Chaldean Syrian Church Archbishop Mar Aprem Metropolitan laid to rest in Thrissur with State honours
The final burial rites were held at Kuruvilaachan Church by 2 p.m. Archbishop Mar Awgin Kuriakose led the service. Mar Aprem was laid to rest near the tombs of his predecessors in a specially prepared tomb
Tholpavakoothu finds new voice against addiction
PALAKKAD: In the dim glow behind a white screen, leather puppets dance to ancient rhythms. Their gestures are precise, their shadows vivid, and their story - startlingly modern. This is not the tale of Rama and Ravana, as traditionally told. This is the story of a teenager battling addiction. This is Tholpavakoothu for todays world. The centuries-old ritualistic art form of Tholpavakoothu, once confined to the sacred koothumadams (mandapams) of Devi temples in Kerala, has found a powerful new purpose. No longer just a retelling of epics, it is now becoming a poignant messenger in the fight against substance abuse. Traditionally performed during temple festivals, Tholpavakoothu (literally, leather puppet play) is known for its intricately crafted leather puppets, elaborate storytelling, and hypnotic musical rhythms. Performances often stretch over three, with puppeteers narrating the Ramayana in a blend of Malayalam, Tamil and Sanskrit. But today, this ancient form is stepping out of temples and into public spaces - schools, colleges, and community halls - carrying with it stories that resonate deeply with the present. This transformation has been spearheaded by Rajeev Pulavar, a noted puppeteer and son of Padma Shri Ramachandra Pulavar - one of Indias most revered Tholpavakoothu artists. The shift from mythological to social themes wasnt accidental, he says. It was a response to what we saw around us - young lives destroyed by alcohol and drugs. We realised that if we wanted to save our art, we also have to save our people. Rajeev developed an original story centred on a teenager caught in the spiral of addiction. Alongside he boys personal downfall, the narrative also traces the emotional trauma faced by his family. Since its debut on June 22, the performance has been staged more than 30 times across Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Alappuzha. The reception has been overwhelming, says Rajeev. Young audiences especially were deeply moved. They see themselves or someone they know in the characters. Developed in collaboration with the departments of social justice and excise, more of the teams performances are scheduled to start from Kottayam once the monsoon rains settle.Each performance involves seven artists managing more than 25 characters. During the day, they adapt the story into a string puppetry version suitable for schools and public meetings. By evening, the full shadow play is presented. The performance lasts roughly an hour,, but isflexible to the needs of the space and audience. The format may be ancient, but the messages are timely, says Rajeev.. This isnt the first time Rajeev and his team have harnessed puppetry for social change. Over the years, their repertoire has expanded to include stories about Mahatma Gandhi, the life of Jesus, the evolution of Kerala, Indias Independence movement, HIV/AIDS awareness, and even campaigns about Kisan Credit Cards. Sticking to traditional roots, they continue to perform the classical Ramayana Charitham during temple festivals, ensuring the lineage and sacred essence of the art remains unbroken. Our goal is dual. We want to preserve the art, and we want the art to serve the people. It has to evolve to stay alive. Rajeev concludes.
Woman who sustained burns in gas leak dies
Jayashree, 60, of Vellangallur in Thrissur had sustained over 95% burns
Kochi deep tech startup's AR/VR tools to aid learning experience in Maharashtra's 121 tribal schools
KOCHI: Kochi-based deep tech startup Infusory has introduced augmented reality-based learning tools in 121 tribal schools of Maharashtra. This move comes following the states recent collaboration with the KSUM-registered company. Infusorys TutAR app, which Maharashtra is implementing as part of its Tribal School Infrastructure Enhancement Program, is set to give students (from nursery to Class XII) access to a comprehensive library of curriculum-appropriate 3D models. It will aid their study in subjects such as science, mathematics, environmental studies and English. The startup, founded by Thomson Tom and Shyam Pradeep Alil in 2018, began as a student startup with the support of the KSUM (Kerala Startup Mission). Thomson said the app helps teachers and students to see the lessons as well as interact with them as 3D models. For example, when studying the human heart, you can open its 3D model and view each part and explain it. This can make learning more enjoyable, pointed out the founder, a native of Kottayam. Shyam, who hails from Thrissur, said many schools in tribal areas face challenges such as poor internet connectivity and a lack of modern classroom equipment. TutAR has been specially designed for use in adverse conditions, he revealed. The app works completely offline, without the need for Wi-Fi or mobile data. TutAR is powered by On-screen AR technology developed by Infusory. It enables AR experiences to be easily implemented on any device, without the need for special hardware. AR experiences can be employed in classrooms through mobile tablets, projectors and interactive panels. The platform today is used by over 5,000 schools and nearly 100,000 teachers within the country and abroad. The Maharashtra project is paving a new way to modernise public education, as the National Education Policy 2020 aims to make learning easier and more attractive through use of new technologies. Thomson and Shyam hope the project to become a model for other states.
IIT alumni to host PALS roadshow in Thrissur on July 12
Bid to transform engineering education in Kerala
Gas leak triggers explosion, elderly couple suffer serious burns in Thrissur
However, Crime Branch officials say the agency preferred to keep the time or where they questionedSuresh Gopi confidential for now, given the politically sensitive nature of the probe
Mar Aprem Metropolitan, former head of Assyrian Church of the East in India, no more
THRISSUR: Mar Aprem Metropolitan, 85, former Head of the Assyrian Church of the East in India, passed away following a brief period in hospital due to age-related ailments here on Monday. Born on June 13, 1940 as George Mookken in Thrissur, he completed his education in Church History from Union Theological Seminary, New York. Assyrian Church of the East aka Chaldean Syrian Chruch has its headquarters in Erbil, northern Iraq. The funeral and other procedures will only be announced after discussing with the religious heads in Iraq. A prominent personality in Thrissur, Mar Aprem always stood for religious harmony.His speech, always filled with fun and wisdom, has a lot of fans in Thrissur and across Kerala. He served as Head of the Chaldean Syrian Church in India for about five decades. He wrote about 65 books. His translation of Sree Narayana Guru's Daiva Dashakam into the Syriac language is a prominent work.
Tiger that killed rubber tapper caught by forest department
MALAPPURAM: The tiger that killed rubber tapper Gafoor Ali at Kalikavu in Malappuram has finally been captured in a trap set by the forest department three weeks ago at Sulthana Estate. The female tiger, estimated to be around 13 years old, was spotted by migrant labourers on Sunday morning. Officials believe it got trapped in the cage on Saturday night. The animal suffered injuries on its face after repeatedly hitting the bars of the cage in an attempt to escape. Amid strong protests from local residents, the forest department decided to shift the tiger to the Thrissur zoo. Residents had demanded that the animal either be relocated to a zoo or shot dead, strongly opposing its release back into the wild. Hundreds gathered in the area on Sunday to express their anger. Gafoor Ali, a native of Chokkad, Kallamoola, was caught by the tiger on May 15 while tapping rubber in Rauthankadu. His friend, Samad, alerted local residents after the attack, and the body was recovered about half an hour later.
