分类: society

  • Water and light show draws visitors to Zhangjiajie river

    Water and light show draws visitors to Zhangjiajie river

    The Suoxi River in Zhangjiajie’s Wulingyuan district has become the epicenter of a breathtaking nocturnal spectacle, drawing massive audiences with its innovative water and light exhibition. This immersive experience transforms the natural waterway into a multidimensional canvas of artistic expression through cutting-edge technological integration.

    Central to the display are engineered water curtains cascading from bridge structures, synchronized with dynamic musical compositions and sophisticated lighting systems that create mesmerizing reflections across the water’s surface. Adding another dimension to the production, fleets of drones perform coordinated aerial maneuvers, forming intricate luminous patterns against the night sky that celebrate the region’s distinctive natural landscapes and cultural heritage.

    Beyond its entertainment value, this ambitious project represents a significant ecological rehabilitation initiative. Municipal authorities have implemented comprehensive water channel regulation measures alongside ecosystem restoration efforts, demonstrating how tourism development can coexist with environmental stewardship.

    The installation forms part of Zhangjiajie’s strategic sustainable development plan to enhance visitor engagement through innovative landscape architecture. By reimagining riverfront spaces with environmentally conscious design principles, the city establishes new standards for nature-based tourism experiences that balance aesthetic appeal with ecological responsibility.

  • Palestine Action prisoner hospitalised due to hunger strike

    Palestine Action prisoner hospitalised due to hunger strike

    A British activist detained on charges linked to the proscribed organization Palestine Action has been hospitalized following a severe health deterioration during his hunger strike. Kamran Ahmed, currently held at London’s Pentonville prison, initiated the protest action alongside five other inmates earlier this month after UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood failed to address their concerns regarding prison conditions.

    The collective hunger strike coincides with a three-day judicial review at London’s High Court examining the government’s controversial decision to proscribe Palestine Action under terrorism legislation in July 2024. This designation effectively criminalizes membership or any form of support for the direct action group.

    According to the campaign organization Prisoners for Palestine (PFP), Ahmed experienced a medical emergency on Friday, collapsing in his cell with dangerously low blood sugar levels indicative of hypoglycemia. The asthmatic activist had reportedly been suffering from dizziness, respiratory complications, chest pains, and significant weight loss—dropping from 74kg to 68kg—with medical tests revealing critically elevated ketone levels.

    Ahmed’s sister, Shahmina Alam, provided Middle East Eye with disturbing details about the incident, revealing that her brother regained consciousness alone on his cell floor after fainting. Despite requests for emergency medical intervention, Alam claims prison authorities initially refused to call a second ambulance after paramedics declined hospitalization on Saturday, stating they could not intervene in a hunger strike situation.

    The Ministry of Justice responded to inquiries by emphasizing that “any prisoner assessed as needing hospital treatment is immediately taken to hospital,” while simultaneously noting legal restrictions preventing them from sharing healthcare information with unverified callers.

    Meanwhile, the five other participating prisoners across multiple facilities are experiencing accelerating health declines. Qesser Zurah and Amu Gib at HMP Bronzefield, along with Heba Muraisi at HMP New Hall and Jon Cink at Bronzefield, have reported rapid weight loss and deteriorating physical conditions. PFP documents indicate prison medical staff initially displayed reluctance to conduct examinations and were reportedly “hostile” toward the strikers.

    The situation has drawn significant political attention, with former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn writing to Justice Minister David Lammy expressing “grave concern” and demanding an urgent meeting regarding his constituent’s treatment. Over 100 medical professionals have additionally signed a letter to NHS England’s health and justice team urging immediate intervention.

    Prison authorities maintain that all inmates are managed according to established policies and procedures, with HMP Bronzefield emphasizing available channels for addressing complaints through proper institutional frameworks.

