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DMK Tiruchy East MLA upset over Nehru constituency getting more funds
CHENNAI: In an interesting exchange in the Assembly on Tuesday, DMK MLA S Inigo Irudayaraj, representing Tiruchy East Assembly constituency, expressed dissatisfaction over the lesser allocation of funds to his constituency compared to the funds allocated to the Tiruchy West constituency, represented by senior DMK leader and Minister for Municipal Administration KN Nehru. Both the constituencies falls under Tiruchirappalli City Municipal Corporation(TCMC). Addressing the Assembly during the demand for grants for the municipal administration department, Irudayaraj pointed out Tiruchy West comprises 22 wards while his Trichy East has 23 wards, accounting for 36% of the total corporation area. He said over the past four years, Tiruchy East received Rs 370.15 crore, accounting for only 7.86% of the total Rs 4,808.43 crore budget of the TCMC. He further added the general fund allocation stood at Rs 408 crore for Tiruchy West while it was only Rs 108 crore for Tiruchy East. He urged the government to ensure balanced funding in the coming year. He further highlighted the prevailing drinking water scarcity in his Tiruchy East Assembly constituency. Later in his speech, though Nehru did not specifically answer the alleged disparity in fund allocation, he assured water supply issues in Tiruchy East would be resolved soon. He said a new 15-lakh-litre overhead tank in Marakkadai, which is expected to become operational in 10 days, would help ensure an equitable water supply across the constituency.
MS Dhoni Fan Ramesh Shanmugam Hopes To Emulate His Sporting Idol In Para Athletics
World Para Athletics Grand Prix: Once MS Dhoni retires, I will stop watching cricket, Ramesh Shanmugam says with a smile after earning a gold medal in Mens 800m T53/T54 on the second day of the Khelo India Para Games 2025 here at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Hailing from what he describes as a tiny and remote village Mannathampatty in Tiruchirappalli district of Tamil Nadu, Ramesh has idolised the former Indian cricket team captain for many years, and is eager for the start of upcoming season of Indian Premier League (IPL). I used to play cricket back in the day. I used to run fast and also was a wicketkeeper. I have been to several cricket matches as I really enjoy watching the sport, especially our thala MS Dhoni, Shanmugam told SAI Media. The 30-year-old para athlete believes that the cricketing legend has taught him a lot many things, especially how to remain calm, composed and disciplined during tough times. Following similar principles Shanmugam has been rising among the ranks in wheelchair racing in India. Just this year, Ramesh, national record holder in Mens 800m T53/T54, won two gold medals and a silver medal at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix. On Friday, he added two more gold medals in Mens 800m T53/T54 and Mens 100m T53/T54 at KIPG 2025 to continue his ascent. I feel I am on the right track in my career now. The Sports Authority of India and the Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs have done really well over the past few years to support the para athletes. Here at KIPG, all our basic needs are taken care off. We are getting fantastic accommodation, the best mode of travel and food options, he says. Born to a family of farmers, Shanmugam was eight years old when a lorry accident led to him losing both his legs. Learning to be in a wheelchair was not easy for him, especially belonging to a family of limited financial means. But support from the local authorities and government allowed him to continue his education. I have faced a lot of hardships in my life. I felt I needed to achieve something. Everyday just comes and goes. But I have the desire to make a name for myself. I have to prove myself. I motivate myself each day to achieve my goals. I cannot stop, he says. Shanmugam went on to pursue B. Sc. in Bio Chemistry from a college in Trichy, where he was lured towards para sports. He inculcated himself into para basketball and went on to represent the national team in eight international tournaments. But unable to receive much support in the sport, he decided to pursue para athletics two years ago. Having developed immense speed during his para basketball career, he immediately adapted to the sport and started climbing up the ranks. Athletics is more energetic. When you are racing in a wheelchair, you are always in motion. It always keeps you pumped up. I felt this is what I needed, he says. The Tamil Nadu athlete received ample support from his family, and making them proud fills him with joy. His wife, who works in a private firm, has also been a pillar of strength for the para athlete. Now my parents are very happy. In 2023, Khelo India Para Games, I had won bronze. This time, I have won two gold medals. They are delighted with my growth. My family have always been without big supporters, including my wife. Without them I could not have won a single medal, he says. The Tamil Nadu athlete received ample support from his family, and making them proud fills him with joy. His wife, who works in a private firm, has also been a pillar of strength for the para athlete. Also Read: Highest tax paying cricketers Article Source: IANS
Tamil Nadus economic milestones & challenges: Analysing the 2025 Economic survey
