NH collapse in Kollam: Centre begins steps to blacklist construction firm
An expert committee to visit the site soon, and further action will be taken based on the panels report
Expert team to probe NH collapse in Kollam
Sole responsibility of NH collapse on NHAI and construction agency, says Finance Minister, while visiting the accident site
Ernakulam tops state in per capita GDDP
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ernakulam district retained the top slot in nominal Gross District Domestic Product (GDDP) figures for 2024-25 released by the economics and statistics department recently. The districts GDDP was Rs 1,67,661.90 crore (quick estimate), up from Rs 1,50,991.63 crore (provisional estimate) in the previous financial year. Residents in the district recorded the highest per capita GDDP of Rs 4,67,428. In terms of nominal GDDP, the value of goods and services produced in a district at current market prices, Ernakulam was followed by Thrissur (Rs 1,30,104.05 crore), Thiruvananthapuram (Rs 1,24,342.30 crore), Kollam (Rs 1,19,217.76 crore) and Malappuram (Rs 1,08,492.85 crore). All these districts had the same ranking in 2023-24 as well. At the bottom of the list was Wayanad with a GDDP of Rs 2,27,19.57 crore. Alappuzha came second in per capita GDDP, a key indicator of a districts economic health and peoples standard of living. The per capita GDDP, a districts GDDP divided by its population, helps in measuring the average income and economic output per person. Kollam recorded the third-highest per capita GDDP of Rs 4,41,719, followed by Kottayam (Rs 4,08,523) and Idukki (Rs 4,04,881). The lowest per capita GDDP was reported in the most populous district of Malappuram Rs 2,20,533. According to C Veeramani, director of the Centre for Development Studies, per capita GDDP is an indicator of a districts development and the residents standard of living. It reveals the inequality in income distribution among residents of different districts. Ideally, the gap between districts should be low, he told TNIE. Growth rate At 10%, Pathanamthitta recorded the highest year-over-year growth rate in per capita GDDP. The growth rate was based on the real GDDP or the total value of goods and prices produced in a district, adjusted for inflation. Kottayam, 8%, recorded the second highest growth rate and Malappuram the lowest, at 2%.
Part of under-construction highway collapses in Kollam
Kerala local body polls 2025: open campaigning for Phase 1 to end on December 7
Seven districtsThiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha, and Ernakulamgo to the polls on December 9 in the first phase
Repair works on road under bridge begins at Kollampalayam
Keralas new local bodies face mounting waste crisis as key projects stall
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: When the new councils take charge in Keralas different local bodies later this month, most will have a common problem on their hands waste management. Kerala generates over 10,000 tonnes of solid waste every day. However, despite the state having systems in place to manage it, it still leaves a lot to be desired. Nearly 1,200 local bodies struggle manage the widening gap between waste generation and available infrastructure to handle it. Lack of land, stiff local resistance and several failed centralised waste management projects continue to hold the state back. Take for example the Rs 2,400-crore World Bank-funded project launched in 2021 to improve solid waste management in 93 urban local bodies. The initiative has come to a grinding halt due to the state governments inability to set up sanitary landfills essential for scientific waste processing. Over the past four years, the Kerala Solid Waste Management Project (KSWMP) tried establishing regional waste management facilities in Kasaragod, Palakkad, Thrissur, Kollam and Ernakulam, but failed. And, officials admit that without setting up regional sanitary landfills, the state cannot utilise the World Bank grant. Local bodies, ward members, residents and even MLAs are opposing waste management projects. Our repeated attempts to set up regional facilities, mandatory for utilising the World Bank grant, have failed. At Ambalamedu in Ernakulam, the local body refused approval to build a landfill due to strong local resistance. We had even prepared a `600-crore project benefiting around 22 surrounding local bodies, a senior government official said. The massive fire at the Brahmapuram waste plant in March 2023 that left Kochi and its suburbs choking for days, served as a turning point, pushing waste management to the top of the governments priority list. To strengthen the system, 38,312 Haritha Karma Sena members were deployed for door-to-door collection of non-biodegradable waste. Last year, they collected 1.5 lakh tonnes of such waste from households and establishments for safe disposal. Kerala generates 7,660 tonnes of biodegradable waste and 2,416 tonnes of non-biodegradable waste daily. However, despite efforts to promote decentralised processing at source, managing biodegradable waste remains a critical concern for most local bodies. Currently, many of them rely on pig farms. While source-level management systems exist in several areas, the department is adopting a hybrid strategy, introducing community-level waste treatment facilities to bridge gaps. To encourage residents to set up source-level systems, the government has announced a 5% exemption in property tax. A statewide survey is on to assess the status of source-level waste management facilities. Its findings will help identify gaps, understand operational realities and plan necessary interventions. Only households with functional waste management systems will be eligible for the exemption. Those unable or unwilling to set these up will be provided waste collection as a paid service, with user fees applicable, an official said. With only a few months left for its term to end, the Local Self-Government Department (LSGD) is gearing up to roll out a slew of initiatives aimed at achieving a garbage-free Kerala under its Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam 2.0 mission. LSGD Minister M B Rajesh told TNIE that the state has overcome the toughest phase of its waste management crisis and is now on a clear path forward. He also said Kerala will become a dumpsite-free state within the next two years. We took the Brahmapuram fire disaster as an opportunity to transform Kerala into a garbage-free state. We have achieved a lot. Now, we have a clear roadmap to move ahead sustainably. Four regional sanitary waste management facilities will become operational by April or May. Compressed biogas (CBG) plants in Palakkad are nearing completion, and work on the Kozhikode CBG plant will begin immediately, Rajesh said. Growing waste burden Kerala generates nearly four million tonnes of solid waste every year, with urban centres accounting for a major share. While biodegradable waste dominates the mix, the strain on waste management systems continues to grow. The figures below capture the scale of the challenge and the infrastructure in place to manage it
Special trains to Sabarimala from Telangana from December 13
Hyderabad: In view of the heavy rush of devotees travelling to Sabarimala, the South Central Railway (SCR) has announced special train services from December 13 to January 2 connecting various stations under its jurisdiction with Kollam Junction in Kerala. A total of ten special trains, including both onward and return services, will be operated, the 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 .
