Over 20 students injured after school bus falls into gorge in Kollam
Champions Boat League: Keralas snakeboats to set sail for another season of fierce rivalries
This season, the league will feature 14 races, beginning on Pampa river at Kainakary in Kuttanad, Alappuzha, on September 19. The nearly three-month-long pan-Kerala event is set to conclude with Presidents Trophy on Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam on December 6
Anganwadi teacher in Kerala suspended for pinching child
KOLLAM: An Anganwadi teacher at Panayam, Eroor panchayat, has been suspended for seven days pending an inquiry for allegedly pinching and injuring a four-and-a-half-year-old boy. The action followed a meeting on Friday attended by ICDS officials and a gram panchayat member, where the teacher, Shobhana Kumari of Anganwadi No. 85, was asked to explain the incident. The boys parents alleged that the teacher harassed him for not reciting a letter. They said the child cried while being bathed that evening and had black marks on both thighs. They also claimed to have noticed similar injuries earlier. ICDS officials clarified that there is no instruction to force children to learn the alphabet at Anganwadis. The child was treated at the Anchal government hospital, and a complaint was filed with the Eroor police.
KOCHI: Development work at the Ernakulam Junction railway station is likely to be delayed as a decision on appointing a new contractor may be taken only after one-and-a-half month. Work at the Ernakulam Town railway station too seems to be progressing at a slow pace. Sources in the railways said tenders submitted by six firms were opened on September 12. We will be carefully studying each document and conduct a thorough check to verify the credentials of the interested companies, said a Railway official. Work at Ernakulam Junction began in 2022, with an estimated deadline of 2025. The Rs 350-crore project was delayed due to the inefficiency of the contractor, Bridge and Roof Company (India). It was also found the work by contractor was sub-par. Hence, it was decided to terminate the contract and blacklist the firm from undertaking any railway projects, said the official. Owing to the delay passengers are having a tough time navigating the new arrangements. It is a mess. There is no end in sight to a work that we thought would finish in two years. Until last week, approach road to the stations makeshift main entrance was a muddy mess. Though the passengers kept seeking a solution throughout monsoon, the authorities woke up after the rain stopped, said Paul Manvattom, president, All Kerala Railway Users Association (AKRUA). He asked: How can a public sector entity be so careless in awarding such a big contract, and that too in a city as important as Ernakulam, to a company that has no expertise? Paul alleged the progress of work at Ernakulam Town station had slowed down too. As per the proposed plan for Ernakulam Junction, a separate, three-storey building will be built on the eastern side. It will have a passenger booking facility, a hospital and administrative offices. On the western side, a four-storey building will house a ticketing area, waiting lounges and a commercial area with connectivity to all platforms. Ernakulam Junction handles over 1.96 crore passengers annually. The railways expects the upgrade will accommodate the exponential growth in passenger traffic in future. The Ministry of Railways has also selected Ernakulam Town and Kollam stations for major revamping. Re-development of Ernakulam Town station was awarded as an EPC contract to M/s RANK Projects and Development Pvt Ltd, for an amount of Rs 150.28 crore on August 29, 2022. Its deadline is 36 months. Ernakulam Town station handles over 90 scheduled daily train services. Categorised as an NSG-3 station, it registers an annual passenger footfall of 1.02 crore an average daily footfall of 28,000. The Ernakulam Town to Kayankulam railway line passes through Kottayam district with major stations at Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Mavelikkara. Ernakulam Jn rly station First tendered: August 2022 First contractor: Kolkata-based Bridge and Roof Company (India) Project cost: Rs 350 crore Deadline: 36 months Status: Work stopped, new tender floated, decision on new contractor in approximately two months Passenger footfall: Over 1.96 crore annually Ernakulam Town rly station First tendered: August 29, 2022 Contractor: M/s RANK Projects and Development Pvt Ltd Project cost: Rs 150.28 crore Deadline: 36 months Status: Ongoing, work on multi-level parking and west terminal building nearing completion. No status on air concourse, foot overbridge, skywalk connectivity, platform upgradation Passenger footfall: Over 1.02 crore annually
Isaac George and Biljith Biju inspire surge in organ donation pledges across Kerala
KOCHI: Biljith Biju and Isaac George, two youngsters who were declared brain dead last week, have, through organ donation, served a purpose beyond saving lives raising awareness of the importance of their life-affirming acts of eternal kindness. And, this has reflected in the number of organ-donation pledges made in the state on Friday and Saturday. On September 13, 191 people pledged to donate organs after their death. The number was 193 on September 12. Factors like acceptance and the honour donors and their families receive, and the improved quality of life of recipients have motivated the public to pledge their organs. The impact of the recent development is reflected in the rise in the number of people who have registered for organ donation in the past two days. People across Kerala are now pledging to do so. There has been a notable increase in awareness about organ donation, said Dr Noble Gracious, executive director of the Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (K-SOTTO). Of the 534 organ-donation pledges made in the state in September, 384 were made on September 12 and 13, following the examples set by the families of Kottarakkara native Isaac, who was 33, and Nedumbassery teenager Biljith. There were a total of 503 pledges made in August. The decision by the families of teh youngsters declared brain dead comes when there are controversies surrounding organ donation. With news and information about the donors and recipients circulating on social media, the public has become more aware. It has motivated many people to donate organs after death too, said Gopikrishnan K M, vice chairman of Liver Foundation . Kerala, which works to promote organ donation in the state. The shift is not specific to a particular age group or geographical area and is reflected across the state, in people of all age groups. Of the total pledges, Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Kollam districts registered the most number. More youngsters now willing to donate organs It is not just about the number of people pledging. The rising numbers indicate that these two individuals and their families have set an example and helped raise awareness. The development has a long-term impact, he said, adding that through government initiatives and summits of families, the government has also been raising awareness. Gopikrishnan added that more youngsters are now willing to donate organs. The efforts of state and non-governmental organisations have resulted in encouraging people to do so. Pledges soar Of the 534 organ-donation pledges made in the state in September, 384 were made on September 12 and 13 On Sept 13, 191 people pledged to donate organs after their death. The number was 193 on September 12.
