The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall across several northern Tamil Nadu districts over the next two days, as Cyclone Murasu moves towards the Andhra Pradesh coast.

Collectors directed to remain on high alert

Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu Revenue Administration and Disaster Management Department has directed district collectors across the State to remain on high alert and follow standard operating procedures for disaster management.

The Additional Chief Secretary and Commissioner of Revenue Administration has instructed collectors to mobilise administrative machinery and take adequate preparedness measures. Officials have also been asked to maintain strict vigilance and immediately report any untoward incidents to the State Emergency Operations Centre.

Cyclone Murasu 480 km from Chennai

According to the IMD's latest bulletin issued at 9.14 pm on Sunday, Cyclone Murasu was moving west-northwestwards at a speed of 27 kmph over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal.

At 2.30 pm on November 1, the system was centred about 480 km east-southeast of Chennai, 550 km east-southeast of Nellore, 560 km southeast of Machilipatnam, 600 km southeast of Ongole and 610 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam.

The weather department said the cyclone is very likely to intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal around the morning of November 2. 

It is then expected to move northwestwards and cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur as a severe cyclonic storm, with wind speeds of 100-110 kmph gusting to 120 kmph, between 11.30 pm on November 2 and 4 am on November 3.

Orange and yellow alerts for Tamil Nadu districts

In its rainfall warning bulletin, the RMC has issued an orange alert for Tiruvallur on November 1 and for Chennai and Tiruvallur on November 2, indicating the possibility of very heavy rainfall (12-20 cm in 24 hours).

A yellow alert was issued for Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet and the Nilgiris on November 1, with heavy rainfall likely (7-11 cm).

On November 2, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Vellore and the Nilgiris are under a yellow alert for heavy rainfall. On November 3, the warning is confined to isolated heavy rainfall over the Nilgiris.

The RMC has also warned of thunderstorms and lightning accompanied by gusty winds of 40-50 kmph at one or two places in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Kraikal on November 1 and 2. The warning continues for isolated places until November 5.

Squally winds likely across northern Tamil Nadu

The weather department has forecast squally winds reaching 55-65 kmph, gusting up to 75 kmph, at isolated places in Tiruvallur, Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai and Villupuram districts, as well as Puducherry, on November 1 and 2.

Winds reaching 40-50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, are also likely at isolated places across the remaining north coastal Tamil Nadu districts.

Meanwhile, explaining the impact of the cyclone on moisture conditions, easterly winds, and rainfall activity, weather blogger Pradeep John, popularly known as Tamil Nadu Weatherman, told DT Next: "Cyclone Arnab had cut off the easterly winds, resulting in dry weather in northern Tamil Nadu and other parts of the State. However, Cyclone Murasu has not disrupted the easterly winds. As the severe cyclonic storm is expected to make landfall near Nellore, rainfall activity is likely to continue across the State over the next few days."

The man was accused of sexually harassing the girl while she was travelling in his auto-rickshaw to school on October 30.

Following the alleged incident, the girl’s parents and relatives assaulted the driver, leaving him with injuries to his head and back, police said.

He was rescued by his son and admitted to the Periyar Nagar Government Hospital. Based on a complaint lodged by the girl’s mother, a case was registered at the W-36 Puzhal All Women Police Station under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

However, the accused went missing from the hospital at around 5.30 am on October 31.

Special police teams were formed under the supervision of the Kolathur Deputy Commissioner of Police and the Puzhal Assistant Commissioner of Police to trace him.

The accused was subsequently arrested, police said.

Prakash allegedly helped Veeramani cover up his crimes, and Chennai police had earlier issued a Look Out Circular (LOC) against Prakash after a team that went to Prakash’s residence to issue summons for an enquiry three weeks ago was informed that he is abroad.

Prakash is the son of SRMU general secretary N Kannaiah and is said to be an associate of the prime accused, Veeramani and allegedly acted as a conduit for the businessman.

“After the passport authority impounds or revokes a passport, the person cannot renew a visa. If the visa expires, it becomes illegal to stay in the foreign country, after which they can be deported back to India,” a police official said.

An LOC notice has been issued against five suspects to prevent them from leaving the country, an official release stated. Last week, Police had detained Veeramani’s daughter, Archana, when she attempted to board an international flight. She was questioned about Veeramani’s alleged crimes and the financial transactions that took place to save him from legal action. Archana eventually complained of ill health and was admitted to a hospital.

The police said that steps are being taken to complete the investigation in the registered cases at the earliest and file the final report before the court.

Meanwhile, SIT arrested Seenu alias Srinivasan, the security guard posted at Gem Veeramani’s residence, in connection with two cases. The police said he was aware that minors were being brought to the house but did not alert authorities. His arrest takes the total number of persons arrested in the case to nine.

Further, searches were conducted at the house of accused Ganesan at Kolathur and at the dance school run by accused Shanthi at Neelankarai, and evidence has been seized.

So far, 12 survivors have filed complaints against Veeramani and his associates.

Following the incident, vehicles traveling along the route were restricted to a single lane, causing traffic slowdowns. Officials confirmed that the cave-in was caused by a breach in the underground drinking water pipeline running beneath the road.

Upon receiving information about the sinkhole, officials from the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) and the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) rushed to the spot and initiated repair work on the damaged stretch.

A CMWSSB official stated, "Pipeline rectification is currently underway and will be completed by Sunday night. Normal water supply to the area will resume on Monday.

63-yr-old woman killed as tanker rams bike near Pallikaranai

A 63-year-old woman died on the spot, and her husband was injured after a private water tanker hit their two-wheeler from behind near Pallikaranai on Saturday.

The victim was identified as Indumathi (63) of Radha Nagar, Perumbakkam. She was riding pillion with her husband Balachandar (67).

According to the Pallikaranai Traffic Investigation Wing, the couple was heading home on Velachery Main Road when the tanker rammed their bike near Mayilai Balaji Nagar.

Due to the impact, both fell on the road. Indumathi was run over by the tanker and suffered fatal injuries. Balachandar escaped with minor injuries.

Residents rushed them to a nearby private hospital, where Indumathi was declared brought dead. The police sent the body to Tambaram Government Hospital for post-mortem examination. The police registered a case and arrested the driver, Chinnarasu (31) of Tiruvarur

5 held for circulating counterfeit notes in Vellore

The Vellore police arrested five people for circulating counterfeit currency notes.

Rafiq Ahmed (46) of Gudiyatham had paid for a Flipkart delivery using two counterfeit Rs 500 notes.

The delivery agent tipped off the police, and Rafiq was arrested. He told the police he acquired the notes from Zubair Ahmed (52), who in turn revealed that Gopal (47) and Kamaraj (48) were his suppliers.

The duo named Babu (65) as their supplier. Further probe revealed that Babu had been arrested in counterfeit currency cases in West Bengal around 10 years ago and had served a prison term.

Police have seized counterfeit currency notes worth Rs 1.50 lakh and are Babu's connections in West Bengal.

Chennai: 26-year-old Siddha medical student dies by suicide

A 26-year-old postgraduate Siddha medical student dies by suicide at the girls hostel of the National Institute of Siddha in Tambaram on Thursday. The deceased was identified as T Shenbagavalli, who was pursuing her third year of postgraduate Siddha medicine at the institute and was staying at the college hostel along with two other students.

Police said that Shenbagavalli was also preparing for central government recruitment examinations. The question papers were difficult, and she was worried about whether she would clear the exam and secure a government job.

READ FULL STORY HERE

12-year-old FSC detainee accused of sexually abusing infant in Tiruchy

 A 12-year-old Bangladeshi boy, lodged as an alleged illegal immigrant at the Foreigners Special Camp (FSC) in Tiruchy, has been accused of sexually abusing a one-year-old girl inside the facility.

Sources in the Centre said the incident occurred because the boy, who should have been housed in the men’s block, was instead allowed to stay with his mother in the women’s block. The child he allegedly abused belongs to another Bangladeshi family lodged in the women’s block, they said.

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Thanjavur: 3-yr-old girl sexually abused; mother, lover held

Thanjavur police arrested a man for sexually abusing a three-year-old child.

The police also arrested the child’s mother for supporting the accused on Friday. Yogaraj (32), a collection agent in a finance firm in Kumbakonam, had an extramarital affair with a 24-year-old woman whose husband was said to be working abroad.

On October 26, Yogaraj, who went to the woman’s house, had reportedly sexually abused the woman's three-year-old child. Yogaraj had also bitten the baby in several places.

When neighbours inquired about it, the mother gave an evasive response. Based on the alert, the Natchiyarkoil police found that the child was sexually abused and arrested Yogaraj and the baby’s mother.

Tamil Nadu: 3 assault cop and HG personnel, held

A gang of three arrested for attacking a policeman and a home guard personnel after being warned against consuming alcohol in a public place in Ariyalur in the wee hours of Friday.

When Raja Kannan (37), a policeman from Thalavai station near Sendurai, along with home guard personnel Venkatesan (47), were on routine patrol in the late hours of Thursday, a gang of three were consuming alcohol at a shed along the main road.

Both personnel urged them to leave the spot immediately. However, they picked up a quarrel and hurled abusive words at the personnel.

Soon, the police constable Raja Kannan contacted the Thalavai police station and passed on the information. Suddenly, the trio attacked the duo and escaped.

However, the police secured the trio, identified as Mathivanan, Thamaraikannan and Elamparithi, all from Silappanur village.

Tiruchy: 3 held in separate ganja peddling cases

Three persons, including a woman, were arrested for peddling ganja across Tiruchy City.

Based on a tip-off, the City Commissioner of Police Rupesh Kumar Meena ordered an elaborate raid across the city.

When a team from E-Pudhur police were searching at Panjapur, they found one Pavithran (22) from Ramji Nagar selling ganja.

Soon, the police arrested him and seized ganja packs. Similarly, another team found Sakthivel (24) from Ramji Nagar selling ganja in Rettamalai and arrested him.

A 35-year-old woman selling ganja was arrested from a house in Ariyamangalam.

Jewellery dealer cheated of 7.3 kg gold; man arrested in Triplicane

A 30-year-old man was arrested for allegedly cheating a jewellery dealer of 7.30 kg of gold ornaments worth several crores of rupees in Triplicane.

The accused, Masook Jain of Vepery, was arrested by the Triplicane police on Wednesday and remanded in judicial custody.

According to the police, the complainant, Seerak (25), runs a jewellery shop and workshop on Irulappan Street in Sowcarpet. Jain had reportedly been collecting gold ornaments from him on a commission basis, claiming that he would sell them to jewellery shops operated by his contacts.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Chennai man, Bangladeshi mother-in-law held for serial robberies

Thanjavur police arrested a Chennai man and his Bangladeshi mother-in-law for stealing 30 sovereigns of gold jewellery from a house. The duo were habitual offenders involved in a series of theft cases across the state, targeting houses locked for a long period.

On October 23, K Karthi, who runs a finance firm at Pillayarpatti near Tiruvidaimaruthur in Thanjavur, returned home in the evening after work, and he found the front door of his house broken and 30 sovereigns, 250-gram silver articles and Rs 2.50 lakh cash were missing. A complaint was filed.

During a vehicle check, on suspicion, the police secured B Gunasekar (40) from Choolaimedu in Chennai and his mother-in-law Hannah Begam (59) from Bangladesh. The probe found that the duo had been involved in the robbery at Karthi's house, and valuables were recovered. The duo was lodged in prison.

Further investigation revealed that Gunasekaran had befriended Hannah Begum's daughter on social media and managed to go to Bangladesh illegally and married her. He returned with his mother-in-law and they targeted several locked houses in a similar manner in Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur and Tiruchy.

Villupuram man strangles 14-year-old daughter to death for having a relationship

A 14-year-old Class 10 student was allegedly strangled to death by her father following an argument over her relationship with a young man in Villupuram district's Vanur on Thursday night (October 29).

According to a Maalaimalar report, the accused, identified as Sivasastri (40), a lorry driver, later surrendered before the Vanur police and was arrested.

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Poverty drives Panruti woman to sell newborn boy for Rs 4.5 lakh; auto driver arrested

A three-day-old baby boy allegedly sold for Rs 4.5 lakh by his mother, who was struggling with poverty, was rescued by the police from a woman in Tiruchy.

An auto driver, identified as Zafar Khan (41), who allegedly acted as a middleman in the transaction, has been arrested.

Fatima (30), from Thattanchavady near Panruti, gave birth to the boy at the Panruti Government Hospital on October 19. Already having two daughters and living separately from her husband, she reportedly struggled to raise the children.

Taking advantage of Fatima's financial difficulties, Zafar Khan, an auto driver from Panruti, allegedly persuaded her to sell the baby. Through him, the child was handed over to Renuka Devi of Tiruchy for Rs 4.5 lakh on October 22.

Zafar Khan allegedly took a major portion of the money, leaving Fatima with only a small amount. This led to a dispute between the two. Fatima later asked Renuka Devi to return the baby. However, Renuka Devi allegedly refused.

Fatima subsequently lodged a complaint at the Panruti police station on October 28. The police registered a case and formed a special team, which went to Tiruchy, rescued the baby from Renuka Devi and safely handed him over to Fatima. The police have arrested Zafar Khan in connection with the case.

