Four dead, 22 injured in road accident near Gangasagaram in Chittoor
TIRUPATI: Four passengers were killed and nearly 22 others sustained injuries in a road accident near Gangasagaram, Chittoor, in the early hours of Friday. The incident occurred when a private travel bus, en route to Tiruchirappalli from Tirupati, collided with a divider and overturned while attempting to avoid hitting a stationary tipper truck parked for highway construction. The bus fell across the road leading to traffic congestion. Upon learning of the incident, District Collector Sumit Kumar rushed to the spot and supervised the rescue operations. The injured passengers were rushed to the Chittoor district hospital, with critically injured individuals being transferred to CMC Vellore for specialized medical care. In response to the incident, Sumit Kumar assured that enhanced medical services are being provided to the victims. Minister for Transportation M Ramprasad Reddy expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and instructed Chittoor district medical authorities to offer better medical support for those in critical condition.
Dr. Narendra Nayak elected President of Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations
Dr. Narendra Nayak elected President of Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations TIRUCHIRAPPALLI, TAMIL NADU: The 13th Biennial National Conference of the Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations (FIRA), held in collaboration with The Rationalists Forum, Tamil Nadu, concluded successfully on December 29, 2024. The gathering, which took place on the 28th and 29th, marked a significant [] The post Dr. Narendra Nayak elected President of Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Case filed against farmers, women over rally against Tungsten mining in Madurai
A case has been registered against approximately 5,000 farmers and women from 40 villages in Madurai's Melur region following a large-scale protest rally on Tuesday. The protesters demanded that the Central Government scrap the proposed Tungsten mining project at Nayakkarpatti village. According to local media reports, the Tallakulam police filed a case under two sections for allegedly violating permit restrictions. The rally, spanning nearly 25 kilometers, began at Narasingampatti village on the Tiruchirappalli-Madurai national highway and ended at the Head Post Office in Tallakulam. Farmers, farm workers, and women participated in large numbers, raising concerns about the environmental and social implications of the proposed mining project. Tensions arose when the police stopped the protesters at Mattuthavani while they attempted to enter the city. However, the police later permitted the march to continue. Responding to allegations from AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, State Law Minister S. Regupathy clarified that police had granted permission for the rally. The villagers have been protesting for over a month, demanding that the Centre revoke its decision to award Tungsten mining rights to Hindustan Zinc Limited. The project involves approximately 5,000 acres of land across ten villages in Melur taluk. The issue also made waves in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, which unanimously passed a resolution in December 2024 urging the Centre to cancel the mining proposal.
Sangu Chakra Hotels allocates Rs 400 crore for expansion plans
TIRUCHIRAPPALLI, (Tamil Nadu), Jan 3: Hospitality service provider Sangu Chakra Hotels Pvt Ltd, popularly known as Sangam Hotels, has announced plans to expand its room inventory in Tamil Nadu with an investment of Rs 400 crore over the next four to five years, a senior official said on Friday. Established in 1975, the company is celebrating its 50th anniversary in the hospitality sector. Sangam Hotels has a presence in Thanjavur, Madurai and Karaikudi. As part of its ambitious growth strategy, [] The post Sangu Chakra Hotels allocates Rs 400 crore for expansion plans appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Tamil Nadu Braces for More Rain as IMD Issues Heavy Rainfall Alert
Tamil Nadu continues to face relentless rainfall, leading to severe waterlogging in several areas, particularly in Thoothukudi and its surrounding regions. Streets in localities like Postal Telegram Colony, Rajiv Nagar, Rajagopal Nagar, Bharati Nagar, Amuda Nagar, KVK Nagar, and Asoke Nagar were submerged due to the heavy downpour. Heavy Rainfall Forecast Until December 18 The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Chennai has predicted more rainfall across various parts of Tamil Nadu until December 18. Heavy rain is expected to lash isolated places in districts like Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Kanyakumari. Additionally, Kerala and the Lakshadweep region are also likely to witness heavy rainfall. Cyclonic Circulation Over Andaman Sea According to the IMD, a cyclonic circulation over the Andaman Sea and adjoining areas was observed on Saturday. This weather system is expected to develop into a low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal by Sunday. Meteorologists anticipate the system will intensify further and move west-northwest towards the Tamil Nadu coast, potentially exacerbating the rainfall. Rainfall Predictions for the Coming Days Monday, December 16: Light to moderate rainfall is expected to occur in several areas across Tamil Nadu, including coastal and interior regions, as well as in the Union Territories of Puducherry and Karaikal. Residents in these areas are advised to prepare for intermittent showers, which could vary in intensity and cause minor disruptions in daily activities. Tuesday, December 17: Widespread light to moderate rainfall is expected in coastal Tamil Nadu and scattered regions of interior Tamil Nadu. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning may occur in isolated areas. Districts such as Ramanathapuram, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai, along with Karaikal, may experience heavy rainfall. Wednesday, December 18: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecasted in districts including Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Cuddalore, and Mayiladuthurai. Additional regions such as Ariyalur, Thanjavur, Perambalur, Pudukkottai, Tiruchirappalli, Villuppuram, Chengalpattu, and Kallakurichi, as well as Puducherry, may also experience heavy rain. Precautionary Measures Authorities and residents in the affected areas are advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions. The persistent rain could lead to further waterlogging, disruption of daily activities, and potential damage to infrastructure. Emergency teams are on standby to address any critical situations arising from the severe weather conditions.