  • UAE: Free meals, National Day gifts for blood donors; Indian group holds drive

    UAE: Free meals, National Day gifts for blood donors; Indian group holds drive

    In celebration of the UAE’s 54th National Day, an Indian social organization is launching a significant humanitarian initiative—a massive blood donation campaign set for November 30 at the Dubai Health Authority’s Al Jaddaf headquarters. The event, organized by the Kasargod wing of KMCC in collaboration with the Kindness blood donation team, aims to attract at least 500 donors through enhanced incentives including complimentary meals, National Day gifts, and free transportation services.

    Operating from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM, the campaign offers shuttle services from Al Jadaf metro station at 30-minute intervals, with additional bus transportation available for residents across Dubai including Deira, Karama, and Bur Dubai. Prospective donors must present valid Emirates ID and meet standard medical requirements to participate.

    Salam Kanyappady, president of the organizing group, emphasized the campaign’s dual purpose: honoring the UAE as their adopted homeland while contributing meaningfully to community welfare. The initiative builds upon a decade-long commitment to blood donation advocacy, having collected over 5,000 units since 2015. The group’s persistence has transformed public perception about blood donation safety, gradually turning skepticism into enthusiastic participation.

    The legacy of late philanthropist Dr. PA Ibrahim Haji continues to inspire the organization’s monthly mobile blood donation vehicles, which now regularly serve various emirates. The campaign’s success is further evidenced by dedicated regular donors like Faisal Patel, a 50-year-old cafeteria owner who has donated blood every two months for 13 years. Patel attributes his robust health to regular donation, noting he hasn’t required significant medication since 2021 and maintained COVID-free status throughout the pandemic while continuing his donations.

  • UAE: Will it rain during Eid Al Etihad long weekend?

    UAE: Will it rain during Eid Al Etihad long weekend?

    As the UAE approaches the final long weekend of the year marking Eid Al Etihad, residents can anticipate predominantly agreeable weather conditions characterized by cool mornings and partially overcast skies. According to the National Centre of Meteorology, certain northern, coastal, and island regions may experience intermittent cloud cover with possibilities of scattered rainfall throughout the holiday period.

    Temperatures continue their seasonal decline across the nation, with maximum readings forecasted between 24°C–30°C in coastal and inland areas, while mountainous regions will see cooler ranges of 12°C–20°C. Nighttime and early morning humidity will increase, creating potential for mist or fog formation in interior zones.

    Wind patterns are expected to remain light to moderate, shifting between southeasterly and northwesterly directions at speeds reaching 25-40 km/h, occasionally stirring dust clouds in open areas. Maritime conditions in the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea will generally be slight to moderate throughout the extended weekend.

    The detailed forecast indicates variable cloud coverage across different days:
    – November 29: Partly cloudy with rainfall potential in coastal and eastern areas
    – November 30: Generally fair skies with possible low clouds in western regions
    – December 1-2: Partly cloudy conditions prevailing with increased humidity overnight

    Residents planning outdoor activities during the holiday period are advised to monitor weather updates for potential rainfall in northern districts while enjoying the seasonably cool temperatures.

  • Dubai Police ask public for help in identifying dead body

    Dubai Police ask public for help in identifying dead body

    Dubai Police have launched a public appeal for information regarding an unidentified male individual discovered deceased in the Al Qusais area. The case presents investigative challenges as the man was found without any personal identification documents, and no missing persons reports matching his description have been filed with authorities.

    According to official statements released on Friday, November 28, 2025, the discovery was made within the operational jurisdiction of the Al Qusais Police Station. The absence of identifying materials and the lack of missing person reports have complicated standard identification procedures.

    The remains have been transferred to the Forensic Science and Criminology Department’s specialized facilities for comprehensive examination. Forensic experts will conduct detailed analysis to establish both the individual’s identity and the precise circumstances surrounding his death.

    Authorities have established dedicated communication channels for information submission. Dubai residents can contact the police call center at 901, while callers from outside the emirate should dial 04 901. Police officials emphasize that any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, could prove valuable in resolving this case and providing closure to potential family members.

    The public appeal represents standard procedure in cases involving unidentified persons, demonstrating the Dubai Police’s comprehensive approach to investigation through community engagement and advanced forensic capabilities.