Two arrested in separate Pocso cases in Ambattur, Guduvanchery

Two men were arrested and remanded in judicial custody on Thursday in separate cases involving the alleged sexual assault of minor girls in Ambattur and Guduvanchery.

In the first case, the Ambattur All-Women Police arrested Mohammad Rafeeq alias Sarphul Dewan (40), a native of Jharkhand, for sexually assaulting a seven-year-old girl who had gone to a mosque to attend Quran classes.

According to the complaint lodged by the girl’s father, the accused had assaulted the child while she was returning from the mosque after her classes. The girl later informed her parents, who approached the police.

In the second case, Kilambakkam All-Women Police arrested Manoharan (50), a financier, for sexually assaulting a three-year-old girl at her house near Guduvanchery in Chengalpattu. Police said Manoharan, a resident of Thailavaram, runs a small chit fund business.

On October 24, he visited the house, located two streets away from his residence, to collect money. The child was alone at the time, and he sexually assaulted her. Following a complaint from her parents, police registered a case, arrested Manoharan and produced him before a Chengalpattu court, which remanded him in judicial custody.

20-year-old son beats woman to death after quarrel in Dharmapuri

A 20-year-old construction worker, who was released on bail three days ago, beat his mother to death with an iron rod following a quarrel at their house in Dharmapuri district on Thursday night.

The police identified the accused as Devaraj of Old Indur village. Earlier on August 3, the Indur police had arrested him for creating a public nuisance while wearing a police cap and brandishing a knife. He had chased passers-by on the road and attempted to attack a man identified as Veeramani, according to the police. After a complaint, police arrested him and remanded him in judicial custody at Salem Central Prison. On October 28, he secured bail and returned home.

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Villupuram man argues with wife, then throws six-year-old son into well; arrested

A 40-year-old man was arrested for allegedly throwing his six-year-old son into an agricultural well following an argument with his wife over money near Senji in Villupuram district.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, the deceased boy, identified as Sanjay, was the couple's only son. His father, Selvaraj, allegedly threw him into a well behind the government hospital in the area after a prolonged argument with his wife, Devi, over the spending of borrowed money.

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Two arrested for murdering 19-year-old, burying body near Pulicat

Two men from Cuddalore were arrested for murdering a 19-year-old youth at Thirupalaivanam near Ponneri and burying his body on Sathankuppam beach near Pulicat. The arrested men were identified as G Dinesh (23) and S Devarasu (18), both from Siruvathur village in Cuddalore.

The body was exhumed on Friday following their confession, police said. The deceased, Prashanth (19), was working as a tile layer along with his maternal uncle Ramesh in Cuddalore. He is the son of Ezhilarasi, a domestic help working at actor Radhika Sarathkumar’s house in Chennai.

On October 27, Prashanth informed his uncle that he was travelling to Chennai to meet his mother. The following day he went missing. Based on a complaint lodged by Ramesh, Cuddalore police registered a missing person case and launched an investigation.

During the probe, police found that Prashanth was in a relationship with Devarasu’s wife. During interrogation, the accused confessed to assaulting Prashanth to death at Thirupalaivanam before burying his body at Sathankuppam beach near Pulicat.

Following the confession, Cuddalore police, with the assistance of Thirupalaivanam police, exhumed the body on Friday. It was subsequently sent to the Ponneri GH for a postmortem examination.

Kancheepuram: Three, including school student, killed in accident

CHENNAI: Three people, including a school student, were killed and three other school students injured in two separate road accidents in Kancheepuram district on Wednesday night.

In the first incident, four school students — Sanjay (16), Joshua (15), Jaswanth (14) and Chandru (14) from Echur near Sriperumbudur — were travelling on a bike towards Panrutti near Sunguvarchatram on Wednesday night. 

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Rashly driven MTC bus kills woman on way to hospital near Puzhal

CHENNAI: A 49-year-old woman who was on her way to a hospital for a health check-up was killed in a road accident at Kathirvedu near Puzhal on Wednesday after a rashly driven MTC bus hit the two-wheeler she was travelling on.

The deceased woman was identified as K Savithri, a resident of Sholavaram. On Wednesday, Savithri, along with her husband, Kumar, were on their way to a hospital, police said.

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22-yr jail for kidnap, assault of minor

CHENNAI: The Tiruvallur Pocso court on Wednesday sentenced a 22-year-old man to 22 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 25,000 for kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl in 2018. Police said that the incident occurred on Dec 28, 2018.

The accused, Peter (aged 21 at the time) lured a 13-year-old girl on the pretext of marrying her and sexually assaulted her. Based on a complaint from the victim’s mother, a case was registered at the All Women Police Station, and the accused was arrested and remanded. After investigation, a charge sheet was filed before the Pocso Court.

Retired Warden killed inside CSI school in Sivaganga

A woman was murdered by unidentified persons who allegedly broke into her house inside the premises of the CSI School in Manamadurai, Sivaganga district, on Thursday evening. Vasantha Mallika, wife of Easwaran, was killed, and the assailant snatched the jewellery she was wearing before fleeing the scene. The incident occurred while the school was functioning. The deceased had worked as a warden at the school. The incident came to light only after her husband found her dead upon his return home. Sivaganga Superintendent of Police Abhishek Gupta inspected the spot. Further probe is under way.

5-member armed gang robs car dealer of Rs 1 crore in Erode

A five-member armed gang robbed a used-car dealer of Rs one crore at knifepoint near Perundurai in Erode on Thursday.

The police said Arun Kumar (55) of Rajendra Prasad Street in Perundurai was engaged in the used-car business and was also overseeing the construction of a temple on a 55-cent plot on Kanjikovil Road through receiving donations.

The police said a businessman from Tirupur had donated Rs one crore towards the temple's construction. On learning about the cash, some unidentified persons contacted Arun Kumar over the phone and offered to give him Rs 1.15 crore through online transfer in exchange for Rs one crore in cash.

Tempted by the prospect of making an additional Rs 15 lakh, Arun agreed to the deal and asked them to come to Perundurai. “Arun Kumar was counting the cash using a currency-counting machine at a house on Kanjikovil Road when five men arrived armed with knives and iron pipes on Thursday. When he attempted to raise an alarm, the gang threatened to stab him to death. The assailants then fled with the Rs one crore kept in a suitcase,” the police said.

Following the robbery, Arun Kumar lodged a complaint with the Perundurai police, who registered a case and special teams have launched a search for the accused.

Theni jailbreak: Last four inmates nabbed, all 17 back in custody

The police on Wednesday recaptured four more inmates, bringing all 17 inmates who escaped from the Theni District Jail on Monday night after assaulting three prison staff back into custody. The inmates had pretended that one of them was suffering from an epileptic seizure to trap the guards and carry out their escape plan.

On Wednesday morning, around 100 police personnel intensified their search in the Amachiyapuram hills to trace four inmates: Rejin from Kanyakumari, and Tirupathi, Meenatchisundram and Ponmuthuselvam from Madurai.

The police team recaptured Rejin and Ponmuthuselvam from the hills. The other two, Tirupathi and Meenatchisundram, who are brothers, allegedly fled after learning that police had entered the area where they were hiding. They allegedly assaulted a motorist who was passing by on a motorcycle, seized his bike and escaped, a police source said.

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Trio snatches gold chain from home alone woman

An unidentified trio robbed a home alone woman of a 2.5-sovereign gold chain in Tiruchy on Wednesday after gaining entry into the house and locking it from inside.

The victim, a 41-year-old woman, lived alone in KK Nagar and works as a domestic helper. On Monday evening, while the woman was cooking, three unidentified persons had reportedly gained entry into the house and locked the doors from inside.

On seeing them, the woman raised an alarm, but one of them gagged her. They snatched her 2.5-sovereign gold chain and fled. She immediately ran out of the house, raising an alarm, but the trio had escaped. She lodged a complaint with the KK Nagar police, who registered a case and are searching for the culprits.

Thanjavur ganja peddler nabbed in Ariyalur

A notorious peddler from Thanjavur was arrested in Ariyalur while attempting to smuggle ganja from Odisha on Wednesday evening.

A police team led by Jayankondam inspector Balaji conducted a vehicle check following a tip-off and suspected a youth, who fled. After a chase, the man was caught and identified as R Shanmuga Ganapathi (29) of East Street, Thanjavur.

They found 6 kg of ganja concealed in his belongings and arrested him. Further probe revealed that the accused sold to regular customers in the neighbouring districts and procured the contraband from Odisha. He faces several pending cases in Thanjavur.

Two murdered in Otteri, Avadi

Two people were murdered in separate incidents in Chennai and Avadi on Tuesday night. In one incident in Otteri, an elderly man was beaten to death after an argument with a neighbour.

The deceased has been identified as S Ponnurangam (69), a resident of Rettaimalai Srinivasan Street in Otteri. Police said there was an existing enmity between Ponnurangam’s family and the family of his neighbour, Subramani.

A few days ago, Ponnurangam’s daughter-in-law was cleaning the entrance of their house when Subramani’s sons – Sathish (27) and Santhosh (25) – allegedly spat near the spot, which triggered an argument between the two families. On Tuesday night, an argument broke out between Ponnurangam’s son Kandhan and Sathish and Santhosh.

Hearing the commotion, Ponnurangam came out of the house and reprimanded the brothers after which they attacked him and pushed him to the ground. Ponnurangam was severely injured, and collapsed after which he was rescued and rushed him to the Kilpauk Government Medical College Hospital.

Doctors who examined him declared him brought dead. The Otteri police have registered a case and are searching for the duo, who fled after the incident.

In another incident in Thirumullaivoyal in Avadi city police limits, a 30-year-old man was hacked to death by his friend during a drinking session in the victim’s house on Tuesday night. The deceased was identified as Gokul.

Police said that Gokul and the accused, Rajesh (25) lived in the same neighbourhood and would argue often. On Tuesday, Rajesh made fun of Gokul, which had infuriated him and both of them argued and left.

The same night, the duo gathered again for a drink when Gokul questioned Rajesh about his comments and took a knife from the kitchen and attempted to attack him. Rajesh dodged the attacks, managed to retrieve the weapon from Gokul and stabbed him to death. On information, Thirumullaivoyal Police arrested Rajesh.

Man arrested for kidnap, murder of a Chennai woman

A 45-year-old man was arrested for kidnapping and murdering a woman from Aminjikarai and dumping her body in a farm well in Sirunagalur village near Melmaruvathur in Chengalpattu district.

Police said the murdered woman had failed to repay the loan which she had borrowed from him. The deceased was identified as Manimegalai (41), wife of Gurunathan, and a resident of Aminjikarai in Chennai.

Two days ago, the body of an unidentified woman with a slit throat was found in a private farm well in Sirunagalur village near Melmaruvathur. The Melmaruvathur police recovered the body and sent it to the Chengalpattu GH for a postmortem.

During the investigation, the police found that Manimegalai had borrowed money at interest from Jani Anbu Das (45), a resident of Egmore. He had allegedly threatened to kidnap her when she failed to repay the loan.

A special police team from Melmaruvathur detained Das for questioning. During interrogation, he confessed to kidnapping Manimegalai and murdering her by slitting her throat over the unpaid debt. Police said that the accused also allegedly removed the gold earrings and silver anklets worn by the woman, along with her mobile phone, before dumping her body in the farm well and escaping from the spot.

Following that, the Melmaruvathur police arrested Das for the murder, and he was remanded to judicial custody and sent to Puzhal prison.

Kanniyakumari: Four arrested for murdering panchayat staffer after he refused to steal lotuses from ponds

Four people, including Cyrus (32), have been arrested for allegedly murdering Kavin (27), a temporary electrician with the Alagappapuram Panchayat, after he refused to help them steal lotus flowers from local ponds, according to a Daily Thanthi report.

According to the police, Cyrus, a resident of Alagappapuram, had been illegally cultivating lotus flowers in ponds in the area. He allegedly asked Kavin, who hailed from Achankulam near Kottaram, to switch off the lights to facilitate the theft. Kavin’s refusal reportedly led to a dispute, following which Cyrus allegedly plotted to kill him.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Man hacked to death by friend following argument in Thoothukudi market

A man was allegedly hacked to death with an axe by his friend following an argument at a daily market in Tittangulam near Kovilpatti in Thoothukudi district in the early hours of Tuesday (October 27).

According to a Daily Thanthi report, the deceased, identified as Kaliraj, was employed as a load lifter at a private daily market in the area. According to the available information, Kaliraj and his friends were talking at the market premises when a light-hearted exchange of jokes and teasing reportedly escalated into an argument. One of his friends, identified as Ayodhya, allegedly attacked him with an axe, killing him on the spot.

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Newborn rescued from pvt clinic toilet succumbs, cops mull altering case to murder

A newborn girl rescued from a private clinic's toilet succumbed on Tuesday. Police are contemplating altering the case based on postmortem findings.

A 19-year-old girl who was in a relationship with a lorry driver went to a private clinic on October 24 after experiencing labour pains. Despite her parents' knowledge of her pregnancy, she went alone.