SCR to run Sabarimala special train services from Dec.19
Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) is running Sabarimala special trains covering several important pilgrimage destinations enroute from December 19 to January 24. These trains are planned for the benefit of Ayyappa devotees visiting the Sabarimala shrine from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The devotees travelling by these special trains can conveniently plan to visit enroute pilgrimage centres of important temples in Kerala. The temples included in the circuit are the Sastha temples at Pandalam, Kulathupuzha, Aryankavu, Achankovil and Erumeli. Other famous temples covering enroute stations are Golden Temple at Vellore, Annamalaiyar Temple at Tiruvannamalai, Ranganatha Swamy Temple at Srirangam, Mariamman Temple at Samayapuram (Tiruchirappalli), Meenakshi Amman Temple at Madurai, Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple at, Thiruparankundram (Madurai), Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple at Palani (Dindigul), Andal Temple at Srivilliputhur (Virudhu Nagar) and Sri Krishna Temple at Punalur etc. Train No. 07175 / 07176 Secunderabad - Kollam - Secunderabad specials (four services): These Special trains will stop at Moula-Ali, Cherlapalli, Nalgonda, Miryalaguda, Nadikude, Piduguralla, Sattenapalli, Guntur, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Katpadi, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Vriddhachalam, Ariyalur, Srirangam, Tiruchchirappalli, Dindigul, Madurai, Virudunagar, Tenkasi, Sengottai and Punalur stations in both the directions. Train No. 07173 / 07174 Kakinada Port Kollam Kakinada Port specials (six services): Enroute, these special trains will stop at Kakinada Town, Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Nidadavolu, Tanuku, Bhimavaram Town, Akividu, Kaikaluru, Gudivada, Vijayawada, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations in both the directions. Train No. 07177 Vijayawada Kollam Special (three services): These special trains will stop at Guntur, Narasaraopet, Donakonda, Markapur Rd, Giddalur, Diguvametta, Nandyal, Koilakuntla, Jammalamadugu, Proddatur, Yerraguntla, Kadapa, Rajampet, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations. Train No. 07178 Kollam Kakinada Town Special (three services): These special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Tirupati, Renigunta, Rajampet, Kadapa, Yerraguntla, Proddatur, Jammalamadugu, Koilakuntla, Nandyal, Diguvametta, Giddalur, Markapur Rd, Donakonda, Narasaraopet, Guntur, Vijayawada, Eluru, Tadepalligudem, Rajahmundry and Samalkot stations. Train No. 07175 / 07176 Secunderabad - Kollam - Secunderabad Specials (six services): These special trains will stop at Moula-Ali, Cherlapalli, Nalgonda, Miryalaguda, Nadikude, Piduguralla, Sattenapalli, Guntur, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Katpadi, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Vriddhachalam, Ariyalur, Srirangam, Tiruchchirappalli, Dindigul, Madurai, Virudunagar, Sivakasi, Rajapalaiyam, Tenkasi, Sengottai and Punalur stations in both the directions. Train No. 07179 Kakinada Town Kollam Special (two services): These special trains will stop at Samalkot, Rajahmundry, Tadepalligudem, Eluru, Vijayawada, New Guntur, Tenali, Chirala, Ongole, Nellore, Gudur, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva and Ernakulam Town, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations. Train No. 07180 Kollam Guntur Special (two services): These special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam Town, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Tirupati, Renigunta, Guntur, Nellore, Ongole, Chirala and Tenali stations. Train No. 07181 Guntur Kollam Special (three services): These special trains will stop at Narasaraopet, Donakonda, Markapur Rd, Giddalur, Diguvametta, Nandyal, Bethamcherla, Dhone, Gooty, Anantapur, Dharmavaram, Kadiri, Madanapalle, Piler, Pakala, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations. Train No. 07182 Kollam Kakinada Town Special (one service): These special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam Town, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Pakala, Piler, Madanapalle, Kadiri, Dharmavaram, Anantapur, Gooty, Dhone, Bethamcherla, Nandyal, Diguvametta, Giddalur, Markapur Rd, Donakonda, Narasaraopet, Guntur, Vijayawada, Eluru, Tadepalligudem, Rajahmundry