYS extreme regionalism has affected the state G PLUS NEWS

ssam Legislative Assembly speaker Pranab Kumar Gogoi has said that at present many in the state do not like to identify themselves as Assamese. Taking part in an event in Guwahati Press Club on Wednesday, the veteran Congressman said that extreme regionalism has hampered the unity and integration of the state. “It’s very unfortunate that some people in the state do not like to identify themselves as Assa-

mese any more. This is because their sentiments have been hurt for a long time. I think extreme regionalism has hampered a lot in this regard,” Gogoi told reporters. Gogoi shared his experience after he recently met representatives of several indigenous and minority organizations including students’ bodies to bring out a definition of Assamese people. “I told them that if we stick to this, all of us will sink in sea. So, it’s time we should stay united for the

growth of the state and its people. To better the economic status of the state is very important,” said Gogoi. On the issue of updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC), he said that the 1951 records are intact and these are uploaded in the NRC website. Besides a few areas in Sivasagar district, Dima Hasao and in others, all the record of NRC 1951 is intact. It should not be a problem and no one should create any controversy, he said.

Born in Sivasagar, Gogoi was involved with the Youth Congress since his early days. He was first elected to the Assam Legislative Assembly in 2001 and continued his winning spree in 2006 and 2011 Assembly polls. A law graduate, Gogoi was also president of the Sivasagar Bar Association (1998-2002). His hobbies include listening to classical music as well Assamese songs and he has a special interest in gardening.

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

In The News

Zen Driving Simulator to be used

Mock drill on earthquake conducted at Assam Secretariat

for testing driving skills of new drivers Juthika Baruah

Number of Registration in DTO in the last three months January, 2015

Learning License Applied

362

Pass

309

Driving License Applied

279

Pass

254

February, 2015

Learning License Applied

520 Pass 443

Driving License Applied

411

Pass

372

Pass

472

March, 2015

or the hopefuls planning to apply for a driving license, will now have to undergo no less than an acid test on the Zen Driving Simulator installed at District Transport Authority, Kamrup Metro failing which they will not be issued the license. Speaking to G Plus, Motor Vehicle Inspector of District Transport Office (DTO) Rafiqul Islam said, “When a person is issued a learning license, they are given a period of six months to learn driving before becoming eligible for getting the driving license after qualifying a test drive. But now the people will be tested on the driving simulator which is a computerised duplicate car but gives the feeling of a real car while driving.” Islam said that the simulator have the features of hill drive, rainy weather drive, highway drive, snow drive, city driving etc. The person will have to qualify in all the drives and the system will automatically declare whether the person passed or failed in the test. If the person failed the test, he will not be issued the driving license. The Zen Driving Simulator will help the authority identify the qualified person to be issued driving license as it an important document to be carried while driving. On the other hand, the DTO has also started an operation to check the pollution emmision levels of vehicles in the city and in a single day, it has found that 140 cars do not have

Learning License Applied

567

Driving License Applied

302 Pass 283

The simulator have the features of hill drive, rainy weather drive, highway drive, snow drive, city driving etc. The person will have to qualify in all the drives and the system will automatically declare whether the person passed or failed in the test. pollution-under-control certificate and the DTO issued the certificates to the vehicles. The drive will continue and the transport authority will inspect all the vehicles to determine whether the owner have been issued the pollution certificate or not. The pollution-under-control certificate is mandatory for all categories of motor vehicles according to Rule 115 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989. Earlier, the transport authority had made it mandatory for owners of all motor vehicles that are a year old from the date of registration to carry pollutionunder-control certificate from a registered pollution testing centre. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

joint mock drill on earthquake was conducted on the premises of the Assam Secretariat on Tuesday, April 28th. With an objective of mock evacuation exercise, the drill was initiated in order to generate awareness among the public in the wake of a disaster. A task force consisting of NDRF, SDRF, fire and emergency services and Civil Defense took part in the mock drill under the supervision of ASDMA. The NDRF rescuers during the exercise displayed various extrication methods like rope rescue, high rise rescue and victim stabilisation. In a statement, the Commandant of the 1st Bn NDRF said, “Earthquake is an unpredictable natural calamity which might cause immense loss of life and property. The recent mega earthquake in Nepal is a living example of this and quick response is the only remedy which can minimise the casualty and maximise survival of victims.” Mock drills provide a suitable platform for organisation and rapid employment of rescuers to mitigate any kind of disaster, he said. “Such exercises should be conducted frequently in every district of the northeastern region that falls under high seismic zone of earthquake,” he added. Around 1,500 people consisting of members of district authorities, volunteers, NGOs and local public participated in the joint mock drill.

First Ever Lady Functional Director appointed in OIL

upshikha Saikia Borah, also the winner of ‘Best CA Professional Woman Achiever Award’ by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and with 27 years of experience in diverse fields of financial management, audit and strategic planning, has been recommended by the Public Enterprise Selection Board (PESB) as the new CMD of the Oil India Limited and is to take charge of her new responsibilities on July 1st, 2015. She is also a post-graduate in commerce from the Delhi School of Economics.

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

City

GMDA to UNDERtake

Developmental Projects

Juthika Baruah

for Vibrant Guwahati

n order to make the city smart and modern and to make it a flood free city from 2016, the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) has taken up various developmental plans for a vibrant Guwahati. Chairman of GMDA, Dhiren Baruah, while speaking to G Plus said that the Government should come forward with an open mind to cooperate with the department to fulfil projects for the betterment of the citizens. “The Government should realize the reality and not intervene in the work taken up by GMDA as the department is the sole authority to take decisions for a developed city. It was since 1947, that I am fighting for the development of the city and therefore, I am determined to make the city smart and modern,” said Baruah. The Chairman said that the department is not getting adequate fund to complete the projects and requested the government to release more funds to implement the projects. He also said that the works and projects which should have been done 14-15 years back are being taken up today. “We have also asked the government departments not to take any step without the permission of GMDA. As per the provision of GMDA’s Act 1985,

all state government departments without exception and also Central Government department, PSUs, semi government department, BSNL and any private companies should take due permission from GMDA before any construction or installation of any building, bridge and other units from GMDA. As GMDA is the sole planning and development authority within Guwahati metropolitan area, any construction or repairing of a building should be done with proper procedure of GMDA. It is also mandatory to take permission from GMDA to carry out road work as per the Act,” added Baruah. The new schemes to be taken up by GMDA for the year 2015-16 includes the Panbazar Culvert which will cost `49 lakhs, renovation of Latasil Park, Kharghuli Park, slum clearance and rehabilitation of people living in abandoned railway land at Uzanbazar and reconstruction of Nabin Bordoloi Hall at Panbazar. GMDA will also set up statue of Sir Syed Muhammad Saadulla at Machkhowa, statue of Tayabullah, which was requested by his family members at the free space between the Handique Girls’ College and Nabin Bordoloi Hall, statue of Ambikagiri Roy Choudhury at Ambikagiri Park, Silpukhuri as per the request of the Park Committee. The department will also establish the statue of Hem Baruah as per the

The Chairman said that the department is not getting adequate fund to complete the projects and requested the government to release more funds to implement the projects. He also said that the works and projects which should have been done 14-15 years back are being taken up today.

request of the public body at District Library and the statue of Mahendra Mohan Choudhury at the Hospital premises. These schemes are in the process of construction and will be completed within three months. The Assam Sahitya Sabha has also requested GMDA to allot space for setting up the statue of Laxminath Bezbaruah and the department has decided to provide space in Khanapara. The Assam Sahitya Sabha will install the statue at their own cost and if they seek any help from GMDA, they are willing to help the Sahitya Sabha. The statues of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Sukafa will also be set up but the place has not yet decided. The department has decided to establish the statues of

these great personalities as they have contributed much for the state which should be remembered by the people and the young generation should know about the personalities and about their contribution. The Chairman further stated that underground drains were also built in Lachit Nagar, Chandmari, Zoo Road 14-15 years back but as the drains are not being cleaned and people throw garbage in the drains, it gets blocked and causes flood. The steps which should be taken 15 years back for a developed city were neglected, as a result of which the citizens have to face many problems. GMDA has also taken up improvement and construction of roads and drains proposed under

third priority list 2015-16 and the government has sanctioned ` 5,40,95,000 whereas the department has proposed to sanction `10,52,31,000. The Chairman has also proposed to the Chief Secretary to the Government of Assam, Jitesh Khosla that all plans for developing of any government infrastructure which may bring in any more population into the 60 municipality wards in Guwahati may be avoided as the city is already congested. Moreover, in case of any infrastructure that can be removed and taken outside the city areas may be considered on a priority basis. As planned by the Government, Chandrapur may be taken as the city’s extension area. All the legal machineries, including the Guwahati High Court may be shifted to North Guwahati and the session court can be accommodated at the present High Court premises. A bridge may be constructed with minimum blockade to the river flowing between Guwahati and North Guwahati. Designated multilevel markets with food safety regulators should be planned and executed in the city markets. Measures for water conservation and controlling floods may be planned in a better scientific and people participatory manner. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

City

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Happy weddings unhappy traffic

Few city marriage halls fail to follow norms Kalyan Deb

ushroom growth of marriage halls, often without following the relevant norms, has again become a major reason behind nuisance late at night and hike in traffic congestion in Guwahati. With the season of weddings in full swing, glimpse of groomsmen dancing along with the ushers is a common sight in this time of the year. Since most wedding ceremonies are conducted in marriage halls across the city, leading to massive traffic congestions, leaving the public in distress. On Thursday April 30th, the denizens of Chatribari and Athgaon were forced to spend a sleepless night as the groomsmen came dancing along the tune played by a music band in order to conduct marriage ceremonies in the marriage halls situated in the area. While the groom’s car stood in the middle of the road, the ritual of bursting crackers continued creating hassle for the passersby and the nearby residents. “Such traffic congestion takes a long time to clear off and it is even tougher for the four wheelers to clear out of a traffic jam. If one gets stuck in such traffic it takes around thirty minutes to one hour for such traffic to clear off. The chances of accidents taking place also get higher as the roads are very narrow. During such congestion, if one vehicle accidently brushes against another, it may result in chaos. The marriage halls must organise proper provision for traffic control or ask the traffic department to appoint a personnel during such events”, said a passerby stuck in

traffic in the Athgaon area. “Parking is a major problem in marriage halls. Since there are usually no attendants at such ceremonies, due to inadequate space for parking, guests at such wedding halls are forced to park their cars on both sides of the road. Several complaints have also been made to the owners of the marriage hall to make sufficient space available for parking within the marriage hall but the problem seems to be never ending. Also the dustbin near the marriage hall overflows with waste materials after marriage parties which remains until cleared by the GMC”, said a shop owner in Chatribari area. It can be mentioned that in a directive, as its order in the Case no. PIL 73/2013 filed by Rajib Kalita seeking intervention of the Gauhati High Court in the menace created by marriage halls, the Court, last year had asked the managements of marriage halls to comply with the norms set for running marriage halls and also asked the district and police authorities to see that the norms are strictly adhered to. The Gauhati High Court said that marriage halls that do not have license would not be allowed to carry on the trade henceforth allowing the ones which did not have license with the liberty to apply to the GMC for grant of license. The High Court had further said that the GMC Commissioner would issue notice under section 337–A of the Act to all the Bibah Bhawans, which according to report on September 1, 2014 were still

On Thursday April 30th, the denizens of Chatribari and Athgaon were forced to spend a sleepless night as the groomsmen came dancing along the tune played by a music band in order to conduct marriage ceremonies in the marriage halls situated in the area. While the groom’s car stood in the middle of the road, the ritual of bursting crackers continued creating hassle for the passersby and the nearby residents. operating and running but did not fulfill the requirements of law and the norms, to show–cause within a period of four weeks from the date of service of notice as to why the Bibah Bhawans should not be sealed and why the licenses should not be cancelled or not renewed. The High Court said the reply submitted by the Bibah Bhawans would be considered by the GMC Commissioner in accordance with law after hearing the parties and a reasoned order would be passed in respect of each of the Bibah Bhawans on or before December 31, 2014 and action would be taken on the basis of the determination made. The Bibah Bhawans, the High Court said, may also take necessary steps for fulfilling the requirements

in law and the norms in place in the meantime. “The licenses of Bibah Bhawans, which do not fulfill the requisite norms even after the opportunity granted, shall not be renewed after the validity of the licenses. They shall not be allowed to run the Bibah Bhawans after the expiry of the present term of the licenses because abrupt closure of Bibah Bhawans may create public hardship during the marriage season,” the High Court directive said, and added: “The management of the Bibah Bhawans, who are allowed to carry on business, shall ensure that the approach roads or roads linked to the approach roads to the Bibah Bhawans are not blocked by vehicles parked by the hosts, guests, invitees attending the functions and ceremonies and

that no inconvenience is caused to the commuters and pedestrians using the approach roads or roads linked to the approach roads by such parking of the vehicles.” The court further said that the management of the Bibah Bhawans should ensure that no speakers or public address microphones are used by the hosts, guests, invitees of the functions at the Bibah Bhavans between 10 pm and 6 am. Although after only few months since the directive had been passed, ignorance in following the norms by the marriage halls in the city have already come into notice. However, it remains to be seen if strict actions are taken against those violating the norms. kalyan.deb@g-plus.in

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Athgaon road blocked for more than three days