She told the clinic staff that she had diarrhoea and locked herself in the toilet for nearly two hours. When the staff checked in on her, they found she had given birth there and shifted both of them to Government Stanley Hospital.

The girl is undergoing treatment; however, the newborn succumbed and was taken for autopsy. The reports indicated injuries, following which officials are considering altering the case to murder. The girl has not been arrested yet. The lorry driver has married another woman. Further probe is ongoing.

Woman arrested for allegedly setting husband on fire after domestic quarrel in Virudhunagar

VIRUDHUNAGAR: A 35-year-old construction worker, Shankar Guru, died after his wife, Sankareswari, allegedly poured kerosene on him and set him on fire following a domestic quarrel at their house in VVR Colony in Allampatti, Virudhunagar, in the early hours of Tuesday.

According to police, Shankar Guru frequently returned home intoxicated and quarrelled with his wife. The couple had divorced in 2022 but later reunited and resumed living together.

On Monday night, Shankar Guru returned home after consuming alcohol and picked up a quarrel with Sankareswari in the early hours of Tuesday. In a fit of anger, Sankareswari allegedly poured kerosene on her husband and set him on fire, said the police source. She subsequently surrendered at the nearby Virudhunagar East police station.

The police recovered Shankar Guru's body and sent it to the Virudhunagar Government Medical College Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Virudhunagar SP Gautham Goyal conducted an inquiry.

History sheeter hacked to death in Indira Nagar

Chennai: A 22-year-old history sheeter was murdered in broad daylight in Adyar's Indira Nagar on Tuesday. The police identified the victim as Maithreyan, originally from Mylapore and currently residing in Tiruvanmiyur.

According to officials, Maithreyan was listed as a C-category history sheeter with multiple criminal cases. Last week, he had secured bail in a case with a condition to report at Mylapore police station every day. Around 11 am on Tuesday, he was returning from the station in his autorickshaw when he was intercepted by a gang.

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Missing 7-year-old found dead in Madurai's abandoned house

A seven-year-old boy who went missing while playing near his house at Thaniyamangalam near Melur in Madurai district yesterday was found dead in an abandoned house nearby on Monday.

The deceased, Muthuchelvan, a Class 3 student, had left home around 11 am on Sunday to play and did not return. His relatives and villagers searched for him with police assistance. Police recovered the body and sent it to Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai for a post-mortem examination. Senior police officials are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death.

College student killed in clash over wastewater

A 20-year-old college student was hacked to death on Sunday night following a clash between two families over wastewater flowing in front of their houses at Alwarkarkulam near Srivaikuntam in Thoothukudi district.

The deceased, Isakkiraja, son of Mariappan, was a second-year student at an arts and science college near Srivaikuntam. The families of Mariappan and Sundararajan had reportedly been at loggerheads for a long time over the issue, the police said.

During an argument on Sunday night, both parties took to weapons and Isakkiraja was killed during the clash. The police have booked over 10 people in the issue.

Man held after pregnant wife dies by suicide in Otteri

Police have arrested a man on charges of abetment to suicide after the death of his pregnant wife in Otteri. The arrested man was identified as Santhosh (29), who worked in a mobile phone accessories shop.

Santhosh had married Kokila (26) on March 6 this year after being in a relationship with her. The couple lived in a rented house in Pudhu Vazhai Nagar.

Police said differences had developed between them within months of their marriage and the duo had frequent arguments. The couple had an argument on Saturday too after which Santhosh left the house. Kokila had video-called Santhosh on Saturday night and threatened to kill herself.

When Santhosh reached the house, he found her unconscious and rushed her to the Government Kilpauk Medical College Hospital. Doctors declared her brought dead after which Otteri Police rescued her and sent the body for a postmortem. 

Meanwhile, Kokila’s family filed a complaint alleging that she had been subjected to dowry harassment by Santhosh’s family and protested demanding his arrest.

After investigations, police arrested Santhosh. As the couple had been married for less than a year, the police have recommended an RDO inquiry.

Man held for sexual assault of toddler in Ennore

Avadi City Police on Monday arrested a 32-year-old man for sexually assaulting a two-and-half-year-old girl child in Ennore. The arrested person was identified as D Ranjithkumar, a fisherman, a neighbour of the victim.

Police said that he was separated from his wife and lives alone, and that he had lured the child to his house twice last week and had sexually abused her.

The child’s parents, who noticed injuries on her body, took her to the Institute of Child Health in Egmore. The incident came to light on October 23, when doctors examining the child suspected sexual abuse and alerted the authorities. 

Based on the information received from the hospital and a complaint filed by the child’s mother, the Ennore All Women Police Station registered a case and launched an investigation on the same day. After investigations, Police arrested the accused under the Pocso Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences).

The child is undergoing treatment. The accused was produced before a magistrate and remanded to judicial custody. 

Techie flees after running over sleeping senior citizen in Chengalpattu; nabbed

An elderly man was killed after a techie who was reversing his car from a marriage hall reportedly ran over him, unmindful of the man sleeping on the roadside in Chengalpattu on Saturday.

Visuals showed the victim's friend sitting beside the body, holding an umbrella over it to protect it from the rain while they waited for an ambulance to arrive.

The deceased was identified as Kumar (77), who lived in a thatched hut in the neighbourhood. According to local residents, Kumar was sleeping along the roadside when a car reversing from a nearby marriage hall ran over him, killing him on the spot.

Police sources said the techie, who was behind the wheel, got down to check on the man but drove off upon seeing a mob gathering at the scene, as his wife and child were inside the vehicle.

The elderly man was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was declared brought dead. Meanwhile, the Chengalpattu police traced the car using CCTV footage and arrested the driver, G Saravanan (43), an employee with a private IT firm.

Bizman held under Pocso in Tirunelveli

A 52-year-old real estate businessman was arrested under the Pocso Act at Panagudi in Tirunelveli district for allegedly sexually harassing a six-year-old girl on Sunday.

According to police the accused was found committing the sexual offence after examining the CCTV footage. The accused was sitting in front of a church in the area on the night of October 23 when the girl walked alone on the road, said the police, adding that he allegedly called her over and sexually abused her.

The girl went home crying and told her parents, who lodged a complaint. The police registered a case under the Pocso Act and arrested him.

Special Sub-Inspector transferred to Armed Reserve on bribe charges

Tirunelveli District Superintendent of Police Viswesh Sastri on Saturday transferred a Special Sub-Inspector attached to the Seethaparpanallur police station to the Armed Reserve following a complaint that he accepted a bribe in a sand smuggling case.

According to the police, Special Sub-Inspector Muthupandi (54) is alleged to have received Rs 5,000 from the owner of a lorry linked to a sand smuggling case under investigation.

The money was reportedly transferred through his wife's GPay account.

Guest worker killed over card game in Chennai

A 26-year-old guest worker from Nepal was murdered after an argument during a card game in Perungudi on Saturday. Thoraipakkam police have registered a murder case and launched a search for the absconding suspect.

The victim has been identified as Ganeshkumar, who had been employed at a metal fabrication unit in Perungudi and was staying with his brother-in-law Umesh. The police said the suspect, Saurav (25), also a Nepali national, was working at a private eatery. Ganeshkumar and Umesh had gone to Saurav's house on Friday night. During a card game, a heated exchange between Ganeshkumar and Saurav turned into a physical confrontation. Saurav attacked Ganeshkumar with a knife.

Chennai: Woman dies after pushed to floor while rescuing son

A 62-year-old woman died after she was pushed to the floor while trying to rescue her son, who was being attacked by a group of men during a family dispute in Perungalathur. The deceased, Naseema Bee (62), was the mother of Vasivudeen (43), a resident of Kamarajar Street in Perungalathur.

Vasivudeen lives with his wife, Naseema (40). Police said an argument broke out between Vasivudeen and his wife on Wednesday.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Kancheepuram silk showroom owners arrested in Rs 20 crore fraud case

Two owners of a popular silk saree showroom in Kancheepuram have been arrested by the Kancheepuram District Crime Branch police in connection with an alleged Rs 20 crore fraud involving wholesale saree suppliers from Rajasthan, Chennai and Salem.

Krishnamoorthy (52) and Sathish (50), both residents of George Town in Chennai, jointly operated Murugan and Kalikambal Silks, located near Rangasamy Kulam in Kancheepuram.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Sathankulam man kills teen lover’s mother for opposing relationship

A 23-year-old man launched a sickle attack on a couple in their house, killing the woman and injuring the man and their minor son, and kidnapped her two minor daughters, at Mudalur near Sathankulam early on Friday. The girls were rescued shortly and the man, Gnanaprakash of Anandapuram, was apprehended by the Thoothukudi police after the girls shared their live location with them via WhatsApp.

The father Muthukrishnan (50) and son Pleasant Raja (12) sustained grievous injuries and are in the intensive care unit of the Government Super Specialty Hospital in Tirunelveli. Muthukrishnan’s condition is said to be critical.

2 lorry drivers confess to murder of coworker in Tiruvallur

Two lorry drivers allegedly confessed to murdering their colleague following a drunken quarrel and burying his body in an isolated spot near Alamathi in Tiruvallur district, police said. The police are scheduled to exhume the remains on Saturday in the presence of a Tahsildar.

The deceased, M Gokul (27), a native of Kanniyakumari district, worked as a lorry driver for a private transport company in Alamathi. His younger brother, Rahul, lodged a complaint with Sholavaram police stating that Gokul had been missing since October 7.

Following the complaint, police registered a case and launched an investigation. They examined CCTV footage from the Alamathi area and identified two suspects, Ayyappan (18), and Sathish (33), who worked as lorry drivers.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Cyclone Murasu, which formed over the Bay of Bengal on November 1, is likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur, between 11.30 pm on November 2 and 4 am on November 3.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall across northern Tamil Nadu, including Chennai and Tiruvallur, on November 2 and 3.

The system is expected to make landfall with wind speeds of 100-110 kmph, gusting up to 120 kmph. Authorities in Tamil Nadu have stepped up preparedness measures, with district collectors directed to remain on high alert.

Rains to continue, says weather blogger

Explaining the impact of the cyclone on moisture conditions, easterly winds, and rainfall activity, weather blogger Pradeep John, popularly known as Tamil Nadu Weatherman, told DT Next: "Cyclone Arnab had cut off the easterly winds, resulting in dry weather in northern Tamil Nadu and other parts of the State. However, Cyclone Murasu has not disrupted the easterly winds. As the severe cyclonic storm is expected to make landfall near Nellore, rainfall activity is likely to continue across the State over the next few days."

Cyclone Murasu: 10 key things to know

1. Formation: Cyclone Murasu formed over the Bay of Bengal on November 1 after a deep depression intensified into a cyclonic storm.

2. Current movement: The cyclone is moving west-northwestwards over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal.

3. Distance from Chennai: The system was located around 480 km east-southeast of Chennai, according to the IMD's November 1 bulletin issued around 9 pm.

4. Further intensification: Murasu is likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal around November 2 morning.

5. Expected landfall: Cyclone Murasu is expected to cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur between 11.30 pm on November 2 (Monday) and 4 am on November 3 (Tuesday) as a severe cyclonic storm.

6. Wind speed: Wind speeds of 100-110 kmph, gusting up to 120 kmph, are expected during landfall.

7. Orange alert: Chennai and Tiruvallur are under an orange alert for November 2, with very heavy rainfall (12-20 cm) likely at isolated places.

8. Yellow alert: Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Vellore and the Nilgiris are under yellow alerts for heavy rainfall (7-11 cm) on November 2.

9. School and college holiday: The Chennai and Tiruvallur district administrations have declared a holiday for all schools and colleges on November 2 as a precautionary measure.

10. State preparedness: Tamil Nadu has directed district collectors to remain on high alert, mobilise emergency response teams and closely monitor the situation.

Cyclone Murasu 480 km from Chennai

According to the IMD's 9.14 pm bulletin, Cyclone Murasu was centred about 480 km east-southeast of Chennai at 2.30 pm on November 1. It was moving west-northwestwards at 27 kmph.

The system was also located 550 km east-southeast of Nellore, 560 km southeast of Machilipatnam, 600 km southeast of Ongole and 610 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam.

Orange alert for Chennai and Tiruvallur; schools and colleges closed in both districts on Nov 2

-- The Chennai district administration has declared a holiday for all schools and colleges in the district on Monday (November 2) as a precautionary measure amid the forecast of heavy rainfall due to Cyclone Murasu.

-- The RMC has issued an orange alert for Chennai and Tiruvallur districts on November 2, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall (12-20 cm). A yellow alert has been issued for Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Vellore and the Nilgiris, where heavy rainfall (7-11 cm) is likely.

-- The Tamil Nadu Revenue Administration and Disaster Management Department has directed district collectors across the State to remain on high alert, mobilise administrative machinery and take precautionary measures. They have also been instructed to immediately report any untoward incidents to the State Emergency Operations Centre.

-- Meanwhile, the RMC has warned of squally winds reaching 55-65 kmph, gusting up to 75 kmph, in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai and Villupuram districts, as well as Puducherry, on November 1 and 2.

