Pak solider dies, 11 wounded in firing by Afghan Taliban forces
Islamabad, Dec 29: A Pakistan paramilitary soldier has been killed and 11 others injured in firing by the Afghan Taliban forces at the border posts of Pakistan troops, days after strikes by Pakistan targeted the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP) militants. According to defence sources, the Afghan troops resorted to “unprovoked fire on multiple Pakistani border posts” in the Upper Kurram district on Saturday morning. They fired at posts in Ghozgarhi, Matha Sangar, Kot Ragha and Tari Mengal areas using both light and heavy weaponry, sources said. Pakistani forces retaliated, inflicting significant losses on the other side as seven to eight personnel of the Afghan forces were killed in the exchange of fire, sources added. However, in the fire exchange, a “Frontier Constabulary soldier was killed and 11 others were injured”. (PTI)
3 migrants die off French coast in Channel crossing attempt
Paris, Dec 29: At least three migrants died early Sunday while attempting to cross the English Channel to Britain from northern France, authorities said. The deaths were confirmed after an early morning rescue operation involving French emergency services and the navy’s “Dauphin” helicopter. Around 50 people were stranded in the water and on the beach near Sangatte at around 6 am, according to the regional prefecture. Rescuers assisted 45 individuals, including four who were transported to hospitals. Three unconscious people were pulled from the water but could not be revived, despite efforts by medical teams. (AP)
China unveils world’s fastest high-speed train prototype
Beijing, Dec 29: China on Sunday unveiled an updated model of its high-speed bullet train which its manufacturer claims reached speeds of 450 kmph during the test runs, making it the world’s fastest high-speed train. According to the China State Railway Group Co (China Railway), the new model, known as the CR450 prototype, will further shorten travel time and improve connectivity, making travel more convenient and efficient for the country’s vast passengers. The CR450 prototype reached a test speed of 450 kmph, with key performance indicators – operational speed, energy consumption, interior noise, and braking distance – setting a new international benchmark. (PTI)
Air Canada flight catches fire on landing
Ottawa, Dec 29: An Air Canada flight coming from St John’s city on Newfoundland Island had a rough landing at the Halifax airport in Goffs in Nova Scotia province that saw the aircraft skid down the runway and part of it catching fire. A statement issued by the airport said the incident involved Air Canada Flight 2259, which was operated by PAL Airlines, CBC News reported. The incident happened around 9:30 pm local time. The statement does not say how many people were on the plane, but were evacuated, and then taken to a hangar to be checked out by paramedics. (AP)