Suvarnabhumi Airport Photos & Maps 1

Suvarnabhumi Airport Inside



Courtyard garden of Suvannabhumi International Airport (SBIA)

เส้นทางเข้าออกสนามบินสุวรรณภูมิ


  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

Welcome to Airports International

Are you planning on attending a business meeting or taking a vacation out of the country? If so, you will need to book a seat on an international flight. Have you ever been on an international flight before? If not, there are a number of factors that you should first consider, such as the international air travel rules. In fact, it is not only recommended that you do, it is required that you do. Not knowing all of the international air travel rules could land you in a boatload of trouble.

When it comes to air travel rules, many travelers, maybe even you, automatically think of being in-flight. While there are in-flight travel rules that you must abide by, there are also other rules. These other rules are ones that apply in all airports, including international airports. Since you will arrive at the airport first, before actually boarding your airplane, it is advised that you first familiarize yourself with these common air travel rules.

As previously mentioned, there are a number of airport rules that exist in all airports, regardless of whether those airports are international airports or domestic airports. These rules commonly include a list of prohibited items, the screening of all baggage, the removal of your shoes, and the screening of passengers. In addition to these airport travel rules, which can be found in almost all airports in the United States, there are some air travel rules that only apply to international airports.

airport security
The number one rule that you must abide by at an international airport is identifying who you are. Since airline officials and airport security cannot guarantee that you are who you claim to be, you will need to show proof of identification. Depending on where you are traveling to, this identification may need to be more than a simple government issued identification card or driver’s license. In fact, you may also need to supply your birth certificate, a passport, a visa, or a certificate of citizenship. For additional information on which proofs of identification are required, you are advised to contact the international airport or airline that you will be using.

Once you have made it though all of the international airport security checkpoints, you should be able to begin boarding your plane. When boarding your airplane, you are advised to do it in a calm, but timely matter. As soon as your airplane is in the air, you need to follow all instructions given by the pilot or flight attendants. This includes staying in your seat until it is safe to get up. In the event that you refuse to cooperate with the airline staff, you may be putting yourself and other passengers in danger.

While it is important to understand all international air travel rules, there are many travelers who are unsure why those rules are so important. They are important not only for your safety and well being, but for the safety and well being of others. Although it may seem ridiculous at the time, but if you refuse to stay in your seat or you are caught arguing with airport security, you will find that you are automatically labeled a terror suspect. This is largely due in part to the fear of another terrorist attack. Once this happens it is often difficult or impossible to go back to normal.

In the event that you violate international airport security rules, intentionally or not, it is likely that you will be pulled aside. Depending of the rule that you violated, you may only receive a warning, but you could also receive much more. Should you be labeled as a suspicious traveler, you may be detained by airport security or local authorities for an undetermined amount of time. The same can be said for international air travel rule violations in the air. Once your airplane is able to land, often at the nearest available airport, you will be held for questioning.

What will happen after questioning will all depend on your actions and the preferences of local authorities or airport security. Since you can never guarantee the outcome of your actions, it is important that you stay on your best behavior when at an international airport or aboard an international flight.
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

Beijing International Airport, Beijing

Foster & Partners. Under construction, to be completed in late 2007

According to the U.S. Embassy to China, the country will be building 108 new airports between 2004 and 2009 -- including what will be the world's largest: the Beijing International Airport, designed by Foster & Partners. Set to open at the end of 2007, in time for the Beijing Olympics in 2008, the airport terminal will cover more than 1 million square meters, giving it a bigger footprint than the Pentagon.

It's designed to handle 43 million passengers a year initially and 55 million by 2015, figures that will probably push the new facility into the ranks of the top 10 busiest airports, going by the 2004 numbers from the Airports Council International. Given the scale and traffic, Foster & Partners focused on the traveler's experience, making sure that walking distances are short, for instance.

Building on Foster's experience designing Hong Kong's new mega-airport, the massive Chek Lap Kok, the sprawling Beijing terminal is housed under a single roof. To help passengers distinguish between different sections of the vast space, skylights cast different shades of yellow and red light across walls -- a subtle but innovative navigational aid. The architects also kept sustainability in mind: An environmental-control system reduces carbon emissions, and skylights situated on a south-east axis lessen solar heat, keeping the building cool.

  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

Mega Oceanarium Coming Up in PuthuVypeen, Kochi


Latest on Oceanarium

A Mega Oceanarium is coming up at PuthuVypeen, Kochi at an areaof 65 acres with an investment of Rs.300 crores.

District Collector A.P.M. Mohammed Hanish, said the survey of 65 acres of land identified to set up an oceanarium on the Puthuvype Island has been completed. When complete it will be the largest oceanarium in Asia!

Specialties of Oceanarium:


The Oceanarium will give a magical view of aquatic life in the Arabian sea through a glass tunnel beneath the sea. The Centrally-aided project will be implemented by the Fisheries Department. There will be an array of marine life including coral reefs, stringrays, turtles, sharks, and other fishes. Also the major attraction will be the Dolphin lagoon or pool!!

What Else??