RMC issues yellow alerts across Tamil Nadu, warns of thunderstorms and gusty winds

On November 2, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Vellore and the Nilgiris are under a yellow alert for heavy rainfall (7-11 cm).

The intensity is expected to decrease on November 3, with heavy rainfall confined to isolated places in the Nilgiris. On November 3, isolated heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is likely over the Nilgiris.

The RMC has also warned of thunderstorms and lightning accompanied by gusty winds of 40-50 kmph at one or two places in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal on November 1 and 2. The warning continues for isolated places until November 5.

Rain forecast for Tamil Nadu

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, has forecast light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places across parts of Tamil Nadu on Sunday (November 1).

Heavy rain is likely at isolated places in the Nilgiris and Tiruvallur districts on November 2, and in Cuddalore, Villupuram and Puducherry on November 3. Thunderstorms and lightning are also likely at isolated places between November 1 and 4.

Chennai to receive rain from Sunday (November 1)

Chennai is likely to experience partly cloudy skies on Saturday, with mainly dry weather. The maximum temperature is expected to be 34-35°C and the minimum 25-26°C.

On Sunday, the sky is likely to remain partly cloudy, with light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in some parts of the city. The maximum temperature is expected to dip slightly to 33-34°C, while the minimum is likely to remain between 25°C and 26°C.

Bay of Bengal depression likely to intensify into Cyclone Murasu

The depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm within the next 24 hours, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in its Saturday (October 31) evening bulletin.

If it develops into a cyclonic storm, it will be named ‘Murasu’, as proposed by India. This will be the second cyclonic storm to form over the Bay of Bengal this year.

Low-pressure area over Bay of Bengal intensifies; rain likely in Tamil Nadu

The low-pressure area over the south Andaman Sea and adjoining regions has intensified into a well-marked low-pressure area and is likely to strengthen into a depression over the next 12 hours, the India Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) said.

What is the rain forecast for Tamil Nadu from today till Nov 5?

1. Oct 30: Light rain likely over South Coastal Tamil Nadu and Western Ghats districts; dry weather elsewhere.

2. Oct 31: Light rain likely over Coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal and Western Ghats districts.

3. Nov 1: Light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) likely over several districts, including Tiruchirappalli, Karur, Salem, Erode and Madurai.

4. Nov 2: Heavy rain warning for isolated places in the Nilgiris; light to moderate rain likely across the rest of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal.

5. Nov 3: Moderate rain likely over Western Ghats districts and North Tamil Nadu; light rain elsewhere.

6. Nov 4: Moderate rain likely over Western Ghats districts and North Tamil Nadu; light rain elsewhere.

7. Nov 5: Light to moderate rain likely across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal.

8. Thunderstorm warning: Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph are likely at isolated places from November 1 to 3.

9. Chennai: Partly cloudy skies, with light rain possible on October 31. Maximum temperature: 35-36°C. Minimum: 26-27°C.

--- RMC's October 30 bulletin

Low-pressure system over Andaman Sea to move towards Andhra coast

According to the latest bulletin from the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), yesterday's low-pressure system that lay over the south Andaman sea and adjoining Andaman and Nicobar islands today at 8.30 am is very likely to move west-northwestwards and concentrate into a depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas of Andaman & Nicobar islands and Andaman sea tomorrow.

Thereafter, it is likely to move west-northwestwards towards Andhra Pradesh coast during the subsequent two days.

Arnab cyclone death toll rises to six in Andhra Pradesh

A 11-year-old boy died due to a wall collapse in Tenali mandal of Andhra Pradesh, taking the death toll in the very severe cyclonic storm Arnab-related incidents to six, an official said on Thursday.

Fresh low-pressure system in Bay, may intensify into cyclone, cross near Chennai

Even before Chennai could heave a sigh of relief after Cyclone Arnab went past the State’s borders to Andhra Pradesh and further north, weather experts have said a fresh low-pressure system is likely to form over the Bay of Bengal, which, if it intensifies into a cyclone, could cross the coast near the city.

According to weather experts, favourable conditions are developing over the Bay of Bengal for the formation of a new low-pressure system, which could intensify into a cyclonic system and move towards the northern parts of Tamil Nadu. If the system strengthens into a cyclone, there is a possibility of it making landfall along the coast between Chennai and Andhra Pradesh, potentially bringing significant rainfall to Chennai on November 1 and 2.

READ THE FULL STORY HERE

Arnab to further weaken into cyclonic storm, then deep depression

Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Arnab crossed the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam between 2 am and 8 am on October 28, with maximum sustained winds of 125–135 kmph and gusts up to 150 kmph. The landfall process was completed by 8 am, after which the storm weakened into a Severe Cyclonic Storm.

Arnab is likely to move north-northwestwards and weaken gradually, becoming a cyclonic storm within six hours and a deep depression over the following six hours.

Meanwhile, a low-pressure area is likely to form over the south Andaman Sea and adjoining areas within the next 24 hours, as forecast by the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, in its latest bulletin.

What is TN's rain status from Oct 28-30?

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, in its latest bulletin, has forecast light to moderate rain at isolated places across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal from October 31 to November 2. Rain is likely over the Western Ghats districts and south Tamil Nadu on October 28–30, while dry weather is expected to prevail over the rest of the State during this period.

Heavy rain is likely at isolated places in Tiruvallur district on November 3, while light to moderate rain is forecast over North Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, with light to moderate rain also likely over South Tamil Nadu.

Maximum temperatures are expected to rise by 2-3°C at isolated pockets over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal until October 30, and remain above normal by 2-3°C until November 1.

Andhra worst hit by Cyclone Arnab, 3 killed

Andhra Pradesh bore the brunt of Cyclone Arnab, with three people killed and 31 houses damaged, a senior National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) officer said on Wednesday.

The disaster response and rescue teams of the Centre and those of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are now bracing to tackle the effects of rainfall, which is expected to continue in the two states and adjoining areas, NDRF Inspector General (IG) Narendra Singh Bundela told reporters here during a press briefing.

The cyclone has made landfall near Yanam, Puducherry, and has weakened from a very serious cyclonic storm to a severe cyclonic storm. It is estimated that it will gradually lose strength to convert into a cyclonic storm and finally into a deep depression by the evening, he said.

Cyclone Arnab-induced rain batters Odisha, alert sounded in southern districts

Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall triggered by cyclone Arnab has battered southern Odisha, prompting the state government to evacuate over 30,000 people and place several districts on high alert, Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said on Wednesday.

The government is focusing on Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri and Nabarangpur districts, where people are being shifted to safer places.

The cyclone disrupted train services, with more than 50 trains cancelled along the eastern coast.

Mahendragarh in Gajapati district recorded the highest rainfall at 249.9 mm, followed by Pottangi in Koraput at 188 mm, Mohana in Gajapati at 168.8 mm, Ganjam station at 161.4 mm and Similiguda in Koraput at 143.1 mm.

-- PTI

Cyclone Arnab crosses Andhra coast; damages roads, electric poles

Cyclone Arnab crossed the Andhra coast early on Wednesday, leaving a trail of destruction with uprooted trees and electric poles and damaged roads, while two persons were electrocuted in separate instances, officials said.

The very severe cyclonic storm Arnab crossed the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts between 2 am- 8 am, before weakening into a severe cyclonic storm, the weather office said.

"The cyclone crossed the Andhra Pradesh & Yanam coasts to the Southwest of Yanam near latitude 16.450 N and 81.90 E, about 20 km east-northeast of Narsapur, 40 km southwest of Yanam and 60 km southwest of Kakinada," the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in an official release.

Cyclone 'Arnab' likely to bring heavy rain in parts of Bengal till Oct 31

 The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall in parts of West Bengal till October 31 under the influence of cyclone 'Arnab', which made landfall in the Andhra Pradesh coast in the early hours of Wednesday.

Moderate to heavy rain lashed the coastal and some southern districts of West Bengal on Tuesday, it said.

Heavy rainfall will occur in the coastal and western districts of the state until Friday morning and over the sub-Himalayan region till Saturday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in a bulletin.

Cyclone Arnab: Two electrocuted in separate incidents in Andhra

Two people, including a 55-year-old woman, died of electrocution in separate incidents in Andhra Pradesh during Cyclone Arnab, officials said on Wednesday.

A senior district official said a 53-year-old man died on Tuesday night after coming into contact with a live wire that snapped over an agricultural field channel.

In the second incident, a woman died after accidentally stepping on an exposed live wire outside her home in Yellamanchili town in Anakapalli district on Wednesday morning, police said.

-- PTI

Odisha evacuates over 30,000 people as cyclone Arnab triggers alert in southern districts

The Odisha government has evacuated over 30,000 people to safety, with the entire southern region of the state remaining on high alert on Wednesday after the landfall process of very severe cyclonic storm Arnab was completed along the Andhra Pradesh-Yanam coast, a minister said.

Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the state expects the cyclone to affect all southern districts, with Malkangiri likely to be the worst hit.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone crossed the Andhra Pradesh-Yanam coast between 2 am and 8 am as a very severe cyclonic storm, with maximum sustained wind speeds of 125-135 kmph.

Cyclone Arnab: No loss of life reported in Andhra, says CM Naidu

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday said no loss of life has been reported so far following Cyclone Arnab, crediting advance precautionary measures taken by the administration for preventing casualties.

Speaking during a teleconference with 32,000 personnel, including district collectors, the Chief Minister directed officials to minimise property damage and restore normalcy in cyclone-affected areas at the earliest.

"No loss of life has been reported so far due to Cyclone Arnab. The advance precautionary measures taken by the administrative machinery helped prevent casualties," said Naidu in an official press release.

Very severe cyclone Arnab crosses Andhra coast, weakens into severe cyclonic storm

Very severe cyclonic storm Arnab crossed the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts on Wednesday morning before weakening into a severe cyclonic storm.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the landfall process is complete with the weather system moving entirely over land.

Peak wind speeds reached up to 135 kmph and gusts of up to 150 kmph.

Schools closed in parts of J'khand till Oct 29 in view of cyclone 'Arnab'

The Jharkhand government has ordered the closure of schools till October 29 in several districts in the wake of rainfall triggered by cyclone 'Arnab', which made landfall in the Andhra Pradesh coast in the early hours of Wednesday, officials said.

Ranchi, West Singhbhum, East Singhbhum and Simdega district administrations said schools will remain closed on Wednesday and Thursday.

Cyclone Arnab's landfall process continues along Andhra coast

The landfall process of “very severe” cyclonic storm Arnab was continuing along the Andhra Pradesh coast on Wednesday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said with the storm’s centre remaining very close to the coastline.

The northern spiral band of the cyclone has further entered the land and the landfall process is expected to continue for the next three hours, it said.

Andhra, Odisha step up preparations as cyclone Arnab hurtles towards east coast

Andhra Pradesh and Odisha have stepped up preparations, including moving people to safer locations, as "very severe" cyclonic storm Arnab hurtles towards the east coast and is expected to make landfall within the next 24 hours, officials said on Tuesday.

In its latest bulletin, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the cyclone was over the Bay of Bengal, about 170 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, at 11.30 am. It is likely to move west-northwestward until evening, before crossing the coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam, by Wednesday forenoon.

The system is expected to make landfall with maximum sustained wind speeds of 125-135 kmph, gusting to 150 kmph, the agency said.

According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), the cyclone's impact is being felt, with heavy rainfall expected in the north coastal districts shortly. Srikakulam district is likely to experience heavy rain accompanied by strong winds, while strong winds have already begun in Visakhapatnam and Kakinada.

--- PTI

What is the TN rain status?

According to the latest bulletin by the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), light to moderate rain is likely at isolated places in the Western Ghats and southern Tamil Nadu on October 27, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph at one or two places. The rest of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are likely to experience mainly dry weather.

On October 28, the Western Ghats may receive light to moderate rain, while southern Tamil Nadu is likely to see light showers. Light rain is forecast in the Western Ghats on October 29 and 30, followed by light rain at isolated places across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal on October 31.

On November 1 and 2, light to moderate rain is likely in north Tamil Nadu, the Western Ghats, Puducherry and Karaikal, while other parts of Tamil Nadu may receive light showers, the RMC added.

Bengal's coastal districts get rain as Cyclone Arnab advances towards Andhra coast

Coastal areas of West Bengal saw moderate rain on Tuesday afternoon as the very severe cyclonic storm Arnab hurtled toward the Andhra Pradesh coast, with landfall expected the next day.

The storm, likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry's Yanam coasts on October 28, will bring moderate rainfall across all districts of South Bengal until October 29, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

It may bring heavy rain in some districts of the state till October 30.

Chhattisgarh on alert for heavy rains due to Cyclone Arnab

The Chhattisgarh government has directed all district collectors to stay on alert for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall due to Cyclone Arnab, ordering round-the-clock relief camps, uninterrupted medical services and heightened vigilance, with zero casualties as the goal, officials said on Tuesday.

Cyclone Arnab to trigger heavy rains in parts of Jharkhand, govt asks districts to remain alert

Cyclone Arnab, which is expected to make landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast on Wednesday, is set to bring heavy rainfall in parts of Jharkhand for three days, prompting the state government to ask district administrations to maintain vigil, officials said.

