The city of Prayagraj is implementing new safety measures for high-rise buildings by mandating structural safety audits. Under the updated guidelines, all high-rise buildings, defined as those taller than 15 metres, are required to undergo a safety audit 10 years after construction and then every five years thereafter. This initiative responds to growing concerns over safety lapses and recent fire incidents in multi-storey structures throughout the city.

Over the past two decades, Prayagraj has seen a surge in the construction of tall buildings. Many of these structures, however, did not receive any formal safety inspections following their completion. Previously, a one-time No Objection Certificate (NOC) from a structural engineer was sufficient at the time of construction, leaving many buildings unmonitored for safety, thereby exposing residents to potential risks.

New Audit Requirements for High-Rise Buildings

Despite some buildings exhibiting structural flaws, they were often cleared without thorough inspections. Fire safety measures in several locations became ineffective, functioning merely as visual elements rather than practical safety features. Notably, government buildings such as the Advocate General’s Office near the High Court and Indira Bhawan, which houses the development authority, have experienced significant fire outbreaks, prompting investigations into each case.

Under the new regulations, any building identified with structural cracks or safety hazards must be audited promptly by the owner, builder, or Residents Welfare Association (RWA). For buildings exceeding 50 metres in height, audits must be conducted by expert structural engineers registered with the local authority. The resulting audit reports are to be submitted to the Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA).

If any risks are discovered during these audits, the responsible parties—owners, builders, or RWAs—must address the issues within a designated timeframe. Should they fail to comply, the authorities reserve the right to carry out necessary repairs or reconstruction, with costs charged to the building owners or their associations.

Commitment to Safety and Compliance

Officials from the Prayagraj Development Authority have emphasized their commitment to enforcing these new guidelines strictly. They aim to enhance safety standards as the city continues to grow. This move is part of a broader strategy to improve public safety and ensure that all high-rise buildings meet necessary structural integrity requirements.

As Prayagraj moves forward with these safety audits, the hope is that residents will benefit from increased safety in their living environments, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring that buildings remain secure for years to come.

A 17-year-old student from Hyderabad, Blessy Goud, has received a new lease on life thanks to a liver transplant facilitated through Telangana’s organ donation initiative, Jeevandan. The procedure took place at Osmania General Hospital (OGH), where she was classified under the ‘Super Urgent’ category due to her critical condition.

Blessy was admitted to OGH on May 12, 2023, suffering from acute fulminant liver failure. Prior to her transfer, she had been experiencing severe symptoms, including fever and jaundice, for five days. Initially treated at a private hospital, her deteriorating health and financial constraints prompted a shift to OGH, where her condition worsened significantly. Upon arrival, she required immediate intervention, including intubation and ventilation, due to grade 4 hepatic encephalopathy, which placed her in a coma-like state.

Her medical tests revealed alarming levels of bilirubin, measuring at an extraordinary 23 mg/dL, which is approximately twenty times the normal range. Coupled with issues such as improper blood clotting and metabolic acidosis, her situation was dire. Unfortunately, a living donor liver transplantation was not an option, as Blessy is an only child raised by a single mother.

The Jeevandan scheme played a crucial role in her recovery. This program allows for expedited liver allocation for patients in critical need. Under this scheme, requests for organ transplants are reviewed by a liver expert committee, which can approve cadaver liver allocations within 48 hours.

In a significant first, Blessy’s case marked the initial emergency liver transplantation for acute fulminant liver failure conducted through the super urgent category. A suitable brain-dead donor was identified at a private hospital, leading to the surgery on May 14, 2023.

Following the successful transplant, Blessy spent two weeks recovering in the hospital and has since been discharged. Remarkably, she is currently preparing for her first-year BTech examinations, a testament to her resilience and the life-saving impact of the organ donation program.

This case highlights the importance of organ donation and the effectiveness of initiatives like Jeevandan, which aim to save lives and provide hope to families facing critical health challenges.

What you consume daily can significantly influence your overall health and energy levels. A range of common foods, often perceived as benign or even beneficial, may actually hinder your vitality. By identifying these problematic items, individuals can take proactive steps toward enhancing their well-being.

Recent insights reveal that certain foods could be responsible for feelings of fatigue, bloating, and mental fog. These everyday dietary choices might be more detrimental than previously understood. Below are ten foods that could be affecting your health more than you realize.

