Digital Desk | Jerusalem, Oct 4 (IANS) The Israeli Foreign Ministry said on Sunday that the world saw Israelis, Emiratis and Indians showing extraordinary courage and standing together against terror during the attack on a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv earlier this week. The terror attack on the Flydubai flight to Tel Aviv was more than an attack on Israelis. It was an attack on IsraelUAE relations and everything the Abraham Accords represent. Instead, the world saw Israelis, Emiratis and Indians showing extraordinary courage and standing together against terror. Terror will not derail the progress transforming our region, the Ministry said in a post on social media platform X. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited Flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to light a celebratory flame at Israel's next Independence Day ceremony, describing the Indian pilot who foiled a mid-air attack as a hero of India, Israel and the entire world, during a telephone conversation with him earlier. Captain, I want to invite you and my dear friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to light a celebratory flame on our next Independence Day. You are a true hero of the brave peoples of India and Israel, and you're a hero of the entire world, Netanyahu told Captain Machchhar. I wish you a very speedy and complete recovery, he added. The Israeli Prime Minister said the honour was usually reserved for his country's own citizens. It's our highest honour that we give on our Independence Day. It's usually reserved for Israeli citizens. But I think here in this case, all the citizens of Israel will embrace you (Captain Smit Machchhar). They do now and they will then too, he added. Netanyahu, who was told by the pilot how the attack unfolded in the cockpit, said he was amazed by his conduct. I'm amazed at your courage, at your coolness of judgment under impossible conditions, the Israeli Prime Minister said, adding that what the Captain did was remarkable and that it bordered on the miraculous. He said the pilot had saved more than the lives of those on board. You saved so many souls. I think you saved something bigger. You saved the spirit of the world to realise that a brave pilot and brave passengers can overcome this evil, however threatening, however violent. It's something that is being justly hailed around the world, Netanyahu said.
Man stabbed to death in Salem; relatives stage road roko
Man stabbed to death in Salem; relatives stage road roko
Israel Knew Of Omani Hijacker? Mossad Had Flydubai Crew List 48 Hours Before Attack | Report
New questions are emerging over the Flydubai FZ1073 cockpit attack after The Jerusalem Post reported that Israeli authorities had received passenger and crew details up to 48 hours before the Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight. The alleged attacker has been identified by media reports as Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami, though his identity and motive have not been officially confirmed. The incident has triggered scrutiny of Israels aviation security procedures, while injured Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar has received praise from Israel and the UAE for his actions during the alleged attack.
Injured flydubai pilot recounts fight to regain cockpit control
Jerusalem: Captain Smit Machchhar, the pilot who fought off an alleged attempt to seize control of a flydubai aircraft bound for Israel, has recounted the terrifying moments inside the cockpit when he realised that his co-pilot was attacking him. Machchhar, who sustained serious injuries during the incident, described the ordeal while speaking to Israeli Prime 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 .
'I had that one last fight left in me': Capt Machchhar recalls cockpit attack
Digital Desk | Jerusalem, Oct 4 (IANS) Captain Smit Machchhar, the pilot who fought off an alleged attempt to seize control of a flydubai aircraft bound for Israel, has recounted the terrifying moments inside the cockpit when he realised that his co-pilot was attacking him. Machchhar, who sustained serious injuries during the incident, described the ordeal while speaking to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who invited the pilot and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to light a celebratory flame at Israel's next Independence Day ceremony. Machchhar said the flight had begun as a normal journey and that he was looking ahead while his co-pilot prayed. According to Machchhar, he initially had no reason to suspect that anything was wrong. He said that the co-pilot had told him he wanted to pray, something he described as a common practice among local passengers and crew members, and that he therefore looked towards the front of the cockpit out of respect. While he was praying, out of respect, I was looking at the front and not at the back, and suddenly, after about four to five minutes, there was a big blow to the back of my head. Machchhar said his immediate thought after the first heavy blow was that something catastrophic had happened to the aircraft itself. My first thought was that there was catastrophic damage to the aircraft, that something is not right ... but after that the blows kept coming, one after the other and that's when I realised that it's not the aircraft, it's the other guy who is in the cockpit with me, he said. The pilot said he attempted to stop the attacker, but the initial blows had severely affected his vision and left him struggling to see clearly. I did try and stop him, but because of his initial blows, my vision was almost like nothing, and I was completely blurred out, Machchhar said. And at that point, the next feeling I had was that the aircraft was sharply going down, he said. My memory is still in bits and pieces right now, but this is what I remember out of that time. Machchhar said he managed to open the cockpit door once during the struggle, but believed that the co-pilot subsequently shut it again. I did try and manage to open the door once, but I think he shut it back closed. And at this point, I remember, I was lying down on the cockpit floor, and I felt the aircraft and the whooshing sound and people screaming, he said. It was at that moment, Machchhar said, that he realised he had one final opportunity to prevent the aircraft from going down. Despite his injuries and the attack he had already endured, he decided to make another attempt to reach the cockpit door. And as I was telling the Ambassador here, I had that one last fight left in me... Call it personal or call it for people, I did it because if I didn't do it, I was going to die, and that's when I pushed against everything... I gave everything that I had and went for the door and opened the door. And thankfully, people were waiting to pounce back ... took over control and the rest is what you know, he said. I'm amazed at your courage, at your coolness of judgment under impossible conditions, the Israeli Prime Minister said, adding that what the Captain did was remarkable and that it bordered on the miraculous. He said the pilot had saved more than the lives of those on board. You saved so many souls. I think you saved something bigger. You saved the spirit of the world to realise that a brave pilot and brave passengers can overcome this evil, however threatening, however violent. It's something that is being justly hailed around the world, Netanyahu said. You're a hero of Israel. You're a hero of India. You're a hero of the entire world, he added. Netanyahu also sent his family's wishes to the pilot's family. Please also pass the best regards from me and my wife to your wife. I know you have a family and know that you're part of the family of nations. You're part of the family of nations and a heroic part. Please get well as soon as you can, he said. Inviting the Captain again towards the end of the conversation, Netanyahu said: So we hope to see you very soon in Israel. I look forward to seeing you here again. But under the circumstances, I think this will be a memorable and historic visit. Thank you for everything you did, the Israeli Prime Minister told the pilot. The conversation with Netanyahu came a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Machchhar by telephone on Friday and praised him for his actions during the incident. PM Modi had said a day earlier that the pilot had displayed immense courage and unwavering resolve while protecting the lives of others despite sustaining serious injuries.
Chris Rock compares cancel culture to Salem witch hunts and the Old Testament, arguing wokeness also needs to come with a willingness to forgive.
4.42 crore fixed as Deepavali sales target for Co-optex outlets in Salem
Strike by lorry drivers at BPCL depot in Salem withdrawn
'Arab Commander Killed, Riyadh Airport...'; Houthi Strikes Push Saudi Arabia Into New Danger Zone
Fresh tensions are being reported between Saudi Arabia and Yemens Houthi movement, with reports of explosions in the Najran area and claims of disruptions to air traffic around Riyadh. The developments have not been independently verified. Footage circulating through Houthi-affiliated channels also reportedly shows Burkan-1 ballistic missiles being prepared for an operation. The missile system, first publicly unveiled by the Houthis in 2016, has previously been used in attacks targeting Saudi territory. Meanwhile, fighting has intensified around Taizz, where Saudi-backed Yemeni forces and Houthi fighters have clashed across multiple fronts. A senior Saudi-backed commander, Major General Muhammad Salem al-Khawlani, was also reported killed during fighting on the Al-Kadha front.