A 'yellow' alert (be updated) of heavy rain has been issued for Ranchi, Khunti, Simdega, Gumla, Lohardaga, Saraikela-Kharsawan, East and West Singhbhum for 24 hours starting from 8.30 am on October 28, the India Meteorological Department said.

The rain intensity is likely to increase thereafter, with IMD issuing an 'orange' alert (be prepared) for seven Jharkhand districts - Garhwa, Palamu, Latehar, Lohardaga, Gumla, Simdega and West Singhbhum - for 24 hours till 8.30 am on October 30, according to a weather bulletin.

Heavy rains lash parts of Odisha as cyclone Arnab hurtles towards east coast

Heavy rains, accompanied by strong winds, lashed parts of Odisha on Tuesday as very severe cyclonic storm Arnab moved towards the east coast, with landfall expected along the Andhra Pradesh shore within the next 24 hours, the IMD said.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange warning, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall of 12-20 cm, for six districts -- Puri, Gajapati, Ganjam, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri.

The districts under the yellow warning, indicating rainfall of 7-11 cm, are Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur, Khurda, Nayagarh, Jagatsinghpur, Nuapada, Balangir and Boudh.

The storm is likely to move west-northwestwards until the evening of October 27, before turning northwestwards and crossing the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, close to Yanam, by the forenoon of October 28.

31 houses collapsed in Tiruchy after rains

As many as 31 houses collapsed across Tiruchy district on Monday as the North East monsoon rains continued unabated.

The rains had lashed the central region for the past few days, after which water entered several residential areas in the region, particularly in Tiruchy district. Sources said that on Monday, a tiled-roofed house belonging to Muthukumar in Pullambadi collapsed. Similarly, the house of Rasu from Manapparai collapsed after the walls were soaked in the continuous rainfall.

READ THE FULL STORY

14 killed in lightning strikes, tourist entry barred to hill stations as rains batter TN

Tamil Nadu Revenue Minister K A Sengottaiyan on Monday said 14 people have died due to lightning strikes since the onset of the Northeast monsoon, even as intensifying rains triggered red alerts and prompted authorities to bar tourist entry to major hill stations.

Detailing the state's monsoon relief efforts, Sengottaiyan said families of the deceased have been provided Rs 4 lakh each as compensation.

He firmly dismissed media reports claiming 35 rain-related fatalities in a single day.

Red alert in Kodaikanal

With the Northeast monsoon intensifying across Tamil Nadu, a red alert has been sounded in Kodaikanal, keeping tourists away and leaving popular spots in the hill station deserted.

The continuous downpour has not only impacted the local hospitality and tourism sectors but has also severely disrupted the daily lives of residents in Dindigul district. In the Moonjikkal-Dobikana (Topikkanal) area of Kodaikanal, over 20 houses were flooded, forcing residents to spend sleepless nights safeguarding their belongings and livestock. - PTI

Cyclone Arnab likely to intensify into severe cyclonic storm by midnight today

Cyclonic Storm Arnab over the Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by midnight on October 26 and a very severe cyclonic storm on October 27.

It is expected to move northwestwards and cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Yanam, by the forenoon of October 28.

At landfall, the storm is likely to bring maximum sustained winds of 115–125 kmph, with gusts reaching 140 kmph.

At 8.30 am on October 26, Cyclonic Storm Arnab was centred over the east-central and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal.

It was located 580 km southeast of Gopalpur in Odisha, 610 km east-southeast of Visakhapatnam, 620 km northwest of Sri Vijaya Puram in the Andaman Islands, 690 km east-southeast of Kakinada, 790 km east-southeast of Machilipatnam and 860 km east-southeast of Bapatla in Andhra Pradesh, according to the IMD.

Cyclone warning: No 1 signal hoisted at 9 ports in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry

 Cyclone warning signal no. 1 has been hoisted at nine ports in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry as strong winds prevail amid the likelihood of a cyclone forming over the Bay of Bengal, according to officials.

The ports where the warning signal has been hoisted are Chennai, Ennore, Kattupalli, Cuddalore, Thoothukudi, Pamban, Puducherry, Nagapattinam and Karaikal.

Red alert for Theni, Dindigul, Madurai amid heavy rain forecast for TN

A red alert has been issued for Theni, Dindigul and Madurai districts, with the Regional Meteorological Centre forecasting extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places on Sunday as the northeast monsoon remains vigorous over Tamil Nadu.

The three districts could receive more than 20 centimetres of rain at one or two locations, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds.

As deep depression forms, IMD warns of heavy rain in Chennai, across Tamil Nadu from today

A depression over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a deep depression and further develop into a cyclonic storm by the morning of October 26, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Saturday, forecasting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in several parts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry over the next two days.

The system, moving west-northwestwards, is expected to intensify as it approaches the west-central Bay of Bengal near the Andhra Pradesh coast by October 28.

The IMD has forecast extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places in Theni, Dindigul and Madurai on Sunday. Heavy to very heavy rain accompanied by gusty winds of 40-50 kmph is likely in Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Tiruchy, Karur, Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Tirupur and Sivaganga, besides Karaikal.

Over 150 school students rescued after landslide blocks Ooty road

Rescue personnel rescued over 150 school students trapped by a landslide on the Mettupalayam-Ooty road by using ropes. Landslides at more than 10 locations along the Udhagamandalam road have completely disrupted traffic.

Bus driver killed, conductor injured as mudslide, uprooted trees hit TNSTC bus in Nilgiris

A bus driver was killed and the conductor seriously injured after a mudslide and uprooted trees fell on a TNSTC bus near Burliar in the Nilgiris district on Saturday, police said.

The incident occurred in the early hours when the bus was travelling from Coonoor to Mettupalayam amid heavy rain.

The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation bus was driven by Janagaraj, a resident of Kooratty village near Ooty, while Kesavan was the conductor, police said.

The bus had three passengers, who got off at Kurumpadi shortly before it reached Burliar. Only the driver and conductor were on board when the mudslide struck, police said.

READ FULL STORY HERE

Rain forecast till 1 pm in six Tamil Nadu districts

Light to moderate rain accompanied by light thunder and lightning is likely in six Tamil Nadu districts till 1 pm on Saturday, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai.

The six districts likely to receive rain are the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Dharmapuri, Erode, Krishnagiri and Salem.

Schools closed in Tamil Nadu's Erode district today

Due to heavy rain, all schools in Erode district (government, aided, and private) are closed today (October 24).

Well-marked low-pressure over Bay likely to intensify into depression today

The low-pressure area over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal, reported on Friday, has intensified into a well-marked low-pressure area as of 5.30 am on Saturday, October 24, according to the latest bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The system is likely to intensify into a depression on Saturday and further strengthen into a cyclonic storm by the morning of October 26.

According to the IMD, the well-marked low-pressure area is likely to persist over the same region and intensify into a depression on October 24. It is then expected to move west-northwestwards and strengthen into a deep depression on October 25 before becoming a cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by the morning of October 26.

Heavy downpours lash Tamil Nadu, roads flooded; Virudhunagar teen killed in wall collapse

Heavy showers caused waterlogging in low-lying areas across Tamil Nadu, and districts such as Madurai and Virudhunagar received bounteous rain, bringing down temperatures in the region.

A 17-year-old girl died, and her mother was injured after a wall of their rented house collapsed due to heavy rains at Mettamalai near Sattur in Virudhunagar district on Thursday night, police said on Friday. Sattur and its surrounding areas had experienced heavy downpours for over five hours prior to the collapse.

The deceased was identified as Muthuchelvi, a Class 12 student. Her mother, Solaiyammal, who sustained injuries in the incident, was admitted to the Sattur GH.

Meanwhile, the water level in the state's 89 reservoirs stood at 27.9% of their total capacity as on October 22, retaining 62.53 TMC against a capacity of 224.3 TMC. The storage rose by 1.02 TMC in the last 24 hours, but remained 134.4 TMC below the corresponding period last year, sources said.

The IMD said that a low-pressure area formed over East Central and adjoining Southeast Bay of Bengal at 5.30 am on Friday is most likely to persist over the same region and intensify into a depression on October 24. Thereafter, it is very likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify further into a deep depression on October 25 and into a cyclonic storm over the Westcentral Bay of Bengal by October 26 morning.

Heavy rain leaves Madurai under water, hundreds of homes flooded; Rs 23 crore drainage projects planned

Heavy rain that lashed Madurai district for more than four to five hours from Thursday evening inundated hundreds of houses, flooded major roads and severely disrupted traffic, leaving residents struggling to access essential services.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, several low-lying areas, including Sellur, Mattuthavani Vegetable Market, Koripalayam, Anna Nagar and Periyar Bus Stand, were submerged in knee-deep water following the downpour. In Sellur, floodwaters entered hundreds of houses along the 50-foot and 60-foot road stretches, causing considerable hardship to residents overnight.

Meanwhile, the Corporation has announced plans to undertake drainage projects worth ₹23 crore to address recurring waterlogging near Madurai Railway Station and along the Masi streets. Officials said the projects would be launched soon to improve rainwater drainage in these flood-prone areas.

What is the current TN weather status?

The low-pressure area that formed over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal on Friday morning persisted over the same region, with its associated cyclonic circulation extending up to 5.8 km above mean sea level, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in its Friday afternoon bulletin. 

The system is likely to intensify into a depression on October 24, a deep depression on October 25 and a cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by the morning of October 26, the IMD added. 

The system is then expected to move west-northwestwards towards the north Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coasts over the following two days. If it develops into a cyclone, it will be named Arnab, as suggested by Bangladesh.

The IMD also reported that the low-pressure area over the southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep region persists, with a trough extending across Kerala to the north coastal Tamil Nadu coast.

Red alert for extremely heavy rain in Kanniyakumari, Tirunelveli today (October 23)

The Regional Meterological Centre (RMC) has issued a red alert for Kanniyakumari and Tirunelveli districts, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places on Friday (October 23). Heavy to very heavy rainfall is also likely at isolated places in the Nilgiris, Coimbatore and Theni districts.

Heavy rain is forecast in Erode, Salem, Namakkal, Karur, Tiruchirappalli, Tenkasi, Dindigul, Madurai, Virudhunagar, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Cuddalore, Villuppuram, Tiruppur, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, Tiruvannamalai and Kallakurichi districts, as well as Puducherry and Karaikal.

Very heavy rain forecast in several districts

The RMC has forecast very heavy rain (11.6–20.4 cm in 24 hours) at isolated places in Kanniyakumari, Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts on Friday (October 23), warranting an orange alert, while a yellow alert has been issued for heavy rain (6.5–11.5 cm) in several other districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Erode and Tiruppur, besides Puducherry and Karaikal.

On Saturday (October 24), very heavy rain is likely in Kanniyakumari, Coimbatore, Nilgiris and the Ghat areas of Tirunelveli district.

On Sunday (October 25), very heavy rain is forecast in Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Dindigul, Sivaganga and Theni districts. Heavy rain is likely in several other districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Madurai and Tiruppur.

On Monday (October 26), very heavy rain is likely in Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Theni, Madurai, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram and Pudukkottai districts.

Bay Of Bengal low-pressure area may intensify into cyclone by October 26

With widespread rainfall continuing across Tamil Nadu, a new low-pressure area that formed over the Bay of Bengal at 5.30 am on Friday (October 23) is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm by October 26, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The system has formed under the influence of an upper-air cyclonic circulation over the southeast and adjoining east-central Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. It is likely to intensify into a depression on Saturday (October 24), a deep depression on Sunday (October 25), and a cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by Monday (October 26).

The system is expected to move west-northwestwards towards the north Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha coasts over the following two days. If it develops into a cyclone, it will be named ‘Arnab’, as suggested by Bangladesh.

Under the influence of this system, further heavy rain is likely across Tamil Nadu. The RMC has forecast very heavy rainfall of 11.6–20.4 cm at isolated places in Kanniyakumari, Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts on Friday.

Meanwhile, another low-pressure area that was over the Comorin region and adjoining parts of south Tamil Nadu and Kerala has moved over the southwest Arabian Sea, off the south Kerala coast, on Friday morning, according to the IMD.

Schools closed in four Tamil Nadu districts today

Schools in Villupuram, Kallakurichi and Vellore districts have been declared closed on Friday (October 23) due to heavy rain. In Tiruvannamalai district, Collector Vandana Garg has declared a holiday for both schools and colleges.

Several parts of Tamil Nadu have been experiencing widespread heavy rain since Thursday night, prompting the respective district administrations to announce the closures.

Several parts of Tamil Nadu continued to receive rain on Thursday (October 22) as the northeast monsoon remained active, swelling waterfalls and boosting reservoir levels across the State. Heavy overnight showers caused waterlogging in parts of Chennai and several southern districts, with Sankarankoil among the worst-affected areas.

Key updates from TN districts on October 22:

-- Kanniyakumari: Schools closed after heavy overnight rain, thunder and lightning. Homes inundated in Kollamcode.

-- Tirunelveli and Tenkasi: Rain holidays already announced for schools.