and Samalkot stations. Train No. 07185 Kollam Guntur Special (two services): These Special trains will stop at Kayankulam, Chengannur, Tiruvalla, Kottayam, Ettumanur, Ernakulam Town, Aluva, Thrissur, Palakkad, Podanur, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Jolarpettai, Katpadi, Chittoor, Pakala, Piler, Madanapalle, Kadiri, Dharmavaram, Anantapur, Gooty, Dhone, Bethamcherla, Nandyal, Diguvametta, Giddalur, Markapur Rd, Donakonda and Narasaraopet, stations. Train No. 07183/07184 Narsapur Kollam - Narsapur Special (Four services): These special trains will stop at Palakollu, Bhimavaram Jn, Bhimavaram Town, Akividu, Kaikaluru, Gudivada, Vijayawada, Guntur, Narasaraopet, Markapur Rd, Giddalur, Diguvametta, Nandyal, Koilakuntla, Jammalamadugu, Proddatur, Yerraguntla, Kadapa, Rajampet, Renigunta, Tirupati, Chittoor, Katpadi, Jolarpettai, Salem, Erode, Tiruppur, Podanur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Aluva, Ernakulam Town, Ettumanur, Kottayam, Tiruvalla, Chengannur and Kayankulam stations in both the directions. These special trains consist of first AC, 2AC, 3AC, sleeper class and general second-class coaches.
TN will take up Mullaiperiyar dam upkeep issue with Kerala govt: Minister Duraimurugan
Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin will take up with his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan the problems being faced by the state Public Works Department (PWD) officials while doing the maintenance of the Mullaiperiyar dam located in his state, Water Resources Minister Durai Murugan said on Tuesday. The chief minister would hold consultations with Vijayan during his visit to Kerala this week and work for an amicable solution, Durai Murugan said, responding to the 'call attention motion' moved by Leader of the Opposition AIADMK Edappadi K Palaniswami in the Assembly. Palaniswami claimed the PWD officials were prevented from carrying the construction material to the Idukki district where the Mullaiperiyar dam was situated, to take up the maintenance work. A PWD lorry carrying construction material from Tamil Nadu was blocked at Vallakadavu check post in Kerala on December 4, thus obstructing the upkeep of the dam, Palaniswami said drawing the government's attention on the second day of the two-day Assembly session. He urged the chief minister to take up the issue of frequent problems being faced by TN PWD in transporting construction material when he visits Kerala on December 12 and facilitate the smooth maintenance of the dam. On the inundation in many villages allegedly due to the opening of the Sathanur dam in Thiruvannamalai district when Cyclone Fengal crossed the TN-Karaikal coast, the chief minister replied that water from the reservoir was released after the PWD issued five flood alerts. Allaying the apprehensions of some legislators over the conduct of the Karthigai Deepam festival on December 13 in Thiruvannamalai, which was affected by unprecedented rain and mud slips, Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department Minister P K Sekar Babu said the festival would be held as scheduled. Elaborate arrangements have been made by the state government anticipating 40 lakh devotees to visit the renowned Arunachaleswarar temple for the festival and Girivalam (circumambulation of the holy mountain) by the pilgrims. Arrangements were also made to carry 450 kg ghee and 300 kg copra or container to light the maha deepam on the sacred hilltop, Babu said. The Assembly passed 19 Bills, including the Tamil Nadu Local Authorities Entertainments Tax (Amendment), 2024, for levy and collection of entertainment tax on concerts, dramas, shows or any other ticketed event conducted by any institution, including an educational institution. The proposed rate of tax is ten per cent on 'each payment for admission (each ticket).' The main opposition AIADMK opposed it and another Bill as well, which was to amend the Tamil Nadu Agricultural Produce Marketing (Regulation) Act, 1987. These Bills were introduced in the House on December 9. When the Bill related to farm produce, which was for extension of the tenure of special officers of three market committees (Tiruchirappalli, Cuddalore and Theni) for a further period of one year, was taken up, AIADMK legislator Agri SS Krishnamurthy opposed it. Assembly Speaker M Appavu, later adjourned the House sine die.