Possession of suspected leopard tooth: Union Minister Suresh Gopi to be summoned
The Forest department will issue a notice to actor asking him to produce a pendant which he was seen wearing, and appear before the Divisional Forest Officer, Thrissur, to ascertain whether it is a wildlife trophy. Future course of action will be decided after obtaining his statement, says an officer
Wounded Kalikavu tiger to be shifted to Thrissur zoo amid local protests, trapped after 52 days
The man-eating tiger that has allegedly been terrorising the Kalikavu region in Malappuram for nearly two months has finally been captured by the forest department. The tiger, which allegedly mauled and killed Gafoor, a rubber-tapping worker in Karuvarakund, Kalikavu, was caught in a cage set up three weeks ago in the Sultana Estate. Guest workers spotted the trapped tiger on Friday morning, and officials believe it had entered the cage the previous night. The female tiger, estimated to be around 13 years old, had sustained a facial wound from repeatedly hitting the cages bars in an attempt to escape. Meanwhile, residents have demanded that the animal not be released back into the wild. Many have insisted it be either shot or transferred to a zoo. We dont feel safe even now. If they let it back into the forest, it will come back, a local protester said. Hundreds of people gathered in the area to voice their concerns, following which the forest department decided to shift the tiger to the Thrissur zoo. Gafoor, a native of Chokkad, Kallamula, was allegedly killed by the tiger on May 15 while he was tapping rubber in a plantation at Rauthangattu. His colleague, Samad, raised an alarm after seeing the attack, but by the time locals arrived, Gafoor was found dead. Despite repeated efforts by the 60-member Rapid Response Team (RRT), the tiger had evaded capture for 52 days. The team had multiple sightings of the animal and reportedly even came under attack during one of their attempts to capture it, escaping with injuries. The prolonged threat caused severe disruption in the area, with rubber farmers unable to step out for work, resulting in financial distress.
Thrissur to host State School Arts Festival
Thrissur to be venue of Kerala School Arts Fete; Thiruvananthapuram to host Sports Meet
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Thrissur will host the Kerala School Arts Festival 2025-26 while Thiruvananthapuram will be the venue of the Kerala School Sports Meet. This was decided at a meeting chaired by General Education Minister V Sivankutty here on Saturday which was attended by representatives of various teachers' unions. In the previous academic year, Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam were the venues of the arts and sports fetes respectively. The meeting also decided that Palakkad will host the State School Science Fair this year. While the special school arts festival will be held in Malappuram, Wayanad will host the arts fete for Teachers Training Institutes (TTI) and Pre-Primary Teachers Training Institutes (PPTTI). The meeting also decided to hold the Disha Higher Studies Expo & International Career Conclave in Kottayam. The distribution of state teaches award and school performance awards will be held in Thiruvananthapuram. The dates of all these events will be announced later, the Minister's office informed. The meeting also approved the revised academic calendar for 2025-26 to be followed in schools.
When a Kerala officer took on a shady Mumbai officer
Despite numerous awareness campaigns, there are many out there who still fall prey to virtual arrest scams. A recent case from Aluva where online fraudsters tried to trap a youth by impersonating police officers from Mumbai serves as a reminder to not panic and seek timely police help. This case, interestingly, went on an unexpected tangent. On June 27, the Aluva resident started getting persistent calls from an unknown number. Though initially hesitant, he eventually answered. On the other end, a man claiming to be a police officer from Mumbai informed him that two websites, allegedly involved in illegal activities, had been registered using the youths Aadhaar number. When the youth denied any involvement or knowledge of website creation, the callers tone turned threatening he warned of arrest as the websites were part of a drug trafficking network. In a bid to convince the youth, the Mumbai officer told him that his Aadhaar may have been misused by someone else. He then instructed the youth to verify his Aadhaar and bank details via a video call with members of the cybercrime division. The youth rushed to the Aluva cyber police station. He was visibly panicked, says an officer at the station. After he narrated the incident, we explained that it was a known type of cyber fraud. During this interaction at the station, the scammer called again. This time, an officer answered the call, pretending to be the victim. Assuming that he was speaking to the target, the fraudster continued his threats of legal action and a virtual arrest. When asked for details such as his name, badge number, and police station address, the caller blabbered. He even named a police station that doesnt exist! When pressed about his location, he vaguely replied that he was outside. He then insisted that the video call be made from a closed room, the officer says. Still posing as the victim, the officer agreed to the video call. But when he began asking detailed questions, the scammer grew nervous and abruptly ended the call. Soon the number was switched off. We engaged him for nearly an hour. These scam artists often use police jargon terms like arrest, evidence collection, and legal sections to rattle the victims. But when countered effectively, they chicken out. A well-informed citizen can easily thwart such scams, the officer says. A preliminary investigation revealed that a SIM card procured using a fake ID was used to call the youth, who was later reassured that his credentials had not been misused. Last year, in a similar case, a police officer from the Thrissur cyber cell was contacted by a scammer. The incident, which was captured on video, went viral on social media. That video and other similar cases being reported by the media have helped raise public awareness about virtual arrest scams, the officer notes. Cases involving fraudsters impersonating police officers have declined. However, these scammers keep popping up with new tactics. We now regularly share updates with the public on emerging cyber fraud trends. What about tracking the culprits? This, the officer admits, remains a challenge. One, many victims approach the police only after losing money. Two, these scams are often operated by well-organised groups based in north Indian, he explains. Some networks also function from abroad, particularly from countries like Cambodia and Laos where they recruit Indian nationals. The fraudsters use SIM cards activated with fake IDs, and each phone number is typically used for a single fraud before being discarded. They frequently change mobile handsets and email IDs to avoid tracking. We, however, have arrested several individuals who aided these fraudsters by allowing their bank accounts to be used for illegal transactions. What can citizens do? One, maintain composure and seek police help. Two, keep oneself abreast of the latest cyber scam trends. And three, please pass on the message.