Police arrests two in elderly couple murder case in Salem after two months
flydubai co-pilot Hamam Al Hamami was barred from flying in Oman over extremist concerns: Report
Digital Desk | New Delhi/Washington, Oct 3 (IANS) The flydubai co-pilot, identified as Hamam Al Hamami, accused of attempting to sabotage a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight and attacking Indian Captain Smit Machchhar, had reportedly been barred from flying in his country Oman over concerns that he had adopted extremist views, according to media reports. Al Hamami is an Omani citizen who was born in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to an Omani father and a Syrian mother. According to reports, Al Hamami spent much of his time outside Oman, particularly in Syria, where he was allegedly influenced by extremist ideas before subsequently travelling to the UAE. Al Hamami was working as a co-pilot trainee with Oman Air in 2024 when he was allegedly found in possession of extremist material. He was reportedly permitted to continue working with the airline in an administrative capacity, but was barred from flying after being identified as a security risk. Despite the reported flying restriction in Oman, Al Hamami was later hired by flydubai, the Dubai-based airline, enabling him to operate flights on the sensitive route connecting the UAE and Israel. Questions over how he was cleared to fly have emerged as investigations into the incident continue. The UAE has ordered an investigation to establish the circumstances and determine whether the incident was connected to terrorist activity, prior planning or direction. Reports have also suggested that Al Hamami intended to crash the flydubai aircraft in Israel. However, investigations into the motive and circumstances surrounding the incident are continuing. Al Hamami had worked for flydubai for only about eight months, CNN reported. A now-deleted LinkedIn profile bearing the name Hamam Al Hammami reportedly stated that he had worked with Oman Air for seven years and left the airline in February 2025. He subsequently joined Royal Air Maroc in June 2025 and left the airline in January this year before taking up employment with flydubai, according to reports. The deleted profile reportedly made two posts within around nine hours of the flydubai incident, both of which were terror-related. One of the posts reportedly contained a series of clips filmed inside the cockpits of a Boeing 737 Max aircraft, with the person recording the footage zooming in on an aircraft belonging to Israeli airline El Al. The video reportedly ended with an image of Ayman al-Zawahiri, the al-Qaeda leader who succeeded Osama Bin Laden, along with a photograph of Humam Khalil Abu-Mulal al-Balawi, who killed nine people in a 2009 suicide bombing targeting US personnel. Another post reportedly featured an AI-generated image depicting Islam's three holiest sites in Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. According to CNN, a poem in the background referred to rejecting humiliation, not fearing death and defending one's dignity. A separate CNN report said Al Hamami's now-deleted X account portrayed him as deeply religious and misogynistic. Other media reports have also cited a former colleague describing him as a religious extremist, although investigations into his motives and background remain ongoing. The flydubai flight was heading from Dubai to Israel's Tel Aviv on September 30 when the co-pilot tried to sabotage the aircraft and stabbed Captain Smit Machchhar, who was trying to prevent him from doing so. At the time, the Boeing 737, cruising at about 34,000 feet, began dropping at roughly 23,000 feet per minute before reaching about 15,600 feet. However, Machchhar fought the co-pilot, resisted him, and opened the cockpit door so that passengers and crew members could overpower him. The flight made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia's Tabuk with the help of two other pilots who were on the flight at that time. Meanwhile, UAE Attorney-General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi has ordered the formation of an investigation team to probe the incident, including any possible connection to terrorist activity or intent. The team, comprising specialised members of the Public Prosecution, will investigate the circumstances and causes of the incident, according to the statement released by the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The UAE appreciated Saudi Arabian authorities for their cooperation and handling of the incident.
Heavy rain forecast for Nilgiris, Coimbatore; showers likely across Tamil Nadu
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 3 (IANS) Moderate rain accompanied by strong winds is likely across Tamil Nadus Western Ghats districts and several southern and central districts on Saturday and Sunday, the Meteorological Department has forecast. The weather conditions are being influenced by a cyclonic circulation over the southeastern Arabian Sea off the Kerala coast. The department said the system could bring rainfall to parts of Tamil Nadu over the next two days. Besides districts along the Western Ghats, moderate rain is expected in Madurai, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram and Sivaganga. Pudukkottai, Tiruchi, Ariyalur and Perambalur are also likely to receive moderate rainfall during the same period, with strong winds accompanying the showers. The forecast indicates that rainfall will vary across the State, with heavier showers expected in some hill districts and areas adjoining the Western Ghats. Other districts covered by the forecast are expected to receive moderate rain. The Meteorological Centre has predicted heavy rain in the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Dindigul and Theni districts on Sunday, October 4. The warning places these four districts among the areas likely to experience the most intense rainfall during the weekend. For Salem, Erode, Namakkal, Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri, the department has forecast moderate rain on Sunday. These districts are expected to receive showers as the prevailing weather system continues to influence conditions across western and adjoining parts of Tamil Nadu. Nilgiris and Coimbatore are likely to see a longer spell of heavy rainfall. According to the Meteorological Centre, heavy rain in these two districts could continue until October 6, extending beyond the weekend forecast issued for other areas. The outlook, therefore, points to sustained wet weather in the Nilgiris and Coimbatore, while Dindigul and Theni have been specifically identified for heavy rain on Sunday. The forecast for the remaining named districts is for moderate rainfall. In Chennai, the department has predicted light rain on Saturday evening or during the night. The capitals forecast is for lighter showers compared with the heavy rainfall expected in parts of western Tamil Nadu. The latest forecast covers both the weekend rainfall outlook and the possibility of continuing heavy showers in two western districts through Tuesday. Strong winds are also expected alongside moderate rain in the Western Ghats districts and the southern and central districts identified in the departments forecast for Saturday and Sunday.
What Happened In The Cockpit? Jerusalem Post Editor On flydubai Attack
In an exclusive conversation with NDTV, Zvika Klein, Editor-in-Chief of The Jerusalem Post, discusses the investigation into the flydubai cockpit attack, what is known about the Omani co-pilot and reports of possible radicalisation. He also shares details emerging from passengers about the struggle inside the cockpit, the Saudi response after the emergency landing and why the co-pilot's identity has not yet been made public.
Resolution passed against waste-to-energy project in grama sabha meetings in Salem
District Collectors inaugurate Vettri Payanam Thittam in Salem and Namakkal
Flydubai Horror: Omani Co-Pilot Held No Second Nationality, Says Report
According to an exclusive report by The Jerusalem Post, sources involved in the investigation say the Flydubai attack suspect held only Omani nationality. The report further challenges assertions that aviation rules would have barred him from operating flights to Israel, raising fresh questions about earlier assumptions surrounding the case.
