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First Hindi novel ‘Tomb of Sand’ on International Booker shortlist

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Author Geetanjali Shree’s novel ‘Tomb of Sand’ has become the first Hindi language work of fiction to be shortlisted for the International Booker Prize.

Shree’s book, translated into English by Daisy Rockwell and described by the judges as “loud and irresistible novel”, will compete with five other titles from around the world for the £50,000 (Dh239,929) literary prize, which is split evenly between the author and translator, a PTI report said. “It is recognition of a very special kind. When a work appeals to unknown people sitting in faraway places, then it must have the ability to transcend its specific cultural context and touch the universal and the human,” Shree said. “That is true ratification. The work must be good, the translation must be excellent! It is a great moment for Daisy and me. Shows how rich our dialogue has been. That is what translation is about.”

Uttar Pradesh-born Shree has authored three novels and several story collections. Her work has been translated into English, French, German, Serbian and Korean.

The story of ‘Tomb of Sand’ is set in northern India as an 80-year-old woman slips into a deep depression at the death of her husband, then resurfaces to gain a new lease on life. To her family’s consternation, she insists on travelling to Pakistan, simultaneously confronting the unresolved trauma of her teenage experiences of Partition, and re-evaluating what it means to be a mother, a daughter, a woman, a feminist, according to the report.

“Rather than respond to tragedy with seriousness, Geetanjali Shree’s playful tone and exuberant wordplay results in a book that is engaging, funny, and utterly original, at the same time as being an urgent and timely protest against the destructive impact of borders and boundaries, whether between religions, countries, or genders,” the International Booker Prize judges noted.

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Rains in UAE: Free public parking extended in Sharjah amid unstable weather

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In response to ongoing unstable weather conditions, Sharjah City Municipality has announced an extension of its public parking fee exemption across the emirate. The decision, effective from Monday, March 23, will remain in place until further notice, offering temporary relief to residents and visitors.

The waiver applies to all standard public parking zones, including those that typically require payment on weekdays and official holidays. These areas are identifiable by blue informational signage installed throughout the city.

However, authorities clarified that smart parking yards are excluded from the exemption and will continue to operate under regular paid parking rules.

Officials have urged the public to stay informed through official communication channels, including the municipality’s social media platforms and helpline services, as weather conditions continue to evolve.

The move reflects Sharjah’s ongoing efforts to support public safety and convenience during periods of disruption, ensuring smoother mobility across the city.


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Look: How Dubai’s RTA works round the clock to keep roads safe amid unstable weather

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Behind every safe journey in Dubai, a massive coordinated effort is underway. Safety during rainy conditions remains a top priority, says the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

The authority has been operating 24/7 on the ground during the recent spell of unstable weather, working to manage traffic flow, clear water accumulation and provide real-time alerts to motorists across the city.

RTA teams are closely monitoring conditions through a central command system in coordination with strategic partners, ensuring quick response times and minimal disruption on key roads.

Motorists have been urged to follow safety guidelines and drive cautiously during rainy conditions.

At the same time, Dubai Municipality has activated its full emergency response system, deploying more than 2,800 personnel, including engineers, supervisors and field workers, to tackle waterlogging and weather-related incidents.

The large-scale operation includes hundreds of pumps, tankers and heavy vehicles working continuously to drain flooded streets, particularly on major roads and previously affected areas. Ongoing maintenance of drainage networks is also being carried out to boost capacity and reduce water pooling.

Together, these efforts reflect a city-wide response aimed at ensuring residents remain safe and traffic continues to move smoothly despite challenging weather conditions.

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UAE urges companies to adopt flexible working arrangements amid adverse weather conditions

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The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has called on private sector companies across the UAE to reinforce workplace safety measures and take preventive steps to protect employees during expected adverse weather conditions.

In a statement, the ministry emphasised that worker health and safety remain a top priority, particularly at outdoor worksites where operations may be affected during severe weather.

Flexible or remote work arrangement

Companies have been advised to implement necessary precautions, including introducing remote or flexible working arrangements where required. Employers were also urged to ensure the availability of personal protective equipment, safe transportation, and suitable workplace conditions.

The ministry commended businesses for their ongoing efforts to maintain safe working environments and raise awareness among employees regarding safety protocols during emergency weather situations. It also confirmed continued coordination with relevant authorities to issue guidance and instructions aimed at safeguarding workers nationwide.

Additionally, MoHRE highlighted that awareness campaigns are being conducted in collaboration with government entities and the private sector to strengthen occupational health and safety standards. Enforcement measures, it added, remain in place to address any violations.

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