Above the Oceanarium International Biological Research Centre will come up along with cafeteria and with amusement features. Also Centre for Marine Living Resource and Ecology, an Central Institute will come up besides the Oceanarium.

Advantage of Kochi?


Oceanarium is one of the major attraction of the Singapore tourism. Oceanarium coming up at Kochi, will be with much more facilities than that of Singapore. Formerly the venture to set up Oceanarium were failures in Mumbai and Goa, but since Kochi has got cenral clearance the Oceanarium will definitely be a reality in a few years.
According to Government reports Kochi will become the Number 1 Tourist Destination in India once the Oceanarium becomes a reality!!!

Also Aqua Park!!

Also Kerala Fisheries Minister S Sarma said on Aug 7,2007 that work on the country's first aqua-technology park, aimed at tapping the huge potential in ornamental fish production and marketing, would be completed by November 2008. Talking to the media, Mr Sarma said the aqua farms at Neyyar in Thiruvananthapuram, Parappanagadi in Malappuram and Pannivelichira in Pattanamtitta would be upgraded as satellite farms under the upcoming park.


RESULT

As a result of all these Kochi will get a status as "The Fisheries Capital of INDIA" .

  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

Take off from Toronto Pearson International Airport

  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

Terminal 1 - Toronto Pearson International Airport

Gate area (post-security) of Terminal 1 (all Air Canada flights) at Toronto's Pearson International Airport (CYYZ)

  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

RECENT EVENTS IN KERALA.

VOLVO OCEAN RACE


The World’s most famous Ship Race called as Volvo Ocean Race will pass through Kochi. The Indian stopover will come at the end of the second leg of the race from Cape Town, South Africa. Kochi will be the first of three new ports in Asia.(0)Kochi was selected over Goa and Mumbai due to Kochi’s strategic location. “Kochi is blessed with deep waters off the port and has a wide channel that provides an arena for people to view the race,” the race director mentioned.(1) The seven yachts participating in the race will arrive in Kochi in December 2008 and will stay for 10 days, before starting leg three to Sentosa Island in Singapore. A race village spread over 2.5 acres will be set up near the BTP berth at Willingdon Island.(2) This year it is the first time that the Volvo Ocean Race is passing through Asia. The race will go across 11 nations covering 39000 nautical miles with 9 stopovers. An agreement was made between the race director Andy Hindley and Kerala Government.

3000 beds alone are set to be required for the race organizers and participants. It is said that around 10,000 foreigners will come to Kochi. Over 40 channels across the globe will telecast the Volvo Ocean Race live. What else does Kochi need for a better advertisement? It will boost the economy of the state.

With the race to start in few months the major challenge for Kochi is to build race village of International standards for the participants to enjoy for about 10 days!


Brahmos Aerospace in Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala hi-tech industries (KELTEC) have been taken over by the defense ministry and now will be called as Brahmos Aerospace. It is situated in Chacka near the Tivandrum airport.

This has happened only because of the sincere efforts made by the Union Defense Minister Mr. A. K. Antony who hail from Cherthala. He handed over the key of Brahmos Aerospace to CEO Dr. Shivathanupilla who is named as the missile man of India. By this Kerala becomes the third unit for the production of High speed Missiles after Bangalore and Hyderabad. There were many efforts from defense ministry to pull down the unit being started in Trivandrum as they said that it will be poor market.


But Antony specified that around 1000 crores of rupees will be invested in Defense field thus transforming Kerala into a major Aerospace destination.


CMFRI and CIFT celebrate Jubilee

January 4, 2008:

How many in India especially in Kerala know that about 35,000 fishing boats in sea were designed in the research institute situated in Kochi!! The union minister Sharad Pawar inaugurated the 50th anniversary of Central Institute of Fisheries Technology commonly called as CIFT. The beginning of CIFT was very humble in a rented building in Chittoor road in the year 1957. CIFT was located in the present location in Wellington Island in 1967. The present Director of the institute of CIFT is Dr. K Devadasan.

Today India is in 6th position worldwide in the Fisheries area.

Also today new ship built by CIFT for fisheries research will be launched.

Adding to the glitz and glamour of the achievements of CIFT is another research institute in Kochi called as Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). It is celebrating 60th anniversary today and will be presided by the Union Minister Mr. Sharad Pawar.

The inception of CMFRI was in the year 1947 with Chennai as the Headquarters. But in the year 1971 headquarters of CMFRI was shifted to Kochi.

The latest research work done by scientists in CMFRI is development of latest technology for reproduction of ornamental fishes.


COCHIN CARNIVAL

There is only one answer for the question “Where is the biggest celebration occurring as part of Christmas and New Year in Kerala”? It is the historic FORTKOCHI in Kochi City. This years Cochin Carnival was the event in which most number of foreign tourists participated in India. The carnival was flagged of on December 13, 2007 and various cultural events were conducted as part of Carnival. The events include Painting, sports events, rangoli, cultural events, swimming. The most glamorous event is BEACH RACE.

On January 01 there was carnival procession which started from Veli grounds. The procession included various events like dance, rally, fashion and imitating dress show. Also there were many floats in the rally which made people to think over and ponder about it. Koovapadam Brothers won the First prize for float event which displayed Perunthachan’s shilpashala.

