The weekly weird

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The world’s narrowest house

In Aucallama, northern Peru, a house just 63 centimetres wide is drawing crowds and attention worldwide. Owned by resident Fabio Moreno, the ultra-slim home squeezes a bathroom, kitchen, dining area, bedroom, study, laundry space and even two staircases into a structure barely wider than a doorway.

Moreno designed the house to show that happiness doesn’t rely on square footage but on making the most of what you have. Brightly painted and strikingly narrow, visiting the interior is tricky as two people can barely pass each other inside.

The house has been submitted to Guinness World Records for the title of “world’s narrowest house”, pending verification of its measurements and technical documentation.

Robot repairs live power line

A robot developed in China has successfully carried out repairs on a 10 kV power line, replacing human electricians for the first time.

Created by the Hubei Electric Power Research Institute and State Grid Wuhan Power Supply Company, the robot uses laser technology to strip insulation, connect wires and secure them with high precision.

The operation took place in Hubei Province, where the robot handled live wires safely, a task usually done by workers in protective gear under risky conditions.

Experts say such robots could reduce accidents and improve safety by taking over dangerous electrical repair work.

Mini sports cars for adults go viral

S.T.A.Y. Automotive in Shanghai is creating scaled-down versions of iconic sports cars that are built for adults and packed with power.

These include a mini Porsche 964, cost under $9,000 and can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h. Despite their toy-like size, they feature rear-wheel drive, electric motors and even engine sound simulators for a realistic driving feel.

The cars gained global attention after viral videos showed drivers drifting them in Kuwait City. Each vehicle is about 2.2 metres long, supports up to 300 kg and can be customised in design and features.

Other models include mini versions of the Toyota Sprinter Trueno AE86, Mazda RX-7 and Nissan GT-R R34, with prices starting around $5,000.

Student dies after marathon gaming session

A university student in Taiwan suffered a fatal brain haemorrhage after playing video games nonstop for four days and three nights, according to ICU nurse Lin Ting.

Despite his mother’s warnings, the student continued gaming with only short breaks. He later collapsed and was rushed to hospital, where doctors found a ruptured cerebral artery causing severe bleeding.

Emergency surgery was performed, but he remained on life support. After months without recovery, his family decided to withdraw care.

Experts warn that extreme sleep deprivation, stress and prolonged screen time can increase the risk of serious conditions like brain haemorrhage, even in young people.

Published in Dawn, Young World, April 18th, 2026

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