Kerala urban push: Fintech hub, fashion city on cards
KOCHI: Keralas new urban vision aims to turn its cities into specialised growth centres, linking economic development with local strengths while ensuring fair distribution of resources. The Kerala Urban Planning Commission (KUPC) has recommended a slate of city-specific clusters from a Thrissur-Kochi Fintech hub and a Thiruvananthapuram-Kollam Knowledge Corridor to a Kannur Fashion City and Kozhikode Literature City. Industrial Smart Cities are planned for Palakkad and Kasaragod, while Kannur-Kasaragod and Thrissur-Ernakulam will be developed as education and health hubs. According to experts, the proposals build on Keralas distinctive development model that balanced social equity with growth, but they also warn that the next leap requires fresh state-led investments. Kerala has been good at distributing resources and able to provide employment, and spatial and social transformation. The majority of growth and employment in the state comes from the tertiary sector. Now Kerala needs state-led investment plans. Capacity to invest should also be improved. So the state has a role of catalyst and needs to reinvent the city structure, said Tikendar Singh Panwar, former deputy mayor of the Shimla Municipal Corporation and a member of KUPC. The focus is not just on Keralas traditional growth hubs. Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram are saturated now. We need to focus on Malabar areas. With Mangaluru port and Kannur airport nearby, we have better connectivity. The traditional industries in Malabar areas should be revived and developed, said K S Hari, another KUPC member. Hari added that Kerala must turn its knowledge base into enterprise. Also some of the prominent banks and financial firms in India are from the Thrissur-Ernakulam areas. So we have people who have knowledge. The presence of higher education institutions in Thiruvananthapuram can help make the area a knowledge corridor. We need to translate knowledge and come up with industries, he said. Panwar said Keralas urban trajectory is distinct, with cities merging into rural belts and an industrial policy already in place. One of the pillars of urban development happens to be the co-drivers. Kerala is different in the way the evolution and distribution have happened. Now cities are expanding to rural areas. Also, the state has an industrial policy. We tried to bring in some formulations after referring to the industrial policy, he added. The roadmap is expected to anchor the states upcoming Nava Kerala Urban Policy, which seeks to marry economic growth with inclusive and sustainable urbanisation. Proposed projects Thrissur-Kochi Fintech hub Palakkad and Kasaragod Industrial Smart Cities Thiruvananthapuram-Kollam Knowledge Corridor Kannur Fashion City Kannur-Kasaragod and Thrissur-Ernakulam education and health hubs Kozhikode Literature City The two-day Urban Conclave in Kochi, which brought together 3,115 delegates and 275 speakers, concluded on Saturday with a strong call to professionalise urban governance and prepare Keralas cities for a sustainable future. The conclave saw participation from urban experts from 12 countries, three ministers, four foreign mayors, and eight mayors from Indian states. Minister for Local Self-Government, M B Rajesh, said recommendations include creating business development councils for cities, establishing fact-based governance systems, and setting up urban observatories in all cities within two years, backed by a state-level observatory. Recommendations focus on professionalising urban governance through participatory professionalism, performance-based grading of local bodies and officials, and enhancing citizen participation using technology. A dedicated authority for waste management coordination, digitisation to improve tax collection, leveraging climate funds and green bonds, and encouraging investments from the Malayali diaspora were also proposed, Rajesh said. The event also saw the signing of Letters of Intent with UN-Habitat and UNU-CRIS, and the release of a child- and youth-friendly city charter prepared under the UNICEFs guidance.
Special health clinic for women to be launched on September 16
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Health Minister Veena George has announced that special wellness clinics for women will be launched at all 5,415 public health centres across the state. The clinics will function on every Tuesday. These clinics will focus on identifying and addressing a range of health issues, including malnutrition, diabetes, hypertension, and cancer screening, among others. The initiative is set to be officially launched on September 16. The minister urged women to make the most of this opportunity by attending the clinics and undergoing necessary health check-ups. She also called on health workers to actively encourage women in their communities to participate. Veena George made the announcement while addressing health workers via Facebook Live. Aardra Keralam Award The minister announced the Aardra Keralam Award 2023-24 for local self-government institutions (LSGIs) that have shown outstanding performance in the health sector. The award recognises the significant contributions made by LSGIs through the comprehensive health projects implemented in collaboration with the health department. These initiatives have brought about notable improvements in the states healthcare system. In the first prize category, the Vellinezhi grama panchayat in Palakkad, Palluruthy block panchayat in Ernakulam, Idukki district panchayat, Guruvayur municipality in Thrissur and the Thiruvananthapuram municipal corporation have each been awarded Rs 10 lakh for their outstanding contributions. For the second prize, the Maneed Grama Panchayat in Ernakulam, Neeleswaram Block Panchayat in Kasaragod, Pathanamthitta District Panchayat, Mattannur Municipality in Kannur, and the Kollam municipal corporation have been selected. They will receive cash awards ranging from Rs 5 to Rs 7 lakh.
Kochi Blue Tigers crowned KCL Champions, defeat Kollam Sailors by 75 Runs
Kochi Blue Tigers defeated Kollam Sailors by 75 runs to win the KCL Season 2 championship, showcasing a dominant all-round performance.
KOCHI/TIRUVANANTHAPURAM : Amid recurring cases of custodial torture, the State Police Complaint Authority (SPCA) a quasi-judicial body set up to provide justice against police excesses remains a toothless tiger. Despite its mandate, the authority has been steadily losing public confidence, reflected in the sharp decline in complaints handled by it over the past decade. At a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, SPCA chairman Justice V K Mohanan admitted that the authoritys powers are limited to making recommendations. We can only recommend action, which we are doing to the best of our abilities. We do not have legal provisions to enforce disciplinary action. We have no obligation to follow up once recommendations are made, he said. The numbers speak volumes. While 671 complaints were filed with SPCA in 2014, the number dropped to 45 this year (till August 15). Overall, of the 5,218 complaints received since its inception, 5,152 have been resolved, leaving just 66 pending. Yet, the steady fall is less about efficiency and more about eroding trust. The decline shows dissatisfaction and even fear. People feel there is no point in knocking on SPCAs doors, a Kerala High Court lawyer said. Legal experts argue the authority has become irrelevant. V Aja Kumar, special public prosecutor in the 2017 actor assault case, said, Though framed as quasi-judicial, SPCA functions more like a quasi-inquiry body. Action against errant officers happens only if the department or government decides to act. Otherwise, complainants walk in and out with no result. Many recall a different era under former SPCA chief Justice K Narayana Kurup, known for his swift interventions. In one case of custodial assault in Kollam, Kurup rushed to the hospital the very next morning, recorded the victims statement, and booked the officer under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for causing grievous hurt. He also directed the officers immediate suspension. In another instance, he ordered a policeman in Kalamassery to repeatedly scribble custodial torture is unconstitutional as punishment for illegally detaining a man. That sense of urgency and accountability is missing today, a former SPCA member said. Police insiders admit that weak deterrence emboldens misconduct. If dismissals and harsh measures were enforced, such acts would drop, an officer in Kochi said.
Three-month-long Champions Boat League to begin on September 19
The 2025 edition will feature 14 races in as many places. Inaugural race will be at the Pampa in Kainakary in Alappuzha district while the finals will be at Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam on December 6
Southern Railway announces ThiruvananthapuramMumbai special trains for Puja holidays
Southern Railway announced special trains between Thiruvananthapuram and Mumbai in view of clearing extra rush of passengers during Durga Puja holidays. According to a statement from the zonal railway, Train No.01463 Lokmanya Tilak (T) - Thiruvananthapuram North Festival Special will leave Lokmanya Tilak (T) at 4 pm from Sept. 25 to Nov. 27 on Thursdays to reach Thiruvananthapuram North at 10.45 pm on the next day (10 Services). In the opposite direction, Train No. 01464 Thiruvananthapuram North - Lokmanya Tilak (T) Festival Special will leave Thiruvananthapuram North at 4.20 pm from Sept. 27 to Nov. 29 on Saturdays to reach Lokmanya Tilak (T) at 1 am on the next Monday (10 Services). These trains will have a Coach Composition: 01- AC Two Tier Coach, 06- AC Three Tier Coaches, 09- Sleeper Class Coaches, 04- General Second Class Coaches, 01- General Second Class Luggage cum Brake Van Coach (Divyangjan friendly) & 01- Generator Car Coach. They will stop at Thane, Panvel, Pen, Roha, Khed, Chiplun, Sangameshwar Road, Ratnagiri, Kankavali, Sindhudurg, Kudal, Sawantwadi, Thivim, Karmali, Madgaon Junction, Karwar, Gokarna, Kumta, Murdeshwar, Bhatkal, Mookambika Road Byndoor, Kundapura, Udupi, Surathkal, Mangaluru Junction, Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode, Tirur, Shoranur Junction Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Kottayam, Changanassery, Tiruvalla, Chengannur, Mavelikara, Kayankulam Junction, Sashankota and Kollam Junction.
Kollam restaurant owners organs save six lives after fatal accident
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A Kollam restaurant owner, declared brain dead after a freak accident while crossing the road, became the latest cadaver donor, giving new life to six patients. The heart of Isaac George (33) was flown to Lisie Hospital for transplant by the Home Department's helicopter by noon. The doctors are trying to transplant the heart to Angamali-native Ajin Elias. His liver and one kidney were transplanted to patients at KIMS, where he had been receiving treatment, while another kidney was sent to the Government Medical College, and his corneas were donated to the Regional Institute of Ophthalmology in Thiruvananthapuram. Isaac was struck by a speeding bike in front of his restaurant on September 6. Doctors declared him brain dead on September 10. The Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplantation Organisation (K-SOTTO), a government agency, coordinated the organ donation. Health Minister Veena George praised the donors family for making the noble decision during such a difficult time.