Residents unaware about owner of construction materials blocking arterial road Rahul Chanda

he district administration and the traffic police are working overtime to manage the traffic congestion in the city and in recent days, according to many vehicle drivers, the situation has somehow improved but there are still some roads which are almost always chaotic, especially the roads where there are no norms for parking. Athgaon road is one such road with scores of business establishments and many vehicles plying 24/7, the road is always chaotic. Recently the road was seen mostly jam packed with traffic for hours because of a huge quantity of soil and boulders kept in the middle of the road for some construction purpose. G Pus enquired in the area about who kept the construction materials occupying half of the road and blocking the road. The innocence After enquiring all the shopkeepers about the owner of the materials kept on the road blocking the way, no one seemed to know who kept it there. A local shopkeeper said, “The boulders and soil are being kept on the road since last three days and are causing a major problem for the traffic to move and even the traffic police are not at all concerned about the problem. The traffic patrolling party sometimes comes and removes the vehicles from the road which are parked wrongly, but do not even try to find out who blocked the road by keeping such construction materials here.” Another local resident said, “Some people kept these construction materials in the middle of the road at

City

Guwahati residents worried after Nepal disaster G PLUS NEWS

he devastation in Nepal wrought by the massive earthquake has left many worried, especially those living in the city apartments. Guwahati falls in the ‘very severe intensity zone’ or zone V, the highest-risk earthquake zone. The National Disaster Management (NDM) report says, “Typically, the majority of the constructions in these cities are not earthquake resistant. Thus any earthquake striking in one of these cities would turn into a major disaster.” “We have reasons to be worried seeing the horrifying scenes on television and newspapers of Nepal earthquake. Seeing the fact that many buildings in the city have developed cracks, earthquake of such a magnitude can easily create destruction. I hope the builders and the administration will be careful with a holistic approach to construction of buildings in this regard,” said Bikash Gupta of Athgaon area in the city. After the series of earthquakes, which have hit the region since Saturday, several buildings developed cracks in the city. Some also raised questions over the credibility of builders of not following the norms properly. Slamming the builders, the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) advisor Akhil Gogoi said that the builders say there is noth-

ing to worry so that their business does not get hampered. “It’s not just about unsafe buildings but it’s a far greater question of humanity. It involves the risk of lives of thousands who are living in the city apartments. Even the city disaster management report says that more than 35 percent buildings in the city are vulnerable,” Akhil said. The Kamrup (metro) district administration has taken several steps to inspect the buildings – commercial, residential, schools and hospitals. It has also issued notices to 30 buildings asking to submit the details within 15 days. “Our inspection is already on in city school and hospital buildings. Besides, we have issued notices asking details. There was a visual screening study by the state disaster management authority. We will also check the status of these buildings,” said Kamrup (M) deputy commissioner M Angamuthu. However, Assam Real Estate and Infrastructure Developers’ Association (AREIDA) said that no structural cracks or defects were detected in the buildings in city. It said that apart from few non-structural cracks in some of the buildings and apartments, which pose no threat, the conditions of the buildings in the city after the quake were found to be good.

State disaster management preparedness still not up to the mark Chief minister night and I think maybe it is kept to repair the road but I am not sure.” No one exactly knew who the owner of the construction material was and who kept it there. So, G Plus thought of talking to the authorities. Authorities The councillor of the area Sunita Bhilbariya was also unaware of the situation and she promised G Plus that she will find out who kept the construction materials on the road and will make sure that it is removed. She called up the GMC officials to enquire if the material was for some road construction work but GMC officials informed her that it did not belonged to the GMC. She said, “GMC workers will find out who kept the materials there and will remove it within three days, by 1st May 2015. I tried to find out who kept the soil and the boulders on the road but no one knew about it.”

Similarly, DCP traffic Pranab Jyoti Goswami said, “Whenever something like this happens and it comes to our knowledge, we try to take action.” He further said that people should also be responsible and make sure that no one is allowed to do so in any area which will create a problem for everyone. He said people should complain to the authorities who will take action against those who do not have any sense of responsibility. Traffic is always a problem in the city and with some people making it more difficult by forgetting their responsibilities towards the society, it remains to be seen how long only the authorities will be blamed. Interestingly people are so busy in their lives that they do not know what is happening in their locality and do not even bother to take action if anything wrong happens. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

hief Minister Tarun Gogoi, who cut short his Australian tour following the quake that killed thousands, including those from Assam, said that disaster management preparedness in the State is still not up to the mark and that a lot needs to be done. “At the moment, we certainly lack the expertise like the rest of the country. We are just above the average mark”, the Chief Minister said during a tributepaying programme for the victims of Nepal earthquake in Guwahati on Thursday. He also said that the State government’s response was quick and that resources were mobilized immediately after the news of the tragedy broke out.

Gogoi also urged the Members of Parliament and the Legislative Assembly to donate their one-month’s salary for the cause of the quake-hit people. As per information available, a total of 152 persons had gone to Nepal, of which 126 have already returned to Assam, Gogoi said. “While six bodies were brought to the State, 18 persons from Assam have decided to stay back in the neighbouring country. Moreover, four of the victims are still in hospitals,” he added. The Chief Minister further added that the cracks that reportedly appeared in structures across the State, according to experts, are not of serious nature.

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

City

Mobile app Vigilance cell on disaster formed to be launched soon

Juthika Baruah

by ASDMA

During quake

to contain corruption G PLUS NEWS

• Earthquakes give no warning at all. Sometimes, a loud rumbling sound might signal its arrival a few seconds ahead of time. Those few seconds could give a chance to move to a safer location. Here are some tips for keeping oneself safe during a quake given by ASDMA:

n an innovative step to make the people aware about different disasters one may face, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) will soon launch a mobile application for disaster resistance. Director of ASDMA, Nandita Hazarika, while speaking to G Plus said, “The mobile app will have ‘Save My Source (SMS)’ button which will help the people send message if anyone is trapped anywhere in any kind of disaster like flood, earthquake, storm etc. The person can click the button and it will be recorded in the control room and accordingly, the disaster management authority can help the person after receiving the information. It will have different sections like River and Flood, Urban Flood, Storm, Earthquake, Fire etc.” Hazarika said that the app will have instructions like do’s and don’ts while facing any hazard and there will be emergency contact numbers. The application will also have quiz games where anybody can ask a question on different hazards which will help spread awareness about disaster related information and people will be aware as what to do and what not to do through the quiz game. She also said that an important contact of the disaster authority will be available in the application which will be linked with the ASDMA’s Facebook page. If a person face any trouble and they inform the contact number, it will be automatically updated in the Facebook page where their friends will get an update and they will be able to help rescue the person from the hazardous place. Hazarika further stated that ASDMA want to make the people aware through innovative ideas as people are now more attached to the internet and the mobile and the app will help the people get in touch with the authority as well as with their near and dear ones if they get stuck anywhere.

On the other hand, ASDMA has also inspected school buildings which are the most vulnerable section in the city. Past experience in cities struck by disasters shows that school buildings have been the cause of many casualties and injuries during earthquakes. ASDMA therefore felt it essential to undertake a Status Survey of School Buildings with reference to their safety against multi-hazards like earthquake, flood, wind and fire, and a project on the same was undertaken with the Civil Engineering Department of Assam Engineering College, Guwahati. 770 schools were covered in the status survey out of which 537 were Government schools and 233 Private Schools. This is probably the largest ever School Safety Survey Project conducted in the country. The project activities includecarrying out Rapid Visual Screening of all schools buildings of Guwahati College and quantify the parameters to map risk index from field data carrying detailed engineering analysis of identified vulnerable buildings, General vulnerability map of school buildings and suggest retrofitting solutions for highly vulnerable buildings. AEC has completed the first phase of the project and a report has been submitted to ASDMA which maps out each school with a colourcoded vulnerability status along with details, so that corrective measures may be taken by the school authority. The status report has been categorized into three groups as Government, Private and an additional part as North Guwahati. Meanwhile, the District Administration has also instructed 30 big shopping mall to ensure disaster safety measures and instructed the lifeline hospitals and nursing homes to keep 30 per cent open space to treat the victims in case of any disaster emergency case. The ASDMA has also instructed some rules like_

• Take cover. Go under a table or other sturdy furniture; kneel, sit, or stay close to the floor. Hold on to furniture legs for balance. Be prepared to move if your cover moves. • If no sturdy cover is nearby, kneel or sit close to the floor next to a structurally sound interior wall. Place your hands on the floor for balance. • Do not stand in doorways. Violent motion could cause doors to slam and cause serious injuries. You may also be hit be flying objects. • Move away from windows, mirrors, bookcases and other unsecured heavy objects. If you are in bed, stay there and cover yourself with pillows and blankets • Do not run outside if you are inside. Never use the lift. • If you are living in a kutcha house, the best thing to do is to move to an open area where there are no trees, electric or telephone wires. Hazarika further stated that as the people of Assam have not faced earthquake disaster since 1950, they have forgotten about such a disaster which can be risky. Therefore, they are trying to make people aware about such disaster as Guwahati falls under Zone V which is at high risk. ASDMA has set up a State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) with toll free number 1070 and District Emergency Operation Centres (DEOCs) with toll free number 1077. Information can also be shared on the landline number of SEOC 2237219. All the districts have been instructed to remain alert and one control room has also been opened at the Assam Bhawan, New Delhi. The contact number of in-charge of the Control Room P.K. Dutta is 09435002199. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

vigilance cell headed by the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) Commissioner, including GMC Additional Commissioner and Zonal Commissioner I and II, has been formed in order to contain corruption. The cell has been constituted as an effort to check and prevent misdeed and corruption in the city as stated in a copy of the office memorandum issued by GMC Commissioner S Viswanathan. “The main objective of the establishment of a vigilance cell is to check and prevent corruption in GMC. The GMC reiterates firm and priority commitment to an all-out effort for achieving a clean and transparent administration, accountable to the rule of law, responsive to public grievances and free from misdeed and corruption and with this objective the GMC desires that a vigilance cell be established and it functions properly and efficiently,” it said. It added that the vigilance cell would function towards achieving a streamlined and efficient system of attending to the various public grievances. “Whenever the Chief Vigilance Officer or Vigilance Officer asks to see any paper or any matter relating to any branch, it shall be made available to him by the head of the concerned branch. The Chief Vigilance Officer or Vigilance Officer shall be consulted by the branch authorities through the head of the branch in all matters relating to vigilance,” it said. The document added that all public grievances and complaints will be thoroughly investigated and reports will be submitted to the Chief Vigilance Officer through concerned Vigilance Of-

ficers. “The Personnel Branch of the GMC is the nodal branch to deal with all the matters relating to vigilance,” it said, adding that the instructions have come into force with immediate effect. It said that major emphasis in the sphere of vigilance in public administration is on the preventive and precautionary measures to check and minimize likely misdeeds and corruption in the sensitive activities under various departments of the GMC. “The GMC gets sufficient funds from the State government as well as Central government for implementation of various schemes, plans and projects for benefit of urban citizens. Hence proper vigilance is essential to prevent huge quantity of funds from being siphoned off and to ensure completion of the schemes. The collection of the property taxes, licence fees, market fees are also found unsatisfactory due to un-assessment or under assessment of holdings and lack of proper assessment of license fees,” said the GMC. It added that despite preventive measures there still remain some instances of misdeeds or corruption. “Each of these needs to be investigated properly and thoroughly and firm and expeditious action needs to be taken as per law against the wrongdoers within the GMC and others. The investigation or inquiry would be departmental, magisterial, or by the police or vigilance organization, depending on the situation. If the investigation or inquiry in specific instances reveals any system deficiency or inadequacy, it would also have to be rectified,” it said.

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

City

SS Road street vendors

mull stir against GMC Rahul Chanda

SS Road

HB Road

treet vending as a profession has been in existence in our country since time immemorial, however their numbers have increased manifold in the recent years. According to researches, Mumbai has the largest number of street vendors numbering around 250,000, while Delhi has around 200,000. Calcutta has more than 150,000 street vendors and Ahmedabad has around 100,000 street vendors. Similarly, according to a Guwahati city based NGO, SSTEP, the city has around 25,000 street vendors. Recently the Guwahati Municipal Corporation evicted the street vendors from SS Road in Fancy Bazar, which incidentally have been in business for the last 40 years there and has asked them to reopen their business at HB Road opposite Sharma Sweets till Kedar Road. The vendors, however, are not happy with the idea and are mulling to agitate against the move.

The eviction According to a street vendor of SS Road, Muzafil Ali, on 30th April at around 1.30 pm, a joint team of GMC and police reached SS Road and asked the vendors to close all the shops. He said, “After announcing once within a span of 30 minutes, the GMC workers started to break all the small wooden constructed shops on the street. We had to pack up everything and they asked us to move to HB Road near the Fancy Bazar Jail.” Dey further said that there was no notice served before eviction and on 1st May, they were not allowed to open up any shop on the road. SS Road Hawkers Association Secretary Rati Das said, “We cannot move to a new location unless

SS Road vendors after the eviction

we get a written confirmation that the new vending zone will be a permanent one.” He further added that they are planning to talk to the GMC officials regarding the issue and will also plan for an action plan. The street vendors of SS Road have been running their businesses in the area since last 40 years and one such long time vendors, Ravi Dey said that he has a shop there since 1977 and according to him around 1000 families directly or indirectly survives on the market. He said, “We pay a tax of Rs 20 everyday to the GMC and since last 10 years we did not face any such problem.” He added that 20 years back once similarly they were forced to move from the area and when they agitated they were taken into police custody. He said that this time also a similar agitation might happen if the authorities do not think of a proper way to solve the issue. He said, “We can go to a different location but it should be declared permanent on pa-

per and we should get at least the basic amenities from the administration as we have been settled here for many years now and all our customers know that we set up shop here.” Talking about HB Road near the Fancy Bazar Jail, Dey said that it is just a footpath where they are asked to set up their shops but if there is a problem with the traffic or any other issue later, they would again be removed by the authorities. Interestingly people on the HB Road are also against this move.