Salem Railway Division organises mass shramdaan
200 additional towers to be installed in Salem circle: BSNL
Man gets three years in jail for chain snatching in Salem
Man gets three years in jail for chain snatching in Salem
'Rescue Op Blocked': How Saudi Shocked Israel By Refusing Flydubai Access, Cooperation
Saudi Arabia's response to the attempted hijacking incident involving a flydubai flight carrying Israeli passengers has exposed the limits of its behind-the-scenes relationship with Israel. Despite helping receive and assist the Israeli passengers after the aircraft diverted to Saudi Arabia, Riyadh reportedly stopped short of full cooperation with Israeli authorities.According to The Jerusalem Post, Israel's efforts to arrange an Israeli rescue flight failed to materialize, while the Mossad reportedly had to verify the identities of the replacement flight crew to reassure shaken passengers. Israeli officials also struggled to obtain direct information from Saudi Arabia about the initial investigation, relying instead on the UAE, the United States and passenger accounts.
Public averts attempt to steal two-wheeler in Salem
DIC provides 45.08 crore in loans to 192 entrepreneurs in six months in Salem
Flydubai Horror: How Co-Pilot 'Nearly Hijacked' Plane Before Being Overpowered In Cockpit - Details
A Flydubai passenger flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia after a violent confrontation between the pilots.According to Israeli officials cited by The Jerusalem Post, one pilot allegedly attempted to hijack the aircraft, while Israels security establishment including the IDF, Mossad and Shin Bet assessed the incident as an intended act of terror.The aircraft plunged around 4,000 metres during the incident and transmitted the international 7500 code for unlawful interference before landing safely in Tabuk.All passengers and crew were reported safe and accounted for, while authorities continue investigating the pilots identity, actions and possible motive.Times Of India (TOI) Is The Largest Selling English Daily In The World. #flydubai #flydubai1073 #fz1073 #hijacking #attemptedhijacking #terrorattack #israel #telaviv #dubai #saudiarabia #tabuk #aviation #aircraft #pilot #breakingnews #middleeast #israelnews
Additional Director (Infrastructure) inspects development works in Salem Corporation
Israel probes Flydubai cockpit incident after hijack alert (Ld)
Digital Desk | Jerusalem, Sep 30 (IANS) Israeli security agencies were investigating an incident aboard a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv after the aircraft transmitted an emergency signal and descended sharply before diverting to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday. Israel's state-owned Kan TV news, citing an Israeli official, reported that Israeli authorities had not ruled out a possible errorist incident and were examining whether one of the two pilots may have tried to crash the aircraft. It said one of the pilots was injured. In a video circulated on social media, an Israeli passenger with blood on his face said, We are under attack on the plane. We have overpowered the terrorists. We are about to land. Earlier, a spokesperson for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the incident was not believed to have been a hijacking. An Israeli official said that the emergency signals were transmitted after the pilots became involved in a physical altercation. A flydubai spokesperson confirmed that flight FZ 1073 operating from Dubai International Airport to Ben Gurion International Airport experienced an incident while en route. The aircraft later landed in Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia and all passengers are safe and accounted for, according to the spokesperson, Xinhua news agency reported. Meanwhile, a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Israel Airports Authority said that they have opened a dedicated waiting and information area for the families of passengers on the Flydubai flight, in accordance with the directive of Minister of Transport, Miri Regev. The area is located in Terminal 1, in the domestic arrivals hall at Ben Gurion Airport. Family members wishing to come to Ben Gurion Airport are invited to proceed to the designated area in Terminal 1, where they will be able to wait and receive information and updates as developments unfold, read the statement. Israel Airports Authority representatives will be present at the site and will assist family members as needed. We ask members of the public who are not relatives of passengers on the flight to refrain from coming to the area, in order to allow for the orderly and appropriate assistance of the families, it added. /as
Iran retaliates after Israeli strikes its nuclear program; 3 killed, several wounded
Iran retaliated by launching drones and later firing waves of ballistic missiles at Israel, where explosions lit the night skies over Jerusalem and Tel Aviv and shook the buildings below
Heavy rain forecast for 11 TN districts today; temperatures likely to rise
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 30 (IANS) Heavy rain, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds, is likely at isolated places in 11 Tamil Nadu districts and Karaikal on Wednesday, the Meteorological Department said, as atmospheric systems influence weather across the region. The districts identified for heavy rainfall are Nilgiris, Erode, Salem, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai and Tiruchirappalli. Wind speeds could reach 40 to 50 kilometres per hour during thunderstorms, according to the forecast. Despite the rain outlook, the department said maximum temperatures in Tamil Nadu could rise above normal on Wednesday, with departures of up to four degrees Celsius. The forecast thus points to hotter daytime conditions alongside spells of rain in parts of the state. Moderate rain with thunder, lightning and gusty winds is expected at some places in other districts along the Western Ghats and across several northern, central and southern districts. These include Tirupattur, Vellore, Ranipet, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Karur, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Madurai, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram and Thoothukudi. Puducherry is also likely to receive moderate showers accompanied by thunderstorms. Winds in these areas could reach 40 to 50 kilometres per hour. Elsewhere in Tamil Nadu, light rain with thunder and lightning is possible at a few places. For Thursday, October 1, the department has forecast heavy rain at isolated locations in the Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts. Thunderstorms and gusty winds reaching 40 to 50 kilometres per hour are also likely in these areas. Parts of the rest of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal could receive light to moderate rain on Thursday, with thunder, lightning and strong winds accompanying some showers. The department attributed the weather conditions to an atmospheric circulation over northern Tamil Nadu and adjoining southern coastal Andhra Pradesh, extending to around 1.5 kilometres above sea level. A trough also extends from southern Telangana to the Gulf of Mannar through Rayalaseema, northern Tamil Nadu and adjoining southern coastal Andhra Pradesh at an altitude of about 0.9 kilometres. Meanwhile, a deep depression that had been over the northern Andaman Sea and adjoining Myanmar coast on September 28 moved north-northwestwards and crossed the Myanmar coast east of Kyaikto between 7.30 p.m. and 9.30 p.m. The rainfall forecast indicates that heavier showers will be confined to isolated locations, while other areas may experience lighter rainfall or moderate thunderstorms over two days.
Man Assaults Grandmother, Demands Money To Buy Liquor
Police arrested a 34-year-old man for allegedly assaulting his 82-year-old grandmother to death in Salem after demanding money for alcohol.