Back to basics: With poll aspirations, five ex-MLAs look to retrace their steps in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Taking their politics to the grassroots, five former MLAs are contesting the upcoming local-body elections. And, it looks to be back to the basics for Anil Akkara, K S Sabarinadhan, E M Augusthy, R Latha Devi, and K C Rajagopalan. Taking his campaign to the Sanskrit College ward of Adat grama panchayat, in Thrissur district, Anil is no stranger to local governance. He led the panchayat as president for two successive terms from 2000 and represented the same ward in 2005. His election as Congress MLA of Wadakkanchery in 2016 adds heft to his candidature. I am no stranger here. During my time, it was a model panchayat. But both the LDF and the BJP failed to preserve our legacy. This time, our focus is on rebuilding its former glory and ensuring development and progress, Anil said. Seeking the backing of the Maramon ward of Mezhuveli grama panchayat, in Pathanamthitta district, CPM veteran K C Rajagopalan is also banking on local ties. He had served as vice-president of the panchayat in 1979 and its president in 1988. Rajagopalan, who won the Aranmula assembly seat in 2006, had stepped down from active politics after turning 75 last December. Having dedicated myself to both small and large development projects in this panchayat over the years, I am a familiar face here. Though I have not held official positions recently, the strong encouragement from local residents and party workers willed me into the picture. I am determined to continue advancing welfare initiatives across all sectors, said Rajagopalan. Featuring in local-body polls for the first time, senior CPI leader Latha Devi is the LDF candidate in the Chadayamangalam division of Kollam district panchayat. A former MLA from the same region, she considers the contest a return to her political roots. Carrying the UDF banner in the Kowdiar ward of Thiruvananthapuram corporation, former Aruvikkara MLA Sabarinadhan has been projected as the Congress mayoral face. The party hopes his candidature will help revive its position in the capitals civic body. There is a strong desire among the people for change. We have the early-bird advantage, and being a familiar face adds trust and credibility. With high expectations all round, hopes are running high, said Sabarinadhan. Bringing his legislative experience to the local level, AICC member and three-time MLA Augusthy is contesting from the Irupathekkar ward of Kattappana municipality. He made it to the assembly from Udumbanchola in 1991 and 1996 and from Peermade in 2001. I began my journey as a panchayat member in Kattappana in 1978 and later held other positions. I consider local-body elections as important as assembly and Lok Sabha polls, Augusthy said. R Latha Devi LDF candidate in the Chadayamangalam division of Kollam district panchayat K S Sabarinadhan UDF candidate in Kowdiar ward of TPuram corporation K C Rajagopalan LDF candidate in Maramon ward of Mezhuveli grama panchayat in Pathanamthitta E M Augusthy UDF candidate in Irupathekkar ward of Kattappana municipality in Idukki Anil Akkara UDF candidate in Sanskrit College ward of Adat grama panchayat in Thrissur
Over 1,500 flex boards removed for code of conduct violation in Kollam
Motorists seek repair works to road under bridge at Kollampalayam
Sabarimala gold loss case: SIT grills former Thiruvabharanam Commissioner
Investigators questioned former Thiruvabharanam Commissioner K S Baiju regarding gold lost from Sabarimala temple. Baiju was permitted custody until evening by the Kollam Vigilance Court. He was the Commissioner when gold-plated coverings were removed for electroplating in 2019. The court dismissed his bail application in a related case. Six people have been arrested so far.
Navy Day celebrations in Thiruvananthapuram: Traffic arrangements in place on December 1, 3
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As part of the Navy Day celebrations, the Indian Navy will hold a Naval Day Operation Demo at Shankhumukham at 4.30 pm on December 3. Ahead of the main event, a rehearsal programme will be held on December 1 starting at 4.30 pm. As a large crowd is expected, traffic arrangements will be implemented in the city from noon. City police commissioner Thomson Jose pointed out that the public has been allowed to attend the rehearsal as well, and everyone is required to follow the traffic arrangements announced for the day. Only vehicles with passes will be allowed to enter Shankhumukham and Vettucaud from areas, including Chackai, Kallummoodu, Stationkadavu, Valiyathura, Kumarichantha, and Madhavapuram. Passes will be checked, and parking will be available only as per the allocation. Special guests and media vehicles can enter Shankhumukham one hour before the event and must park in designated areas according to the QR code on their passes, said the commissioner. Vehicles arriving later must use alternative routes via Enchakkal, Kallummoodu, Ponnarapalam, Valiyathura, and the domestic airport. For the public without passes, parking has been arranged at multiple locations across the city. From these parking grounds, KSRTC buses will ferry spectators to Vettucaud to view the naval demonstration. Services will begin from 1 pm at a fixed ticket charge and return buses will be provided after the event. The police have informed that people coming from colleges or schools to watch the event must inform the traffic police in advance and confirm their parking arrangements. Airport or railway station travellers are asked to plan their journeys to reach on time. Those heading to the domestic airport should use the Valiyathura, Chackai Flyover, Enchakkal, Kallummoodu, Ponnaraalam, and Valiyathura routes to reach, and return via Sulaiman Street, Vallakkadavu, and Inchakkal. Vehicles going to the international airport should use the Chackai-Ananthapuri Hospital-Service Road route. All travellers must carry their flight tickets in the vehicle. The public is allowed to park only in designated parking areas. Vehicles parked illegally will be removed using recovery services and legal action will be taken. 2,500-3,000 police deployment will be in the city. After the event, spectators should return to the designated parking grounds by boarding KSRTC buses arranged at Vettucaud, avoiding traffic congestion, the commissioner said. Parking locations * Greenfield Stadium and University College, Karyavattom: For those coming from Kollam, Attingal, Pothencode, Sreekaryam * MG College ground: For those arriving via MC Road * Salvation Army, Sanskrit College, University College, University Campus, LMS grounds: For areas like Kowdiar, Peroorkada, Sasthamangalam * Poojappura ground, Jimmy George Indoor Stadium, KWA compound: For Thirumala, Kattakkada areas * Killippalam Boys School, Attukal ground, Homoeo College in Iranimuttom, Putharikandam: For Parassala, Neyyattinkara, Pappanamcode, Karamana * Lulu Mall, Anayara World Market, Karikkakam Temple: For Kovalam, Poonthura, Thiruvallam, Pettah, Enchakkal * Puthenthoppu Church, St Xaviers College: For Varkala, Kadakkavoor, Perumathura
Kerala local body polls: Rivals will seek to loosen LDFs firm grip on Kollam Corporation