-- Madurai: Heavy rain has submerged over 140 acres of newly planted paddy fields. Farmers blame undredged irrigation canals for crop damage and are seeking compensation from the State government.

-- Cauvery delta: Farmers said initial showers were sporadic and insufficient to sustain the samba paddy crop.

-- Reservoir storage: Northeast monsoon rains have boosted inflows into drinking water reservoirs and irrigation dams. Chennai’s six key reservoirs have reached 37% of their combined capacity. Vaigai dam stands at 44.88 feet, Mullaperiyar at 116.90 feet, Papanasam at 48 feet and Perunchani at 44.35 feet.

---- PTI

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• Heavy to very heavy rain: Forecast in 17 districts, including Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari, Madurai, Thanjavur and Nagapattinam, over the next 24 hours.

• Heavy rain: Expected in 10 districts, including Tiruvallur, Villuppuram, Cuddalore and Tiruppur.

• Chennai: Moderate rain likely over the next two days, with heavy downpours possible on October 24 and 25.

READ FULL REPORT

What is the current TN weather status?

An official told PTI that the low-pressure area remained active over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Tamil Nadu coast since October 21 evening. It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and under its influence a low-pressure area is likely to form over Southeast and adjoining East central Bay of Bengal around October 23. Then it is likely to move northwestwards and intensify further.

Meteorologists are also tracking a secondary upper-air cyclonic circulation over the North Andaman Sea. This separate system is forecast to move west-northwestward and likely consolidate into a second low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal around Friday.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected over the next 24 hours in districts including Tuticorin, Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari, Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Theni, Dindigul, Madurai, Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Sivaganga, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai.

Low-pressure over Bay to bring heavy rain to Tamil Nadu; Chennai to get moderate showers for 3 days

A low-pressure area has formed over the Southwest Bay of Bengal off the Tamil Nadu coast and it will trigger heavy to very heavy rainfall across the State. Under the influence of an upper-air cyclonic circulation, the system developed on Wednesday and continues to persist over the same region. The associated cyclonic circulation extends up to 5.8 km above mean sea level.

According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), heavy to very heavy rain is likely at isolated places over Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari, Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Theni, Dindigul, Madurai, Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Sivaganga, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai and the Karaikal area on Thursday.

READ FULL REPORT HERE

Monsoon safety advisory for public, EB staff

The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) has issued a set of safety guidelines for the public and electricity department employees during the northeast monsoon, warning of the risk of electrical leakage, accidents and fatalities caused by heavy rain, strong winds, thunder and lightning.

• Stay away from electric poles, transformers, distribution boxes, power lines and stay wires.

• Avoid walking through stagnant rainwater near electrical installations.

• Inform the EB department about damaged infrastructure.

• Do not touch or remove snapped power lines on roads or in water

• Maintain a safe distance, warn others, particularly children, and alert the department

• Tree branches on power lines should not be cut or removed by the public.

• During thunderstorms and lightning, take shelter in safe buildings and avoid open spaces, isolated trees, electric poles and overhead wires.

• Stay away from open windows and metal grills.

• Avoid using electrical appliances and telephones during lightning.

• Do not operate electrical appliances with wet hands or touch damp switches and water-leaking walls.

• If any electrical leakage, disconnect power supply but only if it’s safe to do so.

• Do not tie cattle to electric poles or wires

• Do not dry clothes on those wires or use them to support banners and temporary structures.

• Install Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCBs) through qualified electricians

• Do a periodic check of your home wiring and protective devices

• RCCBs alone cannot guarantee complete protection without proper insulation.

For power outages, snapped wires, electrical leakage and damage to electricity infrastructure, call Minnagam 94987 94987 by phone or WhatsApp

EB staff must obtain the necessary permission before undertaking electrical work, verify that the power supply has been disconnected and follow prescribed safety procedures, including earthing, before carrying out repairs.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment, including helmets, insulating gloves, safety footwear and safety belts.

• Repair work in waterlogged areas should begin only after a proper safety inspection.

• Field staff must respond promptly to snapped wires, leaning electric poles, damaged transformers and tree branches obstructing power lines.

• Barricades and warning signs must be installed around hazardous locations to prevent public access.

• Priority should be given to restoring power to drinking water supply installations, hospitals, telecommunications facilities and crowded public places.

• Staff must keep poles, wires, transformers, repair equipment, protective gear and vehicles ready for emergencies.

• Avoidhazardous work during heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds.

• Repairs should be undertaken only after ensuring the safety of personnel, with prompt coordination among field teams to address emergency complaints.

Chennai rains: Waterlogging, uprooted trees, battered roads greet denizens after overnight showers

Heavy overnight rainfall on Tuesday damaged the city’s main and interior roads, severely disrupting the morning commute. Waterlogging was reported in several areas, which were drained only by 11 am.

In AGS Colony, 3rd Main Road and the interior streets of Velachery, stagnated water took much longer to recede. Similarly, in Subramania Nagar 2nd Street and adjoining streets in Kodambakkam, trees were uprooted in several places and removed later.

In the morning, Bazullah Road in T Nagar, Taramani-Velachery Road, OMR, Aziz Nagar, Subramaniyan Nagar and School Road in Valluvar Kottam were waterlogged. Trees were also uprooted on Police Quarters Road in T Nagar and on 11th Street, TNHB Colony, Korattur, and later it was cleared.

READ FULL REPORT HERE

Potholes plague Tambaram-Velachery road

The Tambaram-Velachery Road has been riddled with potholes for several months due to delays in pipeline-laying work for a seawater desalination project. Recent northeast monsoon rains have filled the potholes and excavated trenches with water, making them difficult to spot and disrupting traffic. The stretch, which connects Tambaram and Guindy and passes through several residential areas, educational institutions and commercial hubs, has also witnessed frequent accidents.

Last night, a private hospital ambulance lost control after hitting a water-filled pothole, struck a median and overturned. The driver and a nurse sustained injuries and were taken to Tambaram District Government Hospital in a 108 ambulance. No patient was inside the vehicle at the time. Residents have urged authorities to speed up the pipeline work and restore the damaged road. The Highways Department said repairs could begin only after the pipeline work is completed and the road is handed back to it.

Chennai streets inundated after overnight heavy rain spell

Parts of Chennai were flooded, and streets were inundated after a night of heavy rain. The city recorded an overall average rainfall of 70.25 mm over the 24 hours ending at 6 am on October 21.

Chennai Corporation to spend Rs 21.80 crore on pothole repairs

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is carrying out pothole repair work across all 15 zones at an estimated cost of Rs 21.80 crore as a precautionary measure ahead of the Northeast monsoon.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, Rs 9.25 crore has been allocated for repairs on bus routes and Rs 12.55 crore for internal roads. The work involves filling potholes using concrete and tar mixtures, in line with the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's instructions.

So far, 4,691 potholes have been filled and repaired across Zones 1 to 15. The Corporation said the repair work is still under way.

Heavy rain continues in Chennai as rain clouds move towards city, says Tamil Nadu Weatherman

Pradeep John who runs the Tamil Nadu Weatherman handle has warned that rainfall is likely to increase across Chennai as rain clouds move towards the city.

In a post on his X account, Pradeep John said several locations in the Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur and Kancheepuram (KTCC) region had recorded more than 100 mm of rainfall, putting the region at the top of Tamil Nadu's rainfall chart.

He said more rain clouds were moving towards Chennai and several places in the city could cross the 100-mm mark before 8.30 am. By the time rainfall readings are reset at 8.30 am, some locations could record between 100 mm and 150 mm of rain, he added.

Rainfall likely to increase

The rain clouds moving towards Chennai are expected to increase rainfall across the city. The weather system is bringing rain at a time when many people are returning to Chennai from their hometowns after the holidays.

Puzhal lake storage crosses 5 TMC

Meanwhile, the water storage in Puzhal Lake, one of Chennai's key drinking water reservoirs, has crossed 5 TMC as of October 21, 2026.

Pradeep John said the lake was receiving a good inflow because of its proximity to Chennai. However, more rainfall is needed in the catchment area to sustain the inflow.

He added that light rainfall was expected over the next three days, which could help maintain a steady inflow into the reservoir.

City logs 1,212 rain-related complaints in 24 hours, GCC deploys extra pumps

Up to 5 am on October 21, a total of 1,212 complaints were registered. The majority pertained to waterlogging and inundation, alongside over 50 grievances concerning tree falls and non-functional streetlights, commissioner said.  Most waterlogging and tree-falling complaints have already been cleared. Streetlight repairs have been mandated for resolution within 24 hours. Complaints are strictly closed in the system only after field engineers upload before-and-after photographs.

The majority of complaints originated from the Core City region attributed to higher population density and awareness of the 1913 helpline alongside inputs from North Chennai zones like Manali and Madhavaram.

Complaints continue to be tracked across multiple channels, including the 1913 helpline, social media, the online web portal, the PGR mobile app, and media reports, he added.

RMC issues rain alert till 10 am

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) issued an alert valid until 10 am forecasting light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places across Chennai, Tiruvallur, Ranipettai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagappattinam, Thiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukottai, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Kanyakumari districts, as well as Karaikal and Puducherry

Overnight heavy rain spell in Chennai

Very heavy rainfall, recorded in three areas, led by Vadapalani with 132.9 mm, Saidapet with 125.2 mm, and Alandur with 119.4 mm. Heavy to moderate spells at Maduravoyal recorded 112.5 mm, Madipakkam saw 114.6 mm, Valasaravakkam logged 109.6 mm, Nungambakkam recorded 106.8 mm, Adyar registered 104.1 mm, and Korattur hit 96 mm.

TN rain forecast: Here are the details

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), widespread rainfall is likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal today (October 21) and tomorrow (October 22), followed by isolated to scattered rainfall between October 23 and October 26.

Heavy to very heavy rain, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 40 to 50 kmph is likely to occur at isolated places over Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Kanniyakumari districts on Wednesday. Heavy to very heavy rainfall will continue in Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, and Ramanathapuram districts on Thursday.

Under similar wind conditions, heavy rain with thunderstorms and lightning is expected at one or two places over the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Erode, Tiruppur, Namakkal, Karur, Theni, Dindigul, Tenkasi, Madurai, Virudhunagar, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Sivagangai, and Ramanathapuram, as well as the Karaikal area.

In Chennai, the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 30 degrees Celsius, with the minimum temperature dipping to 25 degrees Celsius on Wednesday.

Holidays declared in schools in 5 Tamil Nadu districts on Wednesday (October 21)

CHENNAI: Schools in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram and Ranipet districts will remain closed on Wednesday (October 21) following heavy overnight rain, with district collectors announcing a holiday.

Heavy rain lashed several parts of Chennai, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur districts through the night, while the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has forecast further rainfall.

Meanwhile, the upper-air cyclonic circulation over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Tamil Nadu coast persists, with a low-pressure area likely to form over the same region within the next 12 hours, according to the Indian Meteorological Department's bulletin on Tuesday night.

Another upper-air cyclonic circulation over the Gulf of Thailand and adjoining areas of Thailand and Myanmar is likely to move into the north Andaman Sea by today morning. Under its influence, a low-pressure area is likely to form over the southeast and adjoining east-central Bay of Bengal around October 23 and intensify over the following three days.

Due to the twin weather systems, heavy to very heavy rain is likely to continue across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal until October 26, the RMC has forecast. Thunderstorms and lightning, accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph, are likely at one or two places across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal until October 26.

The vehicle was officially launched on Saturday at the RCME TANKER Dialysis Centre, located within the GCC Diagnostic Centre near Valluvar Kottam on Kodambakkam High Road. 

Equipped with advanced medical facilities, the vehicle features a patient examination bed, blood sugar testing equipment, and test strips capable of accurately checking blood creatinine levels. This technology allows for the early detection of kidney ailments. 

The Commissioner also handed over 10 dialysis machines provided by Hyundai Mobis and inspected medical procedures at the center, which is organising kidney awareness and screening camps for the next 18 months. Deputy Commissioner (Health) Thakare Shubham Dnyandeorao, City Health Officer M Jagadeesan, Mobis India president G Narasimhan and other officials were present at the event.

The issue was reported at the LM Dadha Higher Secondary School examination centre, where candidates alleged that room invigilators instructed them to sign above the fingerprint section on their OMR answer sheets.

According to the candidates, the usual procedure is to obtain their signatures on the left side of the OMR sheet and thumb impressions in the designated section on the right. However, the invigilators allegedly asked the candidates to sign above the fingerprint section, leaving them uncertain about whether their answer sheets would be considered valid or not.

Candidates stated that the unusual instruction had caused anxiety, particularly as they had not encountered any such confusion at other examination centres.

When they raised the issue with the invigilators, they were reportedly assured that the matter would be brought to the attention of TNPSC officials and that the deviation would not affect their answer sheets.

However, the candidates said they would submit a formal complaint to the Commission, seeking clarification and an assurance that their answer sheets would not be rejected on this account. Candidates at the Choolaimedu centre are awaiting an official clarification from the TNPSC on the issue.

The examinations were conducted at 1,647 centres across the state, with 4,89,885 candidates eligible to appear. In Chennai, 51,721 candidates were admitted to write the examination at 173 centres.