The procession concluded at the historic Parade ground at Fort Kochi. Kochi city Mayor Prof. Mercy Williams presided over the function. Mattancherry MLA V. K Ibrahimkunju, Fort Kochi RDO Mr. Joseph and other MLA’s, counselors etc were present for the award ceremony. K J SOHAN who is called as the FATHER of COCHIN CARNIVAL gave a small speech.

25th Anniversary of COCHIN CARNIVAL in 2009

Next year it will be the 25th time that Kochi is celebrating the carnival and the mayor told that it will be made a grand event next year with funds from the Kerala government.

KJ Sohan said that when Mahatma Gandhi came to Veli beach in Kochi during pre independence he quoted “KOCHI AS EPITOME OF ADVENTURE”. Sohan also added that next years carnival must be made a huge event and its fame to reach all over the world.

Bane for Fortkochi?

One bug and the whole history and culture of Fortkochi is under threat. I am talking about the creepy crawly Shafique (17) who was arrested for molesting a Swedish lady. Though the Swedish faction didn’t file a complaint he was arrested and the procedures followed by Kochi police really deserve accolades considering the Mumbai event where the City Commissioner said not to blow up the incidence and failed to take action.

This incidence caught national attention. “We can’t let the hooligan’s escape” this is what the Kochi city police commissioner said after arresting the culprit. Mumbai and Kochi is often ranked high for safety for women, but one sinister affair like this can spoil all the other great things whatever it may be. All these events will only contribute to bring down the tourists to India.


ETHNIC FOOD FESTIVAL IN KOCHI


National Ethnic Food and Cultural fest, the first of its kind in the state was conducted in Kochi as there are around 14 major communities in Kochi living in harmony, which is absolutely inimitable anywhere in the world. The fest was conducted from January 5 to 10. The main specialty of the food festival in Kochi was that the food was prepared by the housewives of particular community residing in Kochi.

There were food stalls from Kannada, Andhra, Tamilian, Konkani, Thulu, Punjabi, Oriya, Bengali, Gujarati, North Indian, Rajasthani, Portuguese communities. Also there were stalls for Kerala style, Chinese, Arabian, Italian etc.

The timings were 4.30 pm to 10 pm and the turnout for the event was absolutely overwhelming. There was unimaginable rush at the fest for the last day.

Kochi believe it or not is the only place with such a cultural integrity in the world and it is evident if one takes a ride across the older part of Kochi like Mattancherry and Fortkochi.

LIST OF FOOD – BE READY TO DROOL

The food festival was absolutely a mega event considering that it was Mini India inside the Marine drive Ground where the fest was held.

The Portuguese food stuffs were roasted tongue of cow, tripe of cow, Souvlinge Culculse, roasted duck, Beef vindalu, Bibinca, Matrony etc which were new to Keralites.

The Oriyan delights were Feni, Manda pitha, muga pitha, Chenna poda, Potala kasa, Chhencheda etc which was organized by Cochin Oriya association. Favorites among the Punjabi food were Corn chat, Punjabi bullet, Khas hara bara, tandoor, Ginger chicken etc served along with elegant Punjabi music.

Andhra stall served Hyderabadi dum biriyani, chicken biriyani, chilli bhajji, special dosa etc. Kerala Banga Samskriti Sanga also had attractive stall serving typical Bengali fish fry etc. Kannada stall served Aval, Nippatu, Jowar roti, Dharwad peda, Bhajji, Protien rich soup etc.

Gujarati stall was famous and it contained Dabeli called as Indian burger apart from Parathas and chats. Thulu, North India stall were also with peculiar food items. Thulu stallhad manjal dosa, Boli etc.

The Tamil stall was funny as it served Dosas which were too big and other typical Tamil dishes like Oothappam, Pongal, Curd rice, Puliyodharai etc.

I initially thought that I won’t spend much time in Konkani stall as I am Konkani myself but the stall had some of the special foods that I rarely have eaten. So I got interested and had many other dishes also. There were dishes like Panjagadhayu – Payasam/Kheer, Pal pongal, Hittu, Rontos, Cabbage dosa, Rose milk etc.

These were memorable days that I will hardly forget. Also a stage was set where cultural programs of different communities were held. Thus these festival days made me a binge eater again and I feel myself that I am a food connoisseur from this day.

THUS KOCHI MADE THIS EVENT A BIG HIT AND I AM WAITING FOR THE FOOD FEST OF 2009!!

GCDA and TRIDA will be suspended next year.


The development authorities of the cities of Cochin and Trivandrum will be closed down from next year as claimed the Government. The development body for Calicut city was closed last year in April.

The Government have sent letter to the authorities asking explanation of following matters: Projects undertaken now, Estimate of the projects, Authorities profit for the last 3 years, Expense, Expense for salary, Vacant posts, people working in deputation, number of people working for daily wages etc.

But the decision to close the GCDA is set to cause widespread protest in Kochi considering the development that GCDA has made to The City of Cochin such as Kaloor International Stadium, Marine Drive, Marine Drive Ground Maidan, Subhash Bose Park, Residential colonies, other parks in various parts.