  • Fact check: Thai police post AI-modified relief image as flood kills 145

    Fact check: Thai police post AI-modified relief image as flood kills 145

    Thailand’s border patrol police have issued a formal apology after publishing a digitally altered image depicting flood rescuers armed with automatic rifles and combat gear in the flood-ravaged city of Hat Yai. The incident occurred amid catastrophic flooding in southern Thailand that has claimed at least 145 lives according to official government reports.

    The controversial image, shared on the 437th Border Patrol Police unit’s Facebook page, showed personnel in full tactical equipment with the caption “Border patrol ready to enter zone 8 today” accompanied by a laughing emoji. The post was shared over 12,000 times before being removed from social media platforms.

    Fact-checkers from AFP identified digital watermarks in the image using Google’s AI identification tool SynthID, including a distinctive star-shaped Gemini watermark confirming the image was generated using Google’s AI software. This marks another instance of AI-generated imagery circulating in Thailand during the disaster response period.

    Following exposure of the manipulation, the police unit published the original photograph showing unarmed officers in orange life vests operating a rescue boat with visible relief supplies. “This is a real image before it was made into an AI image,” the unit stated. “We apologize for any misunderstanding.”

    An unnamed officer explained to AFP that the altered image was intended to “show the public our readiness to enter the area,” while clarifying that no personnel involved in flood relief operations actually carried firearms. No disciplinary actions have been taken regarding the incident.

    The manipulation occurred despite warnings from Thailand’s government-run anti-fake news center, which had previously advised against sharing AI images that “mislead people and become obstacles to relief efforts.”

    Public reaction revealed divided opinions, with some netizens condemning the digital deception during a humanitarian crisis while others expressed desire for such armed protection to be reality. Critics emphasized the importance of transparent communication during emergency operations, with one comment noting, “The first place in the world where flood relief officials must be armed.”

  • Union earmarks 8 million yuan for Hong Kong fire relief

    Union earmarks 8 million yuan for Hong Kong fire relief

    In a swift response to Wednesday’s devastating residential fire in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, the All-China Federation of Trade Unions has activated emergency relief protocols by allocating 8 million yuan (approximately $1.13 million) for immediate disaster response. The substantial funding initiative aims to address critical needs arising from the Wang Fuk Court residential complex blaze that emergency crews have been battling since November 26, 2025.

    The national labor organization confirmed the emergency funds will be strategically deployed to provide comprehensive support for displaced residents, including emergency housing solutions, essential living supplies, and temporary resettlement assistance. The federation’s emergency response team is coordinating with local authorities in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to ensure efficient distribution of resources to affected families.

    Beyond immediate financial assistance, the trade union federation has committed to maintaining continuous oversight of rescue operations and implementing additional supportive measures as the situation evolves. This institutional response demonstrates organized labor’s capacity for rapid mobilization in urban emergency situations, particularly in high-density residential areas where fire incidents can have catastrophic consequences.

    The funding announcement follows earlier expressions of concern from national leadership regarding the Tai Po incident, highlighting the significance of cross-jurisdictional disaster response mechanisms within China’s administrative framework.

  • ‘Sky-high ambition’: Meet Dubai Police officer who defied orphanhood, loss

    ‘Sky-high ambition’: Meet Dubai Police officer who defied orphanhood, loss

    In an inspiring demonstration of human resilience, Dubai Police Officer Doha Ahmed has transformed profound personal tragedy into remarkable professional achievement. Born an orphan and later widowed, Ahmed’s journey stands as a testament to extraordinary perseverance against life’s most challenging circumstances.

    Ahmed’s early years were marked by the absence of parental figures, yet she credits her siblings with providing unwavering support and love that shaped her character. “I never felt there was something missing in my life,” Ahmed reflects, acknowledging her brothers and sisters as “the greatest people in my eyes.”

    Her childhood presented significant social challenges, particularly during middle school when she faced bullying and intrusive questions about her orphan status. Rather than succumbing to these pressures, Ahmed channeled her energy into academic excellence and personal development, regularly volunteering for Quran recitation during her elementary school years.