Salem sub-division railway police seize over 2,400 kg of ganja, gutkha in nine months
Two killed as speeding SUV hits e-scooter in UP's Moradabad, driver flees
Digital Desk | Moradabad, Sep 29 (IANS) Two men were killed after a speeding SUV collided with their e-scooter, sending it flying, in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad on Tuesday, officials said. According to the preliminary information, a speeding SUV struck the e-scooter carrying the two friends, resulting in a fatal accident. The force of the collision was such that the e-scooter was hurled away, leaving both riders critically injured. They later succumbed to their injuries. Following the accident, police reached the spot and took the bodies into custody. The bodies were subsequently sent for post-mortem examinations as part of the investigation into the incident. The driver of the SUV allegedly fled from the spot after abandoning the vehicle. Police have taken the SUV into custody and brought it to the police station for further investigation. The vehicle is reportedly owned by Mohammad Naveed, a resident of the Civil Lines police station area. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident and are also working to establish the identity and whereabouts of the person who was driving the SUV at the time of the collision. The deceased have been identified as Mohammad Rihan and Abuzar, both residents of Salempur village under the Kanth police station area of Moradabad. News of the deaths left the families of the two young men devastated. Relatives and other family members were inconsolable following the fatal accident, while the families have demanded strict action against the person responsible for the crash. According to Rihan's family, he had been working in Dubai and was scheduled to return there, with his flight booked for October 1. The family said that he was the sole earning member of the household and that his father has been unwell. A family member expressed anguish over the circumstances of the accident and demanded action against the SUV driver. The SUV rider may be a wealthy man, but what about them? The light of our home is gone, the family member said. The incident has once again raised concerns over road accidents involving speeding SUVs in Moradabad. Locals pointed out that this was not the first such incident in the district in recent days. Just three days ago, an SUV allegedly hit an e-rickshaw that was parked on the roadside in the Kundarki police station area. The earlier incident also resulted in a fatality, adding to concerns over road safety and reckless driving in the area. Meanwhile, in a road accident reported from Chandigarh earlier on Tuesday, an SUV being driven by a woman collided with a motorcycle near the bridge close to Dhanas Lake, leaving two people injured. The two injured persons, who were travelling on the motorcycle when the collision took place, were subsequently taken to a hospital for treatment. Their condition was not immediately known. Police took both the SUV and the motorcycle into custody as part of the investigation. Police in both incidents are examining the circumstances surrounding the respective collisions.
TN: Heavy rain likely in Erode, Namakkal, Madurai today; evening showers in Chennai
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 29 (IANS) Heavy rain is likely at isolated places in Tamil Nadu's Erode, Namakkal and Madurai districts on Tuesday, the weather department said, as it forecast showers and strong winds across parts of the state over the next three days. In a weather bulletin, the department said moderate rain accompanied by strong winds could occur at isolated places in 16 districts on Tuesday. These include districts along the Western Ghats, as well as Tirupattur, Vellore, Ranipet, Kallakurichi, Tiruvannamalai, Dharmapuri, Salem, Tiruchirappalli and Perambalur. Chennai and its neighbouring areas could receive light to moderate rain with thunderstorms in the evening or at night. The forecast points to a spell of showers after a largely warm day, though the bulletin did not specify how widely rain would be distributed across the city. The possibility of heavier rain will shift to parts of western and northern Tamil Nadu on Wednesday. One or two places in the Nilgiris, Erode, Salem, Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri districts are likely to receive heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds, the department said. Moderate rain is also expected at isolated places in 16 districts on Wednesday. The forecast covers districts along the Western Ghats, and includes Tirupattur, Vellore and Sivaganga. Conditions may vary considerably within each district, as the heavier rainfall forecast applies only to one or two locations. The Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts could see heavy rain, with thunderstorms and strong winds at isolated places on Wednesday and Thursday. The two-day forecast indicates that unsettled weather may persist in the western parts of the state even as the areas under the heavy rain forecast change. Alongside the rain, the department expects higher daytime temperatures in some areas. Maximum temperatures at a few places in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal may be 2 to 4 degrees Celsius above normal on Tuesday and Wednesday. The bulletin did not give district-wide rainfall estimates or indicate that every area named in the forecast would receive rain. Residents in places where thunderstorms develop may experience brief periods of strong winds, while other localities could remain dry. The departments forecast places the highest likelihood of isolated heavy rain in Erode, Namakkal and Madurai on Tuesday, before the focus moves to the Nilgiris and adjoining districts on Wednesday.
Gulf War: UAE stresses diplomacy to resolve disputes
Digital Desk | United Nations, Sep 28 (IANS) The United Arab Emirates (UAE), one of the countries at the epicentre of the Gulf War affecting the global economy and security, said on Monday that it seeks de-escalation and diplomacy to settle disputes peacefully. Our principled approach is rooted in de-escalation, bridge-building, the promotion of diplomacy and dialogue, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and the rejection of the unlawful use or threat of force, as well as coercion, UAEs Minister of State Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar told the General Assembly. He highlighted the issue of three islands occupied by Iran: Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa, which command a geostrategic position on access to the Strait of Hormuz. As Iran continues its occupation of the three Emirati islands, which we reject, the UAE has consistently called for a peaceful settlement of this conflict, whether through direct negotiations or by recourse to the International Court of Justice, Al Marar said. Iran took over the islands in 1971, and its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has bases there. The US has attacked Abu Musa and Greater Tunb as the Gulf conflict escalated. Without delving into specifics of the conflict, Al Marar stressed the importance of freedom of navigation and transit passage. We stress the need to secure and protect the safe flow of supply chains, trade and energy in accordance with international law, including the law of the sea and the principle of state sovereignty, he said. He added that despite crises, the UAE has pressed ahead with progress. This nation was forged not in the absence of challenges, but in defiance of them, he said. Although the UAE is one of the closest Arab countries to Israel, Al Marar condemned in the strongest terms Israels actions in Palestinian territories. He said there is an urgent need to halt Israels escalation in the West Bank, settlement activities, settler violence, terrorism, and violations in East Jerusalem and at holy sites. Media reports said Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.
Over 5,000 gold rings to be distributed in Salem and Namakkal districts
Over 5,000 gold rings to be distributed in Salem and Namakkal districts
Over 880 street lightsto be installed in Salem Corporation, says Minister
Over 880 street lightsto be installed in Salem Corporation, says Minister
Netanyahu secretly met UAE president over Oct 7 warning report
Jerusalem: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu travelled secretly to the United Arab Emirates over the weekend to ask its president to deny reports that he had warned the Israeli leader about a looming Hamas threat ahead of the Palestinian militant groups Oct 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel. The meeting between Netanyahu and UAE President Sheikh 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 .
District Child Protection Unit Salem (DCPU Salem) Recruitment 2026 for 3 posts of Assistant cum Bench Clerk, Junior Assistant Cum Record Clerk, Office Assistant. Candidates 8th Pass, 10th Pass, Bachelor Degree Can Apply Offline. The last date to apply offline is 12-10-2026. The candidate shall apply offline through DCPU Salem official website salem.nic.in.
Chinese nationals among 212 arrested in Pakistan over involvement in fraud schemes
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Sep 27 (IANS) As many as 212 people, including Chinese nationals, were arrested by Pakistani authorities in raids carried out on three illegal call centres in Islamabad involved in an alleged international online fraud network, according to a media report. Pakistan's National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) targeted call centres involved in international online fraud in raids conducted in Islamabad's E-11 and G-10 sectors. Officials said the call centres used various schemes, including tasking fraud, romance or love-dating, and impersonating Google representatives to carry out scams, The Jerusalem Post reported. Tasking fraud usually starts with fake online opportunities, where scammers offer money to victims for completing tasks like liking videos, rating products or promoting content. Initially, scammers may pay a small amount of money to victims before convincing them to deposit larger amounts to complete higher-value tasks or withdraw supposed earnings. According to an NCCIA spokesperson, Pakistani authorities seized computers and other gadgets, including 383 computers and CPUs, 306 mobile phones and 299 monitors and laptops, The Jerusalem Post reported, citing the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP). The arrested individuals include Pakistani and Chinese men and women, it said. However, the Pakistani authorities did not reveal the number of Chinese nationals that have been detained during the raids. In July last year, the NCCIA claimed that it had arrested 149 people, including 48 Chinese nationals and people from some other countries, for their alleged involvement in an online fraud. As many as 149 people were arrested during a raid carried out on a factory in Faisalabad, Pakistani daily Dawn reported. Sources revealed that the arrested individuals, including 48 Chinese citizens, were allegedly involved in hacking internet systems of banks and other cybercrimes and had been operating from the factory, Dawn reported. The authorities recovered a large number of laptops and gadgets from the factory.