If the decision is implemented then it will be a major set back for the present projects like roofing of the International stadium and Ring road.

  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

METRO RAIL KOCHI - LATEST NEWS & PROPOSED STOPS.



Kochi got the best New Year gift that it could ever wish for- the state of the art METRO RAIL in the model of the Delhi Metro!





The Kerala Cabinet has approved the Rs 3000 crore Kochi Metro Rail project and sent it to the Centre for verification on January 01, 2007.

However with the commissioning of Metro rail, Kochi is poised to make a big leap to join the celebrity league of big cities such as Delhi or Bangalore.(0)
Thus the project will be executed by DMRC and not on the BOT(Built-On -Transfer) basis and it will be a joint venture project of state and centre(00)


The State Government has given the green signal to go ahead with the ambitious Metro project on a total budget outlay of 3084 Crores. 20% of this will be borne by the Central Government and 15% (~ Rs.450 crores)by the state government. The rest of the funds will be mobilized through loans from the Japanese bank of JBIC.(1)

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation will be overseeing the project right from the procurement of land to the commissioning of the project and the work on this project is expected to be completed within 3 years. Metro rail extends from Kalamassery in Aluva to Petta in Tripunithura spanning a total distance of 25 kms(1*). In the later stages it might be extended to NEDUMBASSERY AIRPORT AREA AND FORTKOCHI TOWN!(2)

Earlier DMRC had conducted a feasibility study for Metro rail in Kochi and Trivandrum. But the report suggested to built Metro in Kochi and said it is not suitable for the capital.(3)

Metro Rail Not Feasible for Trivandrum!!(typical Trivandrum road shown here)

The Peak Hour Peak Direction Trips (PHPDT) in Trivandrum is too low and even in the year 2030 the PHPDT rates will be 5485. Since this level of PHPD T can be easily handled with bus traffic, metro services cannot be justified for t he capital. What is more interesting is that even in the year 2030 LRTS is not justified in Thiruvananthapuram as it will be an unnecessary financial burden on the city(4).

Land Acquisition for Kochi Metro:

The District Collector of Ernakulam A.P.M Mohammed Hanish said that the land acquisition will be completed within seven months from now. About 15 hectares will have to be acquired for which around Rs. 100 crores will be required considering high land prices in Kochi. (5)

Thus Kochi is all set to be a real Mega City and it will stretch up to Thrissur in North and Cherthala to the South(6). The problem Kochi facing is that the City limits have not been expanded by the Government, even when the real city area is far more wider than what is today. After that the land availability will increase. The present city limits was craeted in 1967 and after that it was not expanded, thus according to the Statistics Kochi is only the Second Largest City in Kerala.

But the reality is that Kochi is the Largest City in Kerala in terms of area and population and Kochi Metro rail will indeed give a new face to Kochi from its traditional world famous Chinese Fishing Nets and Backwaters etc.

PROPOSED STOPS FOR KOCHI METRO RAIL ARE AS FOLLOWS:

Aluva, Pulinchode, Companypady, Ambattukavu, Muttom, Apollo Tyres, St.Mary's Church, Kalamassery, Pathady palam, Edappally Toll Junction, Edappally, Palarivattom, International stadium, Kaloor, Lissie Junction, Madhava Pharmacy, Maharaja's Ground, Ernakulam South junction, GCDA Junction, Fathima Church, Elumkulam, Vyttilla, Thykoodam, Poonithura and Pettah.

Thus there will be a station after each kilometer.

Speed of Kochi Metro Train!:

The proposed speed for Kochi metro train is 36 Km per hour, which is almost equal to the city buses which have a limit of 35 km per hour.


Waiting for the latest news regarding DMRC visit for deciding links and approval by the Central overnment which was passed by state government.
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

Explosive Powder Security Kits for All US Airports

The US TSA (Transport Security Administration) is providing all airports in the US with new security technology in an effort to boost present explosive powder detection efforts. The technology involved is essentially a kit that tests for these powders' presence, and the administration has emphasised along with the technology's deployment that the experience for passengers passing through US airport security will be little changed.


"The majority of passengers won't notice any difference in checkpoint procedures", spokeswoman for the TSA, Kristen Lee, told news network CNN. "This is just one additional layer of security that helps bolster our explosive detection capability."

US Airport Security Technology
The TSA stressed that no specific explosives-based terrorist threat to airports had emerged to prompt the introduction of this new US airport security technology, but highlighted the protection that it could provide in the event of a terrorist act.

Travellers passing through US airports will pass hand luggage through existing X-ray machines as previously. However, should these machines pick up on a powder deemed risky or dangerous, the container holding this powder will be isolated, a representative powder sample removed and blended with a special solution to test it out. If required, said Lee, this process will be carried out in a way that removes the risk of the powder becoming contaminated, and notification will be given to the passengers involved that the test is being done.

Airport Security Measures
Prior to the introduction of these new airport security measures, airports had to draft in dedicated explosives experts or local security officials.