    The trajectory of Ahmed’s life took another devastating turn when, one year after university graduation and the birth of her first child, she received news that her husband had been killed in an accident. “My whole life was turned upside down,” she recalls of the moment that left her son Younis facing the same orphanhood she had experienced.

    This personal catastrophe became what Ahmed describes as “the turning point in my life.” Determined to create stability for her child and herself, she heeded her sister’s advice to join Dubai Police in December 2014. “I said to myself: this is my glimmer of hope,” Ahmed remembers of her decision to pursue a law enforcement career.

    Her commitment to excellence quickly became apparent during military training, where her perseverance earned her the position of platoon leader. Subsequent challenges, including preparing a graduation group with only two days’ notice, further demonstrated her capability under pressure.

    Ahmed’s career progression continued as she became the sole woman selected for specialized coach preparation training, eventually achieving the rank of Coach Doha Ahmed. Her professional philosophy reflects an ever-expanding vision: “I don’t know where my ambition ends, nor where I want to go. After every ambition I achieve, a bigger ambition is born. My ambition is sky-high.”

    Today, Ahmed has rebuilt her personal life through remarriage and the addition of two daughters, completing a journey from profound loss to professional accomplishment and personal fulfillment.

  • Trade unions boost child care support for workers

    Trade unions boost child care support for workers

    In a significant move to address workforce needs, China’s national labor organization has unveiled a comprehensive childcare support program for 2025. The All-China Federation of Trade Unions announced plans to assist 1,000 employers across the nation in establishing workplace childcare facilities for their employees.

    The initiative represents a substantial commitment to family-friendly workplace policies, with the federation directing regional trade unions to integrate employer-operated childcare programs into government-supported initiatives. This strategic approach includes incorporating these services into local livelihood projects and securing preferential treatment for participating organizations regarding utilities, taxation, and facility operations.

    Financial incentives form a cornerstone of the program, with the federation establishing a dedicated subsidy fund that will provide approximately 10,000 yuan ($1,413) to each qualifying childcare program. Additionally, the federation is advocating for affordable nursery services to become standardized employee benefits within both corporate and government sectors.

    The program leverages existing union infrastructure, encouraging workers’ service centers and cultural halls to support employer-run childcare through reduced rental rates and assistance with venue modifications. This multi-faceted approach addresses both financial and logistical barriers to implementing workplace childcare solutions.

  • UAE: Heading to Jebel Jais? Take the new Yellow Route

    UAE: Heading to Jebel Jais? Take the new Yellow Route

    Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) has inaugurated a novel weekend public transit solution designed to enhance accessibility to the emirate’s premier mountainous destination. The ‘Yellow Route’ service, launched on November 28, 2025, establishes a critical transportation link between coastal tourism centers and Jebel Jais peak, operating exclusively from Fridays through Sundays until April 2026.

    Developed through strategic partnership with master developer Marjan, this initiative represents a significant advancement in Ras Al Khaimah’s public infrastructure under the broader Transport Master Plan 2030. The route originates at Al Jazirah Al Hamra, traverses the luxurious Al Marjan Island district, and culminates at Jebel Jais, connecting fourteen major tourist attractions and hospitality establishments along its path.

    Service operations maintain three-hour intervals between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM, with the final return departure scheduled from Jebel Jais at 9:00 PM. Notable stops include premium hotels such as Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, Waldorf Astoria, Rixos Bab Al Bahr, and Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island, alongside adventure destinations like Bear Grylls Explorers Camp and the panoramic 1484 by Puro restaurant.

    The fleet features technologically advanced buses equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, real-time GPS tracking integrated with the Smart Control and Monitoring Center, electronic payment systems, and trip monitoring capabilities through the Sayr mobile application. These amenities collectively elevate passenger experience while optimizing operational efficiency.

    This transportation solution provides residents and visitors with a secure, economical, and comfortable mobility alternative that supports the emirate’s sustainable tourism objectives and reduces environmental impact through consolidated travel options.