Since the formation of the Corporation in 2000, the Left front has been in power. This time, the CPI(M) is not fielding a single sitting member of the current council, hoping that a totally new line-up will get voters approval. While the UDF is looking for a recovery from a major setback in the 2020 elections, the NDA, having tripled its seats in 2020, is highly optimistic about its prospects
Vets, vax & woofs: Kochi's stray dogs get anti-rabies shots
Over the past few days, young men and women sporting bright yellow T-shirts have been spotted running with pole-nets behind stray dogs across the city. Many have been wondering what they were up to, considering the national attention strays have drawn in recent times. Well, these youths are members of several NGOs that have joined forces for a vaccination campaign. The Worldwide Veterinary Services Mission Rabies, in partnership with the Animal Rescue Kochi collective, has deployed about 200 volunteers across wards under the city corporation, and the Chellanam and Kumbalangi panchayats. Their target: to vaccinate 10,000 stray dogs. Notably, as per the corporations estimates, there are as many strays within the city limits alone. The five-day vaccination drive, which started on November 24, is being carried out by NGO volunteers from across the country especially Goa, the base of Mission Rabies India and from several other nations. Notably, the campaign comes amid rising judicial and public pressure. Kerala recorded 3.63 lakh dog-bite cases in the past year, a third linked to strays. In July, the High Court slammed civic bodies for inaction, noting over 1 lakh bites and 16 deaths in just six months this year. The court rejected culling and directed a humane, structured approach centred on sterilisation, vaccination, and monitoring. Among the chief coordinators of the ongoing vaccination drive is Sajith Sajan, a veterinary nurse and founder of Animal Rescue Kochi. known for his efforts in organising fundraisers, adoption drives, and community outreach. Animal Rescue Kochi acts as a base for the campaign. We collaborate and coordinate drives with other organisations, Sajith says. Working alongside him is British veterinary nurse Julie Corfmat, the Kerala head of Mission Rabies, who has spent nearly two decades working with street dogs across India. Last year, Mission Rabies collaborated with Animal Rescue Kochi and ran a 14-day anti-rabies vaccination campaign across Chellanam, Kumbalangi, and 30 wards under the Kochi corporation. The team vaccinated about 3,000 dogs through field mapping, door-to-door searches, and mobile vaccination units, shares Julie. The success of that drive led to the current campaign, for which they met with the authorities to develop a strategy. So far, we have come across two cases of rabies-infected dogs during this particular drive. The total has now reached 25 since July in Kochi, Sajith says, underscoring the urgency of the mission. When a dog suspected of being infected is identified, it is taken away for isolation, observation and, if needed, euthanasia in an ambulance that remains on standby. Other dogs in the area are given supplementary vaccine shots. Two types of teams hand-catching and net-catching are deployed. Each has three to four volunteers armed with nets, vaccine shots, and paint markers. All the friendly dogs, the ones that we can handle, are vaccinated by hand. The aggressive ones are caught in a net, says Julie. We vaccinate, mark, and also conduct a post-vaccination survey to assess the coverage. Right now, we have 36 teams in action. Volunteers during a net catching drive TNIE joins a hand-catching team, led by 26-year-old Lokesh Yukiy from Goa, who has been with Mission Rabies for six years. The team also includes Sakshi, 18, from Shimla, and Dr Vishnu, a veterinarian from Kollam. On their second drive of the day, they head towards Nambiapuram in Palluruthy. For the next three hours, we trace a loop: Hospital Road, MLA Road, Nera Lane, Nambiapuram Road, AroorThoppumpady Road, and back to the Corporation Ground. The first dog approached the volunteers with curiosity, tail wagging. A quick jab, a green paint mark on the head, and hes off. Shy, older dogs retreat on seeing the team, while some puppies tag along like supervisors. On Hospital Road near Palluruthy, Sakshi emerges from a dark corner of a building with three pups. They are vaccinated gently, set free. A little later, Sakshi slips under an old pushcart to coax out another nervous dog. The mutt, however, manages to scoot. Such moments have become routine for us, she smiles. On MLA Road, the lanes narrow, and clusters of community dogs appear some playful, some cautious. One family brings out their pet indie dog. Dr Vishnu gives the little one a shot and hands a small card with the vaccination details to the family. Why do you paint the head? Will you take the marked dogs away? ask some curious children trailing the team. Volunteers explain the drive and importance of anti-rabies vaccination. Some older residents of the area demand that the strays be relocated, opening up conversations about coexistence and community responsibility. As we return to Corporation Ground, the teams tally for the day stands at 10 dogs. Those left would be covered by the net team the next day. On average, these teams together cover 250 to 300 dogs a day. Volunteers during the vaccination drive The modus operandi closely mirrors Goas rabies-elimination programme, which is said to be a success model. When Mission Rabies launched a pilot in Goa in 2014, the findings were alarming: among 45 suspected animal cases, 39 tested positive. What followed was public-health collaborations. Mission Rabies, the state government, and hundreds of trained volunteers created a model based on mass vaccination, surveillance, and rapid response, Sajith explains. In 2015, an MoU formalised the partnership. In a month-long campaign, over 63,000 dogs were vaccinated with the support of 500 veterinary professionals from 16 countries. A rabies hotline was introduced for immediate reporting, and door-to-door coverage ensured no pockets of the state were missed. By 2021, he adds, Goa was officially declared a rabies-controlled area after three consecutive years without a single human rabies death. Monitoring, surveillance, and annual vaccination cycles continue even today. Similar to Goas rapid-response system, a dedicated rabies hotline for Kochi is set to be launched soon. Sajith adds that vaccination is vital as animal birth control measures may not always be feasible due to manpower and logistical constraints. Corporation veterinary surgeon Dr Ambili T R echoes the view. The drive being conducted by Mission Rabies supplements ongoing efforts to curb issues related to stray dogs, including the animal birth control (ABC) and public awareness campaigns, she says. The ABC centre in Brahmapuram is already functioning, and we are looking to expand it further. The centre also has up to 27 kennels and space for dogs to play and rest. There are also four large caged enclosures. We also opened one centre in Tripunithura this year. There is a limit to how much a local civic body can do, so such collaborations are critical.