"Every day, TSA officers work at over 450 airports nationwide screening approximately two million passengers to keep the travelling public safe", administrator at the TSA, Gale Rossides, explained in a TSA press release. "These enhancements are part of TSA's efforts to stay ahead of emerging threats while continually strengthening our layered approach to security."

The administration added in the same press release that most common powders - medicines, make-up and baby products, for example - are not likely to require additional security screening.

Recent, related News:

UK Airport Liquid Scanning Trials
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

Explosive Powder Security Kits for All US Airports

The US TSA (Transport Security Administration) is providing all airports in the US with new security technology in an effort to boost present explosive powder detection efforts. The technology involved is essentially a kit that tests for these powders' presence, and the administration has emphasised along with the technology's deployment that the experience for passengers passing through US airport security will be little changed.


"The majority of passengers won't notice any difference in checkpoint procedures", spokeswoman for the TSA, Kristen Lee, told news network CNN. "This is just one additional layer of security that helps bolster our explosive detection capability."

US Airport Security Technology
The TSA stressed that no specific explosives-based terrorist threat to airports had emerged to prompt the introduction of this new US airport security technology, but highlighted the protection that it could provide in the event of a terrorist act.

Travellers passing through US airports will pass hand luggage through existing X-ray machines as previously. However, should these machines pick up on a powder deemed risky or dangerous, the container holding this powder will be isolated, a representative powder sample removed and blended with a special solution to test it out. If required, said Lee, this process will be carried out in a way that removes the risk of the powder becoming contaminated, and notification will be given to the passengers involved that the test is being done.

Airport Security Measures
Prior to the introduction of these new airport security measures, airports had to draft in dedicated explosives experts or local security officials.

"Every day, TSA officers work at over 450 airports nationwide screening approximately two million passengers to keep the travelling public safe", administrator at the TSA, Gale Rossides, explained in a TSA press release. "These enhancements are part of TSA's efforts to stay ahead of emerging threats while continually strengthening our layered approach to security."

The administration added in the same press release that most common powders - medicines, make-up and baby products, for example - are not likely to require additional security screening.

Recent, related News:

UK Airport Liquid Scanning Trials
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

Virgin America N527VA

Showing posts with label Virgin America N527VA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Virgin America N527VA. Show all posts

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Virgin America N527VA


Today was Virgin America's first LAX-SEA flight and they threw a small party to celebrate.
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

VOLVO OCEAN RACE

The World’s most famous Ship Race called as Volvo Ocean Race will pass through Kochi. The Indian stopover will come at the end of the second leg of the race from Cape Town, South Africa. Kochi will be the first of three new ports in Asia.(0)Kochi was selected over Goa and Mumbai due to Kochi’s strategic location. “Kochi is blessed with deep waters off the port and has a wide channel that provides an arena for people to view the race,” the race director mentioned.(1) The seven yachts participating in the race will arrive in Kochi in December 2008 and will stay for 10 days, before starting leg three to Sentosa Island in Singapore. A race village spread over 2.5 acres will be set up near the BTP berth at Willingdon Island.(2) This year it is the first time that the Volvo Ocean Race is passing through Asia. The race will go across 11 nations covering 39000 nautical miles with 9 stopovers. An agreement was made between the race director Andy Hindley and Kerala Government.

3000 beds alone are set to be required for the race organizers and participants. It is said that around 10,000 foreigners will come to Kochi. Over 40 channels across the globe will telecast the Volvo Ocean Race live. What else does Kochi need for a better advertisement? It will boost the economy of the state.

With the race to start in few months the major challenge for Kochi is to build race village of International standards for the participants to enjoy for about 10 days!


Brahmos Aerospace in Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala hi-tech industries (KELTEC) have been taken over by the defense ministry and now will be called as Brahmos Aerospace. It is situated in Chacka near the Tivandrum airport.

This has happened only because of the sincere efforts made by the Union Defense Minister Mr. A. K. Antony who hail from Cherthala. He handed over the key of Brahmos Aerospace to CEO Dr. Shivathanupilla who is named as the missile man of India. By this Kerala becomes the third unit for the production of High speed Missiles after Bangalore and Hyderabad. There were many efforts from defense ministry to pull down the unit being started in Trivandrum as they said that it will be poor market.


But Antony specified that around 1000 crores of rupees will be invested in Defense field thus transforming Kerala into a major Aerospace destination.


CMFRI and CIFT celebrate Jubilee

January 4, 2008:

How many in India especially in Kerala know that about 35,000 fishing boats in sea were designed in the research institute situated in Kochi!! The union minister Sharad Pawar inaugurated the 50th anniversary of Central Institute of Fisheries Technology commonly called as CIFT. The beginning of CIFT was very humble in a rented building in Chittoor road in the year 1957. CIFT was located in the present location in Wellington Island in 1967. The present Director of the institute of CIFT is Dr. K Devadasan.

Today India is in 6th position worldwide in the Fisheries area.

Also today new ship built by CIFT for fisheries research will be launched.

Adding to the glitz and glamour of the achievements of CIFT is another research institute in Kochi called as Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). It is celebrating 60th anniversary today and will be presided by the Union Minister Mr. Sharad Pawar.