VCK leader under pressure to skip Ambedkar book launch: Vijay
Actor-politician Vijay has stirred a political controversy with his remarks on the absence of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) chief Thol Thirumavalavan at the launch of the book Ellarukkumana Thalaivar: Dr Ambedkar. Vijay, who attended the event, suggested that Thirumavalavan had skipped the book release due to pressure from the DMK. Speaking at the event, which coincided with the death anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam leader expressed disappointment at Thirumavalavan's absence, saying, VCK President Thirumavalavan has been unable to come here today. I can guess how much pressure he must be under because of being in the alliance. He cannot even attend an event related to Ambedkar. The remarks quickly sparked a response from Thirumavalavan, who clarified that there was no pressure on him from the DMK or its allies. Addressing reporters in Tiruchirappalli, he stated, It is Vijay's personal opinion. I am under no pressure from the DMK or its allies. There are no contradictions between the VCK and the DMK. We continue to work together to safeguard the Constitution and the nation. Thirumavalavan, a prominent Dalit leader and advocate of Ambedkar's principles, also expressed his support for the book launch, saying he was happy that Vijay had released the book in Tamil, emphasizing the importance of spreading Ambedkar's thoughts to the people. The controversy highlights the growing political tension in Tamil Nadu, with Vijay, who has been critical of the ruling DMK, making several jabs at the party at his earlier political rally.
Cyclone Fengal: Heavy Rains Lash Tamil Nadu
Chennai: Heavy rains pounded several parts of north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry on Saturday, under the impact of Cyclone 'Fengal,' affecting normalcy and prompting evacuation. The downpour was accompanied by gusty winds and what began as intermittent rainfall in coastal regions on the night of November 29, gradually became steady leading to inundation in several areas. Operations at the Chennai airport were suspended between 12.30 pm and 7 pm. In the neighbouring union territory Puducherry, people living in low-lying areas were evacuated, District Collector A Kulothungan told PTI. The union territory administration sent SMS alerts to around 12 lakh residents cautioning them to remain vigilant in view of 'Fengal' likely to make landfall near the UT later in the day. In Chennai, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin reviewed the situation at the State Emergency Operations Centre with top officials and later told reporters that all precautionary measures have already been taken and camps have been set up for people of vulnerable areas. Food was also being distributed to them. Also, he inspected a pumping station. Many parts of the city suffered inundation and trees were uprooted. Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) authorities said 22,000 personnel including engineers, officials, and sanitary workers were on the job and a total of 1,686 motor pumps of various capacities including 25-hp and 100-hp were in use. As many as 484 tractor-mounted heavy-duty pumps and 137 pumps of 100-hp capacity have been deployed. The GCC said work was on a 'war footing' to clear waterlogging in 134 spots and out of the 9 trees that fell, 5 have been cleared. Out of the 22 subways, traffic flow is smooth in 21. The Ganesapuram subway had already been closed for tasks related to railway bridge work. Reservoirs that cater to the city's drinking water needs such as Chembarmbakkam and Poondi received copious inflow. Many residents of low-lying Madipakkam parked their cars on both sides of the nearby Velachery flyover. Residents of similar vulnerable areas also parked their vehicles in safe spots. Roads were largely deserted and civic workers, police, and fire and rescue personnel, deployed in vulnerable places performed rain-related relief/rescue tasks. State-run transport corporations operated skeleton services in Chennai and nearby areas. Railway officials said EMU train services in all suburban sections in the Chennai division will operate with reduced frequency until further notice. An official said that by and large, train (including express/superfast) services have not been affected, though there was some delay. Due to strong winds with velocities ranging between 65-73 kmph, suburban services between Chennai Beach and Velachery in the MRTS Section were suspended from 12.15 pm onwards, officials announced. Chennai Metro Rail said its services were operational without any glitches and informed the public of parking areas in specific stations that were prone to inundation. Airport authorities declared suspension of all operations till 7 pm starting from 12.30 pm. Departure and arrival schedules of both domestic and international flights were affected. Some of the flights were diverted to Bengaluru and Tiruchirappalli and at least 18 flights were cancelled and 12 other flights were delayed. As the sea was pretty rough, police put up barricades blocking access to noted beaches including the Marina and Mamallapuram. State-run Aavin milk supply was not affected and power supply continued to be normal in many areas. The government had already declared November 30 a holiday for educational institutions and requested IT firms to make their employees work from home. In Puducherry, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) from Arakonam has arrived to engage in relief and rehabilitation works. According to Collector Kulothungan, cyclone Fengal was expected to cross the coast in the evening. Control rooms have been opened in the collectorate and also in the line departments. The entire stretch of beach road and also several tourist spots were closed to restrict public movement. Schools and colleges remained closed today.