In vote-bank theatre, Ezhavas still in search of key role
KOCHI: Taking up 24% of the states population, the Ezhavas constitute the most significant demographic. But as better-organised groups haggle their way to political gains, the states biggest community has remained a mute spectator. Once treated as untouchables, Ezhavas have transformed into a progressive, well-educated community, making significant contributions to Keralas social and economic development. But in politics, they have failed to secure their due share. With 27 MLAs from LDF, the community, for the first time, received representation in proportion to its population in the 15th assembly in 2021. However, just five ministers from the community were named. The Nairs, who constitute just 12% of the population, got seven, further souring sentiments. The Ezhavas have been traditionally associated with left parties. The role of Communists in organising the Punnapra-Vayalar agitation for protection of the rights of the underprivileged, and the struggles to remove inequality and untouchability greatly influenced the community. However, recent shifts in the communitys political affiliation has shocked the ruling CPM. In the 2024 Lok Sabha (LS) election, the BJP led the way in 11 assembly divisions, while coming second in eight. In many of these segments, including Attingal, Kattakkada, Kazhakkoottam, Irinjalakuda, Haripad, Kayamkulam and Palakkad, Ezhavas hold sway. The 2019 LS poll and 2021 assembly election saw the BJP widen its support base in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Kollam on the back of public sentiment over the Sabarimala stir. This coincided with a shift in Ezhava voting patterns in the three districts. While Vellappally Natesan, general secretary of SNDP Yogam, has been a staunch supporter of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, BJP has made inroads into the community. The Bharath Dharma Jana Sena (BDJS), formed in 2014, gave it a platform to further push the agenda. With Vellappallys son Thushar at the helm of BDJS, a key NDA ally, connecting with the community has been easy sailing for BJP. From the 65% backing in the 2011 assembly election, LDF saw its Ezhava vote share decline. According to BJP, around 35-40% of the community has shifted loyalty in its favour. An increasing number of Ezhava youth are getting lured by the saffron front. It is true the influence of BJP is increasing in the community. The appeasement politics of the ruling party and opposition, reluctance to appoint Ezhavas in key posts and bias in allocation of funds have alienated the community from both the fronts, said a senior SNDP Yogam leader. However, the BDJS is not feeling secure in the NDA. Ezhava leaders in BDJS and BJP say there is lack of trust at lower levels. There is perfect coordination between BJP and BDJS at the state level, but when it comes to the rank and file, there is lack of trust. Most BJP leaders at district and mandalam levels belong to the Nair community and do not accept Ezhava leaders. If this is resolved, the BJP-BDJS combine will emerge as a strong third force, said a state-level BDJS leader. Nair-Ezhava tensions, BJPs reluctance to deliver posts once promised to BDJS, lack of mutual trust and poaching of BDJS leaders are factors hampering NDAs growth in Kerala. I feel it was LDF that respected the community. BJP treats us as second-class citizens. But there is a strong sentiment within the community against Muslim appeasement and this may work in the partys favour this time, he said. But why have the Ezhavas failed to claim their rights? The Ezhavas have been politically sensitive and ideologically committed, due to their long association with the Communists in the struggle for rights. They could have united on the caste basis and bargained with political parties, but they preferred to stick to their ideology. When K R Gouri Amma was denied chief ministership and V S Achuthanandan was sidelined, they were disheartened and started drifting away from CPM. Now there is a growing affection towards the BJP, said political observer P Sujathan.
50 Sabarimala Pilgrims Injured After Tamil Nadu Bus Overturns in Idukki
One critically hurt as vehicle loses control on KollamTheni National Highway
Tenders worth 6.46 crore for station redevelopment projects in Kollam and Alappuzha
Sasthamkotta and Karunagappally in Kollam, and Haripad and Punnapra in Alappuzha are the stations in focus
Vigilance court sends former TDB chief to SIT custody in Sabarimala gold case
KOLLAM: The Vigilance Court here on Wednesday sent former Travancore Devaswom Board president A Padmakumar to the custody of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged misappropriation of gold-plated artefacts meant for Sabarimala. He will remain in SIT custody till 5 pm on Thursday. The prosecution sought his custody, stating that crucial information still needed to be extracted from him. The SIT also informed the court that the investigation report would soon be submitted to the Kerala High Court and that questioning Padmakumar was essential at this stage. However, the defence argued that custody was unnecessary as Padmakumar had been cooperating with the probe. The prosecution countered that he had ignored three notices to appear before the investigators. The court accepted the prosecutions argument and granted custody. Shortly after the order, BJP workers blocked the vehicle transporting Padmakumar for medical examination outside the court complex. Police removed the protestors, and the vehicle later left the premises. Padmakumar has been lodged in judicial remand at the District Sub Jail in Thiruvananthapuram following his arrest last week after hours of questioning at the Crime Branch office in Enchakkal. The SIT has named him the eighth accused in the second case related to missing gold from the Sreekovil door frames.
SIT produces Padmakumar before Inquiry Commissioner and Special Vigilance Judge in Kollam. Court remands him in SIT custody till Friday
Kerala local body polls 2025: Rival fronts fear public anger as pollution hogs the limelight
Public anger over industrial emissions and untreated wastewater is mounting pressure on political parties. While reverberations of agitations against a poultry waste treatment plant in Kozhikode is likely to shape voter sentiment, Ashtamudi Lakes pollution is becoming a key poll issue in Kollam.
Kerala man arrested for bludgeoning wife to death with LPG cylinder
KOLLAM: A man from Karikkod in Kollam was arrested for bludgeoning his wife with an LPG cylinder to death in a late-night assault. The woman was found dead in a pool of blood at their home in the early hours of Monday when police reached the spot. Kilikollur police have registered a case. The victim, Kavitha, 46, had suffered fatal head injuries and died on the spot, police said. Her husband, Madhusoodanan Pillai, was taken into custody from the house soon after officers arrived. According to police, the incident happened around 12.30 am, when Madhusoodanan Pillai allegedly hit Kavitha multiple times on her head with a gas cylinder. Their daughter was inside the house at the time. Startled by loud sounds, neighbours rushed to their house and alerted the police. A doctor called to the spot confirmed that she was dead. Madhusoodanan Pillai was later taken to the Kilikkollur police station. The body has been shifted to a government hospital for autopsy. Police said preliminary investigation suggest that a domestic dispute triggered the attack and investigation is underway. Officers added that Madhusoodanan Pillai, who works in the cashew business, is a habitual drinker and has been undergoing treatment for depression.