Guruvayur temple offerings a mixed bag of butter, brooms & cars
THRISSUR: From rice flakes to vehicles, kathali bananas to cash, the offerings made at Guruvayur Sree Krishna temple are as varied as the lakhs of devotees visiting the temple every month. People of different age groups and genders, and from various backgrounds and localities, visit the temple. The rush is especially high on festivals and special occasions. And it is very rare to see a devotee visiting empty-handed; at least a `1 coin will be given as offering to their favourite deity. In June, the temples income from hundi collections alone was Rs 7.25 crore in cash, 2.672 kg of gold and 14.24 kg of silver. At least 1.5 kg of gold and 3 kg of silver are received as offering through hundi alone every month. Says Pramod Kalarickal, deputy administrator of Guruvayur temple, It is a relationship between devotees and Lord Krishna. They can offer anything they want. From pencils and pens from students to costly things like vehicles, besides gold and silver, are offered here. Ghee, butter (of course) and kathali banana variety top the list of offerings. Whatever the temple can put to use is retained and the rest is auctioned. Among the popular offerings are yam for good health, mustard seeds for health and prosperity, cradle for parenthood, broom for hair growth, and kunnikkuru for childrens well-being. Vegetables and fruits that are offered are used to prepare the food served for prasada oottu. Sacks of rice given as offerings are used to make payasam or nivedyam for the deity, he says. About 50 years ago, Balakrishnan Nedungadi, a devotee from Madras, made a rare offering at the temple a wheelchair. A Viswaroopam carved on conch-shaped bronze offered at Guruvayur A doctor, Nedungadi had been paralysed. Like the story of Bhattathirippad, who wrote Narayaneeyam, Nedungadi was advised to take bhajana at Guruvayuur temple. He led 24-hour continuous chanting of prayers at his house in Madras. It is said his prayers were answered and he recovered. As gratitude to the deity, Balakrishnan offered a wheelchair at the temple. Parameswara Iyyer, former temple manger, Guruvayur temple, says K Karunakaran, the former chief minister, popularised kathali banana as offering. On the first day of every month, he would visit the temple and offer a kathalikula (bunch). Taking inspiration from him, Congress followers as well as other politicians and prominent people now offer kathalikula here, he says. He says not just Hindus but people from other religions also make offerings, especially Thulabharam. In such cases, the Thulabharam is conducted outside the temple, near the mandapam used for marriages. An uruli offered at the temple
Police use water cannons atYouth League march in Thrissur demanding Health Ministers resignation
Youth Morcha stages protest with wreath at DMO Office
Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi to host National Percussion Festival in Thrissur from July 11
Event will bring together diverse percussion traditions from across the country. Curated by Keli Ramachandran, festival aims at spotlighting rhythm as a powerful cultural, artistic, and political expression
Transport minister drives away with Ernakulam KSRTC depots profit-making services
KOCHI: In a strategy that makes no monetary sense, loss-making KSRTC has been terminating profitable services from Ernakulam and diverting them to other depots. The public entity has now discontinued two profitable routes from Ernakulam: The Coimbatore bypass rider (super fast) and Kanyakumari (super fast). These services will now originate from Pathanapuram depot. The vehicles and crew have already been shifted. The move comes on the back of the operation of the Ernakulam-Mookambika super deluxe service being transferred to Alappuzha depot. Discontinuation of the Coimbatore (starting at 11.20am) and Kanyakumari (7pm) services comes even as Ernakulam depot was directed to resume operation of the Erattupetta service (5.30pm) from Friday. The same was terminated due to low revenue collection. There are no other services to the respective destinations in their time slots. Only two buses operate on the interstate Kanyakumari route one at 2.30pm and the other at 7pm. The second service via Alappuzha, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram has been in operation for the past many years and many commuters depended on it. Unfortunately, its being shifted, sources said. There are no services for Thiruvananthapuram from Ernakulam till late night, after the Nedumangad service at 3pm. The Coimbatore bypass rider was in demand as it cut on travel time by skipping Aluva and Thrissur stops. The next service to Coimbatore from Ernakulam was only at 1.20pm (Coimbatore-Tirupur LSFP). The return service of the bypass rider (5.30pm) was also a passenger favourite. Services are rescheduled and reallotted only when trip collections are poor. The Kanyakumari service used to generate from Rs 25,000-30,000 per trip when it was open to reservation. Then it was taken out of the category of buses with reservation facility and the service was disrupted several times over the past three months. The Coimbatore bypass rider used to generate Rs 15,000-20,000 per trip though it was a relatively short-haul service, sources added. Services from Pathanapuram The discontinued services will now be operated from the hometown of Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar. There is a deliberate attempt to shift profitable services from Ernakulam depot. The Transport Democratic Federation has registered a strong protest against the move to degrade the depot, said A K Manoj, TDF district president.
With Palakkad and Thrissur as focus areas, the collaboration will focus on developing Low Emission Packages
80th round of National Sample Survey begins in Thrissur
Roads in Ernakulam, Thiruvananthapuram most accident-prone, says report
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram, Keralas commercial and administrative capitals respectively, have emerged as the districts with the most dangerous roads in the state. According to the department of economics and statistics Status Report on Road Accidents - 2025, these districts have recorded the highest number of road accidents. With Kerala reporting nearly 49,000 road accidents annually, data from 2018 to 2023 show that Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram consistently rank as the most accident-prone, accounting for over a quarter of the total accidents. In 2023, Ernakulam registered 7,128 accidents while Thiruvananthapuram recorded 5,649. Thrissur followed with 5,003 accidents, while Wayanad (910) and Kasaragod (1,068) had the fewest. The data highlights a clear concentration of road accidents in urban and semi-urban areas, which seems to correlate with higher traffic density and population. The variation across districts emphasises the need for localised traffic safety measures and infrastructure improvements, said Anish Kumar B, deputy director, department of economics and statistics. In addition to the high number of accidents, fatalities also remain a significant concern. Ernakulam recorded 459 deaths, while Thiruvananthapuram and Thrissur reported 462 and 439 deaths, respectively, during this period. The five-year statistics indicate that these districts continue to have the highest proportion of road accident fatalities in the state. The report stresses the urgent need for government action to address the rising number of accidents. Upendra Narayan, an expert member of the Kerala Road Safety Authority (KRSA), pointed to several key factors behind the increase in accidents, including poor road safety enforcement, dangerous driving culture, and a general lack of road safety awareness. Accidents are fewer in the urban parts of Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram compared to their rural counterparts. The high density of national highways and the absence of regular patrolling on these roads make these areas particularly accident-prone, he explained. According to the Road Accidents India report, Kerala has the second-highest percentage of road accidents on national highways in India. The report also noted that the national highways in Kerala have had an alarming accident density of 39 accidents per kilometer over the past eight years. Former KRSA executive director T Elangovan pointed out that the presence of extensive portions of national highways and vehicle density are the factors common between Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram. While death rates have come down, high accident rates remain a concern. The improvement in road conditions should have reduced the accident rates. There should be intervention to reduce accidents and mortality, he said.
Modernised Kairali-Sree Theatres opened in Thrissur
Ravada Chandrasekhar, a 1991 batch IPS officer with IB, UN exposure
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ravada A Chandrasekhar , a Kerala cadre IPS officer of the 1991 batch who was named the state police chief on Monday, had been on central deputation serving as special director in the Intelligence Bureau (IB). A native of Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh, he holds a postgraduate degree in science, and began service in the force as an ASP at Thalassery in Kannur. Over the years, he has served as SP in Pathanamthitta, Malappuram, Ernakulam Rural, Railways, Vigilance Ernakulam Range, Crime Branch Thiruvananthapuram and Palakkad, as AIG-1 at the police headquarters and as commandant of KAP second and third Battalions. He has also been part of the United Nations Mission in Bosnia. This apart, he has served as the Kochi city police commissioner. As a DIG rank officer, he served in the UN Mission in Sudan and has held posts in Thrissur and Ernakulam Ranges. He was also the Thiruvananthapuram city police commissioner while holding the DIG rank. While serving as an IG in the State Crime Records Bureau, he was deputed to the IB as deputy director, and worked at IB offices in Bhubaneswar, Hyderabad and Vijayawada. During central deputation, he was promoted as ADGP and served as additional director of IB in Vijayawada and Mumbai. He was conferred with the Presidents Police Medal for Distinguished Service in 2015 and the Indian Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 2009.