Sasthamkotta railway station to get Rs 7-cr upgrade
KOLLAM: The Railway Board has approved development work worth Rs 7 crore for the comprehensive upgrade of Sasthamkotta railway station, Mavelikara M P Kodikunnil Suresh said. The project will cover modernisation of the station, renovation of platforms, repair and expansion of platform shelters, construction of toilets and waiting areas, renovation of the old station building, installation of digital announcement and coach position display systems, catering stalls, seating, drinking water facilities, waste disposal systems, improved lighting and fans on platforms, renovation of the foot overbridge, lifts, and direction boards. The detailed project report will be prepared soon, and the tendering process is expected to begin within three months. Currently, several express and special trains halt at Sasthamkotta. Soon, Mangalore-Thiruvananthapuram Express, Maveli Express and Intercity Express will also stop here. Recently, the Ernad Express became the seventeenth train to be allotted a halt at the station. The Railway Board had earlier sanctioned additional stoppages for two major trains at Ochira and Sasthamkotta stations, improving connectivity in Kollam district. Suresh said the approvals came after demands raised at a meeting of MPs convened by the Thiruvananthapuram divisional railway manager, as well as follow-up meetings with the railway minister and the Railway Board chairman in Delhi.
Claims worth crores stuck as administration deadlock cripples insurance department
KOLLAM: Insurance claims running into crores remain in limbo as delayed promotions and unfilled vacancies at the top officer-level at Kerala State Insurance Department have crippled the functioning of the department. The administrative deadlock has left lakhs of beneficiaries, including Kudumbashree members, pensioners, and government employees, without their rightful dues under various insurance schemes. The worst hit are members of the Oruma scheme, which provides insurance coverage to Kudumbashree workers. An official told TNIE that around 14 lakh Kudumbashree members are yet to receive their claims, leaving the womens self-help group considered the backbone of Keralas poverty eradication drive in a precarious position. More than 500 claims are also pending under the Jeevan Raksha Scheme, which provides accident insurance of Rs 15 lakh in case of death and Rs 5 lakh for injuries to employees of government, public institutions, semi-government bodies, and cooperative societies. Similarly, nearly 15,000 employees who retired between March and May this year are yet to receive settlements under the State Life Insurance (SLI) and Group Insurance Scheme (GIS). Over 10,000 newly appointed employees have also been denied their SLI and GIS coverage so far. Claims worth lakhs under the general insurance schemes , including fire, motor, and miscellaneous categories, are also pending. I retired in May after serving in the health department for two decades. My insurance claim is still not cleared. I have health issues and cannot chase this every day. I live on a modest pension, and this delay has caused real hardship for my family. I hope the government would intervene soon, said a former government employee. According to sources, 14 top-level officer posts in the department remain vacant, leading to the massive backlog. The vacancies were supposed to be filled by June. By July, the paperwork for postings had even reached the directors office. But the process stalled after a request for a home posting triggered union objections. Before the issue was resolved, the director was transferred, and the new director has not yet taken charge, said a State Life Insurance source. Officials in the insurance department said steps are being taken to clear pending claims. Meanwhile, a senior finance department official maintained that while the posting issue would be resolved, it should not affect the day-to-day functioning of the insurance wing. We will streamline the postings and promotions, but the backlogs should have been managed regardless. The department cannot allow administrative delays to affect claim settlements, said the official.
Kerala police book RSS workers over political flag in Onam pookkaalam
The Kerala police have booked 27 RSS workers for allegedly violating a Kerala High Court order by laying an Onam pookkaalam (floral carpet) depicting the organisations flag, 50 meters from a local temple. The incident occurred in Sasthamcotta village of Kollam district. The pookkaalam featured a saffron flag with the theme Operation Sindoor. The RSS Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Kerala Temple Row: 27 RSS workers booked over Onam 'Pookalam' with 'Operation Sindoor' inscription
At least 27 Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) workers were booked for making a floral carpet, or pookalam, at the Parthasarathy temple in Muthupilakk in Kerala's Kollam district during Onam celebrations.
Kerala Cricket League: Kochi take on Kollam in final showdown today
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Befitting the tagline Aavesha Cricket, at its Best, the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) Season 2 has witnessed scintillating performances, exemplifying the quality of cricket on offer in the state. And the stage is now set for the grand finale. Table toppers Kochi Blue Tigers and defending champions Aries Kollam Sailors will fight it out in the final at Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram at 6.45pm on Sunday. Organised by the Kerala Cricket Association (KCA), the event has seen both seasoned players and promising talents set the venue alight with sparkling knocks and spells. Performing consistently throughout the season, Kochi progressed to the summit clash chiefly on back of their star batter Sanju Samson. However, Sanju will not be part of the final as he is on national duty for the Asia Cup. The team led by Sanjus brother Saly Samson is eyeing the title, boosted by the form of opener Vinoop Manoharan, who stands fourth among the top run getters. They also have high hopes from their bowling unit, powered by the likes of K M Asif and Mohammed Ashiq. On the other hand, Aries Kollam Sailors went through highs and lows this season. However, the team is well set for the final following a thumping win against Thrissur Titans in the semifinal. Led by their top run getter and skipper Sachin Baby, the team also features a strong bowling lineup of Pawan Raj, Vijay Vishwanath, and Ajayaghosh N S. Womens cricket league from next yr Not just seasoned players, this edition also saw young talents shining. Ahammed Imran of Titans is second only to the top-scorer, Trivandrum Royals skipper Krishna Prasad, with one century and three half-centuries to his name. Govind Dev Pai (Trivandrum), Ajayaghosh N S (Kollam), Mohammed Kaif (Alleppey Ripples), Mohammed Ashiq (Kochi), Ajinas K (Thrissur), and Krishna Devan (Calicut Globstars) are some of the other youngsters who, without much exposure in mainstream cricket, performed remarkably. Though the footfall at the venue remained relatively low throughout the season, authorities are expecting a higher turnout on Sunday. Taking a new leap, the KCA is planning to organise a womens league from next year. Towards that, an exhibition match was held at the Greenfield Stadium on Saturday.
42-year-old stabbed to death by wifes live-in partner in Kerala
KOLLAM: A 42-year-old man was stabbed to death by his wifes live-in partner at Puthoor on Friday. The deceased has been identified as Shyamu Sundar, a native of Kuzhakkad. Puthoor police have arrested Shyamus neighbour Dhanesh, 38, in connection with the crime. The police have registered a case under Sections 332(a) (house trespass) and 103(1) (murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The body was handed over to relatives and cremated at the deceaseds house compound after a post-mortem examination at the Paripally Medical College. The incident took place around 11.30pm on Friday, the police said. Shyamus wife and child had been living with Dhanesh for the past four years, which had led to frequent disputes between the two men. The initial conclusion is that the motive for the murder was a previous enmity. On Friday, the accused, after participating in an Onam programme, went to Shyamus house and stabbed him to death, a police source said. According to the police, Dhanesh initially left after an argument at Shyamus house but later returned and stabbed him in the neck.