Man kills wife by hitting her with LPG cylinder in Kerala's Kollam
KOLLAM : A 45-year-old woman died after she was allegedly attacked by her husband using an LPG cylinder at Mangad here in the early hours of Monday, police said. The deceased has been identified as Kavitha, a resident near Apollo Junction, Karicode, Mangad. Police have arrested her husband, Madhusudhanan Pillai, who assaulted her following a quarrel at their house around midnight. According to the FIR, the incident took place at around 12.30 am when Pillai hit Kavitha multiple times on her head with a gas cylinder. The FIR also stated that the couple's daughter was present in the house at the time of the incident. Hearing loud noises, neighbours rushed to the house and alerted the police. Officers reached the spot and found Kavitha lying unconscious in the hall. A doctor was called to the location and confirmed her death. Pillai was arrested and shifted to the Kilikkollur police station, where a case of murder has been registered, officials said. The body has been shifted to a government hospital for postmortem.
Kerala: Man Kills Wife by Hitting Her with LPG Cylinder in Kollam
Police have arrested her husband, Madhusudhanan Pillai, who assaulted her following a quarrel at their house around midnight
Parasitic leech found off Kollam a likely threat to native fish health
KOLLAM: A parasitic marine leech previously found only along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts has been reported for the first time in Indian waters off the Kollam coast. The finding has raised concern among researchers about the parasites potential impact on fish health, fisheries productivity and the marine ecosystem. The species, Pontobdella muricata, was found among the trawl bycatch that landed at Sakthikulangara harbour. The specimen was found attached to the ventral side of a ray fish, confirming a new parasite-host association for a leech previously restricted to colder European waters. Researchers say the leech poses no direct threat to humans but warn that it could severely affect native fish populations. Even a single leech can cause lesions, draw blood and create wounds that allow secondary infections reducing fish health and market value, says the study. The finding has triggered concerns about what else may be silently shifting to Keralas waters. The current detection is limited to deepwater skates, but researchers warn that the shift in parasite distribution may indicate changing ocean conditions, altered migration routes or broader ecological imbalances. Our marine ecosystem is already under extreme stress due to global warming, pollution, deep-sea fishing and declining fish stocks. With fisheries under unprecedented pressure, the emergence of a new parasite is a red flag, said Sarlin Pathissery, head of the zoology department, Fatima Mata National College, Kollam, who led the study. The new parasite could harm fish populations in the long run, especially in waters already stressed by overfishing, warming seas and species degradation. But how exactly this will affect the fishing community and the wider environment requires in-depth study, she said. If such parasites spread to commercially important species, small fishers who depend on healthy, clean catch for their livelihood will be the most affected, the study notes. Impact of parasites may be huge, need further study The exceptionally high genetic similarity (more than 99%) between the Kollam specimen and populations from the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts underscores the need for focused comparative assessments to determine whether similar ecological or pathological effects may arise in Indian waters. Researchers argue that monitoring such hidden parasites is crucial not just for biodiversity records but to understand subtle ecological shifts that ultimately influence coastal livelihoods. The discovery of the parasite is a reminder that what is hiding under the ocean will reach the market fish stall and our homes sooner than we expect. These parasites may be small, but their impact could be huge. Thats why further study is needed, said Sandie Moris, a chemical engineering student at Government Engineering College, Thrissur, who assisted the study. Savio Morris, chemical engeneering student at TKM Engineering College, Kollam, and Sancia Moris of the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology, Germany, were also part of the study. It has been published in a peer reviewed international journal, Taylor & Francis Biodiversity. First time in Indian waters Its for the first time that parasitic marine leech, Pontobdella muricata, is found in Indian waters, says the study The species was previously found only along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts The leech could severely affect native fish populations
Rookies who redefined rural development in Kerala
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: They were once dismissed as too young, too inexperienced, too idealistic for the rough-and-tumble of grassroots administration. But over the past five years, a few in their 20s who took charge of grama panchayats across Kerala have not only proved sceptics wrong, but also left behind commendable achievements. As Kerala heads for another local body election, its stories offer a revealing glimpse into both the possibilities and the limitations of youth politics at the grassroots. TNIE spoke to some leaders who assumed office between 20 and 25 a cohort that brought freshness, visibility and vibrancy to local governance. Their track records show ambition and innovation, yet many are stepping away, citing one factor that continues to haunt young entrants: the painfully low honorarium that makes politics a financial burden rather than a career possibility. Reshma Mariam Roy From too young to double Swaraj Trophy winner When CPMs Reshma Mariam Roy became president of the Aruvappulam grama panchayat (Pathanamthitta) in 2020, she had turned 21 the minimum age to contest just a day before filing her nomination. She went on to lead her panchayat to two consecutive Swaraj Trophies, disproving assumptions about her inexperience. I was told running a panchayat is not childs play, Reshma said. But with the support of my colleagues and comrades, we transformed Aruvappulam into one of the districts best-performing panchayats, she said. This time, she is contesting for the district panchayat from Malayalapuzha, confident that younger generations bring a sharper focus on development, especially when paired with the experience of senior leaders. Johnys P Stephen Young leaders bow out due to low honorarium While some soared, others have quietly decided to step away from electoral politics - not due to disillusionment, but because they simply cannot afford it. One of them is Johnys P Stephen, who became Uzhavoor (Kottayam) panchayat president as a 22-year-old independent backed by the UDF. I contested while doing my MA in English, he said. During his tenure, he secured land for a long-delayed mini civil station project worth Rs 4 crore and launched a farmers market bringing together growers from every ward. But he is not contesting again. With just Rs 8,000 for a ward member and around Rs 15,000 for a president, survival becomes difficult, he said. Young members can do tremendous work, but the low honorarium pushes them out. The amount must be increased, he added. Radhika Madhavan Taking development to Adivasi hamlets At 23, CPMs Radhika Madhavan took charge of the Malampuzha grama panchayat (Palakkad) in 2020. She is staying in politics and is now contesting for the block panchayat. Her tenure saw major interventions in Adivasi belts: new health sub-centres in Elival and Anakkal (one inaugurated and one awaiting opening), a new building for a 31-year-old homeopathy dispensary, and extensive waste-management projects. Pipeline work to address drinking water shortage