The recruitment examination is being held to fill 846 vacancies across Group 2 and Group 2A posts in the state.

The affected staff serve as animators and supervisors within the civic body. With Deepavali a week away, they urged the Corporation to disburse their October salaries on time.

An animator shared their relief, stating, “I was struggling to make ends meet for my family. After the news story was published, we began receiving salaries starting Thursday night. By the end of Friday, all 215 staff members had received their dues.”

Animators received Rs 12,399 while supervisors received Rs 15,560 as their salary for September. Staff members added that GCC officials are scheduled to meet with them on Monday to discuss further operational and administrative matters.

In his message, the Chief Minister paid tribute to those who fought to protect their mother tongue and bring the Tamil-speaking regions within Tamil Nadu.

Their sacrifices, he said, would remain an enduring source of inspiration for the Tamil people’s sense of belonging and unity.

CM Vijay described the anniversary of the state’s formation through the linguistic reorganisation of states as an occasion to celebrate Tamil Nadu’s distinctive identity and historical legacy.

He conveyed his wishes to everyone, marking the day and highlighting the importance of carrying that legacy forward.

The Chief Minister’s message placed the protection of Tamil at the heart of the commemoration, linking the language with the history, culture and collective identity of its people. He urged citizens to continue honouring Tamil Thai, or Mother Tamil, while safeguarding the traditions associated with the language.

Remembering the martyrs who participated in struggles for linguistic protection and territorial integration, CM Vijay said their history would continue to guide the Tamil people. He underscored their contribution to strengthening a shared sense of identity and bringing Tamil-speaking communities together.

The tribute connected the observance of Tamil Nadu Day with the struggles that shaped the state. CM Vijay’s statement recalled both the efforts to defend the mother tongue and the demand to unite areas inhabited by Tamils with Tamil Nadu.

Alongside remembrance, the Chief Minister appealed for continued commitment to preserving Tamil art, culture and heritage. His message emphasised that celebrating the state’s history also involved sustaining the cultural traditions that form an essential part of its identity.

On the historic occasion, he called for people to work together to uphold Tamil Nadu’s honour and celebrate its achievements and distinctive qualities.

The appeal brought together the themes of linguistic pride, cultural preservation and unity that ran through his greetings.

Tamil Nadu Day is observed on November 1 to commemorate the state’s formation following linguistic reorganisation. In his greetings, CM Vijay presented the occasion as both a celebration of that historical milestone and an opportunity to renew the commitment to the Tamil language and heritage, while remembering those whose struggles helped shape the State and its identity.

The title The Madras Warp draws inspiration from the warp threads that form the foundation of a woven fabric. Just as individual threads come together to create something larger, the exhibition brings together artists with different personalities, experiences and ways of looking at art, while allowing each to retain their individuality. Most of the participating artists share an association with the Government College of Fine Arts and have since developed distinct creative practices. Each artist has created a new body of work especially for this exhibition, making it an opportunity to present their current explorations rather than revisit familiar works.

For Nivetha Mailasini, a visual artist, curator and arts manager, the idea emerged from her long-standing association with the participating artists. Having known them and followed their practices over the years, she was familiar with their individual strengths, interests and artistic sensibilities. "I know all the participating artists personally. I have seen their work, understood their ideologies and followed their artistic journeys. I wanted to bring these different practices together and see how they could exist alongside one another without having to fit into a particular theme," she says.

Explaining the thought behind the title and the decision to keep the exhibition theme-free, Nivetha says, "Most group exhibitions attempt to bring artists together around a particular subject or concept. With this exhibition, we wanted to approach it differently. Beyond the mediums they work with, every artist has a distinct personality, a way of understanding art and a way of seeing the world. That individuality is what we wanted to bring together. The idea of the warp is about bringing all these different threads together while allowing each one to retain its own identity." She adds that the exhibition came together organically, with the initial thought of doing a group show gradually taking shape into a greater collaborative effort. The Madras Warp brings together 16 artists. Apoorva Kappagantula explores the possibilities of clay through functional and sculptural ceramics, while Neppoliyan brings together pottery, ceramics and installation practices. Catherine Alexander's botanical illustrations and print designs draw from her close observation of flora and the natural world. Hemant Kumar moves between printmaking, wildlife photography and astrophotography, bringing together his interests in art, technology and nature. Meanwhile, Vineesh Vijayan is known for his hyper-realistic sculptures, while Vibhav Badarinath Kasal experiments with abstract painting, kinetic sculptures and interactive technology. The exhibition also features the visual storytelling practices of Kiran Babu and Maran Rajapandian, alongside the mixed-media explorations of Helen Jenifer and the interdisciplinary works of Vidya Lalgudi Jaishankar.

For Nivetha, however, the intention goes beyond simply displaying a collection of artworks. "For me, The Madras Warp is about bringing people together through art. Every artist has their own journey, interests, experiences, and way of seeing the world. I wanted to create a space where these differences could exist together without losing their individuality. I hope that visitors will take their time with the artworks, discover something new, experience different perspectives and connect with the artists and their stories. Sometimes, a simple conversation around a work of art can be the beginning of a meaningful connection. Art can be experienced in countless ways, touching each of us differently. In its own quiet way, it becomes a soulful companion, bringing comfort, connection, and meaning to our lives," concludes the artist.*

Three years in, the restaurant has grown into a boutique pasta bar where the emphasis is as much on ingredients and techniques as on the dining experience. Its journey, however, began with a love for food and a shared vision among its partners.

"For me, it was the opportunity to work with Anand and Ganesh. Ganesh had worked with me for a few years across a few interesting projects. Our restaurant manager, Angel, was another factor in giving us the confidence to try something fun, as she could explain the vision fairly clearly to her team and the guests. Pasta and truffles were just vehicles for this team to go have fun and build something that we believed the city was lacking. Honestly, with this team I would have been confident to go sell sand to the Bedouins," says Sandesh Reddy, partner.

For Anand Madhan, partner, the move into the food and beverage industry came from his own relationship with food. "The inspiration came from my abundant love for food as a consumer. I have been an avid food lover all my life and decided to be on the other side — creating food and building a venture around it," he says.

While the idea of introducing handcrafted pasta came from Sandesh, the vision was to push Italian cuisine beyond familiar recipes. The restaurant makes every pasta on its menu by hand using Italian durum wheat semolina. The pasta is also made without eggs, keeping the focus on the texture and bite of the dough.

One of the defining decisions was to introduce fresh black truffles at a standalone restaurant, at a time when the ingredient was largely found in five-star hotel kitchens. Finding the right produce and making it accessible to diners were among the initial challenges.

"We tried several batches from suppliers across Asia and Europe before finding the right truffle. Another key consideration was finding one that we could source consistently throughout the year, so that fresh truffles would be available on our menu year-round," says Anand.

He points out that fresh truffles have a more delicate and distinct flavour compared to the stronger, pungent notes associated with truffle oils and some frozen products. Rather than limiting the ingredient to shavings over pasta, ETC incorporated it into its own truffle butter, oils and hot sauce, allowing diners to experience it in different preparations.

The early days were not without challenges. Anand recalls having to explain the difference between fresh truffles and commonly available truffle oils to customers. Over time, however, the ingredient and its dishes found a loyal following, with diners now calling ahead to check whether fresh truffles are available before making a reservation.

For Chef Ganesh, the culinary philosophy at ETC is rooted in giving traditional Italian cuisine a contemporary touch without losing sight of its techniques. The kitchen experiments with textures, ingredients and flavours while paying attention to balance. Rather than relying heavily on cream, starchy pasta water is used to bring sauces together, allowing the natural flavours of the ingredients to come through.

Fresh truffles, he explains, are particularly sensitive to heat. They are shaved over hot pasta just before serving, allowing the residual heat to release their aroma without destroying it. The kitchen also pairs them with creamy ingredients such as burrata and mascarpone, which help retain their flavour.

Over the years, the menu has expanded beyond truffle-led preparations, with stuffed pastas featuring fillings such as lamb, prawns, chicken, crab, corn and mushrooms. The kitchen has also experimented with different pasta shapes, including cavatelli, keeping younger diners in mind. "Our focus at Elba has always been more than just truffles. Handmade pasta remains at the heart of our menu," says Ganesh.

On the table

The tasting began with milk buns, freshly baked, soft and fluffy, served with three varieties of butter — fresh truffle butter, pesto butter and black garlic butter. The buns were delightful on their own, but the different spreads made each bite more interesting. The truffle butter, in particular, offered a lovely introduction to the ingredient that defines much of ETC's identity.

The Truffalo Zucchini and Ricotta Balls were another standout. These crisp vegetarian bites, served with the restaurant's in-house truffle hot sauce, had a crunchy exterior and a spicy kick that worked particularly well with the filling. They were among the best starters of the meal and a preparation worth returning for.

The Corn Tortellini, filled with corn and spinach and served with cream sauce, was easily the highlight of the tasting and a must-try at ETC. The creamy base complemented the stuffed pasta beautifully, while the paprika sprinkled on top added another layer of flavour. Every bite was packed with flavour, with the filling and sauce coming together particularly well.

The Smoked Watermelon Carpaccio was perhaps the most unconventional plate on the table. Inspired by traditional carpaccio, which is usually prepared with meat or seafood, the kitchen slow-smokes watermelon for several hours to give it a texture and appearance reminiscent of cured meat. Served as a savoury preparation, the dish brings together the sweetness of watermelon with a mix of complementary flavours. It is an interesting departure from the usual way the fruit is served and reflects the kitchen's willingness to experiment.

"It brings together our approach to food: experimenting with familiar dishes, using interesting techniques and not being afraid to do things differently," says Ganesh.

For him, however, creativity must always be backed by flavour. "At ETC, we believe a dish should not just be inventive but, above all, taste good. The balance of flavours is what makes it memorable," he adds.

For the pasta course, the Fettuccine with Mushroom and Truffle stood out. ETC's emphasis on fresh truffles is evident in this preparation, where the flat pasta, button mushrooms and truffle come together in a well-seasoned dish. The seasoning was just right, and the truffle added depth without taking away from the other ingredients.

The Gnocchi Marinara offered a different experience. The pan-fried potato pasta had a pleasing texture, while the marinara sauce brought a tangy freshness to the plate. It was a comforting preparation that showed the menu's range beyond its signature truffle offerings.

The meal ended with tiramisu, a dessert that got the sweetness just right. Made with eggs, it had a balanced sweetness that did not feel overwhelming, making it a satisfying finish to the spread. The Pista Panna Cotta was another delightful dessert. Its soft, jelly-like texture paired beautifully with the richness of pistachios, while the crushed pistachios sprinkled on top added a lovely crunch.

For diners looking to explore the non-vegetarian side of the menu, ETC also offers preparations such as Parmesan Chicken Supreme, Truffalo Chicken Meatballs, Prawn Garlic Butter Focaccia Crisp and Calamari Fritti with Secco Pomodoro. Its pasta selection includes options such as Prawn Ravioli, Crab Ravioli, Tuscan Chicken Ravioli and Spaghetti Carbonara ETC Style, alongside meat-filled specials.

Beyond the food, Anand says the restaurant was envisioned as an experience that paid attention to the smaller details — from hospitality and the upkeep of the space to how the team responds when something goes wrong and recognises returning customers. The intention, he says, was never to be perfect but to make a genuine effort with care and attention.

According to reports, one litre of petrol is being sold at Rs 107.77, while diesel costs Rs 99.55 per litre in Chennai on Sunday.

On May 25, petrol was raised by Rs 2.61 a litre and diesel by Rs 2.71. The increase took cumulative hikes since May 15 to nearly Rs 7.5 per litre.

Until May, fuel prices had largely remained unchanged since April 2022, except for a Rs 2 per litre reduction announced in March 2024 ahead of the national elections.

Why have fuel prices been increased?

Global crude oil prices had surged more than 50 per cent since late February following US-Israeli strikes on Iran and disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route.

State-run retailers had delayed passing on higher input costs for weeks, a move the government said was intended to shield consumers from inflation. Opposition parties, however, accused the administration of holding back price increases until after key state elections.

The May 15 increase came after the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) expanded its electoral footprint by winning three of five state and UT elections, including West Bengal.

Retail fuel prices were first raised by Rs 3 per litre on May 15, followed by a 90-paise increase on May 19 and another hike on May 23, when petrol prices rose by 87 paise and diesel by 91 paise per litre.

On May 25, petrol was raised by Rs 2.61 a litre and diesel by Rs 2.71. The cumulative increase since May 15 stands at nearly Rs 7.5 per litre.

The increase varies across cities due to differences in local taxes.

Petrol rates (per litre) in Chennai across last 5 days:

October 30 - Rs 107.77

October 29 - Rs 107.77

October 28 - Rs 107.77

October 27 - Rs 107.77

October 26 - Rs 107.77

October 25 - Rs 107.77

Diesel rates (per litre) in Chennai across last 5 days:

October 30 - Rs 99.55

October 29 - Rs 99.55

October 28 - Rs 99.55

October 27 - Rs 99.55

October 26 - Rs 99.55

The two idols were found with their respective supporting pedestals at a depth of one meter during the ongoing excavation, which commenced on August 3, he said.