Kerala BJP chief demands withdrawal of FIR over 'Operation Sindoor' flower rangoli
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : Kerala Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Saturday demanded the withdrawal of an FIR filed by state police over a Pookkalam that carried words Operation Sindoor, calling it an insult to the victims of terrorism and to soldiers. The Sasthamcotta Police in Kollam have booked two RSS workers for making a floral carpet outside the Parthasarathy temple with words RSS flag and Operation Sindoor. This is Kerala. It is a proud part of India. Yet, an FIR has been lodged for making a Pookkalam with the words Operation Sindoor in it. Absolutely Unacceptable! Chandrasekhar wrote in a post on X. He wrote, Operation Sindoor is our pride. It is the symbol of the valor and courage of India's armed forces. It is an operation that avenged the death of 26 innocent tourists who were killed after being asked their religion. This FIR by Kerala Police is an insult to each of those 26 victims of Terror and their families, and also every soldier who defends India with his blood and sacrifice. Thousands of Malayalis wear the uniform, guard our borders, and lay down their lives for the Tricolor. In the name of every Malayali who believes in serving the nation, this FIR and this type of shameless appeasement will be opposed, the Kerala BJP chief wrote further. He also warned that Kerala is not, and will never be, a land ruled by Jamaat-e-Islami or Pakistan. Kerala Police must not forget that this is India. To them and to the CM/Home Minister @pinarayivijayan (Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan) ji, I say withdraw this shameful and seditious FIR. Now! he added. This is Kerala. It is a proud part of India. Yet, an FIR has been lodged for making a Pookkalam with the words Operation Sindoor in it. Absolutely Unacceptable! Operation Sindoor is our pride. It is the symbol of the valor and courage of Indias armed forces. It is an https://t.co/7C8ocJsIG5 pic.twitter.com/V2DDzuwAdX Rajeev Chandrasekhar (@RajeevRC_X) September 6, 2025 According to the FIR, the accused -- RSS supporters -- along with about 25 others, tried to provoke tensions between political groups by erecting a flag pole and flex boards in the temple premises. Police said that since the area had witnessed earlier clashes between the CPIM workers and BJP workers, both sides had been told not to use party flags or symbols in the floral carpet. Although both agreed, an RSS flag was later found in the Pookalam. A case has been registered under sections relating to attempts to incite riots, police added.
Case filed against persons for erecting RSS flag within temple premises in Kerala
KOLLAM: Sasthamcotta police have registered a case against 24 RSS members for allegedly drawing the organisations flag on the premises of a temple at Muthupilakadu, Sasthamcotta. The incident came to light during the Thiruonam celebrations, when RSS members created a floral carpet with the words Operation Sindoor referring to Indias ongoing military campaign against Pakistan as part of the festivities. Police said the flag was also erected near the floral display. The case was registered based on a Kerala High Court order prohibiting the display of political party slogans, flags, or symbols on temple premises. The complaint was filed by members of the temple committee. Our temple has clear instructions that no political flag, song, or slogan should be used during any festival. Erecting a political or politically affiliated flag is a clear violation of the High Court order. We hope police will take strict action, said a temple official. This is not the first such controversy in Kollam. In April, Kadakkal police booked the singer of the Night Birds Orchestra and members of a temple festival committee for allegedly performing the RSS prayer song Gana Geetham during a concert. Similarly, the display of portraits of RSS founder K B Hedgewar during the Kollam Pooram festival at Ashramam Grounds had sparked protests. Police have also acted in cases where CPM revolutionary songs were played at temple festivals. The opposition has criticised the repeated incidents, alleging that temple premises are increasingly being used to push political agendas.
Three of a family, including two children, killed in road accident in Kollam
Police obtain video footage of the mishap from the surveillance cameras of shops and commercial institutions adjacent to the road
Three killed, including two children, in Kollam road accident
KOLLAM: Three persons, including two children, were killed in a road accident at Valiyakulangara, Ochira, on Thursday morning. The deceased were identified as Prince Thomas of Padinjattinkara, Thevalakkara, and his two children. According to the police, the accident occurred around 6.30 am when the Thar in which they were travelling collided head-on with a KSRTC bus coming from the opposite direction. Local residents rushed the victims to the Taluk Hospital, but they were declared dead. The KSRTC bus was heading towards Cherthala, while the Thar was travelling towards Karunagappally. Both vehicles were speeding at the time of the crash. The car was completely mangled in the impact. It is suspected that the driver may have dozed off, but the exact cause will be confirmed after investigation, said a police officer. The accident led to heavy traffic congestion on the highway, where road work is in progress. Traffic was later restored after vehicles were diverted to one side of the road by the Karunagappally fire and rescue team. The bodies will be shifted to Paripally Medical College for post-mortem. Ochira police have registered a case and launched an investigation.
Kerala doctors successfully treat 17-year-old boy from dual rare brain infections
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Doctors at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital (MCH) successfully treated a 17-year-old boy from Kollam who was simultaneously suffering from amoebic meningoencephalitis and Aspergillus flavus, two rare, and often fatal, brain infections. The student from Sooranad was discharged in full health after nearly three months of treatment. Follow-up examinations confirmed full recovery, The case is believed to be the world's first reported instance of a patient surviving the dual infections, Health Minister Veena Geroge said in a statement. Doctors credited timely diagnosis and prompt medical intervention for the feat. Around three months ago, the boy developed symptoms of brain fever, including loss of consciousness and paralysis on the left side, a week after swimming in a pond. He was first admitted to Alappuzha MCH where tests detected the presence of the disease-causing amoeba in his cerebrospinal fluid. Immediate treatment was initiated as per the states protocol for amoebic meningoencephalitis, resulting in gradual improvement in consciousness and motor function. However, due to worsening vision, increased intracranial pressure and formation of pus in the brain, he was transferred to Thiruvananthapuram MCH, where an MRI scan revealed multiple abscesses in the brain. An emergency surgery was done to remove the infected tissue. However, the disease flared up again, necessitating a second surgery. Analysis of the tissue removed during the second procedure confirmed Aspergillus flavus, a rare fungal infection of the brain. Keralas survival rates far better than many nations The treatment regimen was then revised to include antifungal medication and intensive care was continued for over six weeks. Doctors said timely diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention were key to the successful outcome in this highly complex and life-threatening condition. As per the official data, Kerala has recorded 86 cases of amoebic meningoencephalitis in two years 39 in 2024 and 47 so far this year. Of them, 21 patients died a 24% mortality rate, which is significantly lower than the global average of 99%. Early detection and strict adherence to treatment protocols have helped improve survival rates in the state, outperforming even many developed countries. The surgeries at the Thiruvananthapuram MCH were led by superintendent and neurosurgeon Dr Sunil Kumar with neurosurgeons Dr Raj S Chandran, Dr Jyothish L P, and Dr Rajakutty. The departments of medicine, infectious diseases and microbiology were also involved. At Alappuzha MCH, the diagnosis was made under the leadership of Dr Shanimol, the head of the microbiology department, with support from the medicine and neurology departments.
One in seven babies born in Kerala last year was underweight
KOLLAM: The Kerala governments latest health data reveals a worrying trend one in seven babies born last year weighed less than 2.5 kilograms. As many as 51,608 newborns or 14% of all 3.74 lakh live births were underweight. These findings are part of the governments Health at a Glance 2023-24 report. The findings highlight a steady rise in low birth weight cases over the past five years, despite the state maintaining a 99% institutional delivery rate. Between 2019 and 2024, Kerala recorded nearly 21.1 lakh live births, of which an increasing share were underweight. In 2019-20, out of 4.64 lakh babies, 51,471 (11%) were below 2.5 kg. The following year, 49,454 (12%) of 4.25 lakh newborns were underweight. In 2021-22, the number rose to 52,124 (12%) of 4.3 lakh births. By 2022-23, as many as 56,521 (13%) of 4.19 lakh newborns weighed less than 2.5 kg. Health experts said the upward trend reflects gaps in maternal health. Anaemia, hypertension, and preterm birth are cited as the strongest predictors of low birth weight. The report shows that 1.2 lakh pregnant women were anaemic in 2023-24, while the number of preterm births stood at 26,968. Anaemia reduces oxygen supply to the foetus, restricting growth and raising the risk of preterm delivery, said Dr Leema, senior gynaecologist surgeon with the Women and Children Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram. Hypertension, on the other hand, damages blood vessels and limits the flow of oxygen and nutrients for the babys development. Early detection of both is essential for a healthy pregnancy. Dr Lalithambica, a former gynaecologist with the Alappuzha medical college, linked the rise in underweight babies to increasing preterm deliveries. In term births where the babys weight is low, proper medical care can manage the risk. But preterm babies with low weight face serious challenges, including neurological disorders, gastrointestinal complications, and learning difficulties. Tackling lifestyle diseases such as hypertension and diabetes is crucial to check rising preterm deliveries, she said. The experts stressed on the need for stronger antenatal screening, nutritional counselling, and community-level support. Asha workers who go door-to-door have been playing a vital role in identifying maternal women and their health issues. Going forward, we need to strengthen field surveillance to detect conditions like anaemia and hypertension early, Dr Lee-ma said.