The inception of CMFRI was in the year 1947 with Chennai as the Headquarters. But in the year 1971 headquarters of CMFRI was shifted to Kochi.

The latest research work done by scientists in CMFRI is development of latest technology for reproduction of ornamental fishes.


COCHIN CARNIVAL

There is only one answer for the question “Where is the biggest celebration occurring as part of Christmas and New Year in Kerala”? It is the historic FORTKOCHI in Kochi City. This years Cochin Carnival was the event in which most number of foreign tourists participated in India. The carnival was flagged of on December 13, 2007 and various cultural events were conducted as part of Carnival. The events include Painting, sports events, rangoli, cultural events, swimming. The most glamorous event is BEACH RACE.

On January 01 there was carnival procession which started from Veli grounds. The procession included various events like dance, rally, fashion and imitating dress show. Also there were many floats in the rally which made people to think over and ponder about it. Koovapadam Brothers won the First prize for float event which displayed Perunthachan’s shilpashala.

The procession concluded at the historic Parade ground at Fort Kochi. Kochi city Mayor Prof. Mercy Williams presided over the function. Mattancherry MLA V. K Ibrahimkunju, Fort Kochi RDO Mr. Joseph and other MLA’s, counselors etc were present for the award ceremony. K J SOHAN who is called as the FATHER of COCHIN CARNIVAL gave a small speech.

25th Anniversary of COCHIN CARNIVAL in 2009

Next year it will be the 25th time that Kochi is celebrating the carnival and the mayor told that it will be made a grand event next year with funds from the Kerala government.

KJ Sohan said that when Mahatma Gandhi came to Veli beach in Kochi during pre independence he quoted “KOCHI AS EPITOME OF ADVENTURE”. Sohan also added that next years carnival must be made a huge event and its fame to reach all over the world.

Bane for Fortkochi?

One bug and the whole history and culture of Fortkochi is under threat. I am talking about the creepy crawly Shafique (17) who was arrested for molesting a Swedish lady. Though the Swedish faction didn’t file a complaint he was arrested and the procedures followed by Kochi police really deserve accolades considering the Mumbai event where the City Commissioner said not to blow up the incidence and failed to take action.

This incidence caught national attention. “We can’t let the hooligan’s escape” this is what the Kochi city police commissioner said after arresting the culprit. Mumbai and Kochi is often ranked high for safety for women, but one sinister affair like this can spoil all the other great things whatever it may be. All these events will only contribute to bring down the tourists to India.


ETHNIC FOOD FESTIVAL IN KOCHI


National Ethnic Food and Cultural fest, the first of its kind in the state was conducted in Kochi as there are around 14 major communities in Kochi living in harmony, which is absolutely inimitable anywhere in the world. The fest was conducted from January 5 to 10. The main specialty of the food festival in Kochi was that the food was prepared by the housewives of particular community residing in Kochi.

There were food stalls from Kannada, Andhra, Tamilian, Konkani, Thulu, Punjabi, Oriya, Bengali, Gujarati, North Indian, Rajasthani, Portuguese communities. Also there were stalls for Kerala style, Chinese, Arabian, Italian etc.

The timings were 4.30 pm to 10 pm and the turnout for the event was absolutely overwhelming. There was unimaginable rush at the fest for the last day.

Kochi believe it or not is the only place with such a cultural integrity in the world and it is evident if one takes a ride across the older part of Kochi like Mattancherry and Fortkochi.

LIST OF FOOD – BE READY TO DROOL

The food festival was absolutely a mega event considering that it was Mini India inside the Marine drive Ground where the fest was held.

The Portuguese food stuffs were roasted tongue of cow, tripe of cow, Souvlinge Culculse, roasted duck, Beef vindalu, Bibinca, Matrony etc which were new to Keralites.

The Oriyan delights were Feni, Manda pitha, muga pitha, Chenna poda, Potala kasa, Chhencheda etc which was organized by Cochin Oriya association. Favorites among the Punjabi food were Corn chat, Punjabi bullet, Khas hara bara, tandoor, Ginger chicken etc served along with elegant Punjabi music.

Andhra stall served Hyderabadi dum biriyani, chicken biriyani, chilli bhajji, special dosa etc. Kerala Banga Samskriti Sanga also had attractive stall serving typical Bengali fish fry etc. Kannada stall served Aval, Nippatu, Jowar roti, Dharwad peda, Bhajji, Protien rich soup etc.

Gujarati stall was famous and it contained Dabeli called as Indian burger apart from Parathas and chats. Thulu, North India stall were also with peculiar food items. Thulu stallhad manjal dosa, Boli etc.

The Tamil stall was funny as it served Dosas which were too big and other typical Tamil dishes like Oothappam, Pongal, Curd rice, Puliyodharai etc.

I initially thought that I won’t spend much time in Konkani stall as I am Konkani myself but the stall had some of the special foods that I rarely have eaten. So I got interested and had many other dishes also. There were dishes like Panjagadhayu – Payasam/Kheer, Pal pongal, Hittu, Rontos, Cabbage dosa, Rose milk etc.