Congress councillors stage protest with blood-stained clothes over poor roads in Thrissur
Prayagraj police bust radicalisation racket, rescue Dalit minor who was taken to Kerala
LUCKNOW: The Prayagraj police claim to have busted a racket in which minor Dalit girls were being lured to Kerala on one pretext or the other and were being subjected to religious conversion. A racket came to the fore when a woman -- Guddi Devi -- of Lilhat village, approached Phulpur police on June 28, alleging that Daraksha Bano, on May 8, enticed her 15-year-old daughter on the pretext of money from a wedding event and took her to Kerala, where she was forcibly converted. She was then forced to join anti-national activities, Prayagraj police said on Monday, blowing the lid off a suspected radicalisation network. Guddi Devi also claimed that she was being threatened since she lodged a complaint with the Prayagraj police. However, adequate security was provided to her and her family members. Police arrested two persons-- Daraksha Bano (19) and Mohd Kaif (25) both residents of Lilhat village in Prayagraj, for luring the Dalit minor to Kerala. As per the police authorities, Kaif tried to outrage the modesty of the victim, and Kehkashan prompted the minor to undergo religious conversion. The conspiracy unfolded when the victim, 15, who was allegedly taken from her village on May 8, escaped from the captivity of Daraksha and Kaif in Kerala and contacted her mother. According to DCP Kuldeep Singh Gunawat, the teen, who was being forced to join Jihadi activities, somehow managed to reach the Thrissur railway station from where she called up her mother with the help of local police. After contacting her mother from Kerala, the girl was brought back to Prayagraj and is currently being housed at a One Stop Centre for protection. A case has been registered against Daraksha Bano, Mohammed Kaif, and an unidentified person who allegedly handed out threats to the victims family over the phone, said the DCP. During preliminary interrogation, the victim revealed that other minor girls were also being targeted and recruited by the same group. In the preliminary enquiry, it came to the fore that it was an interstate gang involved in a radicalisation network and that it could be active in other states as well. According to the DCP, the girl was introduced to suspicious individuals who first enticed her with money, then allegedly coerced her into converting her religion and then put pressure on her into extremist activities. She told the police authorities that Kaif had taken her on a motorcycle to Prayagraj Junction railway station and also allegedly harassed her, while Kehkashan Bano, later, took her to Delhi by train and then to Kerala, where she was introduced to unknown persons involved in the radicalisation network. The DCP said that the accused were operating as part of an organised syndicate aimed at misleading girls and pushing them into anti-national and terror activities. Three dedicated police teams have been formed to investigate further leads and unearth the full network associated with the suspects.
Thrissur infanticide: remains of babies excavated
Remains will be sent for DNA profiling to confirm that the babies were indeed born to the accused couple
News of newborns murder hits Vellikulangara like bolt from blue
THRISSUR: Residents of Thrissurs Vellikulangara were at a loss of words on Sunday. News of the brutal murder of the newborn babies came as a huge shock to them all, especially the neighbours of Aneesha, the woman who has been arrested in the incident. Aneesha had been staying at the locality with her mother and younger brother. We are all shocked. The family has been staying here for decades and no one ever thought it would do such a thing, said ward member Seeba Alukkal. She said none was aware of Aneeshas pregnancy though there had been rumours some years ago. The residents said while the family has been living there for several years, it was not in touch with others. A resident said around four years ago, a complaint was lodged at the Vellikulangara police station against Aneeshas brother, alleging he had attacked a neighbour, Chandrika. The family had accused Chandrika of spreading false rumours about Aneesha, saying she was pregnant and had buried the baby after birth. Chandrika even claimed seeing Aneesha carry something in a bucket and digging a pit behind her home. However, she had said she didnt see what was inside the bucket. As revenge, Aneeshas brother trespassed into Chandrikas home and tried to attack her. The matter was settled at the station and the police had urged Chandrika to record a video if something like this happened again. Woman, male friend held over murder of two newborns in Kerala
Woman, male friend held over murder of two newborns in Kerala
THRISSUR: Police on Sunday arrested a 23-year-old woman and her male friend in connection with the murder of their two newborns over the past four years in Thrissur. The arrests followed a dramatic turn of events on Saturday night when Bhavin, 25, in a highly intoxicated state, walked into the Puthukkad police station carrying a bag containing skeletal remains, reportedly of two infants. According to police, Bhavin, a native of Amballur, told the officers that his girlfriend, Aneesha, had killed their babies. Thrissur Rural SP B Krishnakumar said: The police officers were shocked. The Chalakudy DySP called me immediately. We took swift action to verify Bhavins claim that his girlfriend had killed the babies. A team was constituted at midnight to investigate the case, and Aneesha, 23, the babies mother, was also taken into custody. During interrogation, Aneesha reportedly confessed to murdering their second child. Later, the police recorded the duos arrest under various charges, including murder. The couple, who met on Facebook in 2020, had reportedly been in a relationship despite opposition from Aneeshas mother. She has been residing in Vellikulangara with her mother and brother, who according to Aneesha, were unaware of the incidents. As per the FIR, Aneesha told the police that their first child, born on November 6, 2021, was stillborn with the umbilical cord wrapped around the neck. Special team formed Aneesha reportedly buried the baby behind her house, and later handed over the skeletal remains to Bhavin in a handbag for performing rituals, it said. Their second child was born on August 29, 2024. Aneesha allegedly smothered the baby to death when the newborn cried. Bhavin buried the body near his house in Amballoor, the FIR stated. However, investigators said Bhavin kept the skeletons to leverage control over Aneesha, should she attempt to end their relationship. A special investigation team headed by Chalakudy DySp Biju Kumar has been formed to investigate the case. The samples of skeletal remains will be sent for forensic examination. DNA tests will be done to ensure the babies were of Aneesha and Bhavin. The police have identified the spot where the second baby was buried. However, the case will be a challenging one for them as the events happened several months ago. Krishnakumar said the police will do its best to collect maximum evidence. The police have invoked the Juvenile Justice Act, as well as IPC sections 315, 317, 318, 302, 201, and 34, for intentionally denying medical attention to the child, leading to death. Bhavin holds a diploma in technical education, while Aneesha has completed a lab technician course.