LHB rakes for Chenai Egmore-Kollam-Chennai Egmore Express trains
Alongside abuse charges, Rahul Mamkootathil row spotlights acute gender gap in Congress in Kerala
KOCHI: The storm over sexual harassment allegations against Congress leader Rahul Mamkootathil has also served to cast a harsh light on the limited space that women occupy in the party in Kerala. Senior women leaders demanding his resignation as Palakkad MLA have been pilloried by party workers, further exposing the fragility of the female voice within the state unit. Despite decades of talk of empowerment and reservation in local body elections, the party has failed to elevate women to leadership positions. Representation remains minimal in the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), the district committees and even the assembly. The party, which fielded only one woman candidate Ramya Haridas in Alathur in the 2024 Lok Sabha election, had to rely on Priyanka Gandhi Vadras Wayanad by-election victory to fend off criticism. Women are questioned and abused in the party. Young leaders remain silent over the fear of losing opportunities, said Simi Rose Bell John, a former AICC member who was expelled from the party in 2024 for questioning the impropriety of senior leaders. When women raise questions, they are expelled. Women leaders have sought Rahuls resignation. But no action has been taken. The backlash against the partys sole woman MLA, Uma Thomas, who was targeted on social media for speaking out against Rahul, is a reminder of the uphill struggle. There is a power clique in the party that protects leaders who commit mistakes, Simi alleged, adding that young women in the Youth Congress and the KSU are sacrificing their principles out of fear. It is challenging for women to create a space for themselves in any political party. This is more evident in the Congress, because of the rivalry between leaders. There are several groups within the party led by men. Women need to be part of these groups and be able to please the leaders to come up in the party. It is encouraging that despite the prevailing situation, women leaders have spoken up and demanded Rahuls resignation, said C S Chandrika, writer and activist. There have also been instances when women leaders have had to leave the party after they were denied party tickets. Former MLA Shobhana George quit the party in 2016, accusing the Ramesh Chennithala and Oommen Chandy factions of failing to consider her for the assembly election. However, Shobana refused to comment on the matter when TNIE contacted her. Soumini Jain, former mayor of Kochi, agrees that women struggle to break into administrative roles. This is not specific to the Congress. Bias exists everywhere. Even the general public doubts the capability of women. We need to fight harder to hold positions in politics, Soumini said. The former president of the Mahila Congress, Lathika Subhash, resigned from the party after being denied a ticket from Ettumanoor in the 2021 assembly election. J Prabhash, a political commentator, said that no political party is adequately represented by women. We cannot blame the Congress. India is a patriarchal society; it reflects in politics and political parties, too. Womens reservation can bring change, but we are unsure about its implementation, he said. Saritha Varma, another political commentator, said party machineries differ. Congress follows top-down leadership, while in the left, it is bottom-up. Women who choose politics as a career have to grab the attention of top leaders in the Congress, she emphasised. Interestingly, the Congress points to its past to defend itself. Sudha Menon, an author close to the party, said, Bindu Krishna was Kollam DCC president. Saraswathi Kunjukrishnan was KPCC general secretary in 1978 and Kollam DCC president. Now, we have two women KPCC general secretaries. Compared to other parties, the situation is better in Congress. But women leaders themselves admit that these examples are few and far in between. The reality is that women are largely absent from district committees, from the assembly, and from the partys decision-making core, a leader said.
Cyber fraudster targets Kerala Police, impersonates district chief in WhatsApp scam
KOLLAM: Police have launched an investigation after a cyber fraudster attempted to cheat cops in this south Kerala district by impersonating the district police chief and seeking money through a bogus WhatsApp account, a police official said on Monday. A case has been registered at the Kollam Cyber Police Station. According to police sources, several officials in Kollam Rural Police received messages last week from a WhatsApp number, +9779702927435, which carried the profile picture of District Police Chief Vishu Pratheep TK in uniform. The impersonator initiated chats with police personnel and requested a transfer of Rs 40,000, citing an urgent requirement. However, alert officials, aware of similar cyber frauds reported across the state, immediately informed senior officers, a police officer said. Police officials said that no one lost money in the attempt. The Social Media Monitoring Cell later alerted the Cyber Police Station, and a case was registered under the sections 318(4) (cheating) and 3(5) (committing crime with common intention) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) as well as sections 66C (identity theft) and 66D (cheating by personation using a computer resource or communication device) of the Information Technology Act, police sources said. Six arrested across three states in Rs 5.1 crore whatsapp scam A preliminary investigation revealed that the fraudster requested the transfer to a bank account in Songate, New Delhi. Police are tracing the account holder to check for links to other fraud cases. Kerala has witnessed several similar scams in recent years, in which fraudsters have posed as senior police officers, bureaucrats, politicians, or businessmen. In separate incidents, finance officers of two major firms in the state lost money after receiving fraudulent requests from impersonators posing as their managing directors, police added. Code shared, account snared: The six-digit WhatsApp scam that has caught even celebs in its web
Intel failure? Absconding woman lands from UK, renews passport and flies back
KOCHI: Casting a shadow over the functioning of the states intelligence unit, a woman accused in multiple cheating cases involving a total of Rs 4.27 crore with two non-bailable warrants, a chargesheet filed as absconding, and a police lookout circular against her name allegedly managed to travel from the UK to India to renew her passport and then return. The accused Haseena Beevi aka Haseena Suneer belongs to Pathanapuram in Kollam district and is the director of the Malayalam film Prakashante Metro. Instead of acting on the lookout notice and non-bailable warrants (NBWs), the authorities allowed her to travel despite repeated complaints and alerts from our side, complainant Sunil G R Nair, who resides abroad, told TNIE. It appears that individuals with vested interests may have facilitated her escape. He has accused Haseena of swindling Rs 1.17 crore from him. Haseena, holding a two-year UK visa, arrived in Kerala on June 6 this year as the visa condition requires her to leave the UK every six months, he said. After learning of the fraud and her disappearance, I filed a complaint with the Kerala police chief on July 4 and a case was registered at the Museum police station on August 3, he said. A friend and representative of the complainant, Manoj K Varghese, said that Sunil, suspecting an attempt to renew Haseenas passport, had alerted the Regional Passport Officer (RPO) in Thiruvananthapuram that she was chargesheeted in a Rs 2.5-crore cheating case filed by the Vadanappally police. Copies of the complaint were sent to the Intelligence ADGP, district police chiefs, and ACPs of Kollam and Pathanamthitta, along with relevant documents, he said. Additionally, Sunil lodged a complaint with the Alappuzha district police chief (DPC), noting Haseenas other residence in Nooranad and the possibility of passport renewal using that address. Despite these alerts, Haseena successfully renewed her passport, changing her address from Pathanapuram to Nooranad while hiding all the pending criminal cases. We then filed another complaint with the Alappuzha DPC and ADGP Intelligence, alerting them that the accused had renewed her passport while the non-bailable warrants were pending. The following morning, she was apprehended by Nooranad police from her residence but was produced before the judicial first class magistrate, Kayamkulam, only for frauds of Rs 25 lakh and Rs 20 lakh, without informing the court of the non-bailable warrants, Manoj said. He alleged that Nooranad police failed to seize Haseenas passport despite her criminal history, enabling her to flee to the UK with her renewed passport on July 25. Meanwhile, Nooranad police refuted the accusations, stating there were no irregularities on their part. Once a case is filed, the police are the complainants. There were no vested interests in the proceedings. Acting on the complaint, we promptly apprehended the accused and produced her before the court under the cases registered against her in judicial first class magistrate court, Kayamkulam, where she was granted bail, said an officer with Nooranad police station. The police are awaiting details from the Regional Passport Office, Kochi, to determine if the accused renewed her passport using forged documents, he added. According to Sunils complaint, Haseena and her friend Biju Gopinath, who hails from Kumarapuram in Thiruvananthapuram, cheated him after promising him a partnership in a UK-based restaurant called Thattukada.