These were memorable days that I will hardly forget. Also a stage was set where cultural programs of different communities were held. Thus these festival days made me a binge eater again and I feel myself that I am a food connoisseur from this day.

THUS KOCHI MADE THIS EVENT A BIG HIT AND I AM WAITING FOR THE FOOD FEST OF 2009!!

GCDA and TRIDA will be suspended next year.


The development authorities of the cities of Cochin and Trivandrum will be closed down from next year as claimed the Government. The development body for Calicut city was closed last year in April.

The Government have sent letter to the authorities asking explanation of following matters: Projects undertaken now, Estimate of the projects, Authorities profit for the last 3 years, Expense, Expense for salary, Vacant posts, people working in deputation, number of people working for daily wages etc.

But the decision to close the GCDA is set to cause widespread protest in Kochi considering the development that GCDA has made to The City of Cochin such as Kaloor International Stadium, Marine Drive, Marine Drive Ground Maidan, Subhash Bose Park, Residential colonies, other parks in various parts.

If the decision is implemented then it will be a major set back for the present projects like roofing of the International stadium and Ring road.


  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

Everything You Need to Know About the Dulles International Airport


When many travelers make the decision to visit another country, many try and find an international airport that is located close to their home. That is not always the case with the Dulles International Airport. While the majority of travelers use the Dulles International Airport because it is located within a reasonable distance to their home, not everyone does. Since Dulles is located in Washington, DC, many travelers make the decision to schedule a mini-vacation before they begin their big one, often overseas.

Whether you are a Washington, DC resident or not, there is a good chance that you will use the Dulles International Airport, when it comes to taking a flight across the country. If you are, there are number of things that you should do before you leave for your flight. Perhaps, the first thing that you should do is familiarize yourself with the Dulles International Airport. All travelers, whether you have visited the airport before or not, are encouraged to examine the airport. You will want to be on the lookout for important air travel information, as well as airport changes. One of the best ways to get your research started is to visit the online website of the airport. This can be done by visiting www.metwashairports.com.

Once at the online website for the Dulles International Airport, you will have access to an unlimited amount of information. Some of that information is likely to pertain to air travel rules and safety precautions. You are advised to examine all of this information, especially if you are planning on taking on an international flight. You will want to learn more about the airport baggage screening centers, as well as prohibited items. As with most airports, especially international airports, you will find that security has intensified over the past few years. For this reason, you are advised against taking any unnecessary risk, such as arriving at the airport late or tying to sneak prohibited items in your carryon luggage.

Since the Dulles International Airport is located in the nation’s capital and is one of the most well known international airports in the Untied States, a large number of travelers use the airport. For that reason, you will find that the airport is large in size. This is why it is important that you familiarize yourself with the layout of the airport before arriving there. On the online website for the Dulles International Airport, you should be able to find an airport map, which you can print off for your own viewing. This same information can be found at the airport, but you may benefit from familiarizing yourself with this information ahead of time.

In addition to the location of each airport terminal, you will need to learn about the rest of the airport, namely the parking arrangements. If you are leaving your vehicle behind, while you travel internationally, you will find that you have a number of different options. With long-term parking, you will have to use the airport’s transportation services to make it to the main terminal. With the Dulles International Airport, there is a good chance that you will be relying heavily on this transportation service, especially since not all airport terminals are connected.

As previously mentioned, you should review the online website of the Dulles International Airport. If, by chance, you do not find what you are looking for, you are urged to contact the airport’s customer service department. When taking an international flight, especially at an airport the size of Dulles International, you are advised against arriving without knowing what is in store for you.

  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

NEW INTERNATIONAL STADIUM CONFIRMED TO COME IN ERNAKULAM (COCHIN)

Now it is all confirmed that the New International Stadium will come up in kochi which will be owned by Kerala Cricket Association (KCA). It was confirmed by KCA Secretary T.C Mathew. KCA decided to have a stadium of its own as a part of BCCI decision not to conduct cricket matches after 2010 in those states which do not have stadium of its own. At present only Kerala, Tripura and Goa don't have a stadium of its own.

The stadium will be functional by 2010, after which Kochi will be a test venue;and it will be a dream come true for Kerala.

Earlier BCCI had decided to give Rs.25 crores as grant to construct stadium. But now the grant have been raised to Rs.50 crores considering the skyrocketing of prices in Kochi and its suburbs.
KCA can use up to Rs 25 crores to buy land. A land area of 40 acres is planned for the stadium so that the seating capacity can be up to 50,000. The stadium will have other most modern facilities like the Cricket Clubs and other recreational facilities matching with other international stadias abroad.

Earlier the cricket stadium was planned to build in Wayanad district. Then the plan was changed to build stadium in Thiruvananthapuram either in Kazhakuttam or in Kudapanakunnu considering Trivandrum's history of hosting international matches in 1980's in the University stadium.

University stadium was a regular venue for Ranji Trophy matches from 1953 onwards. The stadium which was constructed in 1952 was considered as the domestic ground of Kerala Cricket. By the end of 80’s cricket was shifted to other grounds. Now Fort Maidan in Palakkad is a regular venue for first class matches.