Revenue officials from across the country visit Thrissur to evaluate Keralas digital survey system
Police attacked, vehicles damaged during drug party raid in Keralas Thrissur
The first patrol team that arrived was ambushed by the gang hiding nearby. Subsequently, two more police vehicles were also attacked
Heavy rains lash Kerala; IMD issues orange alert in five districts
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Heavy rains lashed various parts of Kerala with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing an orange alert in five districts of the state for the day. The IMD sounded the orange alert in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram and Wayanad districts of the state for the day. An orange alert means very heavy rain of 11 cm to 20 cm. Rains in the state during the last few days raised water level in various rivers leading to flooding of various low-lying areas and displacing hundreds from their homes. It also led to opening of shutters in some dams, like Banasura Sagar in Wayanad district and Moozhiyar in Pathanamthitta district, in the state in the last few days. The shutters of Peechi dam in Thrissur district are expected to be opened on Saturday afternoon, an official statement said. Shutters of various dams, including Kanjirapuzha, Malampuzha and Meenkara, in Palakkad were opened on Saturday following rise in their water levels due to rains in their catchment areas, the district administration said. Besides these, authorities in Idukki district are preparing for the possible opening of the Mullaperiyar dam, after Tamil Nadu officials on Friday indicated they may open the shutters once the water level reaches 136 feet. As a precaution, the district administration on Friday completed arrangements to evacuate 3,220 people from 883 families living in low-lying areas, which includes villages such as Periyar, Manjumala, Upputhura, Elappara, Ayyappankovil, Kanchiyar, Aanavilasam, and Udumbanchola. On Saturday at 10 am, the water level in the Mullaperiyar dam reached 135. 70 feet. The Mullaperiyar Dam--though located in Kerala--is operated and maintained by Tamil Nadu under a 999-year lease dating back to 1886. Kerala fears the ageing dam poses a safety risk, while Tamil Nadu insists on maintaining full control to ensure water supply for its agricultural needs.
Police attacked, vehicles damaged during birthday booze party in Kerala's Thrissur, six held
THRISSUR: Amidst Keralas intensified crackdown on drug abuse, four police personnel from Mannuthy station were injured after being attacked by a gang of youngsters during a birthday booze party in Nellankara around 3 am on Saturday. The police had rushed to the spot following a call about a loud altercation at an alcohol-fuelled birthday party. As they attempted to take the youth into custody, they were met with violence -- attacked with glass bottles and iron rods, forcing them to flee the scene. There was loud noise from the people from the abandoned building here. We didn't want to intervene as it may lead to a clash, said a local resident. According to police, the party was organised by Mohammed Althaf to celebrate his younger brothers 18th birthday. It was Althafs mother who alerted the police about the party spiralling out of control. Of the 12 attendees, six were taken into custody. Those in custody will be tested to know whether they used synthetic drugs in the party. More interrogation will be held later, said a Mannuthy police official. Thrissur city police commissioner R Ilango visited the spot. Two police vehicles were partially damaged during the attack. Locals claimed that Althaf and his gang had been hosting such parties frequently. If we raise our voice, they threaten us, said a resident. Police have yet to release full details of those detained. A case has been registered.
Pathetic condition of roads in Thrissur city: DCC president calls for Mayors resignation
Tajet says the Congress had repeatedly raised concerns over the deplorable state of roads, both in and outside the council
Three migrant workers die after building collapses in Thrissur's Kodakara
THRISSUR: In a tragic incident, three migrant workers died after the old building they were residing in collapsed amid heavy rain on June 27 in Thrissur. The incident happened at around 6 am when the migrant labourers were getting ready for work at the construction site. The deceased has been identified as Rahul, Rupel and Ali, from West Bengal. A total of 17 migrant labourers were residing in the building. In the wake of heavy rain, the middle portion of the old house, with clay tiles on its roof, collapsed along with the concrete portion. The fire force officials from Chalakudy reached the spot and rescued the rest, while three were trapped down the concrete pillars that collapsed.
Three migrant labourers killed in building collapse in Keralas Thrissur
17 migrant workers were living in the building, and of them, 14 managed to escape without any injuries
Governor Arlekar, Minister Prasad share stage, display respect and warmth
THRISSUR : For the first time after their tiff over the display of the RSS version of the Bharat Mata at a government function in Raj Bhavan, Governor Rajendra Arlekar and Agriculture Minister P Prasad shared a stage in a cordial atmosphere on Thursday. Moreover, Arlekar was eloquent in praising the minister and the state government in promoting agriculture and contributing to Indias development goals for 2047, at the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) convocation. The governor is the chancellor and the agriculture minister pro-chancellor of the KAU. The controversial image of Bharat Mata carrying a saffron flag was not displayed at the function. In his speech, Arlekar urged the youth to become job creators, and not job seekers. The government cannot provide jobs for everyone at all times. It is high time young minds thought about entrepreneurship, he said. He also urged the university to actively promote its entrepreneurship development cell and startup schemes from both the state and central governments. Delivering the presidential address, Prasad urged the students to understand the importance of farming and farmers and work in collaboration with them. Work alongside farmers to ensure food security for all, he said. KAU conferred honorary doctorates on Kadambot Siddique, professor at the University of Western Australia, and Paul Thomas, managing director and CEO of ESAF Small Finance Bank -- both alumni of the university. A total of 1,039 students graduated during the ceremony, including 70 doctoral degrees, 222 postgraduate degrees, 565 undergraduate degrees, and 65 diploma degrees.
Criticism against M V Govindan in CPM state committee meeting for his RSS remarks
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CPM state secretary M V Govindan on Thursday faced severe criticism in the state committee meeting for his controversial remarks about RSS- CPM relations at the time of Emergency. The government was also criticised for allegedly giving undue prominence and consideration to ADGP M R Ajith Kumar. In the state committee, there was unprecedented criticism against Govindan as leaders alleged his careless statement became a political weapon at a crucial phase of the campaign. In a channel interview, Govindan had said there was an association between the RSS and CPM in opposing Emergency. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had publicly reprimanded Govindan without naming him for making loose comments in front of the mike. The statement proved a setback for the CPM in the by-election. He should have taken a more cautious approach. The comments were made just hours before the polling. The UDF workers circulated the video clip of the interview and used it against the party on the day of silent campaign, one of the leaders said. Some leaders said LDFs opponents and communal organisations like Jamaat-e- Islami used CM Pinarayi Vijayans reference to Malappuram in an interview to their advantage. It was used against the CPM as a hate campaign, a leader pointed out. Some leaders questioned the governments partiality towards Ajith Kumar. Why support an officer who was involved in the Thrissur pooram fiasco? Even the police chief had submitted a report against the officers conduct during the pooram. The government must stop protecting him, they demanded. The UDF succeeded in reaching out to dissatisfied voters. Muslim League was behind Anvars candidature. Anvar was fielded to prevent the flow of the votes of disgruntled UDF supporters to CPM. The Jamaat-e-Islami had been at the forefront of communal propaganda and it ultimately led to Muslim vote polarisation, it said.