Accused in pension fund fraud case lands in Vigilances custody
Akhil, who had been absconding after embezzling money last August, was arrested by a Vigilance team from Kollam recently. The investigation revealed that Akhil orchestrated a scheme to defraud the municipal pension system by creating fraudulent documents to siphon off family pension funds.
Kollam-Tamabaram daily express timing changed with effect from September 1
Selective coverage in rubber replanting scheme sparks farmer backlash
KERA Project offers a replanting subsidy of 75,000 in two phases. Eligibility is restricted to growers in Malappuram and Kannur in the north and Ernakulam, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta and Thiruvananthapuram in the south. Idukki, Kollam, and Thrissur have been left out, prompting discontent among farmers
Milma Thiruvananthapuram regional unions bottled milk to be launched on August 19
Milma Cow Milk, priced at 70, will initially be available at sales outlets of Milma and its agencies in Thiruvananthapuram district in one litre bottles. It will be marketed in Kollam, Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha in subsequent stages.
Food Safety wing seizes 16,565 litres of spurious coconut oil in raids
9,337 litres of coconut oil not meeting the standards seized from Kollam and 6,530 litres from Alappuzha
Kerala man held in connection with wifes death in Sharjah, released on bail
Thiruvananthapuram: A month after the death of Chavara native Athulya Shekhar (29) in Sharjah, Kerala Police on Sunday detained her husband Satheesh (40), the sole accused in the case, at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. Police said Satheesh, who arrived from the UAE, will be handed over to Thekkumbhagam Police in Kollam district, which had registered a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
NRI detained at airport over wifes suicide in Sharjah
Thiruvananthapuram: The husband of a woman who was found hanging in their apartment in Sharjah last month was detained at the Thiruvananthapuram airport here on Sunday and handed over to the police, an officer said. 40-year-old Satheesh, a native of Sasthamcotta in Kollam district, is alleged to have abetted the suicide of his wife, Athulya Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Two women die after speeding truck runs over them in Kerala's Kollam
A third person, a 50-year-old autorickshaw driver, was seriously injured in the incident near Kottarakara
Protests over continued incarceration of nuns in Chhattisgarh rock Kerala
Archbishop Pamplany seeks immediate intervention of the Union government. Protests held in Kannur, Kollam, Kozhikode, and Malappuram
Erode MP urges construction of ROB at Kollampalayam to ease traffic congestion
Kerala Govt To Take Over Aided School After Student's Electrocution
Manager to be dismissed; Mithun, a student of Thevalakkara Boys High School in Kollam district, died last week after coming into contact with a live electric wire on the school premises
SIT formed to probe students electrocution in Kollam school
More coaches for MEMU trains to ease rush on Alappuzha route
A 12-coach rake sanctioned by the Railway Board has arrived at the MEMU shed in Kollam.
Decries bid to politicise death of 13-year-old student in Kollam
Kollam School Electrocution Incident
Thousands bid farewell to Mithun: Reports
Dispute erupts over Kollam-Theni NH widening plan
Protests erupt over students electrocution in Kollam school
Decision made to suspend headteacher of the school pending inquiry. An amount of 3 lakh will be provided to the family from the Education departments fund, says Sivankutty
Chief Minister condoles student electrocuted in Kollam
Grief strikes Kollam family as Class VIII student electrocuted at school
Midhun, a resident of Valiyapadam East Ward of West Kallada grama panchayat, was engaged in a game with his friends when his footwear fell on the roof of a shed. He was electrocuted while trying to retrieve it
13-year-old Boy Electrocuted In Kollam School
The victim was identified as Mithun, 13, son of daily wage worker, Valayapadam Anu. His mother, Suja works as a home nurse in Kuwait
Electrocution of school student: Kerala government orders inquiry
Minister Sivankutty says Director of General Education has been dispatched to accident site in Kollam to investigate the episode and give a detailed report
Student dies after coming into contact with live wire at school in Keralas Kollam
According to reports, 13-year-old was electrocuted while trying to retrieve a slipper that had fallen onto the roof of bicycle shed
Veteran Congress leader C.V. Padmarajan passes away
He had handled Finance, Power, and Fisheries in the K. Karunakaran and A.K. Antony governments. He was twice elected to the Assembly from the Chathanoor constituency in Kollam district. He also served as the president of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee from 1983 to 1987
Four students test positive for H1N1 in Kollam school
Kerala job aspirants continue to fall victim to Myanmar scam centres
The latest case involves Vishnu Preetha Sreenarayanan from Kundara in Kollam, who became a victim of labour fraud and human trafficking. According to Vishnus relative, Balu T.S., the gang released him only after a payment of 5 lakh was made to three bank accounts
Indian woman in Sharjah kills daughter, commits suicide: Reports
Sharjah: In a tragic incident, a 33-year-old Indian woman allegedly killed her one-year-and-five-month-old daughter before taking her own life in a flat in Al Nahda, Sharjah, on Tuesday afternoon, July 8. The deceased have been identified as Vipanchika Maniyan Pillai and her daughter Vaibhavi, both from Keralapuram, Kollam district, Kerala, India. As per multiple media Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Kerala HC extends interim order restraining arrest of ED officer
A case relating to the alleged demand of 2 crore as bribe from a Kollam-based cashew businessman to extricate him from a money-laundering case
Suicide rate higher among men, says study
The rate is higher in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta and Kottayam districts
Monsoon Rains Getting Stronger In Kerala; Orange Alert In 7 Districts
The IMD issued an orange alert in Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam and Thrissur districts for three hours in the morning
Kollam Panchayat VP Catches Thieves In Heroic Filmy Chase On Busy Kerala Street
JalajaSuresh didn't lose her calm and acted mindfully after two women quietly stole a hefty sum from her handbag on a KSRTC bus.
Red Alert In 5 Kerala Districts, Heavy To Extremely Heavy Rainfall Likely
An orange alert has been sounded for Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, and Pathanamthitta, while Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram remain under a yellow alert.