HB Road The councillor of the HB Road, Raj Kumar Tiwari said, “I heard about this move of the GMC and as soon as the SS Road vendors were evicted yesterday, I had a talk with the commissioner of the GMC and asked him to provide a different area to the vendors as HB Road is the only road in the entire Fancy Bazar-Pan Bazar area

which is a bit free and traffic can move from this road towards Kedar Road easily. Once the vendors are shifted here, even this road will be jammed and traffic management will be a serious issue.” He further added that it would have been a better option if the vendors would have shifted to an area inside the Fancy Bazar jail. Another shop owner of the HB Road area said, “It will be a problem for the vendors to do business here as all the garment shops are in the Fancy Bazar area and customers will hardly come here to shop. This area is for other business establishments and not for garments. There is already a wholesale vegetable market nearby so bringing the vendors here is a vague idea as the SS Road is anyways not used for traffic movement.” Thinking on the same line, G Plus talked to GMC officials and the Commissioner S Viswanathan said, “The vendors of the SS Road were doing business in a very high risk zone as it

is difficult for the fire service vehicles or the ambulance to get inside the SS Road during emergencies.” He further said that on both the sides of the SS Road, there are very old high rise buildings and if there is an emergency like earthquake, it will be a very difficult situation for the vendors. The commissioner also said that Rs 40 to 50 lakhs will be invested in the HB Road area to provide all the amenities to the vendors to do business there and the move was made according to the guidelines of the street vendors act. Regarding traffic congestion, he said that the issue is already been discussed with the traffic police and the place was decided with their consensus. There are 302 street vendors on the SS Road who have been asked to set up their shops at HB Road and according to the street vendors act, Town Vending Committee will be responsible for conducting of survey of all the vendors under its jurisdiction, and such surveys must be conducted every five years, and also, no street vendor will be evicted until such survey has been made and a certificate of vending has been issued. In case of declaration of a specified area as a no-vending zone, the vendors will be relocated to another area. However, such street vendors must be given a notice of at least 30 days for relocation. Vendors, who fail to vacate such space after a notice has been given, will have to pay a penalty which may extend up to Rs 250 per day. According to the SS Road vendors they did not receive any notice, so, how can GMC evict vendors without any notice? rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Politicking

Amit Shah’s visit ignites protest around the city

KALYAN DEB

he BJP on Sunday resonated the poll trumpet for the upcoming assembly elections in the State, with president Amit Shah appealing to the people to make Assam a Congress free state. Criticizing the Congress government in the state, the BJP president said that Assam under the Congress enjoyed no development except the dubious distinction of involvement in several scams. He also harped on the burning issue of Bangladeshi influx into Assam and said that only a BJP government could ensure that the infiltrators were detected and expelled. “There is a need for a change of governance in Assam for a brighter future. The corrupt Congress has failed to address all the relevant issues of the State such as Bangladeshi intrusion. Bangladeshi infiltrators have taken away everything. Yet the Congress government does not have the guts to touch them. It is only the BJP which can free Assam from the hold of the Bangladeshsis,” said Shah who arrived in the city on the last leg of his eight-day tour of the northeast region. Shah further appealed to the people of Assam to vote for his party and free themselves from the menace of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. Following Shah’s maiden visit to the city after taking charge as BJP’s national president, several protest have ignited across the state. On Monday, six left parties including CPI, CPI (M), CPI (ML), Forward Block, RSP, and SUCI (C) took out a procession in Guwahati against alleged ‘anti-people’ policy of the State and the Central Government near Dighalipukhuri in Guwahati joined by around 1,000 people staging the demonstration. The left parties also demanded halt in price rise, retaining the public distribution system, secure food safety, cancellation of the Land Acquisition Ordinance, hike in the payment of tea labourers up to Rs 303, ‘special classed state’ declaration to Assam, declaration of floods as a national problem, cancellation of proposed river linking scheme, etc. On Monday activists of Nagarik

Suraksha Sangram Samity staged protest over the NRC update process in front of Silchar’s DC’s office. On Sunday, April 26th Amit Shah formally launched his party’s “oust Congress” campaign in Assam, addressing a Janajagaran Samaroh at the Veterinary College ground, Khanapara, where he asserted that the vote-bank politics is the major reason behind the delay and urged the people to give an opportunity to the BJP to form the next government in Assam to resolve the issue of Bangladeshis once and for all. Shah also said that the process of updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) was a move of the BJP government at the Centre that had earmarked Rs 140 crore to the state government for this purpose. “Once the NRC is revised and updated, all the Bangladeshi infiltrators will be exposed. But the

“In Assam, the BJP is getting ready for the Assembly election. We had aimed to reach a 25-lakh membership target in Assam and we have succeeded in our mission. The coming Assembly election will be fought on the issue of illegal Bangladeshis and development of the region,” amit shah Congress does not want this and instead want their votes,” Shah said slamming the Congress government for the delay in NRC update.

The BJP chief, however, said that those people who had come from Bangladesh because of religious discrimination would be given citizenship. “But the people of Assam need not worry. The entire country will have to share the burden of these people,” he added. “The Congress has ruled Assam for most of the time since independence. But where has the current government taken Assam? There have been so many instances of corruptions and financial scandals. The CAG has pointed at the Rs 13,000 crore scam. There is scam in the agriculture department as well as in PDS. Congress leaders have been also accused of benefitting from the multi-crore Sharadha chit fund scam,” the BJP president said. Shah, making his observations on the resources of the State, said that Assam had all the potential

to emerge as a tourist hub and will emerge as one of the most developed State, only when the Congress is ousted from power. Shah assured that the BJP government will tap this potential of the State to the optimum. “In Assam, the BJP is getting ready for the Assembly election. We had aimed to reach a 25-lakh membership target in Assam and we have succeeded in our mission. The coming Assembly election will be fought on the issue of illegal Bangladeshis and development of the region,” announced Shah. Referring to Congress vicepresident Rahul Gandhi as Rahul baba, Shah said that it was quite natural for people “born with a silver spoon” like him not to see any positive change happening to the country since BJP came to power. Shah, highlighting the achievements of the Modi government said that in a few months after forming the government at the Centre, the BJP could do a lot for the welfare of the common people. “The BJP has succeeded in checking price rise, corruption, has undertaken many schemes like Jan Dhan Yojana for the benefit of the poor people, is acting on black money, and has ensured a respectable position for India at the international level without compromising on its security”, Shah asserted. The meeting was attended by several senior leaders of the party, including office-bearers, MPs, MLAs and Union Ministers Dr. Jitendra Singh, Kiren Rijiju, Dharmendra Pradhan, Sarbananda Sonowal, Bijoya Chakraborty amongst others. All castigated the Congress for the backwardness of the Northeast and promised prosperity and progress of the region under the BJP. Earlier, State BJP president Siddhartha Bhattacharya welcomed the national leader by presenting a ‘Hengdan’ (sword) and expressed that Assam will surely witness a change in the 2016 Assembly election. kalyan.deb@g-plus.in

Weather report for the week SAT 2 May

SUN 3 May

MON 4 May

TUE 5 May

WED 6 May

THU 7 May

FRI 8 May

Showers late

Scattered showers

A few showers

Passing showers

Isolated tstorms

Tstorms early

More sun than clouds.

20 / 30 °C

20 / 32 °C

20 / 33 °C

20 / 32 °C

21 / 35 °C

21 / 34 °C

22 / 31 °C

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Ward Watch

Ward No. 30

HIGHWAY TO HELL

JAYANAGAR

KALYAN DEB

n April 23rd an accident in the Jayanagar area claimed the life of a youth after being hit by a truck. As alleged by locals, it was not the only incident of its kind that took place in the area. Over the past fifteen days, around five similar accidents took place on the road from Jayanagar Chariali to Sixmile. Though none of these accidents were fatal besides the one that took place on April 23rd but some of those who fell victims of such accident suffered major injuries. Jayanagar, a locality situated adjacent to Sixmile, G.S. Road is a connecting area with Beltola Tiniali in Basishtapur Road and the NH 37. Besides several business outlets, the road also houses several residents lying adjacent to both sides of the road. Though developed with proper roads and provided with all basic amenities, the area lacks in road safety. Most accidents that take place in the area only occur in the afterhours, most of which are hits by trucks. Being a connecting road to the NH 37, the area receives huge traffic of heavy vehicles such as trucks and dumpers. “The area from Jayanagar Chariali to Sixmile has seen several accidents, most of which are caused after the road is opened for the trucks to pass by. The reason behind the rate of accident being so high in the area is that the entire Jayanagar road does not consist of a single speed breaker in the area. The right turn just before the NRL petrol pump is a particular area where most accidents take place. If there were speed breakers installed on the road, it would have helped in bringing down the rate of accidents”, said A Barman, a local resident. “Most accidents take place from the road to Jayanagar Chariali till the NRL petrol pump. Though most accidents are caused by trucks, but the truck drivers alone cannot be entirely blamed as it is the equal responsibility of the passersby to maintain road safety. Most accidents that take place in the area are in the afterhours, out of which several are caused due to drunk driving”, asserted Aman Ahmed, a shop owner at Jayanagar Chariali. Apart from being prone to

Continuing vehicular accidents in the area have resulted in numerous fatalities raising concerns among the local residents

Concentrated area Jayanagar

Population of ward number 30 42,000(approx.)

Sub-division 30(a)

Voters 30,000 (approx.)

Councilor Manabendra Malla Bujarbarua

Population of Jayanagar 17, 000 (approx.)

Phone number 9864073215

Voters 11,000 (approx.)

Area Sabha Member Purnima Boro

Problems Accident prone, Theft

Phone Number 970625709

accidents, the area is also infamous for theft and dacoity. “Most shops in the Chariali area have suffered from loss caused due to theft. Such an incident took place in my shop two months ago where several items were stolen from the shop one night. When I arrived the next morning, I found the lock of the shutter broken. Though a police complaint was made but no progress has been made in the case so far including the several other cases that took place over the years”, said Ahmed adding, “In one incident a mobile store in the area was broken into few months ago where the thieves had entered through the roof. Part of the roof and the ceiling was found tempered with the next morning and several items were missing.”

Says the Area Sabha Member Talking to G Plus, area sabha member Purnima Boro informed that earlier the flow of trucks were even more as there was no time limit for the trucks to commute through the area. “In a discussion with the GMC commissioner, the flow of trucks was arranged at intervals as the area consists of schools and during the working hours, the road remains busy. It is also the responsibility of the truck drivers to drive slowly in such areas since the road is only a connective road to the highway and not a highway itself”, said the area sabha member. “Since the rate of accidents in the area is higher so in order to ensure better road safety for all, discussions for the installation of speed breakers on the road is underway”, the sabha member informed adding, “The roads in the area also require a higher number of traffic personals in the area, which cannot be seen at all.” Interestingly, the area sabha member, while discussing the problems of theft in the area, said that the person who was largely involved in most illegal activities in the area lost his life in a recent accident that took place near the NRL petrol pump. “Since he did time in jail, most people were intimidated by him and thus raised no voice against any illegal activities carried out by him. Since his death the people must be relieved to an extent”, said Purnima Boro. kalyan.deb@g-plus.in

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Special Special

HOW

QUAKE PROOF IS GUWAHATI ?

Kalyan Deb

he recent earthquake that took place on April 25th left Nepal in a devastated state, claiming the lives of several thousand people. The ripples of the quake were felt in the city as well. While the first tremor, which lasted about fifty seconds, was felt at 11:47 am, it was followed by a smaller one at 12:19 pm. Seven earthquakes, including the two on Saturday last, has been recorded in the northeast since April 3rd that was followed by the early visit of the monsoon this year which has raised the question whether there is any relation between the chains of earthquakes that took place and the early monsoon. Dr. Saurabh Baruah, Senior Principal Scientist and Head, Geoscience Division, CSIR North East, Institute of Science and Technology informed G Plus, “Sometimes it is observed that during heavy monsoon, the core pressure underneath the earth’s surface increases which often triggers earthquake but this particular Nepal earthquake is exclusively a tectonic origin earthquake. The 6th August, 1988 earthquake in Indo-Myanmar subduction region occurred during heavy flood and rainfall. In this monsoon-earthquake condition, dilatancy diffusion model phenomena plays

Historical earthquakes that affected Guwahati city.

Date Epicenter and effects in Guwahati Ninth Century between Destruction of temples and palaces from Dhubri in the west through Guwahati to Tezpur in 825 and 835 A.D. the east. Location is near Guwahati-southern Brahmaputra Valley 1633 A.D.

Earthquake felt at Guwahati; probably a local earthquake; felt for about half an hour at Kajali, near Nagaon; no damage reported.

1714 A.D.

Several temples in Guwahati shattered

1843 A.D.

A strong shock felt at Guwahati at night on 2nd September.

1843 A.D.

A shock felt at Guwahati on 14th November and 18th December.

1845 A.D.

Severe shock, lasting for about a minute at Guwahati on 6th August. Another severe shock took place on 24th August. Earth opened and water was thrown out.

1869 A.D.

Epicenter was located on the east side of Shillong Plateau and it was felt over 640,000 kms. Spectacular earth fissures and sand craters resulted.

1870–1880 A.D.

Series of tremors occurred near Guwahati, followed by a relatively quit period, starting from 1880, until 1897 event.

12 June 1897

Total destruction in the valley (Tezpur in the east of Goalpara in the west) and manyparts of the Shillong Plateau including monuments and stone bridge near Hajo.