in remote tribal settlements has also been completed. Young people should enter local governance, but financial constraints discourage many, she said. I continue because of my commitment to the party and the people. Amrutha C Rebuilding a panchayat while completing degree CPMs Amrutha C, president of Ittiva grama panchayat (Kollam), also assumed office at 23 after completing her degree in Sociology. During her tenure, the 70-year-old panchayat building was demolished and rebuilt, and funds were allocated for an upcoming industrial centre to support future entrepreneurs. She is recontesting, this time from a ward (Padinjare Vayala) held by the BJP. I could continue my studies alongside my responsibilities, she said. This time too, I want to show that young leaders are not temporary placeholders. A generation willing to lead, if system lets them As Keralas political landscape prepares for another electoral cycle, these stories underline a stark reality: Young leaders are willing to take charge and are capable of delivering measurable development. But structural constraints especially low remuneration are forcing many to walk away. The kids on the block have proven they can run panchayats, win awards, and push long-stalled development projects into motion. Yet unless formal support systems improve, Kerala risks losing an emerging generation of grassroots leaders whose only demand is that public service should not come at the cost of personal survival
Kollam district school Kalolsavam from Nov. 25
Rain likely across Kerala; yellow alerts in 7 districts on November 23
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued yellow alerts for seven districts Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki for Sunday. The IMD has forecast rain or thundershowers across many parts of Kerala over the next six days. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea till Monday. Alert issued Sunday: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki Monday: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Palakkad and Malappuram Tuesday: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki Wednesday: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki
Judicial officer moves SC against High Courts disciplinary action
KOCHI: A judicial officer in Kerala has approached the Supreme Court challenging the disciplinary action initiated against her by the Kerala High Court for stopping the proceedings in 1,910 cases. The petitioner, Sony A S, who served as the Judicial First Class Magistrate III in Kollam from August 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016 had allegedly disposed of 1,910 cases indiscriminately, without recording any reason. A Division Bench of the Supreme Court consisting Justice Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta has sought a response from the state government on her plea challenging the two orders issued by Kerala High Court upholding the disciplinary penalty and rejecting her request to restore her seniority. Sony A S, while serving as the JFCM in Kollam had invoked her powers under Section 258 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to stop the proceedings in the cases involving minor offences like rash driving. The petitioner argued that the orders were passed in good faith to reduce the backlog in accordance with administrative directions encouraging magistrates to prioritise contested trials. She said the Registrar of Kerala High Court had issued appreciation letters for reducing backlog. However, in September 2018, she was served a charge memo alleging deliberate disobedience of an office memorandum. The disciplinary proceedings culminated in withholding two increments with cumulative effect in April 2022. Sony said her probation was already delayed by several years and the penalty further affected her seniority and promotion prospects. She argued that the action was contrary to the Judges (Protection) Act, 1985 and the Kerala Judicial Officers Protection Act 1963, which safeguard the judges from disciplinary or civil action for acts done in good faith while discharging judicial functions.
Kodi Kada is in non-stop election mode
Since 1984, the small shop is the primary source of campaign materials for political parties across Kollam and neighbouring districts all through the year. It provides an array of customised products and strictly adheres to green protocol
ED raids P V Anvars residences in Rs 22.3-crore KFC loan fraud case
MALAPPURAM: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials on Friday carried out extensive searches at the residences of former Nilambur MLA P V Anvar and his driver Ziyad Ambayathingal in connection with a money laundering probe linked to an alleged loan fraud at the Kerala Financial Corporation (KFC), which reportedly caused a loss of Rs 22.30 crore. The raid, which began around 6.30am, went on for over 12 hours and concluded by 9.30pm. The ED team probing a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, backed by CRPF personnel, reached Anvars house in Othayi early in the morning, secured the premises and commenced the search. A separate team simultaneously searched the KFC Malappuram office, Ziyads house and multiple office establishments linked to Anvar. The probe stems from a vigilance case registered on July 29 by the Thiruvananthapuram Special Investigation Team against KFC Malappuram chief manager Abdul Manaf, deputy manager Mini, technical officer P Muneer Ahmed, former MLA Anvar, and Ziyad. The case is that the loans were sanctioned without adequate collateral and in violation of key procedures. The vigilance probe followed a complaint by a Kollam-based industrialist and planter Murugesh Narendran, who later appeared before the ED and handed over what officials described as crucial evidence pointing to alleged black-money transactions involving Anvar. According to the probe, Ziyad was sanctioned a `7.50-crore loan on September 23, 2015, from the KFC Malappuram branch for construction purposes under Malamkulam Constructions Pvt Ltd., despite insufficient income proof. After there was default on repayment, the same property pledged as collateral was reused to grant two loans of `5 crore each totalling `10 crore to Anvar under PVR Developers on December 8, 2015. Officials allege that Ziyad concealed his existing liability and falsely certified that no dues to KFC existed, enabling disbursal of the later loans. The ED is now scrutinising the financial transactions of Malamkulam Constructions, PVR Developers, and other entities linked to Anvar and Ziyad as part of the money laundering probe.
New species of deep-sea octopus squid found in Kerala
KOCHI: Scientists at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) have found a new species of deep-sea squid in the Arabian Sea. The species, scientifically named Taningia silasii (Indian octopus squid), is the second confirmed species of the globally rare genus Taningia and has been formally described in the international journal Marine Biodiversity. The specimen was collected from nearly 390m depth off the Kollam coast. Measuring 45cm in length, the squid belongs to the family of Octopoteuthidae, the adults of this species are known for their distinctive absence of tentacles, though they are true deep-sea squids. Principal scientist Geetha Sasikumar and technical officer Sajikumar K K led the research. Until now, Taningia danae found in Atlantic waters was the only known species in this genus. DNA barcoding showed more than 11% genetic divergence from the Atlantic species, confirming the specimen as a distinct species, said Geetha. Although called the octopus squid, it is a squid that possesses only eight arms and lacks the two long tentacles typically seen in other squid species. Members of this family can also attain large sizes, said Sajikumar. The species has been named in honour of marine biologist and former director of CMFRI E G Silas.