At some point of time it was thought that Kochi will lose the race for the stadium also to Trivandrum, like Kochi lost railway division in 1992 under political pressure to Trivandrum; Trivandrum Central was chosen over Cochin Harbour Terminus for the railway division under the political game, even when Trivandrum was much smaller station than the Cochin Harbour Terminus from where the most of the trains used to start. Now Cochin Harbour Terminus(picture shown) is a nostalgic event in the minds of keralites as here now only Goods Carriers arrive due to the presence of Cochin Port.

But considering the fact that Kochi has the best chance to attract Cricket due to past success had probably lead KCA to have their stadium in Ernakulam District.

A Glimpse of Cricketing History in Kerala:

Lord Arthur Wellesley is believed to have introduced this game in Kerala in the 18th century for the British Soldiers in the Tellichery Fort. It is recorded in the history that the first Cricket Club was formed in 1860 at Tellichery, which was later renamed as Town Cricket Club. During 1950s Foot ball took over the minds of north Keralites and cricket became an active game in Thiruvananthapuram and Thripoonithura. In Thripoonithura the royal family patronized the game very actively and formed a club - The Thripoonithura Cricket club in 1935. The Club started organizing a Cricket tournament as part of the Navarathri festival (Pooja festival, as it is locally known). The tournament continues un-interruptedly even on these days and still it is conducted during the Pooja holidays. It is popularly known as the Pooja Cricket Tournament and arguably one of the best organized all India tournaments in Kerala. They are probably the only Cricket Club in Kerala having their own stadium and turf Pitch. K V Kelappan Thampuran was the livewire behind the great achievements of TCC.


The International Matches held in Trivandrum(stadium shown here):

Two Matches held-
1) India vs Australia on Oct 1, 1984 - No Result
2) India vs west Indies 0n Jan 25,1988 - WI won by 9 wickets.


International Cricket Matches held in Kochi:

1) April 1, 1998 - India v/s Australia
2) March 3, 2000 - India v/s South
Africa
3) March 13, 2002 - India v/s Zimbabwe, India lost
4) April 2, 2005 - India v/s Pakistan
5) April 6, 2006 - India v/s England
6) October 2, 2007 - India v/s Australia, India lost


Some Facts on Kochi Stadium
:

Highest attendance for Match: India vs Iran football match of One Lakh!
Highest Money Grosser was : India vs Pakistan on April 2005.
An attendance of 85,000 reported in the last match held versus Australia in 2007.

Kochi Stadium is the Forth largest stadium in India:

1) Salt lake stadium, Kolkata - 120,000.
2) Eden Gardens, Kolkata - 120,000.
3) Jawaharlal Nehru stadium, New Delhi - 100,000.
4) Jawaharlal Nehru stadium, Kochi - 60,000.
5) Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore - 55,000.


KOCHI STADIUM IS THE THIRD LARGEST CRICKET STADIUM IN INDIA(from the above list, Salt lake is not a cricketing venue). (link)
(also this link)

Tit Bits:

As a matter of fact Kochi stadium is 157th largest stadium in the world and the chinnaswamy stadium, Bangalore is 200th largest.
(see the link)



The Maharaja's stadium in Ernakulam is the only stadium with synthetic track in Kerala. Although the stadium in Trivandrum was the first synthetic track stadium, it has been damaged now due to poor maintenance and it is not 8 lane as that of Kochi.

The KCA is on a hunt to get appropriate land of its own in Kochi for setting up a stadium.
Kochi is again proving that it is not only the Commercial, Industrial, Tourism and Trade capital of kerala but also the Cricket Capital of Kerala.(link)

Along with the major projects happening in Kochi, this stadium will also boost the importance of kochi.
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS

Airport Flight

Airports in Iraq
Baghdad International Airport is the biggest in Iraq, with six other international airports in the country. Basra International Airport is another major airport in Iraq.

Baghdad International Airport used to be known as Saddam International Airport. It is about 16 kilometers West of Baghdad that remains a commercial and military airport to this day. One side houses military incline, the other houses the terminal. Baghdad International Airport has undergone a series of upgrades with funds coming from the United States. Presently much of the facility is used for Iraqi air force operations and a few chartered flights.

Basra International Airport (BIA), meanwhile, is the 2nd largest airport in Iraq. It is located south of Iraq and north of Basra City. At the height of the Gulf Wars, BIA stopped its operations but was re-opened in 2005. The first flight it received was a Boeing 727 from Baghdad.

BIA links Iraq and Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Arabian Gulf. BIA is undergoing major rebuilding today. This is in hopes of making Basra a commercial and industrial zone in Iraq. The present airport will be redesigned to become a gateway for business and travel passengers. The United Kingdom is partnering with the local government in the project.

The Republic of Iraq has been at the center of international attention in the past two decades. It has been freed from the dictatorial regime of Saddam Hussein. Iran is an oil-rich country, but was heavily damaged as a consequence of the Iran-Iraq War. Today it is in the midst of reconstruction, with help from donor countries and the United Nations.
  • Digg
  • Del.icio.us
  • StumbleUpon
  • Reddit
  • Twitter
  • RSS