1930 A.D.

Earthquake at Dhubri (25 57 0N; 90 E); liquefaction and ground failure within thealluvial tract of North Bengal and NW Bangladesh and western Brahmaputra Valley.

1936 A.D.

Guwahati city was affected and four people were injured and 3 houses collapsed.

1978 A.D.

27 people died, 11,000 people injured and 1,377 buildings collapsed.

The impact of 1950 earthquake Photo courtesy: Facebook

the important role.” Assessment of ground motion is the first step of earthquake damage assessment and generally consists of mainly two processes. The first process is the assessment of ground motion on bedrock and the second process is assessment of site effects (Midorikawa and Kobayashi, 1979) pertaining to seismic hazards analysis. Guwahati city, being located almost at the center of northeast India, acts as the gateway and transit point for communication and transportation in the region. People from all over Assam and the neighboring states migrate to the city for job, business and education, which has resulted in very fast and unplanned growth of the city. The city, otherwise geographically has very limited housing space in between the relatively

steep sided granite hillocks in the region (Census of India 2011). Now the city area is covered with several tall buildings including residential and commercial hubs and markets, but without proper planning and seismic design. Many natural water bodies are filled up for construction of the houses, making them more vulnerable to earthquake hazards. In some cases, steep slopes of the hillocks are occupied, making life and property vulnerable to landslides, especially during earthquake and heavy rains. In view of the above, it is essential to evaluate seismic hazards of the Guwahati city, which may experience a large or great earthquake from its near- or far-field known seismic sources. “Since the Northeastern region of India falls under Zone V of Indian zonation map, entire NE-India is

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Special under a big threat from earthquake as we have already experienced two great earthquakes of 12th June 1897 and 15th August 1950 earthquakes (Magnitude greater than 8.5). Thus Guwahati and other major cities of NE India are not exceptional. Since NE India is embedded with so many large faults, we may expect large to great earthquakes from any of these faults”, said Saurabh Baruah. Considering the availability of databases, the city of Guwahati was considered for Seismic Microzonation study. The city of Guwahati is located in a highly seismic active Zone flanked by Shillong Plateau to the south and Mikir Plateau to the east that are considered as one of the deformed zones in the northeastern region of India; the Plateau area is seismically very active .The Shillong Plateau in the NER, India is a part of the Indian shield that is separated from the peninsular shield and moved

At Hengrabari, floral tributes were paid to the victims collectively by the people of the locality in the Karbi Yuva Sabha field. After the bodies of the six women from Assam who were killed in Saturday’s earthquake in Nepal, were brought here from New Delhi by an Air India flight this afternoon. People from different walks of life including members of various political parties and social organisations converged on the cremation ground to pay their last respects to the departed souls. From the LGBI Airport, the bodies were taken to their respective homes. While four of the six dead – Rima Das, BhonitaDeka, Bhumika Das

and Joyshree Bora – were residents of Hengrabari area, Kalpana Adhikary and Hema Saikia were from Bhangagarh and Narikalbasti respectively. After the funeral-related rituals, the bodies were taken to the Nabagraha cremation ground where the last rites were performed.

Minister Rakibul Hussain, APCC president Anjan Dutta and State BJP president Siddhartha Bhattacharya were among those who were present at the funeral. Also candle light tribute was carried in Dighalipukhuri in memory of the departed souls of the Nepal earthquake victims.

Seismotectonics in Northeast India Guwahati city, being located almost at the center of northeast India, acts as the gateway and transit point for communication and transportation in the region. People from all over Assam and the neighboring states migrate to the city for job, business and education, which has resulted in very fast and unplanned growth of the city. The city, otherwise geographically has very limited housing space in between the relatively steep sided granite hillocks in the region (Census of India 2011).

How the earthquake in Nepal felt Pallav Medhi who was in Nepal’s Raddison Hotel on Saturday when the massive earthquake hit shared his terrifying experience with G Plus. Pallav a resident of Guwahati based in Delhi said, “It did not feel like an earthquake for an instant and was certainly nothing like any earthquake that we have experienced in India. It was a terrifying one. We were in the middle of a conference when the lights went off a few times and then, the building started swaying. Throughout the entire time, it did not occur to us that it was an earthquake. We rather thought that a bomb had exploded somewhere nearby.” “Usually during earthquakes,

the ground merely shakes but in this incident, the building was literally swaying in different directions. The direction of the quake was completely random. We were not even able to grab hold of any of the objects in the room in order to take support. Then suddenly a chair hit me and I fell. I tried several times to hold on to the door in order to get up but failed in all my attempts. Whenever I tried to grab the door, it moved in the other direction. All these happened in a frame of almost a minute and it was a horrifying experience,” Pallav recounted. “When the ground finally stood still, we somehow managed to take

the stairs to the ground floor and surrounded by the hotel staff, we came out in the open. All this happened so quickly that we didn’t even get the time to panic. After we moved out, another earthquake hit within a time frame of 10 to 15 minutes and was almost of the same intensity. It was an experience that the 40 of us were lucky

to have survived. There were several other tremors following the first one and the last one that we experienced was around 12:30 PM on Sunday afternoon due to which, the flight we were supposed to take in order to fly back to Delhi got cancelled and we were provided an air force flight at 10:00 pm.”

to the east by about 300 km along the Dauki fault (Evans, 1964). The Shillong Plateau was uplifted during the latest Cenozoic. The Brahmaputra River, on the other hand, separates the Plateau from the Himalaya to the north. Guwahati has been affected both by crustal and interplate earthquakes during the last several hundred years. The area is associated with complex geological and tectonic features. The seismic microzonation process was studied in detail by using the available information related to geomorphological, geological and subsurface features. Primarily, estimation of strong ground motion parameters based on geomorphological and geological units of greater Guwahati city was carried out. This study further augments the estimation as a function of earthquake magnitude, distance, fault type, source depth and velocity characteristics of medium. The first step of seismic hazard assessment procedure is the identification of active faults and estimation of the source parameters. Second step is the estimation of ground motion parameters using strong motion accelerograms recorded locally as well as globally. In this study made by Dr. Saurabh Baruah, an attempt was made to generate artificial accelerograms with parameters related to an expected maximum magnitude earthquake. “The 1950 earthquake occurred in east of Sadiya along the Pochu fault bordering India and China. Yes , there is every possibility that large earthquakes may likely occur in NE India. As you know earthquake does not kill but unsafe buildings kill people. So we must focus on best building construction practices after proper site characterization on where it will be built. Then we may survive safely with earthquake”, Baruah added. In designing an earthquake safe structure, the most important criteria is to make sure that no critical element of the structure is compromised. The standard in designing a safe building is the capacity or strength of the material to resist seismic stresses, in particular horizontal acceleration, without failure. It is, however, important to understand that seismic provisions in most building codes are intended to protect life and reduce property damage but not completely eliminate losses. The Guwahati city in the Assam valley falls in a wedged tectonic block between the Himalayan collision zone to the north and Indo-Myanmar subduction zone to the east. The Shillong plateau to the south of the Assam valley with an average elevation of 1,000 m, on the other hand, is a pop-up tectonic block between two boundary faults (Bilham and England 2001). To the south of the Shillong plateau lies the world’s largest delta, the Bengal basin; the basin is separated from the Shillong massif by the east–west long Dauki fault. The ongoing collision to the north and subduction to the east make the whole region one of the most intense seismic zones of the world. kalyan.deb@g-plus.in

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Society

GUWAHATI LACKS

Juthika Baruah

READING HABIT

n today’s competitive world, children are forgetting how to enjoy their childhood days. Not just through sports and games but certain childhood joys are also linked with reading books, of discovering new and unknown knowledge, which, unfortunately, seems to be decreasing day by day as today’s generation do not have the habit of going to libraries. The Bishnu Nirmala Children’s Library situated at Latasil under the Directorate of Library Services do not have any children visiting it as most of the people in the city are not aware of the existence of such a library. An official of the library, while speaking to G Plus said, “The library, established in 1957, is the only children library in the state. The Library was donated by Gopinath Bordoloi to the Bishnu Nirmala Trust for the welfare of the children. Earlier people had an urge to read books out of curriculum but nowa-days the children have only the academic knowledge and are lacking general knowledge because of their reluctance to go through library books.” The official said that the library consists of more than 14,000 children’s books and children from age group of 4-16 can come to the library although there is no age bar. “The number of readers seems to be less in the library as the parents want academic related books rather than story books or other general knowledge books which can give knowledge to the children other than the academic studies. A four years child do not know that he/she should come to a library to read books, it is the responsibility of the parents to bring them to the library and create interest among them to read books so that it helps them in the future,” the official added. The official further stated that it’s high time that the guardians should be concerned about the future of the children as academic studies alone may not be helpful for the future. Academic studies has a limit but the general knowledge will make them a good human being. “Most of the guardian comes to the library asking for books related to project work given by the school and as the libraries are not meant for academic studies only, the books related to course might not be available but there are books related to curricular activities. But it is seen that the guardians itself search books which can directly give the information. They don’t give the chance to their children to utilize their creativity and it happens because the schools

The library has games and computers besides books so that the children get interested to come to the library. The official said that a four year child do not have interest in books, they are interested in games and other activities. So the library has the facility to attract the children to come to the library and enjoy games and gradually gainninterest in reading books as well

give them a deadline or else they won’t get good marks in the examination if the project would not be submitted in time,” said the official. Reading books makes a man perfect but the guardians and children spend their time in other activities rather than come and sit in a library to read a book. The education system needs to be changed and the children should be compelled to make a habit of reading books. “The internet has also made a bad impact on the children as it has made things

easier to find information which is bad for the people as they don’t utilize their own minds. The people don’t verify whether the information is right or wrong, they have a belief that internet always provides the right information,” according to the official. The official further informed that there are more than 3000 members in the library. The books are being provided by the Directorate of Library Services and also donated by people. Some books are also provided by Raja Ram Mohan Roy Library, Kolkata. The library has games and computers besides books so that the children get interested to come to the library. The official said that a four year child do not have interest in books, they are interested in games and other activities. So the library has the facility to attract the children to come to the library and enjoy games and gradually gainninterest in reading books as well. A culture should be developed to read books other than the syllabus. It is said that libraries don’t have sufficient books but no one wants to know the real scenario as to why people don’t go to library. It is only because that they want course related materials which can give them easy information without any pain. In a mechanical lifestyle which people are having today, they forget to utilize their talent and search for easy way for a solution, said the official. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Health

Surprising Reasons

to Get More Sleep

G PLUS FEATURE

hat difference could an extra hour of sleep make in your life? Maybe quite a lot, experts say. Studies show that the gap between getting just enough sleep and getting too little sleep may affect your health, your mood, your weight, and even your sex life. If you’re getting less than the recommended seven or eight hours of sleep a night, here are nine reasons that you should shut down your computer, turn off the lights, and go to bed an hour early tonight.

Better health Getting a good night’s sleep won’t grant you immunity from disease. But study after study has found a link between insufficient sleep and some serious health problems, such as heart disease, heart attacks, diabetes, and obesity. In most cases, the health risks from sleep loss only become serious after years. That might not always be true, however. One study simulated the effects of the disturbed sleep patterns of shift workers on 10 young healthy adults. After a mere four days, three of them had blood glucose levels that qualified as pre-diabetic.

Better sex life According to a poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation, up to 26% of people say that their sex lives tend to suffer because they’re just too tired. There’s evidence that in men, impaired sleep can be associated with lower testosterone levels - although the exact nature of the link isn’t clear. Of course, not getting enough sleep can affect your love life in less direct ways too.

Less pain If you have chronic pain - or acute pain from a recent injury - getting enough sleep may actually make you hurt less. Many studies have shown a link between sleep loss and lower pain threshold. Unfortunately, being in pain can make it hard to sleep. Researchers have found that getting good sleep can supplement medication for pain. If pain is keeping you up at night, there are also medications available that combine a pain reliever with a sleep aid.

Lower risk of injury Sleeping enough might actually keep you safer. Sleep deprivation has been linked with many notorious disasters, like the destruction of the space shuttle Challenger and the grounding of the Exxon Valdez. The Institute of Medicine estimates that one out of five auto accidents results from drowsy driving - that’s about 1 million crashes a year.

Better mood Getting enough sleep won’t guarantee a sunny disposition. But you have probably noticed that when you’re exhausted, you’re more likely to be cranky.

Better weight control Getting enough sleep could help you maintain your weight - and conversely, sleep loss goes along with an increased risk of weight gain. Why? Part of the problem is behavioral. If you’re overtired, you might be less likely to have the energy to go for that jog or cook a healthy dinner after work. The other part is physiological.

Getting a good night’s sleep won’t grant you immunity from disease. But study after study has found a link between insufficient sleep and some serious health problems, such as heart disease, heart attacks, diabetes, and obesity. In most cases, the health risks from sleep loss only become serious after years.

The hormone leptin plays a key role in making you feel full. When you don’t get enough sleep, leptin levels drop. Result: people who are tired are just plain hungrier - and they seem to crave high-fat and high-calorie foods specifically.

Clearer thinking Have you ever woken up after a bad night’s sleep, feeling fuzzy and easily confused, like your brain can’t get out of first gear? Studies have found that people who are sleep-deprived are substantially worse at solving logic or math problems than when they’re well-rested. They are also more likely to make odd mistakes, like leaving their keys in the fridge by accident.