Kerala leaders say grassroots politics shapes stronger ministers, legislators
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: It is not the MLA or minister you call when a water pipeline ruptures or a death occurs in the locality. Neighbourhood concerns tend to be the domain of ward members or councillors. But, these representatives may not always remain the guy next door. Local-body polls have given rise to several prominent political figures in Kerala. From panchayats and municipalities, to halls of assembly and Parliament, TNIE talks to some of the key figures whose political careers began at the institutions of grassroots democracy. General Education Minister V Sivankutty, who was the Thiruvananthapuram corporation mayor from 1995 to 2000, termed the local-body polls the toughest political test. The key is in fostering personal ties with voters. Here, politics takes a back seat. People mostly vote for individuals. Your voters are your extended family, he said. Higher Education Minister R Bindu, who served as Thrissur mayor (2005-10), said the experience one gains by working as a representative in a local body is unmatched, adding that it serves as a guide for all politicians. In my ten years in Thrissur corporation, I have directly interacted with people living in slums, erstwhile colonies, and many more. When you are part of local bodies, you understand the issues of commoners. The experience has helped me in my tenure as a minister, she added. A legislator who has had a stint in a local body knows how to combine peoples issues with the development needs of the state or country, Bindu said. My tenure as mayor helped me understand the dynamics between local bodies and government, and how they plan and execute projects, she added. Devaswom Minister V N Vasavan, who was a member of the Pampady grama panchayat, in the 1988-93 period, said his days as a panchayat member taught him how people must be accorded prime priority in a democracy, and that politicians work for the welfare of these citizens. Unlike legislative assemblies or the Lok Sabha, local bodies deal directly with people, which gives its members a hands-on idea of their views and desires. Once the youngest municipal chairman in the state on being named to lead the Angamaly civic body in 1979, Congress leader K Babu recounted how others had doubts when a 28-year-old was placed in that position. People naturally expect a seasoned politician to hold the office. However, when I was elected, I decided to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, which later strengthened my political journey, he said. The Tripunithura MLA said there was the larger trend of local-body members contesting assembly or Lok Sabha polls, which has given way to fresh faces being named as candidates. Kollam MP and RSP leader N K Premachandran fondly recalled his days as the panchayat member of Navaikulam -- which according to him laid the founding stone of his political career. The best takeaway from being the member of a local body is the ability to distinguish what is good and bad for people, especially when it comes to ministerial positions, Premachandran said. Speaking of his tenure as Thiruvananthapuram mayor (2015-19), Vattiyoorkavu MLA V K Prasanth said ground work is key in politics. People should understand that we work for them, which is what I did being part of flood-relief activities. When your work is seen, they will help you help them, he remarked. The teamwork and coordination do not happen overnight, but is the result of years of effort, said Prasanth. My stint in the corporation was a mix of ground-level interaction and office work, both of which have helped me in my political journey, he added.
Former TDB chief Padmakumar conspired in Sabarimala gold theft, says SIT report
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president and senior CPM leader A Padmakumar played a direct role in the alleged gold theft at Sabarimala by conspiring with the co-accused, the police remand report filed before the Kollam vigilance court says. Padmakumar, who was TDB president when the alleged offence took place, was arrested on Thursday after hours-long interrogation. The remand report, details of which were accessed by the TNIE , said Padmakumar ignored guidelines, which barred the displacement of temple wealth, and connived with the co-accused to move the gold-clad sheets to Chennai on the pretext of repair. He also identified gold-clad copper sheets as copper sheets in the agenda notice of the board meeting held in March 2019. This, the report said, was done deliberately to ensure first accused, Unnikrishnan Potti got hold of the gold sheets without hindrance to carry out the pilferage. SIT searches Padmakumars house, to seek custody today The report added it was on Padmakumars insistence that then TDB secretary S Jayashree issued an order sanctioning Potti to receive the gold-clad sheets. When the sheets were brought back from Chennai, Padmakumar did not examine the artefacts to ascertain their condition, which was a lapse on his part, it said. Meanwhile, the SIT probing the case searched Padmakumars ancestral home in Aranmula on Friday afternoon. The seven-member team aimed at recovering crucial documents linked to the crime. The team will seek Padmakumars custody on Monday. The co-accused in the case had told the SIT that Padmakumar took the final call on moving the artefacts from the temple to Chennai. He had denied the allegations and told the probe team that the subterfuge was the handiwork of TDB staff. The SIT had earlier arrested former TDB president N Vasu, former Sabarimala administrative officer Murari Babu, former Sabarimala executive officer Sudheesh Kumar, middleman Unnikrishnan Potti and former Thiruvabharanam Commissioner K S Biju in connection with the case.
Kerala local body polls 2025: Fronts lay out policy vision at election debate in Kollam
Heavy rain disrupts normal life in southern Kerala
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority issued an orange alert for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Alappuzha districts applicable for the next 24 hours.
Centre to establish CGHS Wellness Centre in Kollam
Kerala cop booked for molesting woman officer during duty
Kollam: A case has been registered against a police official for allegedly molesting his woman colleague at the Coastal Police Station here, officials said on Saturday. Police officials said the case was registered against Senior Civil Police Officer Navas at the Chavara police station here. According to police, Navas was working on deputation at the 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 .
Zonal competitions of SGOU arts festival from Nov. 15
The State festival will be held from November 28 to 30. Over 1,000 students from 11 study centres in Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, and Kollam districts will participate in the competitions
Kerala local body polls 2025: Kollam district to have 2,722 polling stations
Man Attacked With Machetes, House Stormed After Argument With Auto Driver
A man and two of his neighbours suffered severe injuries when an autorickshaw driver and his friends, some of whom were waving machetes, stormed his house after a minor argument near Kollam in Kerala.
Southern Railway announces 16 special trains for Sabarimala pilgrimage season
Thiruvananthapuram: Southern Railway on Monday announced 16 special trains for pilgrims travelling to Sabarimala for the Mandala-Makaravilakku festival season, which begins on November 17. The trains will be operational from November 14 to January 24, 2026 from Kakinada, Hazur Sahib Nanded, Charlapalli, Machilipatnam, Narasapur, Chennai Egmore, Dr MGR Chennai Central to Kollam and Kottayam, 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 .
Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha and Ernakulam will go to polls on December 9. Thrissur, Malappuram, Wayanad, Palakkad, Kannur, Kasaragod, Kannur and Kozhikode on December 11
LSGD identifies new sites for regional sanitary waste incineration facilities in Kerala
The proposed plants, each capable of processing 20 tonnes of waste per day, will be established in Kottarakara in Kollam, Muvattupuzha in Ernakulam, Kuttippuram in Malappuram and Kadannappalli in Kannur.
Special train from Cherlapally to Sabarimala announced
Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) has announced special train services for Ayyappa devotees travelling to Sabarimala. A special train service (Train No. 07113) will operate between Cherlapally and Kollam from November 18 to January 13, departing Cherlapally every Tuesday. This train will pass through key stations including Secunderabad, Lingampalli, Vikarabad, Tandur, Yadgir, Krishna, Raichur, 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 .