Kerala Woman Who Conned 10 Men Into Marriage Had Fixed Schedule To Juggle Them All
Reshma once lived with a man from Kollam after marrying him, and they had a child. However, doubts over the child's paternity from his family later created serious tensions
Kerala HC orders Vigilance not to arrest ED officer till June 11
Case pertains to alleged demand of 2 crore as bribe from a Kollam-based cashew businessman
Heavy rains trigger landslides and floods across northeast and south India; at least a dozen dead
Heavy rainfall over the past 48 hours has caused widespread flooding, landslides, and disruption in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Karnataka, and Kerala, claiming at least many lives and affecting tens of thousands. Heavy rains claimined 11 lives in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram and Tripura . Assam saw five deaths from landslides in Kamrup Metropolitan district, including three women killed in a landslide near Guwahatis Bonda area, Urban Affairs Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah confirmed. Flooding affected more than 10,000 people in six districts, including Kamrup, Cachar, Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, and Golaghat, where two relief camps and one distribution centre have been set up. A red alert remains in effect for 18 districts amid heavy rain and gusty winds. Massive waterlogging was reported in Guwahati, forcing closure of schools and special leave for government employees. In Arunachal Pradesh, flash floods caused by the overflowing Sigin River in Upper Subansiri district inundated Daporijo town and several colonies, damaging at least 117 houses and critical infrastructure. Authorities have issued prohibitory orders urging evacuation of vulnerable areas. In West Kameng district, landslides near Jamiri stranded hundreds along the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang road, and major road blockages disrupted connectivity. A landslide in Bomdila washed away parts of roads and culverts, while power supply was disrupted. Mizorams Lawngtlai town witnessed the collapse of five houses and a hotel due to landslides on Friday night. Several Myanmar nationals staying in the hotel are feared trapped under debris, one person is feared to have died in the incident. Rescue operations involving the State Disaster Response Force and local volunteers are underway. The state has been hit by torrential rains since Friday, causing multiple landslides and rockfalls. In Meghalaya, three people died in East Khasi Hills district from rain-related incidentsa 50-year-old woman killed by a landslide in Lumkyntung, a 35-year-old man drowned in Pomlakrai Mawbynna, and a 15-year-old boy died after a tree fell on him in Mawkynrew Block. Over 1,000 residents across 25 villages have been affected by landslides, flash floods, and power outages. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the victims families. Flooding also damaged roads and inundated schools. Rescue efforts for a missing couple from Indore in Sohra have been suspended due to heavy rain and landslides but will resume as weather permits. Nagaland and Tripura each reported one death on Friday due to rain-related incidents. Karnatakas Dakshina Kannada district on Friday reported five deaths due to landslides triggered by heavy rain. A house collapse in Montepadavu Kodi buried six family members, including two toddlers and their grandmother. One mother was found unconscious but alive, clutching her children amid the debris. A compound wall collapse in Mangaluru claimed the life of a six-year-old girl. Additionally, a 27-year-old lineman died of electrocution while repairing a high-tension power line during the rain. Rescue operations have been hampered by continued rainfall and unstable terrain. In Uttarakhand, a 38-year-old man died and five others were injured after a landslide struck a vehicle on the Kedarnath National Highway near Kund, close to Guptkashi in Rudraprayag district. The vehicle was carrying pilgrims from Chhattisgarh to Kedarnath when it was hit by debris. Rescue and relief operations were launched immediately by the local administration and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). The injured were rushed to Augustmuni Hospital. Officials said two of the pilgrims were seriously injured, while three others suffered minor injuries. The deceased was identified as Rajesh Singh Rawat, a resident of Lambgaon in Tehri Garhwal, who was driving the vehicle. The injured are between 19 and 25 years old and belong to Chhattisgarhs Durg district. Monsoon rains have caused severe flooding across several districts in Kerala, forcing hundreds of people to evacuate low-lying areas and seek shelter in relief camps. In Kasaragod district, overflowing Madhuvahini River submerged roads and flooded homes, with residents moving to upper floors to escape rising waters. Similar flooding and heavy downpours have affected Kozhikode and Kannur districts, where locals have kept wooden and fiber boats ready amid fears of further displacement. Authorities have opened 46 relief camps in Kottayam district, sheltering over 1,100 people, while Alappuzha district currently hosts 851 evacuees across 26 camps, with 19 houses destroyed on Friday alone. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by strong surface winds reaching gusts of up to 50 kmph in multiple districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, Alappuzha, and Kottayam. The situation remains critical as swollen rivers and tributaries continue to inundate vulnerable areas. Meanwhile, several higher-altitude areas in Jammu and Kashmir received fresh snowfall on Saturday, including Tulail and Razdan Top in Gurez valley, Peer Ki Gali in Shopian, and Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh highway. Authorities closed the Bandipora-Gurez road as a precaution. Meanwhile, the plains, including Srinagar, were lashed by rain, causing temperatures to drop with minimums falling by up to 3 degrees and maximums 3-5 degrees below normal. Light to moderate rain or thundershowers with light snow are expected over the higher reaches in the next 24 hours. Heavy rainfall and hailstorms hit Ramban district, disrupting normal life. Parts of Srinagar saw moderate to heavy rain, welcomed by tourists as a refreshing change from recent heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast widespread rain and thunderstorms across Kashmir, with isolated heavy rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph. Srinagars temperatures will range between 24C and 11C. Jammu Division will also see light to moderate rain with isolated heavy showers and winds up to 60 kmph, with Jammu city experiencing partly cloudy skies and temperatures between 37C and 21C. The IMD has advised residents to stay alert amid the possibility of heavy rain and strong winds. The IMD has issued a red alert for Sikkim on Saturday following heavy rains and rising water levels in the Teesta River, warning of possible floods and landslides in Mangan, Gyalshing, and Soreng districts. Based on a Nowcast Weather Alert from Baluwakhani, Gangtok, severe rainfall was forecasted for 2 to 3 hours starting at 6:15 am. The District Magistrate of Gangtok urged the public not to panic but stay alert, while directing all disaster management officers to remain on high alert and maintain communication with field staff along the Teesta river belt. Landslides were reported in North Sikkims Theeng and Chungthang areas, damaging properties. Emergency services are actively monitoring water levels, with disaster response teams on standby. The IMD advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, remain indoors, and steer clear of riverbanks and vulnerable slopes. No casualties have been reported yet, but the situation remains tense due to continuous rains and rising river levels, with authorities promising timely updates. The India Meteorological Department has issued multiple red alerts in vulnerable districts across these states, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides, and strong winds reaching up to 60 kmph in gusts. Authorities have urged residents to avoid risky areas and follow evacuation and safety advisories. National and state disaster response teams remain deployed to conduct rescue and relief operations as the monsoon continues. (With inputs from PTI, ANI)
Kerala rains wreak havoc: Homes flooded, trees uprooted, red alert in 9 districts
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Houses in low lying areas of Kerala were flooded in the heavy rains, while the accompanying strong winds uprooted trees, damaged homes and caused power disruptions, throwing normal way of life into disarray across the state. In Thrissur, Kannur and Kasaragod districts, there were reports of several homes getting flooded due to the heavy rains, forcing people to move to relief camps. Not just homes, but many roads in these districts and other parts of the state were inundated due to the heavy rains. In Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki districts, the heavy rains and strong winds uprooted trees and damaged electricity poles and transformers, leading to partial and complete destruction of hundreds of homes and power disruptions for hours, according to the authorities. It will be a holiday for educational institutions in Kottayam district on Saturday, district authorities said. In Kollam, uprooted trees and falling branches, due to the rains and strong winds, caused damage to several homes and private vehicles in the district and a few persons were reportedly injured. An 85-year-old woman, who worked as an MGNREGA worker in Ernakulam district, died when an uprooted tree fell on top of her while returning home on Thursday evening. The Ernakulam district authorities also reported a rise in the water level of the Muvattupuzha River above the flood warning markers, leading to the opening of three shutters of the Malankara Dam by 20 centimetres (cm). Train services were also affected with some, including the Mangaluru-Thiruvananthapuram Vande Bharat Expres, being diverted due to fallen trees on the tracks, while others were rescheduled or delayed due to the heavy rains, authorities said. Amidst the widespread damage in the state due to the heavy rains and strong winds, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Kannur and Kasaragod and an orange alert in the remaining six districts of the state for the day. A red alert by IMD indicates heavy to extremely heavy rain of over 20 cm in 24 hours, while an orange alert means very heavy rain of 11 cm to 20 cm, and a yellow alert means heavy rainfall between 6 cm and 11 cm. State Revenue Minister K Rajan said that the heavy rains have caused widespread damage in the state and advised people to be cautious. Speaking to reporters at a press conference in Thrissur, Rajan further said that as the westerly winds are expected to continue over Kerala for the next five days and due to the possibility of widespread rainfall, caution should be exercised by everyone. He advised the public to avoid unnecessary trips, especially to hilly areas and said that those living in dangerous places should move to safer locations or relief camps. Rajan said there are 66 camps functioning in the state currently and 1,894 people are living there. Around 4,000 camps are ready to be opened to accommodate about six lakh people. The public should not be averse to moving there, he added. He also said that hundreds of homes in the state have been partially or completely destroyed due to the heavy rains and strong winds since the arrival of the monsoons. The minister said according to the IMD there is a possibility of heavy rains in all districts of the state in the week from May 30 to June 5 and the amount of rainfall would be more than usual for this period. In the second week of June also there will be rain in all districts of the state, but it will be less than normal for this period, the minister said. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) said that there is a possibility of high waves ranging from 3 to 3.9 meters along the Kerala coast till 5.30 pm on Saturday and urged fishermen and coastal residents to be cautious and avoid launching of small boats, yachts or fishing vessels during this time. Meanwhile, the state government said that it has sanctioned Rs one crore each to all District Collectors from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for carrying out monsoon preparedness activities. Additionally, Rs two crore each has been sanctioned to the Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode District Disaster Management Authorities for undertaking flood mitigation works in the cities, the government said. The government said that it has also sanctioned Rs one lakh to each panchayat, Rs 3 lakh to each municipality and Rs 5 lakh to each corporation in the state to buy necessary equipment and open storage centres as part of monsoon preparedness activities.