Better memory

Stronger immunity

Feeling forgetful? Sleep loss could be to blame. Studies have shown that while we sleep, our brains process and consolidate our memories from the day. If you don’t get enough sleep, it seems like those memories might not get stored correctly - and can be lost. What’s more, some research suggests that sleep decreases the chances of developing false memories. In several experiments, people were asked to look over a series of words. Later they were tested on what they remembered. People who didn’t sleep in between were much more likely to “remember” a word that they hadn’t actually seen before.

Could getting enough sleep prevent the common cold? One preliminary study put the idea to the test. Researchers tracked over 150 people and monitored their sleep habits for two weeks. Then they exposed them to a cold virus. People who got seven hours of sleep a night or less were almost three times as likely to get sick as the people who got at least eight hours of sleep a night. More research is needed to establish a real link; this study was small and other factors may have inf luenced the results. Still, you can’t go wrong getting eight hours of sleep when possible.

HEALTH TIP Stay away from the quick fix cure of the crash diet. These are bad for you and do more harm than good in the long run. Whilst you may lose a few pounds in the short run, your body will have gone into starvation mode and once you start eating normally again, the weight will pile back on and may increase above what it was originally.

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Life

AND THEN, A DREAM COMES TRUE!

WHY people hate their in-laws.

Hate And Bitterness Will Destroy You

Y I

t is 5.30am and Tirus is already awake. He is ready to go for his jog. As he sips his health drink, a familiar voice, which he hears every morning tells him “Tirus, you have two minutes to go downstairs.” As he rushes out and gulps down his juice, the computerised voice in the hall tells him he has just a minute more. Tirus opens the living room door and hops into the lift waiting for him. “Good morning, Mr. Tirus. How are you today?” The familiar female voice greets him over the speaker on the lift. Tirus smiles back and whispers. “I am doing good today! Very good! Thank you!” It took him less than a minute to get to the park below his ten-story apartment and meet his friends. Tirus loves the park. He and a couple of his associates had designed how it would be when they had shifted home to this apartment which overlooked the Brahmaputra. It was very clear from the beginning that they will plant lots of trees, especially oak trees, bamboo and the local Hollong tree, which absorbs a lot of carbon and releases a lot of oxygen. And today, they have a sprawling area, an outdoors all the people of the apartment are proud of and love. By the time the sun was high, Tirus and his friends had already done several rounds of jogging. Kids, teenagers, their parents and some elderly people are in the park, going about their work. After half an hour of rest, Tirus and his friends get down to work. Some starts sweeping the leaves below the trees, someone starts watering the plants, while another takes to mowing the lawn. Soon, the children and elderly join them too. There is a bevy of activity, all busy with their own chore. It is 7.30am and Tirus, after a good round of talk and laugh with his friends, rushes up to his apartment pad. He has just half an hour between his shower and Skyping with his parents. And then that very important meeting! While the high speed water from the shower hits his body, he reiterates his work for the day; the meeting with some citizens where a couple of NGOs, women’s organisations, the mayor, the DC, the SP and a state minister will be present. They are going to discuss about some very important matters relating to the city. Recently, there has been a lot of complain about an area in Rehabari, where young people needed counselling and rehabilitation. They have been abusing themselves for long

with drugs and they needed help. Tirus has been a visionary for his city and it has taken him a little less than a decade to see his dreams materialise right in front of his eyes! When Tirus started to envision the city of his dreams, he knew he had to start from scratch. And start from scratch he did. The city had a major problem of water-logging. The drainage system needed a total revamping. When he and a couple of planners put their heads together, they realised that the hills surrounding the city were rampantly being cut away by people who needed to build their homes there as they had nowhere to go. The trees were gone and so did the fauna. The conflict was too high to manage. However, no problem can be solved without brainstorming at all levels, Tirus told his associates. And so they did! They sat late into the night thinking of ways to resolve the problem. And resolve they did! They had an intensive meeting with more than 4000 families residing in the hills and told them about how they can help to get back the lost glory of the city and make it feasible for everyone to survive happily! Tirus smiled as he thought of the day when these very same people came to him and told him that they would start planting trees in the hills again. And Tirus made sure these people had a roof over their heads. He planned a huge alternative housing area, with a well-planned drainage system, sanitation, water-source and uninterrupted power supply. Today, the hills are green again, with trees of different varieties being added every other day, thanks to people’s participation. The entire drainage system of the city has been re-vamped and water-logging is now a thing unknown. Tirus is ready now and while he gobbles mouthfuls of doi-cheera, he tells his mother over Skype that he is absolutely fine and there’s nothing to worry about. His father as usual has something funny to say. And in another 10 minutes, Tirus is in his car, whizzing past the Luit, with two of his friends, he would have to drop on the way. He is always left breathless and amazed at the pristine beauty of the enormous Brahmaputra River. He smiles. The city is looking greener than before. The asphalt roads near the Latasil Fields are clean and lined by shade trees. He made sure when the roads were reconstructed that not a single tree would be felled. As he

turns round the corner, he slows down to let a lady and a school child cross the road. He looks up at a building and finds that the surveillance cameras are in order. He would have to place a couple more in other parts of the city as well, he thinks. Tirus and his friends have been car-pooling ever since they knew they were to travel on the same route for office. As he drops off both his friends to office, one at B.Barooah road and the other at Ulubari, he notices that the sky buses on that route were pretty full already. Tirus’ office is on G.S. Road, a tenstory building, equipped with WIFI and state-of-the-art amenities. His car-app does the parking in the underground parking area and he rushes up to the fifth floor through the stair-case. He prefers to use the lift only if it is absolutely necessary. Once inside his office room, Tirus, being the man that he is, does everything on his own. He gets himself a cup of ronga saah (red tea), gets a couple of photocopies done and gets ready for the meeting. He had specifically informed everyone that they would start the meeting sharp at 10am. And as is expected, everyone is on time! Tirus has an intensive talk about how he plans to beef up surveillance in Rehabari and set up a counselling centre there. The community will have to help in this case, he says. He tells the group of people how these same children who are now a problem can actually turn around and help in the building up of the smart city of Guwahati that he has been dreaming of for long. “We are getting there but we still have a long way to go.” He smiles and nods with a sense of pride. As the others left, Tirus decides to have a closed door talk with the Mayor,DC and SP. After everyone leaves, Tirus looks out of the huge bay window of his office at the skyline of the city he loves so much. The city is buzzing with activity. People all across the city have been getting what they deserve; water, electricity, hygienic sanitation, food, facilities, technology and more. However, there is so much more to do for the city. He questions himself, “Are Guwahatians getting equal opportunity of everything that we are making available to them? Are my people happy? What more can we do?” The Gini Coefficient is one more thing on his agenda!

tinat ATIFA MASOOD

es, this is a very common thing. In India, we had a program with about 20,000-25,000 people. I usually say that anyone who comes to the ashram should leave their worries and problems here, and go back home with a smile. One lady said, ‘My problem is my mother-inlaw, can I leave her here?’ I told her, ‘Wait, let me ask your mother-in-law what is her problem! And your husband! He may say, ‘Both of them are my problem, can I also leave them here?’ I told that lady, ‘Look, you have a mother, right? Did you not fight with your mother on a routine basis? When you fought with your mother, you forgot it the next day. In fact, your mother was even harsher than your mother-in-law!’ She said, ‘Yes, but she is my mother!’ I said, ‘It is the same. Your mother-in-law is also your mother. They belong to same category, same age group. In fact, she is a little more cautious because you are the daughter-in-law so she doesn’t scold you as much as your mother. Why don’t you win her over with your love? Why do you take what she tells you so seriously?’ When you fight with your mother, do you stop talking to your mother? Do you hate your mother because your mother was not very nice to you? No! So, treat your mother-in-law the same way as your mother. You know she has her limitations, and her own life, so why don’t you win her over with love? What is the big thing? Most problems happen because of the way we talk. You may want to have a carrot salad, and your mother-in-law may want a celery salad. So, on one day let her have her way, and on another day you have your way. What is the big thing about it? You don’t need to be bogged down for this, or hate her for this. How long are they going to be on this planet? Anyway, you are going to be here longer than her. Imagine yourself in the same position. You have a son that grows up, gets married, and the daughter-in-law comes to your home and she hates you. Would you like to be in that situation? Would you like to be in a situation where your own daughter-in-law hates you and takes your son away from you? You would not like that, then why do you do that? We live in a world that is so complex, people are so different,

and we have to live with them. See, there are all types of animals living in the forest, from tigers to deer. They don’t say, ‘I am going to live in a separate forest and you live in a separate forest’. Sometimes you become a deer, and sometimes you become a tigress, that is okay. You don’t have to be a deer all the time. But don’t be a tigress all the time and keep frowning at someone. Even they don’t prey all their life. They remain like the deer, sometime at least, when they are not hungry. So, endure people at home. Be a beacon of light, a beacon of joy to the home you have gone to. Know that you can change the situation and you can change people. If you find that an old dog cannot learn new tricks, they are too old, then accept them the way they are. Never mind! It is necessary for us to see life from a bigger picture. If you hate someone too much you will have no freedom from them. You will be born with them or they will be born to you. Then you are stuck with them for your lifetime; not only this lifetime but even the next lifetime. So it is better that you make peace and be happy with them so that you get freedom. Suppose you hate your motherin-law and she hates you, and she dies or you die, both of you are going to come back to finish the score again! I tell you, it is going to be tougher the next time, much tougher. It is better you swallow the bitter pill or whatever their tendencies are and forgive them and give only joy. Be compassionate and stop hating people. If you are a daughter-in-law, you have gone into a house which is very challenging, your first challenge is to see how you can win over the people’s mind and heart. Know that you have the capacity to change people, especially when you are on this path. We are changing the mindsets of terrorists, even they are getting transformed, can’t you change the mind of that one poor lady? If not change her, why not just accept her the way she is? She maybe singing off tune, let her sing. Sometimes, off tune singing becomes a fashion, it becomes a new style of singing. Let it go on and have patience. Wisdom can pull you through this sort of mental self created agonies.

His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji

www.artofliving.org/meditation

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

City

KMSS demands MRF launches new scrapping mega franchise at Guwahati dam after Nepal earthquake G PLUS NEWS

G PLUS NEWS

A F

earing an even worse outcome than Nepal, peasants’ organization Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) has once again demanded scrapping the Lower Subansiri Hydroelectric Power Project (LSHEP) along Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border. KMSS, which has been opposing the project ever since its beginning, said that it’s the high time for the people of the state to stand united and stop the construction. “We are never against dam but we are against mega dam. We need development and electricity but not at the cost of the lives of hundreds in the region. If the dam is constructed defying all the suggestions of experts, it can ruin the entire region if such an earthquake like Nepal’s hits the region. There is quite a possibility of that,” said KMSS advisor Akhil Gogoi on Tuesday. LSHEP is an under construction dam on the Subansiri river in Gerukamukh village in Dhemaji district which is expected to supply 2,000 MW of power. Quoting Roger Bilham, professor of geological sciences at the University of Colorado, Akhil said that at present 50 million people are at risk from a Himalayan earthquake. “The Nepal incident has opened

“We are never against dam but we are against mega dam. We need development and electricity but not at the cost of the lives of hundreds in the region.” up the eyes of many. The fury of nature has once again proved that no technology and science can resist it. It’s a good lesson for all of us, including those who have been supporting the dam. It’s high time that all in the state stand united and work towards scraping the project,” said Gogoi. The project which was started by NHPC Limited in 2007 has met stiff resistance from several groups including All Assam Students’ Union and others. Gogoi said that with experts mentioning the construction of a mega dam of such measure can be disastrous, the government should understand the matter and look for alternatives.

franchise of India’s largest tyre manufacturer MRF was recently inaugurated at the NH-37, Lalmati, Guwahati. The MRF Tyres and Services franchise, Ganpati Tyres was inaugurated by the Regional Sales Manager, MRF Limited, Sougata Maity. Using the latest imported machinery, Ganpati Tyres is offering full-fledged tyre services to its customers such as wheel alignment, wheel balanc-

ing, automatic tyre fitment, nitrogen inflation of tyres and tubeless tyre repair all under one roof. Inaugurating the centre, Maity said, “MRF is trying to make a strong presence among its customers across the nation. Ganpati Tyres is one such effort which brings to the motorist of Guwahati the best services in wheel alignment and balancing along with ZLO Car Radials which are sought by the motorist”. Ganpati Tyres is offering services

by the technicians that are trained in wheel alignment, wheel balancing and other services at the company’s state of the art- MRF Tyredrome Training Centre in Chennai. Customers can also do their tyre shopping at the centre relaxing in air-conditioned comfort. For further information contact: Rangman Das: 8486002308 / Gautam kr Baruah: 8486002318

Motorola launches new Moto E 4G variant Now available through Flipkart for customers in Guwahati

ith an idea of giving people the power to choose, Motorola launched its latest product in the city. Moto E 4G and 3G, the latest products of the Motorola entity where Moto E 4G variant is available for purchase exclusively on Flipkart for Rs.7,999 and the new Moto E 3G variant is available for purchase exclusively on Flipkart for Rs.6,999. Both Moto E 4G and 3G variants are introduced with multiple launch offers making the purchase even more exciting for consumers. The new Moto E 4G comes with 4G and 3G speed, a 4.5inch qHD display, front-facing

camera, the latest Android software (Lollipop) and even more customization options. Motorola, for the first time is also bringing a personalized software experience that is introduced with Moto X, one of the most affordable device. The new Moto E packs a bigger smartphone punch for a fraction of the average smartphone cost and gives a splash of color to the phone with interchangeable Motorola Bands and Grip Shells. One also gets premium Moto experiences like Moto Display for notifications and updates without interruptions and Moto Migrate to quickly and easily transfer contacts, photos and videos to your new phone from the

old one. The new Moto E with 4G network is supposed to provide amazing speed with increased bandwidth to the customers in Guwahati which will lead to much faster data transfer speed, as it is especially advantageous for mobile devices. The 5-megapixel rear-facing camera and a second camera in front is custom made for perfect selfies or video calls. With two twists of the wrist, one can launch the camera with Motorola’s Quick Capture feature. Moto E 4G users in Guwahati can stream music, videos and movies at a much faster rate than ever before and can also easily share information online.

