A Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight from Dhaka to Dubai made an emergency landing at Nagpur’s Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in India after the pilot received a smoke alert from the aircraft’s hold. Officials later confirmed that no fire was found.

Flight BG 347, carrying 396 passengers and 12 crew members, was diverted to Nagpur on Thursday night as a precaution. The pilot, alerted by a fire alarm, immediately informed the Airport Operations Control Centre (AOCC) and the System Operations Command Centre (SOCC). A full emergency was declared, and the flight landed safely at 10.45 pm.

The aircraft was moved to an isolation bay, where all passengers and crew were safely evacuated. Fire safety teams from the Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) and Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) were deployed as per protocol. A thorough inspection of the aircraft and its cargo hold was conducted, but no signs of fire or smoke were detected.

“We deployed a team of firefighters as soon as we received the alert. Following safety protocols, necessary precautions were taken, but no fire was reported,” said Bhimrao Chandankhede, Chief Fire Officer.

To minimise disruption, Biman Bangladesh Airlines arranged an alternative flight for the passengers, ensuring they could continue their journey to Dubai later that evening.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the smoke alert as part of standard safety procedures.

(Inputs from The Indian Express)

The UAE has once again set a new standard in currency innovation. The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has won the Best New Banknote Issue for 2025 for its Dh500 note, securing the top spot in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region.

The award was announced during the High Security Printing EMEA conference in Basel, Switzerland, held in early February 2025.

A Design Rooted in Sustainability and Innovation

This newly recognised Dh500 Dirham is more than just currency—it’s a reflection of the UAE’s commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology in banking. Crafted from polymer, the note is not only more durable and longer-lasting than traditional paper notes but also fully recyclable, reducing environmental impact.

On the front side, the note showcases the Terra Sustainability Pavilion in Expo City Dubai, a symbol of the UAE’s vision for a greener future. The reverse side features the Museum of the Future, along with iconic landmarks like Emirates Towers and Burj Khalifa, emphasising the UAE’s balance between heritage and progress.

Security Features & Inclusivity

With state-of-the-art security features, including 3D designs and the region’s largest surface-applied foil stripe, the banknote is among the most secure in the world. It also incorporates Braille symbols to ensure accessibility for visually impaired individuals.

Banknotes accessible to all

Speaking about the win, Saif Humaid Al Dhaheri, Assistant Governor of Banking Operations & Support Services at CBUAE, said: “Winning this award is a testament to our dedication to sustainability and innovation. We are proud to lead the region in introducing banknotes with advanced security features and materials that minimise environmental impact. Additionally, our commitment to inclusivity ensures that our banknotes are accessible to everyone, with Braille symbols aiding visually impaired users.”

With this award, the UAE continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in financial innovation and sustainability — one banknote at a time.

(Inputs from WAM)

Ever wondered if you’re paying a fair price for groceries? The UAE government has just made it easier to keep an eye on the cost of everyday essentials with the launch of its National Digital Platform — a real-time price tracker for key consumer goods across the country.

Fair price on eggs, dairy, rice and other items

This new platform will monitor the prices of must-have grocery items like oil, eggs, dairy, rice, sugar, poultry, legumes, bread, and wheat across various retailers.

The system has been designed to ensure transparency, help officials track price changes, and prevent unfair pricing by comparing costs against official price ceilings.

Why it matters

Speaking about the initiative, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, emphasized that this move is part of the country’s broader commitment to consumer protection, a stable market, and a thriving economy.

It also aligns with the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision, which focuses on strengthening the nation’s economic resilience and competitiveness.

With real-time monitoring and stricter price control, this platform is set to make shopping fairer and more transparent for everyone—ensuring that prices stay reasonable and consumers get the best value for their money.

Stay tuned for more updates on how this platform will work and how shoppers will benefit from the system.

(Inputs from WAM)