Train services between Thiruvananthapuram-Kollam stretch go haywire as tree fall on tracks
6 kg of free rice and 1,000 a month to each affected fisher families in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha and Ernakulam districts. Chief Minister dismisses speculation that fish caught off the coast of Kerala was inedible
Kerala | Container of Liberia-flagged container vessel MSC ELSA 3 from Kollam seaface removed
Low pressure may trigger another round of intense spell in Kerala
Red alert issued for Kozhikode and Wayanad districts, warning of extreme rainfall, and an orange alert for the remaining districts with very heavy rains, except Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Alappuzha, where a yellow alert has been issued with warnings of isolated heavy rains.
IMD issues red alert for three Kerala districts as low-pressure system strengthens monsoon winds
IMD issues red alert for three districts Kannur, Wayanad and Kozhikode and orange alert for remaining districts except Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Alappuzha where yellow alert has been issued
Capsized cargo containers may drift towards Alappuzha, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala
Containers from sunken Liberian ship wash ashore in Kerala
KOLLAM: Containers from a Liberian cargo ship that sank, off the Kerala coast, have started washing ashore, police said on Monday. Coastal police said that some containers have been found along the southern Kollam coast. The total number of containers washed ashore is not yet known, and authorities are working to manage the situation, they said. Police have been deployed in all affected areas. Reports indicate that at least four containers have been spotted so far along the coast of Kollam district. Officials have urged the public to stay away from the containers, warning that the ship had 13 hazardous cargos among its 640 containers. The cargo ship capsized and sank early Sunday , leading to a significant oil spill. The leak has sparked a statewide alert, as fuel is drifting at a speed of around three kilometres per hour and could soon impact the ecologically sensitive Kerala coastline. According to the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), the sunken vessel had 84.44 metric tonnes of diesel and 367.1 metric tonnes of furnace oil in its tanks. Some containers were carrying dangerous substances such as calcium carbide, a chemical that reacts with seawater to release highly flammable acetylene gas, officials said. The ICG is leading pollution response efforts and monitoring the spread of the oil slick. Leaning Liberian vessel off Kerala coast raises fears of bunker spill and container drift
Cargo containers from capsized ship wash ashore in Keralas Kollam, sparking fears of chemical leak
Revenue and police authorities counsel extreme caution and cordon off localities, given that some containers could contain hazardous and inflammable materials
Containers from sunken ship likely to drift towards Alappuzha, Kollam coasts in 48 hours: INCOIS
Oil spill may reach the Alappuzha, Ambalappuzha, Arattupuzha and Karunagapally coasts
Kerala battered by intense rains; Uprooted trees cause damage, fatality
Intense rains lashed Kerala on Sunday, uprooting trees across the state, including one that fell on a moving train in Thrissur and another that caused a fatality in neighbouring Kozhikode. Houses were damaged, rivers were in spate, and shutters of some dams were raised in the state as the southwest monsoon gained strength. An uprooted tree crashed onto a moving train near the railway bridge in Cheruthuruthy in Thrissur district on Sunday morning. Tragedy was averted as the loco pilot acted swiftly to stop the train, authorities said, adding that no casualties were reported in connection with the incident. As the heavy downpour continued, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) placed five northern districtsMalappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragodunder a 'red alert' for the day, predicting extremely heavy rainfall there. Almost all districts in the state received widespread rains since the previous night, causing severe waterlogging in low-lying areas and traffic snarls. Widespread uprooting of trees caused extensive damage to houses and vehicles across the state and claimed the life of a person in the Kozhikode district. Pavithran, a 64-year-old native of Villyappally in Kozhikode, died after an uprooted coconut tree fell on him while he was riding a scooter. Water levels in the Punnapuzha River, flowing through the Chooralmala-Mundakkai region in Wayanad, and the Korapuzha River in Kozhikode were steadily rising following incessant rainfall, residents said. In landslide-battered Chooralmala in Wayanad, continuous heavy rains caused anxiety among locals the previous night. We are yet to recover from the shock of last years landslide. We havent slept properly at night, fearing heavy rains and something worse, an elderly local told a TV channel. In Pathanamthitta district, a family narrowly escaped tragedy when huge uprooted trees fell on their tile-roofed house near Ezhamkulam during strong winds and heavy rains the previous evening. My daughter narrowly escaped as she had just stepped out of the house when the trees fell on the roof, a family member said, pointing to the broken roof of their old, small house. Five shutters of the Malankara dam in Idukki district were raised on Sunday morning to release excess water, according to an official statement. Residents living along the banks of the Thodupuzha and Moovattupuzha rivers were advised to exercise caution following the dams water release. Tragedy was averted in the heart of Kollam city when a huge flex board, erected by the roadside, fell, locals said. A house and vehicles were damaged after uprooted trees fell on them in Kunnathunad and Munambam Harbour, respectively, in Ernakulam district. An incident of a mudslide was reported in Kuppam in northern Kannur district following continuous rains. Due to the inclement weather, forest authorities on Sunday banned tourists from entering the ecotourism centre in Ponmudi. A zonal review meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, scheduled to be held in Kannur on May 26, was postponed due to heavy rains, a CMO source said. Meanwhile, the IMD issued an orange alert on Sunday for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Palakkad districts. The IMD had announced the early onset of the monsoon in the state on Saturday, noting that Kerala is witnessing the monsoons early arrival after a gap of 16 years. A 'red alert' indicates heavy to extremely heavy rainfall of over 20 cm in 24 hours, while an 'orange alert' means very heavy rainfall between 11 cm and 20 cm.
It is estimated that the containers have a higher probability of washing ashore in Alappuzha, Kollam, Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram districts
IMD declares red alert for seven districts in Kerala
IMD sounds a red alert for the Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Thrissur, Idukki, and Malappuram districts.
29-year-old stabbed to death by gang in Keralas Kollam, police suspect previous enmity
Victims friend who sustained injuries in the attack admitted to hospital. Duo attacked by a five-member gang
Kollam girl who was under treatment for Hepatitis A dies