66,000 passengers book railway tickets digitally per day in Salem Division, says DRM
Railways launched the RailOne app as a comprehensive digital platform offering One App-Complete Rail Solution, says the DRM
Over 7,000 candidatesabsent for Group I exams in Salem region
MISGUIDED NARRATIVE: Erdogan Draws Red Line With Israel As Public Showdown With Netanyahu Explodes
Trkiyes President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has hit back at Israels growing portrayal of Trkiye as a regional security threat, calling it a misguided narrative linked to Israels domestic politics and electoral climate. Erdogan said Ankara has serious differences with the Israeli government but stressed that Trkiye has no hostility toward the Israeli people. He also rejected the idea that Ankaras relationship with Washington is shaped by Israel, saying Trkiye deals directly with US President Donald Trump. The dispute comes as tensions between Ankara and Jerusalem increasingly extend beyond Gaza, with Trkiye and Israel also taking sharply different positions over Syria and the wider regional balance of power. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Erdogan of being complicit in efforts seeking Israels destruction, while Ankara says its opposition is directed at Israeli government policies rather than the Israeli people. With Trkiye remaining a NATO member and major regional power, and Israel a key US partner, the growing rivalry is creating another significant fault line in the Middle East.
Price of ammonium sulphate soars over 60% in Salem and Namakkal districts
Family members murder man, bury body in forest in Salem
Pakistan's growing contradiction in Israel policy draws scrutiny: Report
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Sep 26 (IANS) Pakistans engagement with American political, business and security circles has evolved into a wider and increasingly intricate network, with many of those connections also intersecting with individuals and organisations linked to Israel, a report has stated. Despite its international engagements, Pakistan officially maintains that it does not recognise Israel. Islamabad continues to support an independent Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, according to a report in the 'Eurasia Review'. In 2025, Pakistans Foreign Office went further, stating that Pakistan does not engage with Israel even in multilateral forums. Yet a series of recent developments illustrates how the absence of diplomatic relations does not necessarily prevent Pakistani institutions from entering international corporate and political networks containing individuals and organisations with significant Israeli connections, the report noted. On 16 September 2026, US defence company Powerus, which had links with Israel, announced an MoU with the Pakistan Army covering unmanned and autonomous systems. The company said it had also received an initial, undisclosed order for unmanned aerial systems and was interested in longer-term joint ventures and technology cooperation. Pakistans military confirmed procurement discussions, although it did not publicly confirm the MoU itself, Eurasia Review detailed. Powerus is a US-based defence-technology company. Its co-founder and Chief Vision Officer, Ziv Marom, is identified as an Israel Defence Forces veteran and founder of Kaizen Aerospace, the autonomous-aircraft business now incorporated into the Powerus group. Powerus co-founder Michael Sinensky and founding-team executive Amy Bove are listed by Israel Friends among its leadership, while Powerus President Brett Velicovich, who led the companys engagement with Pakistan, appears among Israel Friends Key Community Leaders, it highlighted . The report noted that while Islamabad's formal policy of non-recognition of Israel remains unchanged, individuals seen as favouring engagement with Tel Aviv have periodically surfaced within official and semi-official circles, drawing scrutiny. Such episodes may not amount to a formal policy shift, but they expose the widening gap between Pakistans declared diplomatic stance and the controversies triggered when pro-engagement figures gain access to state delegations or senior officials, it mentioned. Highlighting Islamabads growing contradiction in Israel policy, the report said, What this demonstrates is a more limited but increasingly visible phenomenon: Pakistans formal non-recognition of Israel now exists alongside engagement with American defence firms, financial ventures and diplomatic networks whose personnel and commercial relationships also intersect significantly with Israel.
Two arrested for financial fraud in Salem
Salem Corporation Mayor, councillors withdraw sit-in protest
Salem Corporation Mayor, councillors withdraw sit-in protest
CM Vijay Help Sought to Remove Wall Blocking Dalit Residents of Salem Village
Mr Karuppaiah also sought an inquiry into allegations of caste-based discrimination or untouchability.
Salem Mayor, councillors start indefinite sit-in against Corporation Commissioner
Ayush medical camp held on Salem court premises
Israeli Soldiers Blown to Smithereens As Their Own Drone Explodes In Gazas Occupied Zone
The Israeli military says two reservists were killed after an explosive FPV drone crashed inside an army post in northern Gaza and exploded moments later. The soldiers, both from the Jerusalem Brigade's 7007th Battalion, were operating Atalef drones when the accident occurred. Following the deadly blast, the IDF launched an investigation and suspended the use of all small drones capable of carrying explosive payloads until the cause of the explosion is determined.
Former Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Critiques UNs Credibility Amid Gaza Conflict
Flur Hassan Nahoum discusses the UNs credibility issues regarding the Gaza war and Israels diplomatic pressure. Former Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Critiques UNs Credibility Amid Gaza Conflict
TVK=DMK: TVK Flag Colours On 26 New Government Buses In Salem
Twenty-six new government city buses have been launched for public service in Salem, with the buses painted in yellow and red the colours of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) flag instead of the usual blue, as reported in Hindu Tamil. The new buses were launched on Thursday by Tamil Nadu Transport Minister Parthiban in [] The post TVK=DMK: TVK Flag Colours On 26 New Government Buses In Salem appeared first on The Commune .
YOU WONT RULE JERUSALEM!: Netanyahus Direct Attack On Erdogan In Fiery UNGA Showdown | Watch
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched a fierce verbal attack on Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoan during his UNGA address, accusing Turkey of becoming a superspreader of anti-Semitic lies. Netanyahu also called Erdoan a tyrant and accused him of hosting Hamas leaders, repressing journalists and opposition figures, and seeking greater influence in Syria. He further challenged Erdoans comments about Jerusalem, declaring: No, sir, you wont. Erdoan and Turkish officials have repeatedly criticized Israels actions in Gaza and expressed support for Palestinian statehood. Watch Netanyahus full remarks and the latest exchange between Israel and Turkey.