Cyclone Fengal: Flight service hit in Chennai due to heavy rains
Chennai: Cyclone Fengal is expected to make landfall today evening in Tamil Nadu, and multiple flights to and from Chennai were affected on Friday due to inclement weather in the region. Multiple airlines issued travel advisories and updates on their flight plans due to the continuing heavy rains in Chennai. Flights to and from Chennai are getting affected due to inclement weather and heavy rains, read an X post by Air India. IndiGo issued a travel advisory and said that their flights in multiple cities, including Chennai, Tiruchirappali, Tuticorin, Madurai, and others were impacted. The current weather conditions continue to impact flights to/from Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, Tuticorin, Madurai, with Tirupati and Vishakhapatnam now also affected, read the X post by IndiGo Airlines. According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai, intense rain spells are expected to continue in the north coastal districts of Tamil Nadu on Saturday due to the cyclone's impact. Isolated heavy to very heavy rain with extremely heavy rain is expected at one or two places over Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Villuppuram, Kallakurichi, Cuddalore districts and Puducherry today. Heavy to very heavy rain is likely to occur at isolated places over Ranipet, Tiruvannamalai, Vellore, Perambalur, Ariyalur, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam districts and Karaikal area. Heavy rain is likely to occur at isolated places over Tirupattur, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Namakkal, Tiruchirappalli, Pudukkottai and Karur districts, Tamil Nadu IMD said in a release. Cyclone Fengal over Southwest Bay of Bengal moved west-northwestwards earlier and is expected to cross north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts later in the day, IMD said. It is likely to move nearly westwards and cross north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram close to Puducherry as a cyclonic storm with a wind speed of 70-80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph during evening of November 30, the weather department added. Fengal is being continuously monitored by the IMD from Doppler weather radars at Chennai (S Band), Sriharikota, and Chennai (X band) in addition to the satellite observations.