Sudden downpour catches people off guard in Ghat regions of Kerala
IMD issues orange alert for Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, and Wayanad districts on Friday warning of very heavy rains, and a yellow alert of isolated heavy rains for the remaining districts
Kerala rains: IMD issues red alert for three districts as monsoon intensifies
Seven districts Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode and Kannur put on orange alert on Thursday
Accident occurred when the scooter rider tried to swerve to avoid a pothole
Monsoon rains intensify in Kerala; orange alert in seven districts
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Monsoon rains intensified in Kerala on Thursday with some parts of Ernakulam, Idukki and Thrissur districts getting flooded and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing an orange alert in seven districts in the morning. The IMD issued an orange alert in Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam and Thrissur districts for three hours in the morning. An orange alert means very heavy rain of 11 cm to 20 cm. Meanwhile, continuous rains in Wayanad district's Mundakkai-Chooralmala region resulted in the Chooralmala River being in strong spate, with muddy water flowing forcefully and eroding the banks near the Bailey bridge. Last year in July, deadly landslides in the region had claimed over 200 lives and destroyed countless homes. Heavy rain triggers flood fears in Wayanad's Chooralmala, one year after deadly landslides
Monsoon rains intensify in Kerala; orange alert in 7 districts
Kerala is experiencing intensified monsoon rains, leading to flooding in Ernakulam, Idukki, and Thrissur districts. The IMD has issued an orange alert for seven districts, indicating the possibility of very heavy rainfall. In Wayanad, continuous rains caused the Chooralmala River to swell, raising concerns due to the area's history of deadly landslides.
Monsoon Rains Getting Stronger In Kerala; Orange Alert In 7 Districts
The IMD issued an orange alert in Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam and Thrissur districts for three hours in the morning
Kerala plans two-day cruise along West Coast waterways from Kovalam to Bekal
KOCHI: How about a cruise tour along Keralas stunning waterways, all the way from Kovalam in the south to Bekal in the north? The state government plans to roll out a two-day cruise trip along the 590-km West Coast waterways, for which a specially designed AC cruise vessel is under construction. The 21-seater electric boat will be ready by the time the first phase of the ambitious West Coast waterways project a 235-km stretch from Akkulam in Thiruvananthapuram to Chettuva in Thrissur is commissioned later this year. If everything goes well, authorities plan to start operating the vessel till Chettuva this year itself, and gradually extend the trip in line with the projects progress. The cruise vessel will offer an unforgettable experience to tourists. One of the highlights will be the journey through the tunnels at Chilakoor and Sivagiri in Varkala, during which travellers can enjoy immersive light and sound shows played via an on-board projector, said a senior official with the Chief Ministers Office (CMO). The first phase of the Kovalam-Bekal West Coast waterway will be commissioned in another four months, said the official, adding that the work, including dredging, in this section is nearing completion The on-board projector will start automatically when the boat enters the Varkala tunnel to entertain visitors with a light and sound show, the official said. The two-day tour package will see the boat halting at five destinations at least, and these will be developed as tourist spots. The Kerala Shipping & Inland Navigation Corporation (KSINC) is manufacturing the vessel, he said. An official with the Kerala Waterways Infrastructure Ltd (KWIL), the special purpose vehicle under Cochin International Airport Ltd and roped in by the government for the National Waterways project, said tourism will benefit the most once the 235-km stretch of the waterways is commissioned. Cruise project to attract tourists, flaunt scenic coastline The authorities expect the cruise project to attract tourists, especially foreign visitors, in large numbers and showcase Keralas scenic coastline like never before. The West Coast Waterway project involves developing the 590-km-long canal system running parallel to the states coastline from Kovalam to Bekal. The project, designed to interconnect Keralas backwaters and rivers, is broadly targeted to be completed by 2028, and aims to enhance transportation, trade and tourism in the state. The project was launched way back in 2006 with a grant of `225 crore. However, it got stalled for over a decade. Finally, in 2018, the project was revived and decided to be implemented in three phases.
Punkunnam-Puzhakkal road closure for repairs leads to traffic chaos in Thrissur
Unless two-way access is restored on the stretch, the traffic bottlenecks across Ayyanthole, Kurinjyakkal, and Puzhakkal will only worsen
SPC submits Thrissur Pooram probe report; flags lapses involving ADGP M.R. Ajith Kumar
Thrissur Collector warns of legal action against NHAI, contractors for safety lapses
Accidents due to poor safety measures on NH 544 will invite strict legal consequences, he says
Rust and resolve: Thrissurs anti-drug installation sends a bold message
With scrap metal and vision, sculptor DavinchiSuresh gives form to Thrissurs war on drugs. The sculpture is created from over 3.5 tonnes of discarded metal gear wheels, nuts, bolts, and sheet metal
On Camera, Bus Rams Women Waiting At Bus Stop In Kerala
At least three people were injured, one of them critically, when a private bus rammed passengers waiting at a bus stop in Kerala's Thrissur.
Four leptospirosis deaths in two months; Thrissur on high alert
As many as 21 confirmed cases have been reported, with 26 people showing symptoms and seeking treatment in the past one and a half months
549 families shifted to 28 relief camps in Thrissur
Rajan visits relief camp at Nedupuzha Womens Polytechnic College
Rain fury in Thrissur: houses damaged, relief camps opened
As of now, 19 relief camps are operational in the district, providing shelter to over 550 people from 197 families displaced
Forest land title deed applications from Thrissur to be submitted to Centre by June 25
The applications, which have undergone joint verification, are being mapped with detailed surveys and transferred to topographic sheets before submission via portal
NHAI should ensure safe, smooth travel for motorists who pay toll, says Kerala HC
Petitions challenge continuation of toll collection at Paliyekkara, despite severe traffic snarl-ups in the Thrissur-Ernakulam corridor of National Highway 544
Thrissur reels under heavy rain
Flooding, storm, power disruption leave coastal belt struggling. Wind uproots trees and damages power lines in several areas, resulting in prolonged power outages.
Three missing girls from North Paravur traced to Kunnamkulam
The girls had reportedly left the hostel managed by the North Paravur municipality to meet their friend in Thrissur
Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurates Water Efficient Thrissur (WET) project
9,000 households in Ollur zone have already been equipped with pipelines under the project. The entire system is digitally monitored in real-time, allowing immediate detection of leaks, illegal usage, or supply disruptions
Thrissur temple assistant arrested for sexual assault on Bengaluru woman
The accused is an assistant to the priest in Vishnu Murthy temple in Thrissur, Kerala
Major fire breaks out at paint shop at Chalakudy in Keralas Thrissur
No casualties have been reported so far. The fire has been brought under control, according to officials
Kerala Orthodontic Study Group programme held in Thrissur
Red Alert In 5 Kerala Districts, Heavy To Extremely Heavy Rainfall Likely
An orange alert has been sounded for Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, and Pathanamthitta, while Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram remain under a yellow alert.
Thrissur ups measures for monsoon preparedness; review meet held
As many as four deaths reported in the district in rain-related incidents. Four houses completely destroyed and 194 partially damaged
Padiyur double murder accused found dead in Kedarnath
He is accused of killing his wife and mother-in-law on June 4. Thrissur police team camping in Delhi sets out for Kedarnath
Kerala, Karnataka agree on animal transfers to Thrissur Zoological Park
Towline connected to ship on fire, chance for BLEVE explosion
As per INCOIS, the fallen containers may drift towards the coastal stretch between Kozhikode and Thrissur and parts of south Tamil Nadu to Sri Lanka in the next couple of days
Kerala: Monsoon Rains Intensify; IMD Issues Orange Alert In 4 Districts
The IMD sounded the orange alert in Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur and Kasaragod districts of the state for the day
Grammy winner Manoj George urges govt. to encourage budding artists
Journalist Geo Sunny remembered at the event held at Thrissur Press Club
Indian expat dies during scuba diving in Dubai
Dubai: In a tragic incident during the Eid Al Adha holidays, a United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based Indian expatriate has died while scuba diving at Jumeirah Beach in Dubai. The deceased has been identified as Issac Paul Olakkengil, a 29-year-old civil engineer from Naduvilangadi village in Keralas Thrissur district. According to media reports, Olakkengil was taking 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 .