BYST announces Business Idea Contest in Assam

haratiya Yuva Shakti Trust (BYST) in association with Confederation of Indian Industry and in partnership with the Employment Generation Mission, Government of Assam formally launched the Business Idea Contest today. The contest was flagged off by Mr. Jitesh Khosla, Chief Secretary, and Govt. of Assam at NEDFi House. The ‘Business Idea Contest’ is aimed at encouraging the youth of Assam to come forward with creative and viable business ideas that can be converted into successful

and dynamic small-enterprises. The Contest aims at giving a boost to the entrepreneurial culture in Assam. Youth in the age bracket of 18-35 years and residents of Kamrup, Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Nagaon and Cachar districts are eligible to participate in the contest. The top 3 business ideas shall be awarded cash prizes worth 50,000, 30,000 and 20,000 respectively. District level prizes and certificates shall also be presented to the participants. The contest inaugural was attended by Mr. Jitesh Khosla, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Assam, Ms Lakshmi V Venkatesan, Founding

Submissions for the Business Idea Contest are open till 28th May 2015. Registration forms can be downloaded from their official website www.bystonline.org. (Forth coming event section) and are also available at DIC centers.

Trustee & Executive Vice President, Bharatiya Yuva Shakti Trust, Mr Abhijit Barooah, Chairman, Strategic Committee, BYST and Dr. J.B Ekka, Project Director, Employment Generation Mission amongst others. Ms. Lakshmi Venkatesan said “Contests like these help showcase and promote entrepreunial spirit amongst the youth. Similar contests run by BYST in partnership with the Government in rural Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu elicited tremendous response from males and females alike. BYST has helped create many lakhpatis and crorepatis out of rural young people

in other States and intend to do the same in Assam.” Mr Abhijit Barooah, Chairman BYST Strategic Committee said “The Contest presents a golden opportunity to the youth of Assam to build their future and they should draw maximum benefit out of it.” Dr. J.B. Ekka said “We are happy to have started this project in Assam and the success that this project has gained in three years is really motivating”. BYST shall not only award the winning entries but also help them set-up their business with the support and guidance of experienced BYST mentors.

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Reviews

u Yo LD TEN SHOU LIS

GAME REVIEW

Mov Revi ie ew

Cast: Akshay kumar, Shruti haasan, Kareena Kapoor, Prakash Raj

Director: Krish

ditya (Akshay Kumar) is an extremely righteous professor who dreams of creating awareness among the youth and making them ‘doers’ instead of being ‘watchers’ to the rotten system of corruption. He is a professor at National College, which seems more like a hypothetical college where no police can enter. Aditya along with a team of his students who have now branched out of college and are placed in various government organizations chalks out a plan to erase the top-most corrupt officials. Calling himself Gabbar, Aditya kidnaps Tehsildars, Collectors, PWD official and even a police official and kills them. Of course, no man with a clean past would voluntarily take up such a cause of teaching the society a lesson hence we learn about Aditya’s past. Been married to Kareena Kapoor’s character, five years back Aditya is all set to start his family when in an unexpected mishap of a building collapse, he loses his pregnant wife. Naturally, agitated by this, after digging up information on the building collapse, Aditya gathers evidence against Digvijay Patil (Suman Talwar), who is the builder. While Patil almost kills Aditya, he is miraculously saved by some medical students who find his body lying in front of their bus. The new lease of life that he gets is to make sure that he teaches not only Digvijay but the other corrupt officials a

lesson. And well, in the end Gabbar is successful in creating the desired revolution amongst the youth. Well, what would you expect from a film that is a South remake of an out an out commercial drama. Heavy dialogues, heightened background score and a forced item song, this film once again makes me wonder why Bollywood originally lacks the brains to come up with such stories. One particular scene where Gabbar uncovers the face of some disgustingly corrupt doctors was actually a brilliant thought. When it comes to the loopholes, one could list out too many. For starters, Shruti Haasan’s character of a lawyer seems to be like an IIN ad since she keeps quoting Google every now and then. She is a lawyer who knows how to deliver a pregnant women’s kid in a car because she read it on a Google. On one hand if you are saying youth power is required to brush off corruption, the first thing we need to do is put off the bloody technology pseudo-intelligence amongst them. Basically, the story boils down to only one thing and that is the fact that it is highly larger than life and finding its connect to reality would be a crime. If you enjoy films which have the good vs evil story with full on action and ‘Dhamakedaar’ dialogues, this is your film. For Akshay Kumar fans this one is a treat as the weekend watch.

Mortal Kombat X

ortal Kombat X sheds some of its legacy, but shoves itself into a new future. There was a time when the Mortal Kombat series used to be about one-upmanship. The original arcade game outdid Street Fighter’s violence with its showers of blood and — for its time — graphically violent Fatalities. Successive Mortal Kombat entries have attempted to outdo what came before, piling on new finishing moves, adding mini-game distractions and ballooning its roster. With 2011’s Mortal Kombat, developer NetherRealm Studios got back to basics, focusing on classic characters, overhauling the fighting game’s mechanics and resetting two decades’ worth of convoluted fiction. Mortal Kombat X builds on the 2011 game’s framework, both in its story and its technical implementation; the game’s fighting mechanics have been refined more than they’ve been reinvented, save for a key addition that adds variety, not just complexity. Online, Mortal Kombat X offers a comprehensive set of competitive

modes, including one-on-one fights, team battles and King of the Hill, where up to eight players can get together in a room and fight for the top spot. King of the Hill remains a great place to learn new techniques and show off your skills, and NetherRealm has made the venue better than ever for playing competitively. A new online mode called Tower Battles serves as sort of a hybrid between single-player and online multiplayer. Tower Battles are essentially online versions of the game’s challenge towers, in which players will compete for the highest score in a particular challenge. You’re still fighting against computer-controlled opponents with various modifiers and win conditions, but you’re doing so in real-time against other players. In between matches, you’ll get a glimpse of how your competitors are doing, which can add a real sense of tension. It’s a fun competitive option for players who might not yet be ready or too intimidated to explore the more direct player-versus-player modes.

Album: Suffer in Peace Artist: Tyler Farr

yler Farr had a hit with the slowcrawling menace of “Redneck Crazy,” a tune where he seemed neither backwoods nor mad, but its masculine gait fit the outer reaches of bro country in 2013. Often, Farr recalls the sour Jason Aldean, a connection underscored on the duet “Damn Good Friends,” where the pair neither seem like friends nor like they’re having a damn good time. Part of the reason Farr doesn’t seem like the liveliest of characters is the tyranny of the midtempo pace on Suffer in Peace. Even the nominal party songs don’t move along at a quick clip; they swing low and heavy, like a pair of the Truck Nutz Farr salutes on “C.O.U.N.T.R.Y.” Such steady rhythms, combined with a fondness for minor keys and Farr’s begrudging gruff huff, means Suffer in Peace sometimes lives up to the promise of its title, seeming to favor its misery a little too strongly, but it does have its charms. Usually, they’re the outright ballads -- the stately, sad title track and its doppelganger “Criminal,” and the drinking ballad “A Guy Walks Into a Bar” but these would’ve been placed in sharper relief if there were a fast tune or two as contrast. Then again, happiness just doesn’t seem to be Tyler Farr’s thing: he’s the guy scowling in the corner as he sips a beer.

Book: Scion of Ikshvaku Author: Amish

R You SHOU Rea LD d

am Rajya. The Perfect Land.But perfection has a price. He paid that price. Ayodhya is weakened by divisions. A terrible war has taken its toll. The damage runs deep. The demon King of Lanka, Raavan, does not impose his rule on the defeated. He, instead, imposes his trade. Money is sucked out of the empire. The Sapt Sindhu people descend into poverty, despondency and corruption. They cry for a leader to lead them out of the morass. Little do they appreciate that the leader is among them. One whom they know. A

NOW SHOWING Gabbar Is Back

tortured and ostracised prince. A prince they tried to break. A prince called Ram. He loves his country, even when his countrymen torment him. He stands alone for the law. His band of brothers, his Sita, and he, against the darkness of chaos. Will Ram rise above the taint that others heap on him? Will his love for Sita sustain him through his struggle? Will he defeat the demon Lord Raavan who destroyed his childhood? Will he fulfil the destiny of the Vishnu? Begin an epic journey with Amish’s latest: the Ram Chandra Series.

Avengers: Age Of Ultron

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Apsara Cinema

Daily at 11.00 AM, 2.00, 5.00 & 8.00 PM

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Daily at 9.15 AM, 5.45 & 8.30 PM

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Daily at 12.40, 6.00 & 8.45 PM

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Telebooking numbers: Anuradha Cineplex; 03612656968, 9954544738, Fun Cinemas: 9864800100, 9864800200, Gold Cinema (Fancy Bazaar): 03612735367, 9854077177, Gold Cinema (Paltan Bazaar): 9854066166, Gold Cinema (Narengi): 8811001898

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Tech Watch

Microsoft to Bring Android App Support to Windows 10

icrosoft may finally be ready to announce that Windows 10 devices like smartphones, tablets and PC will be able to run Android apps. The latest rumor claims that the reveal might be made this week at the company’s Build 2015 developer conference in San Francisco. This new report comes from long-time Microsoft journalist Paul Thurrott, who certainly has solid sources inside the company. Microsoft has apparently considered adding Android app support in Windows 10 for some time, but if Thurrott is correct it sounds like the

company has decided to pull the trigger on this feature. Assuming this is correct, there are still a lot of questions about how Windows 10 will offer Android app support. Microsoft will almost certainly have to create its own app store for Android on Windows 10 and it could also support other third-party Android stores like Amazon’s. While Windows 10 users might benefit in the short run with Windows 10 gaining access to hundreds of thousands of new apps. However, it remains to be seen if this will affect Microsoft’s own universal app strategy for native Windows 10 apps.

Sony Xperia Z4 could be launched as Xperia Z3+ globally

ony introduced the Xperia Z4 in Japan last week. Soon after the release, there were reports that said that the Xperia Z4 will be launched in Japan-only, and the company is planning to launch another flagship for global markets. Now the white paper of Sony SCR30 Style Cover Window accessory for the Xperia Z4 shows that the smartphone is also called Xperia Z3+, which could be the name of the phone when it launches in global markets outside Japan. So, Sony could launch the Xperia Z4 as Xperia Z3+ globally before it launches another flagship later this year. Sony immediately pulled the white paper, but you can still access the page through cache. This shows that the Xperia Z3+ is indeed coming soon. The Sony Xperia Z4 has a 5.2inch (1920 x 1080 pixels) Triluminos Display similar to the Z3, is powered by an Octa-Core Snapdragon 810 processor, runs on Android 5.0

- protection against Firesheep attack

(Lollipop), has a 20.7-megapixel rear camera with 1/2.3” Sony Exmor RS image sensor, BIONZ image processing engine, 4K video recording and a 5.1-megapixel 1080p frontfacing camera with EXMOR R sensor and digital image stabilization. It has IPX5 / IPX8 ratings for dust and water resistance, packs 3GB RAM, 32GB of internal storage with expansion slot and a 2930mAh battery.

Facebook introduces video calling on Messenger

Google Announces Support For 70 More Third-Party Apps

oogle announced initial support for forty third-party apps (including Runtastic, Zillow, Waze, and more) hooking into Google Now. Even if Google limited participation to hand-picked partners, the news was exciting - it marked Google’s first publicly visible steps toward opening Now to users’ favorite apps in ways that developers could control. Google is still keeping details about developer participation close, but has added 70 new apps to the Google Now roster.

acebook introduced free video calling in its Messenger phone app on Monday as the company seeks to transform its mobile messaging service into a full-featured platform with the same reach as its 1.4 billion user social network. Messenger, with more than 600 million users, now has a video icon at the top right corner of its screen. Earlier this year, Messenger launched voice and video calling be-

tween computers. Video calling is available on devices using Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android mobile operating systems in Belgium, Canada, Croatia, Denmark, France, Greece, Ireland, Laos, Lithuania, Mexico, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, the United Kingdom, the United States and Uruguay. Facebook said additional regions will be added in the next few months.

Google’s Latest Patent Might Replace Your Laptop’s Space Bar With a Giant Trackpad outlined a design for a laptop that logic for a virtual keyboard would

very computer manufacturer is looking for ways to make its laptops smaller and more portable. Apple recently announced a new MacBook that saves space by moving the keys on the keyboard together, and Dell got rid of the bezel on its newest XPS laptop. But a new patent awarded to Google today could lead the way for the most space-saving laptop yet, literally. In the patent, the company

replaces the space bar with an extended trackpad. The patent suggests that part of the trackpad—separated by a line or a ridge—would serve as a space bar, and the rest would just be a regular trackpad. A set of sensors that sit under the trackpad would determine whether the user wants a space bar or a mouse: A single tap when the user has been typing will create a space, but a tap while the using the trackpad as a mouse will result in a mouse click. According to the patent, Google’s

HTTPS Everywhere

be to create a smaller laptop computer, by pushing the trackpad up into the area that the space bar would havve occupied. Lenovo’s current laptops already try to save a little space by pushing the trackpad a little closer to the keyboard, but it begs the question of why Google thinks it would be worth having just one virtual key. Presumably any number of keys could be turned into virtual keys, saving even more space on a laptop, though at that point, you could just use a tablet.

irsheep add-on is an easiest method to hack facebook, Gmail or any other account over an unsecured wireless network. Today I am going to say you how to protech yourself from this attack.This new trick is HTTPS Everywhere Firefox add-on The Electronic Frontier Foundation developed HTTPS Everywhere before Firesheep came on the scene, but it is revamped to offer more robust protection against Firesheep snooping.