Cyclone Fengal Moving Towards Tamil Nadu: IMD Issues Flash Flood Warning Amid Heavy Rainfall
Cyclone Fengal, which started as a depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal, has intensified into a deep depression and is expected to develop into a cyclonic storm by Wednesday, reported the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts light to moderate rainfall across the region, with heavy downpours expected to continue until Thursday, November 28. In light of the ongoing heavy rainfall, the district administration in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, announced that schools and colleges will remain closed on Wednesday. District Collector Pradeep Kumar confirmed the closure due to persistent rainfall. Similar measures were already in place on Tuesday for several regions, including Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Tiruvarur, where authorities declared holidays for educational institutions ahead of the anticipated heavy rains. The RMC in Chennai further confirmed that the depression has evolved into a deep depression and is likely to strengthen into a cyclonic storm on Wednesday. S. Balachandran, Director of the RMC, mentioned that the storm is expected to move northwards toward the Tamil Nadu coast, heading in the direction of Sri Lanka over the next few days. IndiGo Airlines has also issued a travel advisory, warning passengers about disruptions to flights traveling to and from Chennai, Tuticorin, and Madurai due to the adverse weather conditions. The airline further noted that Tiruchirappalli and Salem could also experience flight disturbances in the coming days. They expressed their gratitude to passengers for their patience during this challenging time. The IMD provided an update on the movement of the deep depression, which has been progressing northward at a speed of 10 km/h over the last six hours, south-southeast of Chennai. The depression is expected to continue moving in a north-northwest direction and intensify into a cyclonic storm by Wednesday. Over the next two days, it will likely move towards the Tamil Nadu coast, brushing along the Sri Lankan coast. As for the impact of the cyclone, the IMD forecasts heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts of Tamil Nadu, including Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, and Karaikal. Isolated places in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Villuppuram, Ariyalur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Pudukkottai are also likely to experience significant rainfall. Additionally, heavy rains are expected in Ranipet, Tiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi, Perambalur, Tiruchirappalli, Sivaganga, and Ramanathapuram districts, as well as parts of Kerala, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Rayalaseema. Weather Alert: School Closures in Tamil Nadu as Monsoon Rains Intensify COP29: Climate Change Drives Global Displacement, Over 6.6 Million Affected by Weather Disasters in 2023
GDAI signs MoUs to boost India's gaming industry at IGDC 2024
The Game Developers Association of India (GDAI) announced key partnerships during the 16th India Game Developer Conference (IGDC) to accelerate the growth of Indias video gaming sector. GDAI signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the governments of Rajasthan and Sikkim, several academic institutions, and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI). These agreements focus on addressing industry challenges such as skill shortages, regional development, and policy creation. Collaborations with Rajasthan and Sikkim aim to establish gaming incubation hubs and foster intellectual property (IP) development in the sector. Academic partnerships with institutions, including Chandigarh University and SRM IST Tiruchirappalli, will introduce gaming-focused courses, workshops, and incubation programs to bridge skill gaps. The MoU with FICCI seeks to develop a sustainable roadmap for the gaming industry by aligning industry needs with government policies. GDAI Chairperson Sridhar Muppidi highlighted the importance of grassroots innovation, while board member Manish Agarwal emphasised collaboration between academia and industry to nurture talent. These initiatives aim to position India as a global leader in video game development, reflecting a unified effort to foster innovation and infrastructure in the gaming ecosystem.
Survey says 75% of respondents cant distinguish illegal online gaming platform from legal ones
It was undertaken among 5,000 online gamers in Chennai, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, and Coimbatore
RGIA announces new flight services from Hyderabad to Bangkok
Hyderabad: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) on Monday announced the commencement of new flight services from Hyderabad to Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), Bangkok, from October 27 with Thai AirAsia. A joint venture of Malaysian AirAsia and Thailand's Asia Aviation, Thai AirAsia is a Thai budget airline offering affordable domestic and international flights from Bangkok and other cities in Thailand. The flight to Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), Bangkok FD119, will depart from Hyderabad at 11.25 pm and arrive in Bangkok at 4.30 am local time in the wee hours of the next morning. The return flight FD118 will depart from Bangkok at 8.50 pm local time and arrive in Hyderabad at 10.55 pm. This nonstop flight service will depart every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday adding four new weekly flights from RGIA to Bangkok. Sharing his excitement about the addition of a new airline carrier, Pradeep Panicker, CEO GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited said, We are delighted to announce the introduction of new flight services from Hyderabad to Bangkok in partnership with Thai AirAsia. This development is a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance international connectivity, which will not only facilitate greater business and leisure travel but also strengthen economic and cultural ties between Hyderabad and Bangkok. Additionally, the service from Thai AirAsia, a renowned budget carrier, will offer travelers more affordable and flexible travel options. At GMR Hyderabad International Airport, we are committed to enhanced passenger experience and fostering global connections that drive growth and prosperity, he said. Santisuk Klongchaiya, Chief Executive Officer of Thai AirAsia, said: AirAsia has long awaited the opportunity to expand its network to the major metro cities of India. Bridging travel between our two nations will promote tourism and business, bolstering both of our economies. We believe these routes will meet the needs of the Indian people as well as international travelers in Thailand and the Thai people themselves looking to make their way to India. Thai AirAsia now flies to 12 cities in India, namely, Kolkata, Chennai, Jaipur, Kochi, Bangalore, Gaya, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, Tiruchirappalli, and the newest addition Hyderabad, offering a total of 67 flights per week. Bangkok is a top tourist destination with vibrant street life, rich cultural heritage, and bustling markets. Visitors enjoy exploring ornate temples like Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew, indulging in delicious Thai cuisine, and experiencing the lively nightlife. The city's blend of modernity and tradition offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. For gastronomic indulgence, Bangkok is a paradise. The city offers a diverse culinary scene, from street food stalls serving Pad Thai and Mango sticky rice to high-end restaurants with gourmet Thai dishes. Food markets like Chatuchak and floating markets provide a unique dining experience, making Bangkok a haven for food lovers. The introduction of new flight services from RGIA to Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) marks a significant milestone for the travel and tourism sector. For flyers, the new flight services by Thai AirAsia translate to greater convenience and flexibility. With Bangkok's appeal as a major tourist and business hub, the new flight services are poised to drive growth in passenger traffic, benefiting airlines, travel, and hospitality industry.