Processed Meats and Red Meat

Processed meats, including bacon, sausages, and hot dogs, frequently contain additives like nitrates and sodium. Over time, these substances can lead to inflammation and digestive issues, contributing to a sense of heaviness and lethargy. Meanwhile, while lean cuts of red meat can be part of a balanced diet, excessive consumption of fatty red meats may impede digestion and elevate inflammation levels, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease.

Artificial Sweeteners and Omega-6 Oils

Artificial sweeteners, commonly found in diet sodas, protein bars, and sugar-free products, can disrupt the gut microbiome. Such disruptions may manifest as bloating, headaches, and mood fluctuations. Additionally, oils high in omega-6, such as soybean, corn, and sunflower oils, are prevalent in many processed foods and restaurant meals. A high intake of these oils can upset the balance with omega-3s, potentially exacerbating inflammation that affects joints and cognitive function.

Refined carbohydrates, particularly white bread and pastries, can cause rapid fluctuations in blood sugar levels. This rollercoaster effect often results in feelings of fatigue, irritability, and increased cravings for sugary foods. Similarly, deep-fried items like fries and fried chicken are notorious for containing unhealthy fats that can irritate the digestive system and contribute to sluggishness.

Impact of Sugary Dairy and Packaged Snacks

Many people enjoy sugary dairy treats like ice cream and flavored yogurts, but these often combine high sugar levels with saturated fats. Such combinations can lead to digestive challenges, particularly for those who are lactose intolerant. Packaged snack foods, including chips and flavored nuts, frequently contain excessive salt and refined oils, which can cause bloating and encourage overeating due to their appealing taste.

Trans fats, although increasingly regulated, still appear in some packaged snacks and baked goods. These fats are linked to inflammation and heart disease, even in small quantities. Finally, sugary beverages such as sodas, sweetened teas, and many fruit juices flood the body with sugar, leading to spikes in insulin levels and contributing to inflammation. These liquid calories often fail to satisfy hunger, making overconsumption more likely.

Everyday food choices can have a profound impact on how individuals feel physically and mentally. By becoming more aware of these dietary pitfalls, one can make informed decisions that ultimately enhance long-term health and vitality.

This article serves informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

A snake-catcher from Madhya Pradesh has tragically died after being bitten by a cobra he was attempting to rescue. The incident occurred when Deepak Mahavar, a 35-year-old self-taught snake rescuer from Guna district, draped the snake around his neck while riding his bicycle. Eyewitnesses reported that Mahavar had initially placed the cobra in a glass container but, in a moment of haste, decided to secure it around his neck. Unfortunately, the cobra bit him on the hand, leading to a rapid decline in his health.

Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Mahavar could not be saved. He had initially been treated and discharged but returned later that evening in critical condition, according to Man Singh Thakur, the Additional Superintendent of Police. “He was brought back to the hospital in critical condition but died before further treatment could begin,” Thakur told the Indian Express.

Understanding Snake Bites

A snake bite occurs when a snake’s fangs penetrate the skin, potentially leading to serious injuries or even death. While snakes may bite to capture prey or defend themselves, the emotional impact of an encounter can be just as significant as the physical harm. Experts note that the majority of snake bites, especially from venomous species like cobras, require immediate medical attention.

Venomous snakes possess different types of venom that affect the body in various ways. Some of the key types include:

– **Cytotoxins**: These cause swelling and tissue damage.
– **Haemorrhagins**: These disrupt blood vessels, leading to bleeding.
– **Neurotoxins**: These can result in paralysis or damage to the nervous system.
– **Myotoxins**: These break down muscle tissue.

According to medical professionals, between 50% and 70% of venomous snake bites result in envenoming, emphasizing the need for urgent medical care.

Symptoms and Emergency Response

Recognizing the symptoms of a snake bite is crucial for effective treatment. Symptoms may include:

– Swelling at the bite site
– Skin color changes
– Bleeding from the wound
– Puncture wounds
– Sharp pain
– Sweating or drooling
– Nausea and vomiting
– Dizziness and blurred vision

If bitten, it is essential to act quickly. Authorities recommend the following first aid steps while awaiting emergency medical services:

– Remain calm and inform those nearby about the incident.
– Move to a safe area away from the snake.
– Remove tight clothing or jewelry.
– Gently clean the bite area with soap and water.
– Cover the wound with a clean bandage.
– Note any swelling or changes in the bitten area and the time they occurred.

When emergency responders arrive, they can administer antivenom to counteract the effects of the snake’s venom, which is critical in preventing serious injury or death.

The story of Deepak Mahavar serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with wildlife rescue efforts and the importance of understanding the risks involved.