Emirates recycling milestone, Drake & Scull's moment of reckoning, KL Rahul’s form, our editors comment on the top stories of Feb 23

Drake & Scull International Awaits A Defining Moment: Through the decades, Drake & Scull International has had a hand in creating some of the legacy structures of the UAE landscape, and later having those same skillsets transplanted into projects elsewhere in the region. But these five years, the company had been preoccupied with weightier matters – to find ways that can ensure its survival. What DSI needs urgently is a crack at a sweeping financial restructuring to give itself a better chance to create new contract and funding sources and slowly pay off its debts. An upcoming decision by the Court of Cassation will have a decisive say in what DSI’s future will be. DSI is a UAE company with a storied past – the company can do with all the help it can get for the present. (By Manoj Nair, Business Editor)

THERE’S VALUE IN TRASH: By collecting discarded bottles onboard for repurposing, Emirates has recycled more than 500 tonnes of plastic and glass in 2022. That’s nearly the weight a fully-loaded A380 aircraft. By making blankets made out of recycled plastic, and kids’ backpack and duffle bag from recycled plastic bottles — a laudable move that has prevented eight million plastic bottles from reaching landfills — this eco-friendly initiative speaks volumes about practical actions that help the planet. It’s one creative example of what industry can do to lessen carbon footprint and is certainly worth emulating. Every kg of waste turned away from landfills and converted into something useful (and exciting for young flyers) adds value to environmental preservation, and humanity as a whole. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

TIME FOR KL RAHUL TO WORK ON HIS MENTAL ASPECT: Beleaguered Indian opener KL Rahul needs to go back to the basics as he is likely to be axed for the final two Tests against Australia. The top of the professional space looks rosy from outside and it’s a cruel, ruthless world, with no room for any slip ups. Rahul, though, can’t complain as he got a fair share of leniency despite his lack of consistency in Tests. Even luck won’t favour you when you’re having a lean run. Now the stylish batter should use this time and reflect on his mental aspect of the game, as there is nothing wrong with his technique. A timely break will only make him stronger to fight for his place in the team and create a healthy competition among the players. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

BHAVANA MENON’S A PORTRAIT OF GRIT AND GRACE: South Indian actress and sexual assault survivor Bhavana Menon has become the portrait of resilience and quiet strength. In February 2017, the actress was returning from filming in Kerala when she was allegedly abducted and sexually assaulted in a moving vehicle by a group of men. A popular actor and producer was accused of orchestrating the attack that involved filming the violent act in order to blackmail her later. But Bhavana hasn’t let that sordid crime define her existence. She’s now making her comeback into Malayalam films. Earlier, the very thought of re-entering that industry triggered unpleasant memories. While the case is still under trial, Bhavana has conquered her fears and taken the plunge. She tells us that she has occasional meltdowns and anxiety attacks, but she hasn’t let it break her spirit. Here’s to women, like her, who speak their truth and lead their life with dignity even under fire. We need more such survivors to chart their own journeys. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)