A Chinese secondary school graduate, Yuanyuan, works alongside her single mother at a Guangdong construction site to earn university tuition fees, after sitting for the gaokao exam in June.
Gritt, an AI robotics startup founded by Carnegie Mellon alumni, raised $26 million in Series A funding to deploy intelligent systems that automate solar panel installation. The company uses off-the-shelf hardware and AI models to address labor shortages and accelerate construction, with systems already deployed and contracted for 2.8 gigawatts of solar.
AI robotics startup Gritt secured $26 million in Series A funding, totaling $32 million, to automate solar panel installation. Using off-the-shelf hardware and AI models, Gritt aims to address labor shortages and boost efficiency in the solar energy build-out, with plans to expand to other construction tasks.
Hong Kong police arrested 125 people in a crackdown on a triad group that monopolized construction site lunchbox businesses through intimidation and extortion, while also operating illegal gambling dens.
Victoria's massive 'Big Build' infrastructure projects are reportedly rife with organised crime, intimidation, extortion, fraud, and bribery. The Victorian premier attributes cost escalations to inflation, not corruption, while critics demand a royal commission due to the limited powers of the state's anti-corruption body, Ibac, and the systemic nature of the alleged misconduct.
Mumbai is experiencing a severe water shortage, with restrictions on non-essential use, as monsoon rains arrived late and are insufficient to replenish dwindling reservoirs. Residents face long queues for water, impacting daily life.
The UK's record-breaking heatwave is causing significant economic disruption, with economists warning of productivity losses and damaged growth. The situation highlights inequalities in flexible working and the absence of maximum temperature regulations in many workplaces.
Female comedians in China are using standup to address sexism and societal pressures, gaining a cult following. Despite censorship, they provide a release valve for women frustrated with everyday inequalities, though the line of acceptable topics shifts.
Mumbai's BMC announced further water restrictions, including suspending supply to construction sites and pools and a 20% cut for industries, due to critically low lake water levels (10.35%). These measures, effective June 17, add to existing cuts, with delayed monsoons cited as the cause.
Hong Kong proposes new fire safety amendments, including a smoking ban at construction sites, following the deadly Wang Fuk Court inferno. The rules take effect July 17 after Legco approval.
Hong Kong will ban smoking at construction sites from July 17 following a deadly blaze. Amendments to existing ordinances will designate sites as no-smoking areas, with fines for workers and contractors.