Salem Mayor demands action against Corporation Commissioner; writes letter to T.N. Governor
Minister flags off 26 new BS-VI buses in Salem
Man attacks wife with acid in Salem, arrested
The woman sustained injuries and was admitted to Attur Government Hospital
Madras High Court quashes case against Annamalai over his remarks on Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar
Justice G.K. Ilanthiraiyan allows a petition filed by the founder of We The Leaders movement to quash the case filed against him by Salem-based activist Piyush Manush
Residents protest against construction of pumping station in Salem
This 200-year-old temple in Salem, Tamil Nadu is believed to fulfil wishes in 40 days
Carney, Guterres call for two-state solution at UN meeting on lasting Israel-Palestine peace
New York, September 23 : Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other world leaders called for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict during a high-level meeting at the United Nations on creating conditions for lasting peace. The event, titled The Road Ahead, was hosted by Canada, France, Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom and focused on the two-state solution and the comprehensive peace plan for Gaza. In a post on X, Carney said Canadas support for a two-state solution was longstanding and resolute. Today, alongside the United Kingdom, France, and Saudi Arabia, we brought partners together at the UN to discuss how we can create the conditions for a lasting peace -- where Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in safety and dignity, Carney said. The United Kingdom, France and Canada formally announced their recognition of the State of Palestine in September 2025 during a coordinated international push at the United Nations. Guterres said the two-state solution remained the only credible path to lasting peace and security for Palestinians, Israelis and the wider region. In a post on X, Guterres said, The two-State solution is the only credible path to lasting peace & security for Palestinians, Israelis & the wider region. The objective is clear: two independent, sovereign & democratic States, Israel & Palestine, living side by side in peace & security. There is simply no alternative, Guterres said. Speaking at the meeting, Guterres said that while world leaders had expressed support for the two-state solution, that support needed to translate into action. For Palestinians and all those who care about peace in the Middle East, support for two States must go beyond words, he said. The UN chief said the two-state solution, based on pre-1967 lines, international law, relevant Security Council resolutions and prior agreements, was the only credible path to lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians and remained central to broader regional stability. European Council President Antonio Costa, in his remarks at the meeting, said that hopes generated by international efforts over the past year had not translated into sufficient improvement on the ground. Last year, when 142 states endorsed the New York Declaration on the Two-State Solution and the UN Security Council Resolution 2803 gave the Gaza Peace Plan an operative framework, there was hope, Costa said. One year later, the situation on the ground has barely improved, he added. Costa called for the full implementation of the roadmap for Gaza, including the decommissioning of Hamas matched by Israels withdrawal, the deployment of the International Stabilisation Force and police, and the entry into Gaza of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza. Winter is coming, and two million people face another winter in tents and rubble. Not because of a lack of money or aid, but because access remains blocked, he said. On the West Bank, Costa said the two-state solution was being jeopardised on a daily basis, citing settler violence, impunity, displacement of communities and what he described as de facto annexation. These settlements are illegal under international law, he said. Costa also said the European Union supported efforts to empower the Palestinian Authority through elections and called on Israel to facilitate them. The European Union and its member states are strong supporters of the Two-State solution, through the Global Alliance, he said, adding that the bloc was the largest donor to Palestinians since the 1990s. Costa said EU civilian missions EUBAM Rafah and EUPOL COPPS continued to operate and that the EU was ready to scale them up. Only the Two-State Solution can lead to a just and comprehensive resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign, and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security and mutual recognition, and with Jerusalem serving as the future capital of both states, he said. Action is required to preserve the two-State solution and the path to peace, Costa added. During his address at the 81st UNGA session, UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham also urged efforts towards a two-state solution, saying his government would do all it could to see Israelis and Palestinians living side by side in peace and security, Al Jazeera reported. We stand with Israel in the face of the ongoing threats, including from Iran, Burnham said. But this does not justify the Israeli governments actions in Gaza and the West Bank. We will not stand by as the horrific suffering continues to grow, he added, warning that the prospect of a two-state solution, the best hope for peace and stability, comes under attack. Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron, while addressing the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, said that the situation in Gaza is shameful, while questioning the international communitys response to the crisis. Speaking at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Macron said, What is our credibility worth if we remain inactive on Gaza? Some claim that peace has been achieved, but this has not opened up humanitarian deliveries. The spectacle, it is shameful. According to the UN, the meeting built on the September 2025 adoption of the New York Declaration, under which world leaders pledged to end the war that erupted in 2023 following Hamas attacks on Israel and which resulted in widespread destruction across Gaza and more than 70,000 Palestinians being killed. The UN said the Security Council later endorsed a ceasefire agreement reached in October 2025, as well as US President Donald Trumps 20-point provisional deal that established a Board of Peace under his leadership. (ANI)
Ministers launch expansion of breakfast scheme in Salem, Namakkal districts
Ministers launch expansion of breakfast scheme in Salem, Namakkal districts
Salem, Namakkal districts register moderate rainfall
Man gets life term for murder in Salem
Iran's Revolutionary Guard warns US over escalation, and other Mideast developments
Dubai, Sep 22: Iran's Revolutionary Guard warned that it would change the geography of the war if the United States escalates the conflict. Meanwhile, the British military said an unknown projectile struck a tanker as it entered the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, injuring two crew members. The Israeli military remains on alert as much of the country shuts down for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. Here is the latest news from the Middle East on Monday. Iran's Revolutionary Guard issues warning if US escalates war A spokesperson for Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, Hossein Mohebbi, said Monday that the war is not over and warned that Iran would change its weapons, military tactics and targets if the conflict with the US escalates. We will certainly change the geography of the war, Mohebbi said in a statement carried by Iranian state media. We will certainly bring new weapons with new capabilities into the battle. He said the Guard had prepared for a long-term war. Our targets will no longer necessarily be the same as before, he said, according to the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting, adding that Iran has targets that have not yet been struck. UK to offer Saudi Arabia aerial refuelling to counter Houthi attacks Prime Minister Andy Burnham says Britain has agreed to provide limited military support to Saudi Arabia to repel attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Houthis and Saudi Arabia have traded strikes as fighting between the rebels and Yemen's Saudi-backed government has reignited. Burnham told reporters as he flew to the United Nations General Assembly in New York that he had agreed the Royal Air Force will provide air-to-air refuelling of Saudi planes. The agreement is for a matter of weeks, but Burnham said it will be kept under review. Projectile strikes tanker passing through Strait of Hormuz, British military says The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre said a tanker was struck by an unknown projectile as it headed into the Strait of Hormuz. Two crew members sustained minor injuries. The agency said Monday the vessel is reportedly continuing to its next port of call under its own power. No reports indicated any environmental impact at this time. Some tankers are again traversing the vital strait, but traffic is well below what it once was. Houthi leader lashes out at Saudis in televised speech In Yemen, the leader of the Iran-backed Houthi rebels used the anniversary of his group's overthrow of the Yemeni government to lash out at Saudi Arabia. In a pre-recorded speech aired Monday, Abdul Malik al-Houthi said his group's demands include an end to what he called Saudi aggression and the blockade the Saudi-led coalition has imposed on the rebels for about a decade. Stop the aggression and end the blockade. Our demands represent the legitimate rights of our people, he said in the speech aired by the Houthi-run al-Masirah channel. The Houthis descended from their stronghold in northern Yemen, taking over the capital of Sanaa in September 2014 and forcing the country's government into exile in Saudi Arabia. The following year, Saudi Arabia led a multi-national coalition that entered the war in an attempt to restore the government. The coalition imposed an air and sea blockade on the Houthi-held areas, as part of its war efforts. 164 killed and almost 130,000 displaced in Yemen UN agencies reported that hundreds of people have been killed and wounded and over 130,000 displaced by the renewed fighting in Yemen. The World Health Organisation said Monday in a post on X that 164 people were killed and 516 injured between September 13 and September 18, bringing the toll since August 6 to 674 deaths and 2,998 injuries. The International Organisation for Migration said the same day that the fighting has so far displaced 129,438 people across seven provinces, and some people have already been forced to flee multiple times. Israeli military on guard on Jewish faith's holiest day Israel's military remained on alert even as the country woke up to the silence and empty streets of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, considered the holiest day for the Jewish faith. Streetlights blinked yellow Monday as the faithful walked to the Western Wall in Jerusalem's Old City. For the next 25 hours, Israel is offline, the foreign ministry said on X after sundown Sunday. But the military said it bolstered its frontline forces following the killing of an Israeli settler Sunday in the occupied West Bank. The Palestinian suspect was detained after a search.