Many websites offer limited support for encryption over HTTPS, but they make it difficult to use. They may default to unencrypted HTTP, or fill encrypted pages with links that go back to the unencrypted site. The HTTPS Everywhere extension fixes these problems by rewriting all requests to these sites to HTTPS. HTTPS Everywhere alters browsing so that your default connection is no longer unencrypted http but the more secure, encrypted https whenever a site offers that capability.

Restriction

HTTPS Everywhere can protect you only when youíre using sites that support HTTPS and for which HTTPS Everywhere includes rules

Firefox users can get it here: https://www.eff.org/files/httpseverywhere-latest.xpi Indrajeet Bhuyan is a 17 year old tech blogger and security researcher. He is passionate about computers and believes in sharing knowledge and information . He uses his spare time helping people and companies secure themselves. fb.me/ indrajeet.bhuyan

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Events

3rd Brahmaputra Valley Film Festival 2015 CONCLUDES Subhrajit Roy

Bobbeeta Sharma, Dcom Bhuyan and Ronnie lahiri during a panel discussion

Kiren Rijiju presenting Life time achievment award to Abdul Majid

72 year old ex-revolutionary who is suffering from Alzheimer realizes that the extremism he followed during his youth was against the law. A mother ruminates her past when she was a revolutionary and compares her present as her son is a most wanted hardcore extremist now. The extremist son moves here and there for the sake of the ideology he follows, which has nothing but a blood smearing truth. A call girl, whose father is on deathbed, spends overnight with different companions for the sake of earning a livelihood. A Leucoderma patient, who supports his family to the best of his capacity by driving auto rickshaw named ‘Othello’, is neglected by his own family for being a victim of such a skin disease. Finally, a teenage boy, who runs a roadside tea stall, becomes the victim of the bomb blast triggered by that present day extremist son.

There are vast differences between all these six lives, but the concurrence of these lives make the Assamese Film ‘Othello- We too have our Othellos...”. As regards the title of the film on Shakespeare’s character, here the hero of the film too is an outcast in the society as he is a patient of Leucoderma in the same way as Othello was a black among the whites. The film believes in the fact that life is like a perennial river that has to keep on flowing. Life and river both appear to have a smooth run when seen from a distance but in fact they have a fierce current within that is full of intricacies. An ideology which persisted in the past may not have the same impact and importance at present. Though the goal of achieving freedom in a catastrophic society has been the same, but the ways and treatments in the entire process have changed vastly. Directed by Hemanta Kumar Das, this National Award win-

Winner of Brahmaputra Valley Short Film Contest

Rajkumar Hirani during audeince interaction at Brahmaputra Valley Film Festival’15 ning film was screened as the concluding film of the recently held 3rd Brahmaputra Valley Film Festival 2015, at the Pragjyoti ITA Machkhowa, Guwahati in April 24-26, 2015. The three day long festival was inaugurated by Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi in presence of Bollywood luminaries like director Rajkumar Hirani and actor Kunal Kapoor. The valedictory event was graced by Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of States for Home affairs, who conferred the Life Time Achievement Award to veteran cine personality Abdul Majid. The other names of Bollywood celebrities who were present during the festive days, interacted with the cine buffs as well as conducted workshops were director Shimit Amin, producer Ronnie Lahiri, cinematographer Amit Roy, actors

Rajkumar Rao and Patralekha Paul. In the package named Bollywood Box Office, blockbuster ‘Rang De Basanti’ by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and critically acclaimed Rajkuar Rao starrer ‘Shahid’ by Hansal Mehta were screened in this festival. Though the festival had no entries of any foreign language film, it focussed mostly on the films made on the North East. In the package named NE Hues, Mizo Film ‘Khawnglung Run’ by Mapuia Chawngthu, which is based on one of the greatest massacres in Mizo history, Roopa Barua’s ‘Riders of the Mist’, a documentary on bareback pony racing in Jorhat, Sange Dorjee Thongdok’s ‘Crossing Bridges’, the first feature film made ever in the language of Shertukpen, which is an indigenous dialect native to the state Arunachal Pradesh, Pradip Kurbah’s Khasi Film ‘Ri-Homeland of Uncertainty’, based on true life account of militancy in the Khasi-Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya and Adil Hussain and Zerifa Wahid starrer, Rajni Basumatary’s Assamese Film ‘Raag’ were screened in the festival. Apart from these, several docufeatures were screen here on the theme of Wildlife and Natural Conservation by ‘Aaranyak’. The festival is known for being a platform to encourage budding filmmakers of the region. Entries for the Short Film Contest organised in connection with the festival were invited way back and out of these Top 10 were shortlisted. In this contest, Jivitesh Mazumdar’s ‘Lotkon’ was adjudged the best film, where as Kamal Paran’s ‘Mirrage’ and Porag Gogoi’s ‘A River Island Tale’ became the second and third best respectively. The festival has always been a crowd puller, mostly the youngsters, although no new film was screened here, except ‘Othello- We too have our Othellos...’. Simultaneously, within the same week, Gauhati Cine Club has screened several films, in connection with its Golden Jubilee Celebration. Besides these, the 7th edition of Guwahati International Film Festival organised by Cine Art Society, Asom is underway in the city from April 26, 2015 to May 3, 2015 at the Rabindra Bhawan and Gauhati University. Every festival has its own unique approach and appeal and all these recent events show the emergence of a healthy environment for cinematic thoughts. But the concurrence of all at the same time may not have equivalent takers, because methodically, nationally and internationally, a single festival represents the uniqueness of city in the global forum.

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

After decades Rishi re-unites with Anupam Kher

eteran actor Rishi Kapoor will be seen in an episode of the second season of Anupam Kher’s TV show “The Anupam Kher Show...Kucch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai”, and he has thanked his “great co-star” for inviting him. The 62-year-old actor took to his micro-blogging website Twitter to thank Anupam for inviting him. “Thank you Anupam for having me over on your show ‘Kucch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai’. You are a wonderful actor and a great co-star,”

Rishi tweeted. Anupam made his TV production debut with the first season of the show last year on channel Colors. The show focuses on inspirational stories of popular Bollywood celebrities, who speaks about their challenges in life. Tinsel town’s famous names like Shah Rukh Khan, Mahesh Bhatt, Alia Bhatt, Om Puri, Naseeruddin Shah, Kangana Ranaut, Vidya Balan, Kapil Sharma, Yuvraj Singh and Akshay Kumar appeared as guests on the show in 2014.

Zubeen set for Bollywood debut as actor-director

Photo courtesy: Facebook

He will share screen space with Life of Pi actor Adil Hussain and Victor Banerjee. The artist, who has acquired cult status in the northeastern states, has his own production house, but he is also looking to associate with another company in Mumbai. “In Mumbai, I’ll have to tie up with another production house, otherwise I won’t be able to distribute the film all over India and abroad,” said the multitalented artist, who will also be working on two more Hindi scripts. Without sharing the names of the other projects, he said the subjects will be “very different”. Zubeen is currently tied up with Assamese film Mission China.

he sequel of 2002 film “Kaante” is part of Sanjay Gupta’s future plans, but he says the movie will not happen without actor Sanjay Dutt who is currently behind bars. “Ofcourse Kaante 2 will happen, but not without Sanjay Dutt,” Gupta tweeted on Wednesday. The film explored the darker and grey areas of society with a group of robbers trying to pull off a big heist, which can change their future for good. The perfect plan unravels when an undercover policeman finds a place in their group.

The film had a star-studded cast, including Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty, Mahesh Manjrekar and Lucky Ali. Talks of the “Kaante” sequel have been going on, but clearly, Gupta wants to wait for his friend Sanjay Dutt, who is in jail for illegal possession of arms during the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts and riots. For now, Gupta’s film “Jazbaa” is running high on anticipation level as it marks the comeback of actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

Akki rubbishes rumour of ‘Gabbar Is Back’ donation for Nepal

W a Ali fame Assamese singer Zubeen Garg will start shooting for his Bollywood film titled Chakra from January 2016. “Album is not happening for me right now. From January 2016, I will make a Hindi film called Chakra. It’s a political thriller. It’s a dark kind of film about humanity and politics. Now, I’ve my own production house, so I will make three to four films in a row”, said Zubeen, who has been in the entertainment industry for over two decades. The singer, who has also recorded a song for John Abraham’s upcoming movie Banana, will be playing multiple roles in Chakra. “I will act, direct and write the screenplay,” said Zubeen.

Entertainment ‘Kaante 2’ will happen, but not without Sanjay Dutt

After ‘Bombay Velvet’ Ranbir develops a new fascination

The actor who shot Bombay Velvet with vintage cars finds them very sexy. Ranbir Kapoor has developed a liking for vintage cars and hopes to buy a classic model soon. Spokesperson confirms the news and adds, ‘’Ranbir drives a vintage Ford Falcon in the film and has developed the liking towards the vintage cars during the shoot and now is also planning to own one!’’

hile rumours are rife that the first day income of forthcoming film ‘Gabbar Is Back’ will go to Nepal earthquake relief fund, actor Akshay Kumar says such decisions are taken by the film’s producers, and that he doesn’t have to depend on release of a film to make his contribution. Bollywood’s ‘Khiladi’ took to micro-blogging site Twitter to set the record straight.

“Heard a rumour that I am donating #GabbarIsBack’s 1st day collections to the #NepalEarthquake victims. Firstly I am not the producer so that’s not my call to make and more importantly I don’t need to wait for the film’s release to do my bit,” Akshay wrote. Directed by Krish and produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Viacom18 Motion Pictures, the remake of the 2002 Tamil film ‘Ramanaa’ features Shruti Haasan and

Zarine desperate to go bold

ctress Zarine Khan, who will soon be seen in the third film of the erotic thriller franchise “Hate Story”, says she has no inhibitions about either intimacy or exposing on screen. “You guys just tell me a film that does not have any intimate scene and is not glamorous? I don’t know why this film is being tagged as ‘having a lot of exposure’,”

the actress said on being asked if she is ready to expose in the new film of the franchise. “Honestly speaking, if I see any of the films being made today, there is an exposure quotient. Anyways, this is something that I will be doing for the first time. As of now, we are working on the story and the character,” she added.

Sunil Grover besides Akshay. The film is slated to release on May 1. The actor also shared a link for the people looking for ways to contribute for rehabilitation of people in the Himalayan nation, which was jolted by a 7.9-magnitude earthquake on April 25. The toll in the devastating quake has risen to 4,680. “If you too want to lend your support here’s the link ? https:// www.facebook.com/nepalearthquakesupport,” Akshay shared.

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Fun

Your weekly dose of

TIMEPASS

A desire for financial growth and security may act as a catalyst for ideas that can increase your income, but this likely won’t happen overnight. However, with persistence you can do very well. Mercury glides into Gemini on Thursday, making this one of the better times to advertise your goods and services, start earning money online, and expand your network of connections. Go easy over the weekend, as the Full Moon in Scorpio could bring out your wicked sense of humor.

Spending money could be a lot of fun as Venus encourages you to purchase the small luxuries you love. Your more logical side may kick in once Mercury moves into Gemini, encouraging you to think about the effects to your bank account. This can be a good time to rework your budget and think about being a little thriftier where possible. However, by the weekend you’ll be ready for some passion, and the Scorpio Full Moon suggests this is exactly what you’ll get!

A continued focus on your goals and ambitions may be keeping you busy. This is one of the better times to channel your energy into getting ahead. Mercury’s move into Gemini on Thursday can also be helpful, providing opportunities to mix with people who share your ideas and ideals. It seems that arranging and attending events will be an important part of your journey to success over the weeks ahead. Go easy over the weekend, though, as the Full Moon could spell drama.

Sagittarius You need to look after your body and this is the time to lavish special attention on it. With a tendency to ignore your well-being much of the time, the current Taurus focus is your opportunity to feed it good food and give it the right kind of exercise. In addition, if you make this a regular habit, you’ll have more energy available for other areas of your life. Stick with friends over the weekend to avoid a brooding mood.

SUDOKU

Relying on gut instinct could help you save time and resources this week. A focus on Taurus and your spiritual sector suggests you should pay attention to those intuitive nudges if you want to get ahead. You’ll be in your element once Mercury enters your sign. Your natural curiosity will come to the fore, encouraging you to swap and share information. Your flirtatious side could be on display, too, tempting you to indulge this weekend even though you know you shouldn’t.

There are opportunities for friendly interactions this week. You may be eager to show your gratitude to friends for their recent support. A meal or relaxed get-together at your place could be just the ticket. Even so, you may have one or two secrets that you’d prefer to keep to yourself, no matter how much you trust a certain person. There are times when an idea or information needs to percolate before you air it in public, and this may be one of them.

Scorpio

Libra

Virgo

Leo

Cancer

Gemini

Taurus

Aries

HOROSCOPE

It’s all systems go if you want to make travel plans. The Taurus focus can help you hunt for bargains online and choose a deal to suit your circumstances and budget. You have a reputation as a workaholic, but it’s time to chill out and enjoy the good things in life. You know you deserve it! Try to avoid arguing over the weekend, though. A Scorpio Full Moon suggests that you’ll have strong opinions that some are bound to disagree with.