Suresh Gopi calls for a master plan to tackle Thrissur citys waterlogging
Thrissur celebrates veteran Congress leaderTherambil Ramakrishnans Sathabhishekam with warm tributes
Thrissur General Hospital marks a milestone after successful completion of rare heart procedure
Rare ASD device closure procedure successfully completed
Keralite at the helm of the worlds biggest container ship
As the worlds largest container vessel MSC Irina is set to berth at Vizhinjam, its captain, a native of Thrissur, says the international port should have materialised much earlier. He sees the port helping the country achieving an economic leap.
Man Accused Of Killing First Wife Now Main Suspect In Murder Of Second
A suspected double murder in a quiet residential lane in central Kerala has triggered a police manhunt across districts, after the decomposed bodies of a 74-year-old woman and her 43-year-old daughter were discovered in their rented home in Thrissur.
Save Thrissur campaign launched against bid to block citys development
Congress councillor demands Vigilance probe into alleged fake stability certificates for buildings
Hepatitis cases surge in Thrissur: public urged to exercise extreme caution
People advised to drink only boiled and properly treated water
K. Rajan inaugurates district-level Praveshanolsavam in Thrissur
Over 25,000 children enrolled in Class 1 across Thrissur district
District-Level school reopening festival in Thrissur today
Heavy rains trigger landslides and floods across northeast and south India; at least a dozen dead
Heavy rainfall over the past 48 hours has caused widespread flooding, landslides, and disruption in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Karnataka, and Kerala, claiming at least many lives and affecting tens of thousands. Heavy rains claimined 11 lives in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram and Tripura . Assam saw five deaths from landslides in Kamrup Metropolitan district, including three women killed in a landslide near Guwahatis Bonda area, Urban Affairs Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah confirmed. Flooding affected more than 10,000 people in six districts, including Kamrup, Cachar, Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, and Golaghat, where two relief camps and one distribution centre have been set up. A red alert remains in effect for 18 districts amid heavy rain and gusty winds. Massive waterlogging was reported in Guwahati, forcing closure of schools and special leave for government employees. In Arunachal Pradesh, flash floods caused by the overflowing Sigin River in Upper Subansiri district inundated Daporijo town and several colonies, damaging at least 117 houses and critical infrastructure. Authorities have issued prohibitory orders urging evacuation of vulnerable areas. In West Kameng district, landslides near Jamiri stranded hundreds along the Balipara-Chariduar-Tawang road, and major road blockages disrupted connectivity. A landslide in Bomdila washed away parts of roads and culverts, while power supply was disrupted. Mizorams Lawngtlai town witnessed the collapse of five houses and a hotel due to landslides on Friday night. Several Myanmar nationals staying in the hotel are feared trapped under debris, one person is feared to have died in the incident. Rescue operations involving the State Disaster Response Force and local volunteers are underway. The state has been hit by torrential rains since Friday, causing multiple landslides and rockfalls. In Meghalaya, three people died in East Khasi Hills district from rain-related incidentsa 50-year-old woman killed by a landslide in Lumkyntung, a 35-year-old man drowned in Pomlakrai Mawbynna, and a 15-year-old boy died after a tree fell on him in Mawkynrew Block. Over 1,000 residents across 25 villages have been affected by landslides, flash floods, and power outages. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the victims families. Flooding also damaged roads and inundated schools. Rescue efforts for a missing couple from Indore in Sohra have been suspended due to heavy rain and landslides but will resume as weather permits. Nagaland and Tripura each reported one death on Friday due to rain-related incidents. Karnatakas Dakshina Kannada district on Friday reported five deaths due to landslides triggered by heavy rain. A house collapse in Montepadavu Kodi buried six family members, including two toddlers and their grandmother. One mother was found unconscious but alive, clutching her children amid the debris. A compound wall collapse in Mangaluru claimed the life of a six-year-old girl. Additionally, a 27-year-old lineman died of electrocution while repairing a high-tension power line during the rain. Rescue operations have been hampered by continued rainfall and unstable terrain. In Uttarakhand, a 38-year-old man died and five others were injured after a landslide struck a vehicle on the Kedarnath National Highway near Kund, close to Guptkashi in Rudraprayag district. The vehicle was carrying pilgrims from Chhattisgarh to Kedarnath when it was hit by debris. Rescue and relief operations were launched immediately by the local administration and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). The injured were rushed to Augustmuni Hospital. Officials said two of the pilgrims were seriously injured, while three others suffered minor injuries. The deceased was identified as Rajesh Singh Rawat, a resident of Lambgaon in Tehri Garhwal, who was driving the vehicle. The injured are between 19 and 25 years old and belong to Chhattisgarhs Durg district. Monsoon rains have caused severe flooding across several districts in Kerala, forcing hundreds of people to evacuate low-lying areas and seek shelter in relief camps. In Kasaragod district, overflowing Madhuvahini River submerged roads and flooded homes, with residents moving to upper floors to escape rising waters. Similar flooding and heavy downpours have affected Kozhikode and Kannur districts, where locals have kept wooden and fiber boats ready amid fears of further displacement. Authorities have opened 46 relief camps in Kottayam district, sheltering over 1,100 people, while Alappuzha district currently hosts 851 evacuees across 26 camps, with 19 houses destroyed on Friday alone. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by strong surface winds reaching gusts of up to 50 kmph in multiple districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, Alappuzha, and Kottayam. The situation remains critical as swollen rivers and tributaries continue to inundate vulnerable areas. Meanwhile, several higher-altitude areas in Jammu and Kashmir received fresh snowfall on Saturday, including Tulail and Razdan Top in Gurez valley, Peer Ki Gali in Shopian, and Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh highway. Authorities closed the Bandipora-Gurez road as a precaution. Meanwhile, the plains, including Srinagar, were lashed by rain, causing temperatures to drop with minimums falling by up to 3 degrees and maximums 3-5 degrees below normal. Light to moderate rain or thundershowers with light snow are expected over the higher reaches in the next 24 hours. Heavy rainfall and hailstorms hit Ramban district, disrupting normal life. Parts of Srinagar saw moderate to heavy rain, welcomed by tourists as a refreshing change from recent heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast widespread rain and thunderstorms across Kashmir, with isolated heavy rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph. Srinagars temperatures will range between 24C and 11C. Jammu Division will also see light to moderate rain with isolated heavy showers and winds up to 60 kmph, with Jammu city experiencing partly cloudy skies and temperatures between 37C and 21C. The IMD has advised residents to stay alert amid the possibility of heavy rain and strong winds. The IMD has issued a red alert for Sikkim on Saturday following heavy rains and rising water levels in the Teesta River, warning of possible floods and landslides in Mangan, Gyalshing, and Soreng districts. Based on a Nowcast Weather Alert from Baluwakhani, Gangtok, severe rainfall was forecasted for 2 to 3 hours starting at 6:15 am. The District Magistrate of Gangtok urged the public not to panic but stay alert, while directing all disaster management officers to remain on high alert and maintain communication with field staff along the Teesta river belt. Landslides were reported in North Sikkims Theeng and Chungthang areas, damaging properties. Emergency services are actively monitoring water levels, with disaster response teams on standby. The IMD advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, remain indoors, and steer clear of riverbanks and vulnerable slopes. No casualties have been reported yet, but the situation remains tense due to continuous rains and rising river levels, with authorities promising timely updates. The India Meteorological Department has issued multiple red alerts in vulnerable districts across these states, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides, and strong winds reaching up to 60 kmph in gusts. Authorities have urged residents to avoid risky areas and follow evacuation and safety advisories. National and state disaster response teams remain deployed to conduct rescue and relief operations as the monsoon continues. (With inputs from PTI, ANI)