For the first time ever, Tamil Nadu has released its Economic Survey, a commendable initiative by the finance minister and finance secretary. Though not mandatory, the government has taken this step to provide citizens with a clear understanding of the states economic strengths and challenges. This effort enhances transparency in public policy, allowing people to appreciate the progress made while acknowledging areas that need improvement. Growth Amid Global Uncertainty Tamil Nadus 2024-25 Economic Survey is more than just a financial report it is a testament to the states resilience, progress, and vision for the future. In an era marked by global economic volatility, Tamil Nadu has defied odds, charting a path of inclusive growth while navigating complex external challenges. This analysis unpacks the key highlights, strengths, risks, and political narratives emerging from the report, offering a compelling insight into the states economic trajectory. A State That Punches Above Its Weight Tamil Nadu, with just 4% of Indias land area and 6% of its population, has outperformed expectations by contributing 9.21% to the national GDP in 2023-24. The states Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) at current prices soared to Rs 27.22 lakh crore, achieving a real growth rate of 8.33%. This growth rate surpasses the national average, reinforcing Tamil Nadus position as one of Indias most dynamic economies. Economic resilience is a recurring theme in the survey, with the state maintaining a growth rate of over 8% since 2021-22. Tamil Nadu has successfully balanced industrial expansion, export-oriented growth, and a strong focus on social welfare an economic model that many states aspire to replicate. Strengths That Drive The Economy Diverse Industrial and Export Base Tamil Nadu is a manufacturing powerhouse, contributing 12.11% to Indias industrial GDP. It leads in automobile production, textiles, and leather exports, ensuring a steady flow of foreign exchange. High Per Capita Income The per capita income reached Rs 2.78 lakh in 2022-23, 1.6 times the national average, ranking Tamil Nadu among Indias most prosperous states. Balanced Urban-Rural Growth Unlike states, where economic activity is concentrated in one metropolis (Mumbai, Bengaluru, or Kolkata), Tamil Nadus development, is spread across Coimbatore, Madurai, Tirupur, Tiruchirappalli, and Salem, reducing regional disparities. Robust Infrastructure and Human Capital The states focus on infrastructure, education, and healthcare has created a skilled workforce, making it an attractive destination for investments. The Storm Clouds On The Horizon Despite these achievements, the survey does not shy away from highlighting risks and vulnerabilities. Global Market Dependence: Being an export-driven economy, Tamil Nadu is highly sensitive to global fluctuations. Any downturn in key markets can disrupt industrial growth. Environmental Risks: Climate change is an urgent challenge, with increasing cyclones, floods, and erratic monsoons affecting agriculture and infrastructure. Inflationary Pressures: While Tamil Nadu has managed inflation better than most states, the rural inflation rate remains a concern, driven by fluctuations in food prices. Fiscal Constraints: The states ability to borrow and invest in development is restricted by fiscal limits imposed by the central government, affecting long-term growth planning. Political Narratives: The Battle Of Perceptions As Tamil Nadu gears up for political discourse around economic management, both the ruling DMK and opposition parties will leverage the Economic Survey to build their respective narratives. DMKs Narrative: A Model Of Inclusive Growth The ruling government will rightfully highlight Tamil Nadus impressive growth figures, its high per capita income, and its commitment to social justice. Progressive policies like the Kalaignar Mahalir Urimai Thittam (Rs 1,000 per month for female heads of families) and free electricity for domestic consumers will be projected as measures that empower citizens while stabilising inflation. The states consistent performance in industrial growth and skill development initiatives will be positioned as evidence of long-term economic planning. Oppositions Critique: Vulnerabilities And Gaps The opposition will focus on economic risks and shortcomings. They are likely to question the sustainability of Tamil Nadus debt levels, highlight the states dependence on global markets, and critique the governments handling of environmental challenges. Climate vulnerabilities, water management concerns, and fiscal constraints will be used to argue that the state needs a more cautious economic strategy. The Road Ahead: A Call for Vigilance and Vision Tamil Nadus 2025 Economic Survey is a story of triumph, but also a reminder of the challenges ahead. The state stands at a critical juncture poised for even greater heights if it can manage global risks, adapt to environmental realities, and maintain its commitment to inclusive growth. The people of Tamil Nadu can take pride in their states achievements, but they must also stay vigilant. Economic prosperity is not a given it requires foresight, policy innovation, and a proactive approach to challenges. With the right strategies, Tamil Nadu is well on its way to becoming Indias first trillion-dollar economy. But the journey will require a fine balance of ambition and caution.
KIPG: Shanguman clinches two gold medals in athletics
NEW DELHI, Mar 21: Tamil Nadu runner Ramesh Shanguman shone bright on the second day of the Khelo India Para Games, winning a gold medal each in the mens 800m T53/T54 and mens 100m T53/T54 events here on Friday. By the end of the day, 44 gold medals were decided and Tamil Nadu had won nine of them. A former basketball player, Shanguman hails from a farming family in Tiruchirappalli. He lost his legs in a lorry accident when he [] The post KIPG: Shanguman clinches two gold medals in athletics appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
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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: Heavy rain lashes parts of Tiruchirappalli, waterlogging reported in several areas
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 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