Tiruchirappalli SP V Varun Kumar and his wife, Pudukkottai SP Vandita Pandey, have withdrawn from social media after cyberbullying by operatives of Naam Tamilar Katchi. This raises questions on bureaucrats' social media use, influenced by incidents like Assam CM reprimanding former SP Anand Mishra and controversies around officers' ethical boundaries in online presence.
Air India mid-air scare: The pilot saved the passengers' life, Tiruchirappalli DM praises pilot
Exclusive: How Air India Express Pilots Handled Mid-Air Scare Over Trichy
A report of hydraulic failure from a Tiruchirappalli-Sharjah Air India Express flight and its subsequent holding pattern may have caused panic on the ground, but things were always under control inside the cockpit, senior sources told NDTV.
A-I Express flight faces mid-air glitch post take-off from TN, lands safely
A Sharjah bound flight from Tiruchirappalli, shortly after departure on Friday evening, witnessed mid-air technical glitch and later landed safely, police said. Chief Minister M K Stalin held an emergency meeting with officials and directed them to follow all safety measures. Later, he congratulated the flight captain and crew for the safe landing. After taking off at about 5.30 pm from the airport, the fault related to hydraulic systems, the landing gear, was noticed. Deftly handling the situation, the pilots later safely landed the aircraft in Tiruchirappalli airport. The chief minister in a post on 'X' said: I am heartened to hear that the #AirIndiaExpress flight has landed safely. Upon receiving news of the landing gear issue, I immediately coordinated an emergency meeting with officials over the phone and instructed them to implement all necessary safety measures, including deploying fire engines, ambulances, and medical assistance. I have also now directed the District ...
After Mid-Air Scare, Air India Express Flight Lands Safely In Trichy
An Air India Express flight which reported a hydraulic failure shortly after take-off from the Tiruchirappalli airport in Tamil Nadu has landed safely.
Updates: Air India Express Flight Lands Safely After Facing Mid-Air Snag Near Trichy Airport
An Air India Express flight going from Tiruchirappalli to Sharjah has landed safely at theTiruchirappalli airport after facing a hydraulic failure.
Tiruchi-Sharjah flight lands safely at Tiruchirappalli airport after facing mid-air glitch
The Tiruchi-Sharjah Air India Express flight (AXB 613) just made an emergency landing at the Tiruchi International Airport after turning back mid-air due to a technical glitch. Aircraft made a normal landing and all passengers are safe, Airport Director G. Gopalakrishnan told The Hindu.
Live: Air India Express Flight Lands Safely After Facing Snag Near Trichy
An Air India Express flight going from Tiruchirappalli to Sharjah has landed safely at theTiruchirappalli airport after facing a hydraulic failure.
ICAR National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB) Recruitment 2024: Apprenticeship Notification
The ICAR National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB) in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, has announced its Apprenticeship Recruitment 2024. This ... Read more
Several engineering colleges in Bengaluru receive bomb threats
Several colleges in Bengaluru, including Bengaluru Institute of Technology and BMS College of Engineering, received bomb threats on Friday. The Bengaluru South DCP confirmed that bomb disposal squads are investigating. A case has been filed at Hanumanthnagar Police Station. Previously, schools in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, also received similar threats.
8 Schools Get Bomb Threat Email In Tamil Nadu's Trichy, Security Tightened
As many as eight schools received a bomb threat over email on Thursday in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, the police confirmed.
