Rapid Fire Current Affairs | 24 Jun 2023

Kalasa Banduri Project on Mahadayi River

Tenders for the controversial Kalasa Banduri Project, initiated by the previous Karnataka government just before its Assembly elections, might face difficulties due to the absence of forest and environment clearance.

Kalasa-Banduri project aims to improve the drinking water supply to the Belagavi, Dharwad, Bagalkot and Gadag districts in Karnataka. It involves building barrages across Kalasa and Banduri, two tributaries of the Mahadayi River to divert water to the Malaprabha river (a tributary of Krishna River).

Mahadayi or Mhadei, the west-flowing river, originates in Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary (Western Ghats), Belagavi district of Karnataka. The river is Spread across the Districts of Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra.
The Kalasa-Banduri project is controversial due to inter-state water disputes, environmental concerns, and opposition from local communities.

Assam Flood & Beki River

According to a daily flood report by the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), the flood situation in Assam remains critical, with approximately 20 districts being affected by continuous rainfall.

The tributary of the Brahmaputra River, Beki, is currently flowing above the danger mark. The floodwaters have caused significant damage to various infrastructure, including embankments, roads, and bridges.

The Beki River, originating in Bhutan (also known as Kurissu River), is one of the right-bank tributaries of the River Brahmaputra. A significant portion of this river flows through Assam. It serves as a source of livelihood and mode of transport for the many communities in Assam.

Read More: Brahmaputra River

Biodegradable Utensils: BIS

Recently, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) published IS 18267: 2023 "Food Serving Utensils Made from Agri By-Products – Specification”, aimed at reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainability.

The standard covers various aspects, including raw materials, manufacturing techniques, performance, and hygiene requirements for the production of biodegradable utensils. These utensils are free from harmful additives and ensure consumer well-being. The standard also creates economic opportunities for farmers and supports sustainable agricultural practices, contributing to rural development and promoting circular economy.

BIS has been established for the harmonious development of the activities of standardisation, marking and quality certification of goods and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. It was established by the BIS Act, 1986 and works under the aegis of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution. A new BIS Act 2016 was brought into force with effect from October 2017. The Act establishes the BIS as the National Standards Body of India.

Canary Islands

According to information shared by two organizations that focus on migration, over 30 migrants died when a small boat traveling towards Spain's Canary Islands sank.

The Canary Islands of Spain consist of an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Canaries comprise the Spanish provinces of Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The Canary Islands were formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago.

Read More: Canary Islands