Heavy rain lashes Salem and Namakkal districts
Heavy rain disrupts life in Salem and Namakkal districts, with water stagnating on roads, entering houses, and hampering traffic on Salem-Madurai National Highway; Salem logs 588.80 mm of rainfall and Namakkal 418.20 mm
Netanyahu tours tunnels beneath Al-Aqsa Mosque, Hamas condemns
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu toured tunnels beneath occupied East Jerusalems Old City on Saturday night, September 19, before joining Selichot prayers at the Western Wall ahead of Yom Kippur. Netanyahu shared footage of the visit on Instagram, showing him and his wife, Sara, walking through excavation tunnels beneath the Western Wall, known as 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 .
Israel president pardons soldier who killed wounded Palestinian
Jerusalem: Israels president Saturday, September 19, pardoned the combat medic who shot dead at close range a badly wounded Palestinian attacker who had stabbed a soldier in the occupied West Bank a decade ago. Elor Azarias conviction for manslaughter and his release after serving two-thirds of his sentence drew enormous attention in Israel, where military 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 .
TN Forest Department steps up surveillance in Mettur after suspected leopard attacks
Digital Desk | Salem (Tamil Nadu), Sep 20 (IANS) The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has intensified surveillance in Kannamoochi village near Kolathur in Mettur following the killings of more than 10 goats, two calves, and several dogs in attacks suspected to have been carried out by a leopard, officials said. The incidents have triggered anxiety among residents, particularly farmers and livestock owners whose houses and agricultural fields are located close to the forest boundary. Officials believe that a leopard may have strayed into the village from the adjoining Erode Forest Reserve in search of prey. Forest Department personnel inspected the affected areas after receiving complaints from villagers and examined the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Though the presence of a leopard has not yet been conclusively confirmed, officials said the nature of the attacks indicated the possible movement of a large wild animal in the locality. Mettur Forest Range Officer Sengottaiyan said Kannamoochi is a relatively small village surrounded by a substantial stretch of forest. A total of 717 hectares of forest land are located in and around the area, providing a possible route for wild animals moving from the Erode reserve. Officials suspect that the leopard may have entered the Kannamoochi forest area and later moved into nearby farmlands after failing to find sufficient prey. Apart from goats and calves, hens and dogs are also believed to have been attacked by the animal. As a precautionary measure, the Forest Department has installed cages at five strategic locations in and around the village. Camera traps have also been positioned at several points to record the animals movement, confirm whether it is a leopard and identify the areas it visits frequently. Forest personnel are conducting continuous patrols across the village, adjoining agricultural fields and forest fringes. Officials are also gathering information from residents about sightings, unusual animal sounds and fresh footprints. Villagers have been advised to remain vigilant and avoid travelling alone near the forest boundary during early morning and late evening hours. Farmers have also been asked to keep goats, calves and other livestock inside secure enclosures at night. Officials said surveillance would continue until the suspected animal was identified and safely captured. The department is taking additional precautions to prevent further livestock deaths and ensure the safety of people living near the forest area.
Heavy rain forecast in 15 TN districts, Chennai may receive evening showers
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 20 (IANS) Several parts of Tamil Nadu, including Chennai and the districts of Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur, are likely to receive rainfall on Sunday, the Regional Meteorological Centre said. A north-south trough extending from coastal Andhra Pradesh to the Gulf of Mannar, passing through parts of Tamil Nadu at about 0.9 km above sea level, is influencing the weather. Heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 4050 kmph is likely at isolated places in the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Cuddalore, Krishnagiri, Salem, Tirupattur, Dharmapuri, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Vellore, Perambalur, Ariyalur, Tiruchirappalli and Madurai districts on Sunday and Monday. Puducherry may also experience similar weather. Moderate thunderstorms are forecast over the remaining Western Ghats districts and Chennai, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Sivaganga, Erode, Ramanathapuram, Namakkal, Mayiladuthurai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Karur, Pudukottai and Nagapattinam, besides Karaikal. Light thundershowers are possible elsewhere in the State. On September 22, moderate to heavy rain may occur at isolated places in the Western Ghats districts and several coastal and interior districts, including Chennai and Madurai. Gusty winds of 4050 kmph are also likely. From September 23 to 25, light to moderate rain is expected across the Western Ghats and northern coastal districts. Maximum temperatures are unlikely to change significantly until September 23 and are expected to remain close to normal. In Chennai and its suburbs, the sky will remain partly cloudy. Light to moderate rain with thunderstorms may occur at a few places during the evening or night. The maximum temperature is likely to range between 36 degrees Celsius and 37 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may remain between 26 and 27 degrees Celsius. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea in the notified areas. Squally winds reaching 4555 kmph and occasionally 65 kmph are forecast over the Gulf of Mannar, adjoining Comorin area and the southern Tamil Nadu coast on Monday. Winds may strengthen further over parts of the Bay of Bengal on September 22 and 23, reaching 5060 kmph and occasionally 70 kmph.
Three youth held for robbery in Salem
Dengue cases surge in Tamil Nadu with onset of monsoon
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 19 (IANS) Dengue infections are rising across Tamil Nadu with the onset of the monsoon and the state health department said 244 of the 1,320 people tested across the state were confirmed to have dengue. Nearly 200 cases are being detected daily. Until September 15, Tamil Nadu recorded 16,577 dengue infections and nine deaths. Chennai remains the worst-affected district. As many as 156 people suffering from fever were admitted to hospitals in the city in a single day, and 87 of them tested positive for dengue. High numbers of cases have also been reported in Chengalpattu, Coimbatore, Tiruvannamalai, Krishnagiri, Salem, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Thanjavur and Villupuram. The government has intensified mosquito-control and disease-surveillance operations, deploying more than 25,000 workers across Tamil Nadu. The teams are engaged in eliminating breeding sources, conducting sanitation work and monitoring fever cases in vulnerable areas. District administrations and health officials have also been directed to strengthen preventive measures and ensure timely treatment. Health Minister Arun Raj told reporters in Chennai that dengue cases had shown a marginal increase during the past seven days, but urged people not to panic. The public has been advised to prevent water from stagnating in and around homes and to seek medical attention for persistent fever. Naam Tamilar Katchi chief coordinator Seeman blamed the TVK governments alleged negligence for the increase. He demanded the distribution of nilavembu decoction and kabasura kudineer on a war footing at places where people gather in large numbers. Meanwhile, Anna University student Harish Kumar died on Thursday after suffering from persistent fever. His death followed those of students Mridula and Jayashree four days earlier, causing anxiety on the campus. The Directorate of Public Health, however, clarified that Harish Kumar did not have dengue and died of scrub typhus. Amid the outbreak, Dr Reddys Laboratories is collaborating with Japans Takeda Pharmaceutical to introduce Qdenga, described as Indias first dengue vaccine, in the first half of next year. The vaccine, intended for people aged four to 60 and administered in two doses three months apart, is designed to provide protection against all four dengue virus types.