Venu a victim of collapse of Arogyakeralam, says Satheesan
Kollam native had died at the Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College Hospital on Wednesday night
Protests erupt in Thiruvananthapuram as kin alleges medical negligence led to patients death in MCH
Kollamman had been admitted to the hospital last Saturday due to chest pain. Though kin alleges angiogram test was not performed on him, authorities say test was not done as the patient had several risk factors like diabetes, hypertension,which made angiogram a risky proposition
A Kerala Crime Misrepresented by AI Imagery By New Indian Express
The shocking case from Keralas Kollam district involves a man named Mohd Sajeer, who allegedly poured boiling fish curry on his wife, Rejila Gafoor, after she refused to take part in a black magic ritual prescribed by an Usthad a local occult practitioner. According to the FIR, the incident took place at around 10 a.m. Continue reading A Kerala Crime Misrepresented by AI Imagery By New Indian Express The post A Kerala Crime Misrepresented by AI Imagery By New Indian Express appeared first on OurVoice | WeRIndia - Analysis & Opinion .
Vice President Radhakrishnan urges stakeholders to make Indian coir a global brand
KOLLAM (Kerala), Nov 3 : Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Monday described coir as a symbol of sustainable development and urged stakeholders to make Indian coir a global brand. He also highlighted the pivotal role played by exporters and stakeholders in propelling the Indian coir industry onto the global stage. The Vice President interacted with the members of the Federation of Indian Coir Exporters Associations (FICEA) in this south Kerala district. The interaction brought together distinguished exporters, industry leaders, [] The post Vice President Radhakrishnan urges stakeholders to make Indian coir a global brand appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Education is wealth that cannot be taken away, says Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan
Diamond jubilee celebrations of Fatima Mata National College, Kollam
Special trains to Kollam sought to meet Ayyappa puja season rush
According to official figures, around thousand scrub typhus cases are reported each year in Kerala, 70% of which are from Thiruvananthapuram and the rest are from Kozhikode, Wayanad, Idukki and Kollam
Kerala Man Booked for Pouring Hot Fish Curry on Wifes Face
The accused, who believed his wife was possessed, fled after the assault; victim hospitalised in Kollam district
KIIFB approves SPV for Vizhinjam-Kollam-Punalur Growth Triangle project in Kerala
Steps are on to secure approval of State Cabinet for registration, says Balagopal
Cyclone Montha likely to bring heavy rainfall in Kerala; orange alert for three districts
An orange alert warning of very heavy rainfall has been issued for three districts Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod on Monday, while the rest of the State, except for Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, has been put on yellow alert
Model United Nations held in Kollam
Kerala rains: IMD withdraws red alert, puts 10 districts on orange alert
Yellow alert sounded for Kasaragod, Kannur, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday
Bangladeshi national held for illegal stay in Kollam
Cyber police nab Kozhikode trio for alleged role in 25-crore fraud
The trios arrest comes a month after a woman from Kollam, Sujitha G., was arrested in the case; as many as 250 SIM cards, 40 mobile phones, laptops, and debit cards seized from a flat used by the accused
Heavy Rains Lash Parts of Kerala, Orange Alert Issued in 3 Districts
IMD sounded the orange alert in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta districts
Heavy rains lash parts of Kerala, IMD issues orange alert in 3 districts
Kerala's three southernmost districts, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta, are under an 'orange alert' due to heavy rains and thunderstorms. The IMD predicts very heavy rainfall of 11 to 20 cm, accompanied by winds up to 50 kmph. Other districts like Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Idukki are also expected to experience thunderstorms and strong winds.
Exit of southwest monsoon, onset of northeast monsoon likely to be on October 16
Orange alert issued for Idukki and Kottayam on Thursday; yellow alert in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Malappuram
Kerala Midnight Well Rescue Op Gone Wrong: 3, Including Firefighter, Die
A midnight rescue operation turned into a major tragedy at Neduvathoor in Kerala's Kollam, claiming the lives of three people, including a firefighter, after the old rope barrier around an 80-foot-deep well collapsed.
Amoebic meningoencephalitis: 23 deaths reported in Kerala, says state health minister
Kerala has reported 104 cases of amoebic encephalitis, with 23 deaths, primarily in Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram districts. The state health minister highlighted that early detection and treatment have significantly reduced the global fatality rate of this rare brain infection. An action plan based on the One Health approach is being implemented to prevent further cases.
Surakshitha Theeram project launched by Kollam City police
New museum in Kollam celebrates A. Ramachandrans works
Inaugurating the museum, Chief Minister says the painters art works are a link that connects contemporary Indian painting to its traditional past as well as its future
KPCCs cultural wing to hold two-day south zone camp in Alappuzha
Around 350 delegates from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, and Alappuzha districts are expected to participate
Chief Minister to inaugurate A. Ramachandran Museum in Kollam on October 5
It will showcase the artists complete body of work, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, stamp designs, and childrens books
J.P. Nadda blames LDF misgovernance for Keralas economic woes
He Inaugurated the BJP State committee meeting in Kollam on September 27.
Rain lash central and southern Kerala; IMD issues alerts
Thiruvananthapuram: As heavy rains lashed parts of central and southern Kerala, the IMD issued an orange alert in seven districts on Friday morning. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert in the districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki and Ernakulam for three hours from 7am. Additionally, schools and colleges were closed 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 rains: IMD sounds orange alert for four districts
Orange alert for Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki districts, while Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Palakkad are on yellow alert on Friday
NSO marks 75 years of National Sample Survey with seminar at Kollam
Kerala Man Kills Wife Over Mistrust, Confesses On Social Media
Man killed his wife in Kollam, confessed on Facebook Live, then surrendered. Police booked him for murder after their sons complaint and seized both their mobile phones.
After Kollam womans arrest, police suspect role of more Keralites in 25-crore cyber fraud
Nun found dead in convent in Kerala
33-year-old woman, a native of Tamil Nadu, found dead in her room at the convent 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
Elderly man duped of 3.72 cr in virtual arrest scam in Kollam
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.
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
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.
LHB rakes for Chenai Egmore-Kollam-Chennai Egmore Express trains
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
Clashes between CPI(M) and Congress workers leave several injured in Kollam
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.
