World News
Omicron fallout: Over 4,000 flights canceled world over on Christmas weekend
![Omicron fallout: Over 4,000 flights canceled world over on Christmas weekend Omicron fallout: Over 4,000 flights canceled world over on Christmas weekend](https://rscdn.rsifpl.com/file/ihtlivedotcom/ihtlivecom251221/iht.jpg)
Over the Christmas weekend, commercial airlines around the world cancelled more than 4,300 flights because of the increasing wave of Covid-19 infections driven by Omicron variants, which brought greater uncertainty and pain to holiday travelers.
According to statistics on flight tracking website FlightAware.com, global airlines cancelled at least 2,366 flights on Friday, which occurred on Christmas Eve, which is usually a busy day for air travel. Nearly 9,000 flights were delayed.
According to the website, 1,616 flights worldwide were cancelled on Christmas Day, and 365 flights were cancelled on Sunday.
FlightAware data shows that commercial air traffic within the United States and in and out of the country accounted for more than a quarter of all cancelled flights over the weekend.
The first American airlines to report cancellations over holiday weekends include United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. They cancelled nearly 280 flights on Friday alone, citing a surge in Covid-19 infections and a shortage of personnel.
Due to the highly contagious variant Omicron, Covid-19 infections have surged in the United States in recent days. The variant was first detected in November and now accounts for nearly three-quarters of U.S. cases, and up to 90% in certain areas, such as the East Coast.
According to Reuters statistics, in the past week, the average number of new coronavirus cases per day in the United States increased by 45% to 179,000.
On Friday alone, New York reported more than 44,000 newly confirmed infections, breaking the state’s daily record. At least 10 other states set new single-day case records on Thursday or Friday.
The increase in hospital admissions has dealt a particularly severe blow to the health care system in the Midwest, with intensive care units in Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan preparing for the worst, even though they are still under pressure from an early wave of delta variant cases. In the UK, many industries and transportation networks are self-isolating due to sick workers. They are trying to solve the problem of manpower shortage, and hospitals have also warned that this may affect patient safety.
According to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics on Thursday, one in ten Londoners was infected with Covid-19 last week, and this number may rise to one in ten by the beginning of next week. https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/one-10-londoners-likely-infected-with-covid-ons-models-2021-12-24
According to government data, the number of new infections nationwide reached a record of 122,186 on Friday, which is the third day when the number of known cases exceeds 100,000.
Although recent studies have shown that Omicron produces milder illnesses and lower hospitalization rates compared to previous variants of Covid-19, health officials remain cautious about the outlook.
Jenny Harris, the director of the British Health and Security Agency, told the BBC: “There is a glimmer of hope for Christmas…but it is definitely not so serious that we can downgrade this serious threat.”
Complete News Source : Hindustan Times
Hollywood
Review of the spy thriller “Heart of Stone”: Alia Bhatt shines.
In a realm where intrigue and suspense collide, Bollywood’s beloved star Alia Bhatt has once again proven her mettle in the enthralling spy thriller “Heart of Stone.” Directed by the visionary Raj Mehta, this cinematic marvel takes audiences on a roller-coaster ride through espionage, deception, and unrelenting action, with Bhatt’s luminous performance at its epicenter.
A Glimpse into the Plot
“Heart of Stone” delves into the shadowy world of espionage, where nothing is as it seems, and allegiances can crumble in an instant. Bhatt’s character, Maya Verma, is a compelling enigma—a resolute intelligence operative navigating a labyrinth of covert operations and intricate deceptions. As the layers of the narrative peel away, Maya finds herself ensnared in a high-stakes game where trust is elusive and danger lurks in every frame.
The Resplendent Alia Bhatt
Alia Bhatt’s portrayal of Maya Verma is nothing short of a revelation. Known for her remarkable versatility, Bhatt imbues Maya with a potent mix of strength and vulnerability. With every expression, every gesture, she breathes life into a character that resonates on both emotional and cerebral levels. Bhatt’s artistry reaches its zenith as Maya grapples with inner demons while outwitting her adversaries—a captivating dance that only an actress of her caliber could orchestrate.
Raj Mehta’s Directorial Panache
Raj Mehta, celebrated for his directorial finesse, orchestrates the tapestry of “Heart of Stone” with masterful precision. Seamlessly weaving heart-thumping action sequences and labyrinthine plot twists, Mehta keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. His meticulous attention to detail manifests in every scene, painting a cinematic canvas that’s as thrilling as it is visually arresting.
Supporting Cast: A Tapestry of Brilliance
The constellation of talent in “Heart of Stone” goes beyond Alia Bhatt. The ensemble cast, featuring Rajkummar Rao, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Vicky Kaushal, contributes to the film’s tapestry with their impeccable performances. The chemistry between the characters adds depth to the narrative, amplifying the emotional resonance and enriching the overall storytelling.
A Symphony of Cinematic Excellence
“Heart of Stone” is an embodiment of cinematic finesse. The film’s production values, from picturesque locations to evocative cinematography, envelop the viewer in a sensory feast. The musical score, composed with an acute understanding of the narrative’s ebbs and flows, elevates the tension and emotions, further ensnaring the audience in the movie’s spellbinding aura.
A Triumph of Genre Fusion
Critics and audiences alike have bestowed “Heart of Stone” with effusive praise for its seamless fusion of espionage, action, and drama. The film’s ingenious plot twists, coupled with Alia Bhatt’s extraordinary performance, thrust it into the echelons of standout espionage thrillers. It’s a symphony of storytelling that resonates long after the credits roll.
In a year replete with cinematic treasures, “Heart of Stone” stands tall as an embodiment of brilliance. Alia Bhatt’s luminosity shines with unparalleled intensity, solidifying her place as one of Bollywood’s brightest stars. This cinematic tour de force is a must-watch, an experience that unearths the magic created when remarkable talent converges to craft an indelible cinematic journey.
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