Groundbreaking rescue of trapped workers in India, Abu Dhabi's International Airport soars to new heights, and other trending stories, Gulf News Editors comment on November 28 top news

ALL EYES ON INDIA RESCUE: In a remarkable feat of determination and collaboration, rescuers have successfully reached and are in the process of extracting 41 workers trapped for 17 days in a collapsed tunnel in the Indian Himalayas. The rescue teams, facing the daunting challenge of navigating through rock and rubble in the mountainous state of Uttarakhand, employed meticulous techniques, including the "rat-hole" mining method. This successful operation not only highlights technical triumph but also emphasises the synergy between soldiers, skilled miners, and various rescue teams. The incident underscores the challenges faced in the Himalayan terrain and the importance of investing in advanced technologies for efficient rescue operations. The successful rescue serves as a beacon of hope, showcasing the resilience of humanity in the face of nature's formidable forces. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

Abu Dhabi’s new airport aspires to close 2023 with 22 million passengers: As the year draws to a close, Abu Dhabi's new international airport is poised to wrap up 2023 with a remarkable achievement – an anticipated 22 million passengers. Bolstered by its performance in the fourth quarter and the winter season, the airport is set to surpass its 2022 record of 15.9 million passengers. Notably, this winter season alone has seen a 20 per cent growth in passenger numbers. What sets this airport apart is its integration of advanced biometrics at key touchpoints, allowing the seamless processing of 11,000 passengers per hour. From curb to gate, the entire journey takes a mere 12 minutes. Looking ahead, growth remains a key focus, with authorities already revisiting the masterplan. Among the initiatives in progress is the development of a satellite facility in the Eastern area of the airport, said Sulaiman Daoud Al Siksek, the Chief Programs Officer at Abu Dhabi International Airport. Aligned with the national airline Etihad’s plans to double its fleet by 2030, the airport’s expansion will go hand-in-hand with passenger growth. (By Dhanusha Gokulan, Chief Reporter- Business)

THE CHILD FUND: Dubai Health's launch of 'The Child Fund' is a momentous stride towards prioritising paediatric healthcare. With an annual commitment of Dh50 million ($13.6 million), this pioneering fund, unveiled at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital in the esteemed presence of Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, is set to offer critical medical treatment to 3,000 children each year. The initiative underscores Dubai's unwavering dedication to child-friendly healthcare, emphasising quality and excellence. Sheikh Mansoor, during his tour of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, expressed gratitude to donors, recognising their pivotal role in upholding Dubai's health system's highest standards. This philanthropic endeavour mirrors the enduring values of generosity and compassion ingrained in the UAE's society, solidifying the nation's commitment to providing exemplary healthcare, especially for its youngest citizens. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

CRISTIANO RONALDO’S ACTION SENDS OUT A CLEAR MESSAGE: Cristiano Ronaldo, a global icon in the world of football, recently demonstrated sportsmanship during an AFC Champions League match against Iran's Persepolis in Riyadh. Despite being awarded a penalty after appearing to be fouled inside the box, Ronaldo approached the referee and insisted there was no foul. The referee, after consulting the VAR, reversed the decision. The match concluded in a 0-0 draw, emphasising that while winning is crucial in sports, playing with integrity is equally significant. Ronaldo's honest conduct serves as an exemplary lesson for aspiring youth, highlighting the true essence of sport beyond mere victories. In this instance, the 38-year-old athlete demonstrated how to uphold the spirit of the game on the grandest stage, where millions of eyes scrutinise every move. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

OSCAR WINNER TILDA SWINTON PLAYS BY HER OWN RULES: Oscar-winning Scottish actress and fashion icon Tilda Swinton, celebrated for her roles in Hollywood blockbusters like 'Michael Clayton,' 'Doctor Strange,' and 'Avengers: Endgame,' adamantly rejects the label of a mere heavyweight in that realm. "I am not in Hollywood... I am on another planet," said Swinton during a recent round-table discussion at the Marrakech International Film Festival. This statement underscores her intention to distance herself from the conventional Hollywood star archetype and from the industry's typical trappings. It looks like the androgynous 63-year-old actor, seamlessly navigating between festival-friendly films and commercial hits, appears to have found a refreshing approach to her craft. For this remarkable talent, authenticity trumps conformity and we wish actors were cut from this cloth more. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)