Editor,
In the dynamic realm of aviation, one story stands out: that of Captain Sully Sullenberger and US Airways Flight 1549. On January 15, 2009, Sullenberger masterfully glided an Airbus A320 into the Hudson River after a flock of Canadian geese incapacitated both engines. A research paper from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau, titled ‘The Hazard Posed to Aircraft by Birds,’ reveals that bird strikes represent a staggering cost of approximately 3 billion US dollars every year presenting a credible threat. The paper proposes solutions like the Avian Hazard Advisory System, which, while potentially expensive for countries like India, is a worthy investment. Working with private entities, air traffic control operations, and conducting aviation safety workshops with experienced pilots and environmental experts could significantly reduce the risks posed by wildlife strikes.
Moreover, we cannot overlook the critical issue of software malfunctions during flight. Take, for instance, the unsettling experience of Qantas Flight 72 (QF72) on October 7, 2008, when an air data inertial reference system failure led to uncommanded pitch-down problems. Such incidents underscore the necessity for pilots to learn from the past in order to ensure safer skies.
As we look ahead, it is essential to acknowledge the alarming increase in turbulence due to climate change, which now affects aircraft performance. Wind shear and thunderstorms can lead to unpredictable flight issues, posing serious challenges towards cabin safety. In the complex landscape of the airline industry, accidents arise from multiple interconnected factors, necessitating thorough investigations in collaboration with agencies like the US National Transportation Safety Board would clear the smoke screen.
Boeing’s past struggles with the 737 Max and now the Dreamliner have raised profound questions about the integrity in data segmentation and leadership practices within the company. The tragic crash in Ahmedabad serves as a chilling reminder of the Saudi Flight 763 disaster, where a Boeing 747 collided with Kazakhstan Airlines Flight 1907 over Charkhi Dadri, marking it as one of the deadliest mid-air collisions in history.
In his compelling book, ‘Fly! : Life Lessons from the Cockpit of QF32, by Richard De Crespigny highlights the critical human element in aviation. He articulates that true strength emerges from teamwork, meticulous risk assessment, and an unwavering spirit of resilience. Embracing these lessons to navigate the uncertain skies of the future would be helpful.
Yours etc.,
Christopher Gatphoh,
Via email
A pot of rice; A world of love: Traditions that bind us
Editor,
In the Pnar culture of the Jaintia Hills, compassion is not just spoken, it is lived. Through the quiet but deeply meaningful traditions of Li e Ja Khonbo and Ja Nam, our people express solidarity in times of both joy and sorrow. “Khonbo” means baby, and “Ja Khonbo” refers to the moment a newborn arrives into the world. During such joyful occasions, relatives, friends, and neighbours come to the family home carrying a small pot of rice often accompanied by Dohseiñ (pork), eggs, or other dishes. This is not just food; it is love carried in silence, a shared gesture that says, “Your joy is our joy too.” In contrast, “Ja Nam” takes place in times of grief when a loved one has passed away. The community again comes together, this time with heavy hearts. With quiet steps and compassionate presence, people offer food to the grieving family not for celebration, but as a way of saying, “You are not alone.” There may be no speeches, but this act speaks deeply
Among the many places where this sacred practice still breathes, Jowai stands out. In its winding lanes and warm households, these customs remain alive not because they are enforced, but because they are cherished. Even as the world changes, these simple acts of empathy continue to thrive here. These practices are guided by unspoken etiquette rooted in humility and respect. The family bringing the pot may keep a small portion of the food for themselves, but they must not eat it in the home where they offer it, especially if they are invited to dine that day. They can eat it later, at their own home, but not in the place where the rice was given. This quiet rule upholds the sincerity of the gesture.
When the receiving family accepts the food, they wash the pot immediately and return it, wrapped in the same cloth it arrived in. The pot must not remain with them, as doing so would be culturally inappropriate it would be as if the act of comfort or solidarity were left incomplete. This return is done swiftly, respectfully, and often without words. What makes these practices truly remarkable is their humble spirit, thoughtful, and deeply human. There is no need for grand offerings or loud declarations. What is shared is simple, but the heart behind it is immense. In this way, the Pnar community keeps something sacred alive; a culture of kindness, discipline, and quiet emotional wisdom.
In a world rushing forward, the Pnar walk steadily, carrying old truths in everyday acts. A pot of rice, offered in silence, binds people in ways that even words cannot. It reminds us that in both celebration and mourning, we are never alone.
Yours etc.,
Teinam Dkhar,
Via email
High-voltage bills shock MeECL consumers
Editor,
MeECL is the powerhouse of Meghalaya — working round the clock to keep our homes and streets lit, come rain or shine. For that, the corporation certainly deserves our appreciation. But let’s be honest, a pat on the back doesn’t mean it’s time to sit back. Reality, as experienced by people, looks very different. Frustration is growing among countless consumers. The complaints are loud and plenty, and they shouldn’t be ignored.
Power cuts in certain localities have become all too frequent. Some people are left fuming when the electricity vanishes right in the middle of their children’s exams; in some places, there are no lights for weeks or months together. Others feel helpless as their monthly bills skyrocket for no clear reason.
Today I speak out not just as a letter-writer to the editor for the public but as someone directly affected — a confused consumer. Till last year, our monthly bill stayed below Rs 600. Now it comes as a shock. Sometimes double. Sometimes triple. After much follow-up, I finally managed to get our meter tested. It was taken away by the lineman and reinstalled after a week — but no test report has been shared with us to date. Despite this, the bill amount seemingly remains the same. Something doesn’t feel right at all.
Here is why it feels even more disappointing. My neighbour, who owns a large house with several tenants and many more electrical points, consistently gets bills between Rs 3,200 and Rs 4,800 — never Rs 9,000 or Rs12,000 like mine. That’s been the case for years. It means there hasn’t been a “huge jump” in the electricity tariff over the last two years. So, where’s the fault? Is it in the meter? The billing system? Or somewhere deeper?
MeECL must take these concerns seriously. This I say in the greater interest of consumers whose pockets are being drained. Listening to people, fixing the flaws, and being transparent — that’s the only way to rebuild poor public trust. The state cannot shine when its people are left in the dark, both literally and figuratively.
Yours etc.,
Salil Gewali,
Shillong