Jupiter forging ahead adds extra sparkle to your social sector. This, along with Venus and Mercury in Gemini, could see you moving outside your comfort zone to expand your network of friends. Looking to date? Avoid the tried and trusted and seek out something a little bit unusual. The weekend is a different matter, however, as a potent Full Moon may tempt you to shop. If feelings run high, one or two small luxuries might help keep them in check.

This week brings romantic options - and all on your terms. A midweek transit can be excellent for a special date night that sparkles with tender promise. If there’s someone you’re hoping to impress, this is the time to go for it. The Full Moon in your sign on Sunday could bring out your darker side in all its passion and intensity. While indulging in such feelings it also helps to consider the consequences. Don’t do anything you might regret later!

Pisces

Aquarius

Capricorn Grab opportunities for romance while you can. It isn’t often you get such a sensuous lineup! It’s perfect for wining and dining a significant other. Smell the roses, savor the chocolates, and relax and enjoy the company of someone you love. After this phase, your naturally ambitious persona could lead you into other activities and your love life may take second place. The Full Moon on Sunday can be excellent for a party with a seductive theme.

Keep those cookies coming and enjoy spending time in the kitchen or garden. This very easygoing focus is perfect for friendly get-togethers at your place. Once Mercury eases into Gemini on Thursday you’ll be eager to seek out other pleasures, including romance. The weekend could bring your competitive side out into the open. The Full Moon could put you in the spotlight, and you might want to take advantage of that situation.

Learning a foreign language could be beneficial, especially if you want to travel. A focus on study and gaining new skills makes this one of the better times to take a course with a practical application. A focus on your home zone could bring on a desire to redecorate and remove clutter, making your nest as cozy and pleasant as possible. The weekend’s Full Moon could bring an excuse to move outside your comfort zone - wickedly so!

Useful Life hacks

JUST FOR LAUGHs A guy says to his friend, “Guess how many coins I have in my pocket.” The friend says, “If I guess right, will you give me one of them?” The first guy says, “If you guess right, I’ll give you both of them.” The mother says to her daughter, “Did you enjoy your first at school?” The daughter answers, “First day? Do you mean I have to go back again tomorrow?”

Paper Clips

Use paper clips to find the end of a rolling tape.

Teacher: What’s the past participle of the verb “to ring?” Student: What do you think, sir? Teacher: I don’t think. I KNOW. Student: I don’t think I know either, sir.

Solution (Last Issue)

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

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TO-LET 2 BHK With 2 Bathroom , Parking, Balcony And Lift At G.S. Road Rent-12,000 Ph No.-98644-31944 3 BHK 2nd Floor Flat At Ghy Club, Rent18,000 Call-76630-59321 3 BHK Newly Constructed Flat At Jayanagar, Rent14,000 Call-83999-65686 3BHK Independent House At Jonali, 2Bathroom , Parking, & Kitchen, Rent10,000 Contact-76630-59321 3BHK 3Rd Floor Flat With Bathroom , Parking, Balcony And Lift Rent-12,000 Contact-83999-65686 3 BHK At Ganeshguri Rent-15,000 Call-7663059321 Any type of Rented House Available At Zoo Road, Chandmari Contect-98647-39316 2 BHK Flat With 2Bathroom, Parking & Balcony With Lift At Chandmari Rent-10,000 Ph No.- 83999-65686 Any type of Flat Available At Zoo Road, Chandmari Contect-98647-39316 Any type of Office Available At Zoo Road, Chandmari Contect-98647-39316 3BHK Flat At Second Floor With 2

2 / 4 WHEELER Discover 2014 Model For Sale, Colour : Black And Red Ph.- 98599-10119 Alto LXI 2011 Model Colour: Maroon Contact-88110-91965 Yamaha FZ – S Year of Manufacturing04/20111, Colour B. Green Contact-95778-21645

Bathroom , Balcony , Parking With 3 Wardrobe And Lift. Rent- 15,000 Ph No.98644-31944 3BHK Flat With 2 Bathroom, 3rd Floor , Parking, Balcony & Lift in Beltola Rent- 14,000 Pn No.-76630-59321 720sqft showroom with toilet in athgaon suitable for boutique/ computer classes etc. Contact- 98641-59713 5 Room Flat In Maskhowa For Rent. Contact-98641-59713 3BHK New Flat With 2 Bathroom , Parking , Balcony , Lift At Dispur, 2nd , 3rd , 4th Floor, Rent16,000 Call-9864431944 400 sqft Rcc godown available At opp.Nichols school, Chatribari. With Shutter and road facing facility. Ph.No.- 9864159713. 200 sqft Rcc shop inside market. Available and nearby godown. Suitable for any type of CNF work. Ph.No. - 9864159713. 3 room residential flat on third floor 1300 sqft in Krisna Nagar, Chatribari. Ph.Nos. - 9864159713.

FOR SALE 3 bigha land in Thakurbari Road , Rangapara with clearcut title & sale deed. Contact- Gopal Das Phone No088768-59216 For immediate sale. Brand New Flat at Kahilipara Road, 3BHK with car park and all modern ammeneties. 1560 sq.ft, 8th floor. Contact: 94351 15098

2 WHEELER / 4 WHEELER

Vento (D) Top Model 2011 Colour: White Ph-88110-91965

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Ambulance 102 Arya Hospital, Ulubari 2606888, 2606665 Downtown Hospital 9864101111, 9435012669 GLP Social Circle 2737373 GGUMTA (Mirza) 03623-227109 Marowari Yuva Manch 2542074, 2547251

BLOOD BANK

Arya Hospital, Ulubari 2606888, 2606665 Ganga Blood Bank 2454742, 2455029 Lion’s Club of Ghy Central 2546611 Marwari Yuva Manch 2546470, 2547251 Saharia’s Path Lab (24 hours) 2458594

Honda Activa 2004 Model Colour : Black Call- 88110-91965

Bajaj Pulsar 135 2010 Model Colour – M.BLK M. 98540-91738 Scorpio For Sale 2010 SLX Colour – Silver Ph.- 98599-10119 Pulsar 150 2009 Model, Colour: Black Contact- 88110-91965 Scorpio 2010 LX Colour: Black (D) Contact-98641-06333 Honda Dio 2013 Model, 2013 Model Colour: P.T. Yellow Contact-98640-21414 TVS Apache RTR 08 / 2011 Model Colour : Red 98544-01660 Scorpio Model: SLX 2004, Colour: Silver Contact- 88110-91965 Honda Activa 2012 Model, Colour- Blue Call-95773-69908 Wagon R For Sale 2009 Model Colour : Maroon Contact-98599-10119 Hundai i20 Sportz ABS CRBI Price – 5.20 Lacs Colour – Grey 88221-41557 Swift Dzire: 2010 Model, Colour: White (D), Ph- 98599-91965 Activa, Colour: Black 2012 Model Contact: 98641-06333 Mahindra Duro 2011 Model Colour : Maroon Contact: 88110-91965

Public Notice I, Neelakshi Bordoloi, have changed my name to Neelakshi Bordoloi Saikia by an affidavit before the Notary Public Kamrup (Metro) dated: 19-02-15

Citypedia

AMBULANCE

Splendor 2013 Model Colour Black Call- 98641-06333

Swift VSI 2012 Model Colour: Silver 4.50 Lacs Fixed Call:88221-41557

HOSPITALS Arya Hospital, Ulubari (2606888, 2606665) B Baruah Cancer Institute (2472364/66) Brahmaputra Hospital Ltd (2451634/678) Chatribari Christian Hospital 0361-2600051, 9207044374 Downtown Hospital 2331003, 9864079366, 9435012669 Guwahati Medical College (2529457, 2529561) Guwahati Medical College Emergency (2263444) International Hospital 0361-7135005

Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital (2541477, 2543998) Marwari Hospital & Research Centre 0361-2602738/39 Marwari Maternity Hospital 0361-2541202/01 Nemcare Hospital 0361-2528587, 2455906, 2457344 Pratiksha Hospital 0361-2337260, 2337183/84 Basistha Military Hospital (2304617/0351)

Railway Central Hospital Casuality (2671025) Redcross Hospital (2665114) Sri Sankardeva Netralaya 0361-2233444, 2228879, 2228921 TB Hospital (2540193) Wintrobe Hospital 0361-2519860, 98647-77986 IHR-Institute of Human Reproduction 0361-2482619,09864103333 GNRC Hospital 0361 2227702 GNRC Life First Ambulance 9401194011

24-HOUR PHARMACIES Arya Hospital, Ulubari (2606888, 2606665) DEAD BODY CARRYING VAN GLP Social Circle 2737373, 9435047046 Marowari Yuva Manch 2542074, 2547251 GGUMTA 98640-16740 ELECTRICITY SUPPLY Call Centre – 9678005171

OTHERS Fire Emergency 101 State Zoo 2201363 GMC Carcass Pickup 9435190720, 9864047222 LPG Emergency/Leakage 2385209, 2541118

RADIO TAXI SERVICES Prime Cabs 0361- 2222233 Green Cabs 0361-7151515 My Taxi 0361-2228888 Cherry Cabs 8876222288

Cinema Hall Anuradha Cineplex – 0361-2656968, 99545-44738 Fun Cinema (HUB)- 98648-00100, 98648-00200 Gold Cinema (Paltan Bazaar) – 98540-66166 Gold Cinema (Salasar) – 0361-2735367, 98540-77177 Gold Cinema (Narengi) – 88110-01898

police station SP, Kamrup District: Ph- 2540278 DGP Control Room: Ph- 2540242 SB Control Room: Ph-2261511 Police Control Room: Ph-2540138, 2540113 Azara PS: Ph2840287 Basista PS: Ph-2302158 Bharalumukh PS: Ph- 2540137, 2731199 Borjhar PS: Ph-2840351 Chandmari PS: Ph- 2660204 Chandrapur PS: Ph-2788237, 2785237 Dispur PS: Ph-2261510 Fancybazar PS: Ph- 2540285

Fatasil Ambari PS: Ph-2471412 Geetanagar PS: Ph-2417323 Hatigaon: Ph-2562383 Jalukbari PS: Ph-2570587 Jalukbari Out Post: Ph-2570522 Jorabat: Ph-2896853 Khanapara: Ph- 2281501 Khetri PS: Ph-2787699, 2787220 Latasil PS: Ph-2540136 Noonmati PS: Ph- 2550281 North Guwahati PS: Ph-2690255 Paltanbazar PS: Ph-2540126 Panbazar PS: Ph-2540106 Pragjyotishpur Ps: Ph-2785237 Women PS Panbazar: Ph-2524627

G PLUS MAY 02 - MAY 08, 2015

Catching Up

New ‘smart bullets’ can self steer to hit moving targets

Khloé Kardashian

Says Gym Was Her Refuge

ew smart bullets have recently been developed that can adjust and self-steer its path in mid-air to hit a moving target. DARPA stated that the Extreme Accuracy Tasked Ordnance (EXACTO) system seeks to improve sniper’s efficiency and improve troop safety by allowing greater shooter standoff range and reduction in target engagement timelines, the Verge reported. The tech would help snipers quickly identify targets in hostile and remote locations, where high winds and dusty terrain would otherwise send rounds off course.

hloé Kardashian says the gym was her “only refuge” during her split from Lamar Odom. The 30-year-old star, who filed for divorce from the former Los Angeles Lakers player in December 2013 after four years of marriage amid rumours he cheated on her and was addicted to cocaine, admits she only started working out to get over him. The ‘Keeping Up with the Kardashians’ star said: “When me and Lamar were having issues, I decided to channel my energy into working out... if I went out with my girlfriends I would be hounded by paparazzi and made to feel more humiliated.” “The gym was my only refuge. I could put music on and dance around with my girlfriends and be silly”, she added. The star lost a lot of weight as a result of the drama and recently shed another 13 pounds by cutting out dairy from her diet, but insists she has always liked her figure.

Michelle Keegan named Sexiest Woman

ctress Michelle Keegan has been named Sexiest Woman in the World in a poll conducted by FHM magazine. The former “Coronation Street” actress has topped the magazine’s annual poll, beating “Keeping up with the Kardashians” star Kendall Jenner and last year’s winner Jennifer Lawrence into second and third place respectively

Paul Walker’s ‘Fast and Furious’ car to be auctioned

L PIC OF THE WEEK An exhausted street vendor takes a quick nap in the afternoon heat.

ate actor Paul Walker’s bright orange coloured 1993 Toyota Supra from “Fast and Furious” will be up for auction in May. The original car heads to the auction block at Mecum Auctions in Indianapolis, Indiana, between May 12 and 17, reports aceshowbiz.com. The car, which is one of a few used in the movie, can be seen in the memorable final scenes of the movie. In the scene, Walker is driving the bright orange

coloured car, racing against actor Vin Diesel who is in his Dodge Charger, and jumping across a railroad crossing before Diesel collides with a truck. The car is equipped with a pair of Holley Performance nitrous-oxide bottles, as in the movie, but they are not connected. Additionally, it has a five-speed manual transmission, a heavy duty suspension and roll cage. The phenomenal car is expected to fetch around $200,000.

Printed & Published by Sunit Jain on behalf of Insight Brandcom Pvt. Ltd. and Printed at Arkashish Publications (P) Ltd., Katahbari, Garchuk, Guwahati and Published at H/No. 34, K. C. Choudhury Road, Chatribari, Guwahati - 781008, Editor: Koushik Hazarika. Phone: 0361 2737737, Email: info@g-plus.in, RNI No: ASSENG/2013/52641