COASTAL BEAUTY AND CULTURAL RICHNESS TAKE CENTRE STAGE AT VISAKHA UTSAV 2026 The much-awaited Visakha Utsav 2026 has officially kicked off, marking the beginning of an exciting nine-day celebration from January 24 to February 1. With the theme “Sea to Sky”, this year’s edition brings the coastal charm and rich cultural heritage of Visakhapatnam and surrounding regions into the spotlight. The festival, which spans more than 20 venues across the coastal stretch of Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, and Araku Valley, promises an exhilarating mix of over 500 events. From cultural performances and traditional folk dances to beach activities, drone shows, and thrilling adventure sports, the festival is set to offer something for everyone. Among the key attractions are musical concerts, food festivals, handicraft exhibitions, and engaging competitions for all ages. The iconic RK Beach serves as the central hub for live performances, laser shows, and entertainment, bringing together art lovers and tourists from various corners of the country. Visitors can also experience the flower show at VMRDA Central Park, featuring a diverse range of unique floral displays. Additionally, the festival will highlight the cultural richness of the Araku Valley, showcasing tribal art, crafts, and local traditions. With a surge in both domestic and international tourists, Visakha Utsav has become a major draw, contributing to regional tourism growth and providing an economic boost to local businesses. As the festival continues to unfold, the city’s status as a premier cultural and travel destination is further cemented.

ECOR WOMEN''S WELFARE ORGANISATION, WALTAIR, REACHES OUT WITH HUMANITARIAN AID TO PATIENTS AND HEALTH UNITS Demonstrating a strong commitment to social responsibility and compassion, the Waltair Division of the East Coast Railway Women’s Welfare Organisation (ECoRWWO) carried out a charitable outreach programme aimed at supporting patients and enhancing healthcare facilities. The initiative was led by the organisation’s President, Smt. Jyostna Bohra, along with dedicated executive members. As part of the programme, ECoRWWO distributed over 200 fruit packets, baby care kits for newborns, and health drinks for cancer and TB patients, offering vital nutritional assistance. Luggage bags were also provided to in-patients to help make their hospital stay more comfortable during treatment and recovery. To further strengthen medical infrastructure, the organisation donated three-seater visitor chairs to health units at Marripalem, Vadlapudi, Diesel Loco Shed, Srikakulam, and Vizianagaram, improving seating facilities for attendants and visitors. Additionally, a hi-tech hot and normal water purifier was presented to the Divisional Health Unit, ensuring access to safe drinking water for both patients and healthcare staff. Addressing the gathering, Smt. Jyostna Bohra reaffirmed ECoRWWO’s dedication to community welfare, noting that such initiatives aim to bring comfort, dignity, and care to those in need.