LDF will return to power in Kerala, says D. Raja
CPI birth centenary celebrations conclude in Thrissur
Kerala rains wreak havoc: Homes flooded, trees uprooted, red alert in 9 districts
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Houses in low lying areas of Kerala were flooded in the heavy rains, while the accompanying strong winds uprooted trees, damaged homes and caused power disruptions, throwing normal way of life into disarray across the state. In Thrissur, Kannur and Kasaragod districts, there were reports of several homes getting flooded due to the heavy rains, forcing people to move to relief camps. Not just homes, but many roads in these districts and other parts of the state were inundated due to the heavy rains. In Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki districts, the heavy rains and strong winds uprooted trees and damaged electricity poles and transformers, leading to partial and complete destruction of hundreds of homes and power disruptions for hours, according to the authorities. It will be a holiday for educational institutions in Kottayam district on Saturday, district authorities said. In Kollam, uprooted trees and falling branches, due to the rains and strong winds, caused damage to several homes and private vehicles in the district and a few persons were reportedly injured. An 85-year-old woman, who worked as an MGNREGA worker in Ernakulam district, died when an uprooted tree fell on top of her while returning home on Thursday evening. The Ernakulam district authorities also reported a rise in the water level of the Muvattupuzha River above the flood warning markers, leading to the opening of three shutters of the Malankara Dam by 20 centimetres (cm). Train services were also affected with some, including the Mangaluru-Thiruvananthapuram Vande Bharat Expres, being diverted due to fallen trees on the tracks, while others were rescheduled or delayed due to the heavy rains, authorities said. Amidst the widespread damage in the state due to the heavy rains and strong winds, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Kannur and Kasaragod and an orange alert in the remaining six districts of the state for the day. A red alert by IMD indicates heavy to extremely heavy rain of over 20 cm in 24 hours, while an orange alert means very heavy rain of 11 cm to 20 cm, and a yellow alert means heavy rainfall between 6 cm and 11 cm. State Revenue Minister K Rajan said that the heavy rains have caused widespread damage in the state and advised people to be cautious. Speaking to reporters at a press conference in Thrissur, Rajan further said that as the westerly winds are expected to continue over Kerala for the next five days and due to the possibility of widespread rainfall, caution should be exercised by everyone. He advised the public to avoid unnecessary trips, especially to hilly areas and said that those living in dangerous places should move to safer locations or relief camps. Rajan said there are 66 camps functioning in the state currently and 1,894 people are living there. Around 4,000 camps are ready to be opened to accommodate about six lakh people. The public should not be averse to moving there, he added. He also said that hundreds of homes in the state have been partially or completely destroyed due to the heavy rains and strong winds since the arrival of the monsoons. The minister said according to the IMD there is a possibility of heavy rains in all districts of the state in the week from May 30 to June 5 and the amount of rainfall would be more than usual for this period. In the second week of June also there will be rain in all districts of the state, but it will be less than normal for this period, the minister said. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) said that there is a possibility of high waves ranging from 3 to 3.9 meters along the Kerala coast till 5.30 pm on Saturday and urged fishermen and coastal residents to be cautious and avoid launching of small boats, yachts or fishing vessels during this time. Meanwhile, the state government said that it has sanctioned Rs one crore each to all District Collectors from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for carrying out monsoon preparedness activities. Additionally, Rs two crore each has been sanctioned to the Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode District Disaster Management Authorities for undertaking flood mitigation works in the cities, the government said. The government said that it has also sanctioned Rs one lakh to each panchayat, Rs 3 lakh to each municipality and Rs 5 lakh to each corporation in the state to buy necessary equipment and open storage centres as part of monsoon preparedness activities.
The collapse of the newly built National Highway 66 at Malappuram and the deep fissures that were developed on the road stretches in Thrissur, Kozhikode and Kannur districts have caught the State and the Union governments off guard. As questions are being raised about public safety and the technical feasibility of the ambitious road projects in the State, Abdul Latheef Naha hits the road to weigh up the situation
Chief Minister puts Kerala in emergency disaster preparedness mode as monsoon intensifies
Government has requisitioned the Centre for at least nine National Disaster Response Force teams until the monsoon abates. The teams will be deployed in Idukki, Malappuram, Kasaragod, and Thrissur
Thrissur Corporation cracks down on unsafe buildings
Despite being issued multiple warnings, several building owners have not complied with safety norms, prompting the corporation to act. Out of 227 identified old buildings, decisions have already been made regarding 144, says Mayor.
IMD Issues Red Alert for 3 Kerala Districts, Orange Alert for 11 on May 30
Holiday declared for educational institutions in Kannur, Ernakulam, Kasargod, Kottayam, Thrissur, Idukki and Wayanad districts on Friday
Biju murder case: Thrissur court finds 8 RSS workers guilty
Kerala HC enhances compensation for young road accident victim to 53 lakh
Sumisha of Thrissur, now aged 26, was only seven years old when she met with an accident in 2006 and has since been living in an orphanage
ED names CPI (M) leaders as accused in charge sheet in Karuvannur Co-operative Bank case
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigation into the Karuvannur Co-operative Bank case, filing a charge sheet against CPI(M) leaders K Radhakrishnan and AC Moideen, along with the party's Thrissur District Committee. This second prosecution complaint names 28 individuals and entities, highlighting the ED's focus on alleged money laundering involving CPI(M) members.
Crack on under-construction overbridge along NH 66 at Manathala in Thrissur sparks outrage
Serious safety concerns arise from a 50m crack on an under-construction overbridge, triggering public outrage and official investigations.
Thrissur gears up for monsoon, directive to follow dam rule curves to mitigate flood risks
Collector asks officials to assess potential rise in river levels and the impact on surrounding areas before releasing water from dams