Regional Meteorological Centre forecasts heavy rain in 11 districts of Tamil Nadu today
Digital Desk | Chennai, Sep 19 (IANS) Eleven districts in Tamil Nadu, including the Nilgiris and Coimbatore, are likely to receive heavy rain on Saturday, according to a forecast issued by the Regional Meteorological Centre. The weather office attributed the anticipated rainfall to a trough extending from Maharashtra to the southeast Arabian Sea. Under its influence, widespread rain is expected across several parts of Tamil Nadu, with some districts likely to experience thunderstorms and gusty winds. The Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts are expected to receive heavy rain until September 22. Residents in vulnerable and low-lying areas have been advised to remain alert as intense spells of rain could lead to waterlogging and disruption of traffic. Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds is also likely at isolated places in Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Ranipet, Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai, Tirupattur, Vellore, Kallakurichi and Madurai districts today. Moderate rainfall has been forecast for districts along the Western Ghats and several other parts of the state. Chennai and its neighbouring districts of Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and Chengalpattu are also likely to experience intermittent showers during the day. Similar weather conditions are expected in Cuddalore, Salem, Erode, Namakkal, Perambalur, Ariyalur, Mayiladuthurai, Thanjavur, Ramanathapuram and Thoothukudi districts. Rainfall may vary in intensity from one locality to another, with short but intense spells possible in some areas. The weather office has warned that another spell of heavy rain is likely to affect several districts tomorrow. Dindigul, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Tiruchirappalli, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Madurai, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Tiruvannamalai, Tirupattur and Vellore have been placed under a heavy-rain alert. Cloudy conditions are expected to prevail in many parts of the state, while thunderstorms could develop during the afternoon and evening. Gusty winds may accompany rain in the interior and western districts. Motorists have been advised to exercise caution during intense spells because of reduced visibility and the possibility of waterlogging on roads. Farmers have also been urged to take precautionary measures to protect harvested crops and agricultural produce stored in the open. District administrations are expected to monitor rainfall levels and respond to any localised flooding or weather-related emergencies. The public has been advised to follow official weather updates and avoid taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms.
Boy found murdered, friend ends life in Salem
Salem Corporation severs 10 drinking water connections in Sooramangalam zone
UNGA votes to allow Palestine head address high-level meet via video link after US denies visa
Digital Desk | United Nations, Sep 18 (IANS) India has voted for a General Assembly resolution to allow Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas to address the high-level meeting next week through a video link after the US refused to give him a visa to come to New York. The resolution passed overwhelmingly on Wednesday with 152 votes, while only the US, Israel, and Paraguay voted against it, and four others formally abstained. Washington, however, has given visas to Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to attend the high-level session even though its war with the country is now in its seventh month. This will be the second time that Abbas speaks by video at the Assembly, which he did last year after a visa refusal. US Deputy Permanent Representative Tammy Bruce defended the video refusal, accusing Palestine of not giving up on terrorism. We will not relent on our insistence that the Palestinian Authority and the PLO [Palestine Liberation Organisation, which controls the Authority] completely and unequivocally renounce terrorism, she said. They have not yet done so, she added. Palestine is not recognised as a nation, and it has observer status at the UN. Palestine's Permanent Observer Riyad Mansour reiterated its commitment to Israel's right to exist in peace and security alongside Palestine. The fact that we were denied visas does not mean that the big elephant in the United Nations, the Palestinian people and their leadership, are not present., he said. They are present front and centre, he said, And they will be until we put an end to this illegal occupation [of Palestine territory by Israel] and allow a global consensus of the international community to have a two-state solution: the state of Palestine, free and independent and sovereign, on the borders of 1967 with East Jerusalem, next to the state of Israel, to live in peace and security, he said. China and Russia joined him in criticising the US for not giving Abbas a visa, which they said was Washington's obligation under the agreement to host the UN. All the Western countries voted for the resolution. Last month, when reports surfaced that Abbas won't get a visa, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric called on the US to let him attend the high-level meeting. Our call and our hope remain that the host country will fulfil its obligations under the host treaty agreement, which is meant to facilitate the travels into New York City, into the United States, for people having business, diplomats and Government officials having business in front of the United Nations, he said.
Netanyahu vows to topple Iran's government, eliminate Hamas
Digital Desk | Jerusalem, Sep 17 (IANS) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that Israel would topple Iran's government, eliminate Hamas and continue its campaign against Hezbollah. We will eliminate Hamas, and first and foremost we will defeat the regime in Iran. We will topple it. It will fall, Netanyahu said at a ceremony honouring members of Israel's Shin Bet domestic security agency, Xinhua News Agency reported. He also said that one of Israel's objectives, nearly three years into the war, was to continue pursuing Palestinians involved in the Hamas-led Oct. 7, 2023 attack. No one is immune, he warned. On September 6, Netanyahu said that the end of the regime in Iran is near and it is fighting for its life, noting that there is another mission to complete. He made these remarks at a Rosh Hashanah Toast during the government meeting. We are on the threshold of Rosh Hashanah, and more than ever, the State of Israel comes first. Thanks to the wise and courageous decisions we made together around this table, thanks to the heroism of our fighters, thanks to the resilience of our people we have achieved tremendous accomplishments. Israel is stronger than ever; our enemies are weaker than ever. Together with the United States, we have achieved tremendous successes in removing an existential threat hanging over our heads. We have pushed away atomic bombs and ballistic missiles, and we have struck the Iranian axis with immense power, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office quoted Netanyahu as saying. We are determined to defend ourselves; we are determined to strike our enemies. They are not attacking us. Iran is refraining from doing so, and it knows why. Of course, it could err and make the mistake of attacking us anyway. It will suffer a blow it cannot even imagine, the Israeli Prime Minister highlighted. He said that Israel is the strongest superpower in the Middle East and warned the enemies, 'Do not try us.' I say to our enemies: Do not try us. This (Israeli) people knows how to unite in moments of testing, and right now it is the strongest superpower in the Middle East, and some say even beyond, Netanyahu added.
Scarcity of Aavin milk in Salem forces public to buy milk from private dairies
91% of students who cleared Class XII in Salem district joined higher studies
91% of students who cleared Class XII in Salem district joined higher studies
Salem Railway Division observes Swachhata Hi Seva campaign
Israel adds tender for 2,167 housing units to settlement expansion plan, rights groups say
The project would bisect the Israeli-occupied West Bank and cut it off from East Jerusalem, fragmenting the land Palestinians hope will form the heart of a state.
Israeli army chief sets condition for Hezbollah disarmament
Jerusalem: Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir said that progress toward an agreement with Lebanon on disarming Hezbollah cannot be made unless the Lebanese army significantly improves its effectiveness on the ground, weeks before a new round of US-mediated talks. During a visit to troops near the Lebanese border on Wednesday (local time), Zamir said that 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 .