"Excavation works are currently underway in Nagapattinam under the aegis of the Tamil Nadu government's Department of Archaeology. Through these efforts, evidence showcasing the antiquity and historical significance of the Tamil people is being uncovered. I am delighted to share that several statues have been discovered, including bronze idols of Natarajar and Sivakami Amman from the Chola era," Rajmohan said, posting the images on X on Friday.

Lord Nataraja's idol in standing position measures 110 cm in height and 100 cm in width. The four-armed deity is captured in the classical 'Ananda Tandava' posture. Goddess Sivakami also in standing position is 82 cm in height and 23 cm in width. The two-armed goddess is gracefully sculpted in the traditional 'Tribhanga' (triple-bend) posture.

Based on initial analyses of their physical traits, iconographic attributes, ornamental etchings, and pedestal style, experts estimate the idols date back to the 12th century AD (late Chola period). These artifacts offer crucial material evidence on the religious practices, metallurgical engineering, and maritime trade-era metal sculpture schools centered around Nagapattinam under Chola rule, an official said.

The suspect, David of Kannappa Sami Nagar in Kavangarai, regularly transported schoolchildren in and around Puzhal.

On Friday evening, parents and relatives of one of the school children confronted him for sexually abusing a girl and severely assaulted him. David’s son took him to the Government Hospital at Periyar Nagar later that night, where he was admitted for treatment.

Meanwhile, the girl’s mother filed a complaint with the Puzhal All-Women Police Station where a case was registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Meanwhile, at around 5.30 am on October 31, hospital staff found that the auto driver was missing from the ward.

Following this, special teams have been formed under the supervision of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Kolathur, and led by the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Puzhal Range, to trace the accused. Police said further investigation is under way.

Officials had been monitoring passengers arriving from Bangkok on Friday night. They noticed a 30-year-old man from Chennai who had returned from a tourist trip to Thailand.

After completing immigration formalities, he collected his suitcase from the conveyor belt and attempted to leave through the Green Channel, claiming that he had no dutiable goods to declare. However, Customs officers grew suspicious of his movements and stopped him for questioning.

As he gave evasive answers, he was taken to the Customs office inside the airport for further examination. When officers searched his suitcase, they found 10 packets concealed inside. Upon opening them, they discovered approximately 1.5 kg of high-grade hydroponic ganja.

The consignment was seized, and the passenger was arrested. During interrogation, officials found that an international drug trafficking network had lured the man with the promise of a free trip abroad. He was sent from Chennai to Thailand and asked to return the following day with a suitcase containing the contraband.

The passenger, who had travelled abroad expecting a free flight, has now landed in a drug smuggling case. Customs officials have registered a case and are investigating to identify the members of the international drug trafficking network who recruited him for the operation.

State Highway 50 (SH50) is an arterial route connecting Tirumazhisai and Uthukottai. The ROB is vital for pedestrians, motorists, daily commuters and heavy vehicles to cross the Cooum and railway tracks safely. However, neglect has left both the bridge and its access roads in deplorable condition.

Residents highlight that the pedestrian infrastructure has become increasingly unsafe for daily commuters accessing nearby transport hubs. K Baskar of Manavalanagar said, "The staircase and elevated pavement were built for pedestrians who cross either side on foot. Every morning and evening, dozens of commuters rely on these steps to reach the Tiruvallur Railway Station."

Baskar further noted that the approach road near the ROB is poorly maintained. "Thick creepers and wild bushes have choked the steps. Snakes are frequently spotted in these overgrown bushes, posing a grave threat to people walking by," he added.

Regular users of the ROB warn that broken walkway infrastructure is creating a severe accident risk: "On the bridge, many concrete footway slabs are missing, while several others are cracked and broken. This forces pedestrians off the sidewalk and onto the busy carriageway alongside fast-moving traffic. The situation worsens during evening rush hours, making a major accident bound to happen if left unaddressed," said A Anantha Krishnan of Tiruvallur.

Responding to the grievances, a senior State Highways official in Tiruvallur said, "The pavements on the ROB fall under the jurisdiction of the State Highways department. I will instruct our field officials to inspect the site and initiate immediate measures for pedestrian safety and overall maintenance."

The confrontation happened around 7:40 pm on October 29 near the Raja Mannar Salai junction in KK Nagar, police said.

Head Constable Bhuvaneshwaran (36) of Ashok Nagar Traffic wing was regulating traffic when he saw the SUV trying to turn right at a no-right-turn point. He asked the driver to go ahead and take a U-turn further down the road. The driver allegedly did not obey and kept his vehicle in the middle of the carriageway, blocking traffic.

When the constable started recording the violation on his phone, Prakash got agitated, questioned him for filming, snatched the device and hurled abuses. He also pulled the constable by his uniform and attacked him.

A Special Sub-Inspector who tried to intervene was also reportedly abused and suffered minor injuries. A co-passenger who was with Prakash allegedly tried to assault the constable.

The SUV was later moved to the roadside with help from bystanders, after which Prakash returned the phone and drove away. Based on a complaint, Police traced Prakash and arrested him. He was let off on bail with conditions to sign at a police station for two weeks.

Police said the girls, both Class 11 students of a government girls higher secondary school in Pernampattu, had left home on October 30 saying they were going to school but never reached the campus.

After the school alerted their families about their absence, an inquiry revealed that they had gone to Gudiyatham to meet a friend. Their parents reportedly contacted them over phone and pulled them up.

Instead of returning home, the girls boarded a train from Gudiyatham to Bengaluru and then travelled to Chennai, reaching Central station around 4.30 am on Saturday. From there, they took a bus and alighted on New Avadi Road.

Around 8.30 am, Head Constable Vasanthakumar noticed the two and after a preliminary enquiry, handed them over to the local police station.

The price of 22-carat gold dropped by Rs 310 per gram to Rs 12,730, compared with Rs 13,040 on Friday. Consequently, the price of a sovereign (eight grams) fell to Rs 1,01,840 from Rs 1,04,320.

The decline was steeper in the 24-carat segment, with pure gold falling by Rs 338 per gram to Rs 13,887. The price of eight grams of 24-carat gold stood at Rs 1,11,096, registering a decline of Rs 2,704 from the previous day's rate.

Silver prices also moved downwards, with a gram declining by Rs 10 to Rs 200. A kilogram of silver was priced at Rs 2 lakh. The latest decline follows a period of volatility in the precious metals market.

Gold prices had edged upwards over the previous week before reversing course in recent trading sessions, with consecutive declines on Friday and Saturday, bringing some relief to buyers. The fall comes ahead of deepavali, when jewellery purchases traditionally gather pace.

The reduction in prices could provide an incentive to households planning gold and silver purchases for the festive season, particularly after the recent fluctuations in rates.

The CMRL said it has the necessary approval to continue operating services on the route and that there would be no changes to the existing timetable.

The clarification comes amid reports questioning the validity of the operating authorisation for the recently inaugurated corridor, which is part of Chennai Metro’s Phase II project. The new stretch, connecting Poonamallee Bypass and Vadapalani through Porur Junction, spans approximately 15 km and has 11 stations currently in operation.

Reiterating that operations would continue without interruption, CMRL urged media organisations to verify information regarding Metro services directly with its authorities before publishing or circulating reports. It also said that all official announcements concerning Metro operations would be communicated through its authorised channels.

The clarification is expected to address concerns among commuters about a possible disruption to services on the newly opened corridor.

Held under the Government of India’s Special Campaign 6.0, the initiative collected 3 mobile phones, 38 computers, 11 laptops, 82 keyboards, 361 televisions, 34 ceiling fans, and 780 other electronic devices.

The campaign received a good response from the public, Residents’ Welfare Associations (RWAs), educational institutions, and commercial establishments. In another separate event, the intensive drive was carried out at Kannagi Nagar.

South Regional Deputy Commissioner Aftab Rasool inspected the mosquito control and waste removal efforts. A dedicated team of 41 sanitation workers from private contractors, alongside 20 vector control personnel, carried out the operation. Equipped with fogging machines and chemical sprayers, the workers successfully covered 5,800 households across 42 streets.

Police said that he was an employee at a firm in Manapakkam and was riding back home after work when he met with the accident.

The car that was trailing his bike hit the vehicle, causing Madhan to lose his balance and fall off the bike. Passerby rushed to his aid and Madhan was rushed to a hospital, where he died during the early hours of Saturday.

Police identified the car driver as C Christuraj (39) of Perungudi. Based on a complaint lodged by Madhan’s mother, Mylapore Traffic Investigation Wing registered a case against him. The driver has been booked under several sections including 106 (1) (causing death by negligence).

In another incident, a first-year college student died after being hit by the Jaipur Express while crossing the railway tracks near Pattaravakkam, between Ambattur and Villivakkam stations, on Friday evening. The deceased was identified as M Gayathri (18).

The MTC operates more than 3,900 buses, carrying an average of over 34 lakh passengers daily. Its buses are maintained and operated from 33 depots, including Central, T Nagar, Adyar, Tambaram, Vyasarpadi, Vadapalani, Ambattur and Madhavaram.

Officials were reportedly shocked to find liquor bottles in several depots, with some employees consuming alcohol after completing their duty and before returning home. Following this, officials cleared the bottles from the premises and put up posters warning employees against drinking alcohol inside the depots.

As part of the initiative, an awareness programme was held at the Vadapalani depot on Friday. Krishnamoorthy, former director of the Institute of Road Transport, participated in the programme and counselled employees on the harmful effects of alcohol consumption. Vadapalani depot branch manager Senthilkumar, Anbalagan, president of the Tamil Nadu Government Transport Corporation Staff Corruption Trade Union Federation, and several employees also attended the programme.

If it develops into a cyclonic storm, it will be named ‘Murasu’, as proposed by India. This will be the second cyclonic storm to form over the Bay of Bengal this year.

The well-marked low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Andaman Sea concentrated into a depression at 11.30 am on Saturday. It is likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify into a deep depression over the next 12 hours, followed by a cyclonic storm over the southeast and adjoining southwest and west-central Bay of Bengal in the subsequent 12 hours.

The system is likely to reach the west-central Bay of Bengal, near the Andhra Pradesh coast, by the evening of November 2.

Rain forecast for Tamil Nadu

Meanwhile, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, has forecast light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places across parts of Tamil Nadu on Sunday (November 1).

Heavy rain is likely at isolated places in the Nilgiris and Tiruvallur districts on November 2, and in Cuddalore, Villupuram and Puducherry on November 3. Thunderstorms and lightning are also likely at isolated places between November 1 and 4.

Chennai weather forecast

Chennai is likely to experience partly cloudy skies on Saturday, with mainly dry weather. The maximum temperature is expected to be 34-35°C and the minimum 25-26°C.

On Sunday, the sky is likely to remain partly cloudy, with light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in some parts of the city. The maximum temperature is expected to dip slightly to 33-34°C, while the minimum is likely to remain between 25°C and 26°C.

The IMD has also forecast above-normal maximum temperatures by 2-4°C in a few pockets of Tamil Nadu on Saturday and by 2-3°C on Sunday.

The projects, together worth nearly Rs 44 crore, will be spread across several Corporation zones, including Manali, Ambattur, Anna Nagar, Teynampet, Perungudi and Sholinganallur.

The civic body is in the process of inviting tenders for the works, which will begin after the tender process is completed, according to GCC Commissioner GS Sameeran. Among the proposed park locations are the Kathipara-Airport entrance and the VIP arrival area at the airport, the Manali Road stretch beneath the 2B bridge in Tondiarpet zone, EVR Periyar Salai and Nelson Manickam Salai in Anna Nagar zone, and Peters Road in Teynampet zone.

Sholinganallur zone will account for a significant share of the new parks, with locations including Kannagi Nagar, Adityaram Nagar, Jawahar Nagar and areas under the Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board. Other sites include Nerkundram and residential neighbourhoods in Manali and Perungudi zones. The 11 proposed sports grounds will include locations in Amirthammal Nagar and Ashoka Street in Madhavaram zone; Sharma Nagar, Dr Ambedkar Arts College and EH Road in Tondiarpet zone; RV Nagar in Kodambakkam zone; and areas in Sholinganallur, including CLRI Nagar and TNHB layouts.

The projects form part of the CMIUDM, a five-year scheme announced for 2026-31 with an overall outlay of Rs 1.5 lakh crore for urban local bodies across TN. Of this, Rs 2,000 crore has been earmarked for urban greening, recreation and open-space development across the State during the five-year period.

Under the new guidelines, engineers must inspect and record the existing pavement condition, road levels, camber, cross-fall, longitudinal profile, drainage and adjoining property levels before relaying.

Repeated bituminous relaying that raises road levels must be strictly avoided, and milling must be undertaken wherever necessary to maintain the approved finished level and ensure proper drainage. The circular further specifies that the milling depth should generally correspond to the thickness of the proposed new layer.

Engineers must verify and record the milling depth and quantity before relaying. The existing road profile must also be assessed and corrected during milling to achieve the approved camber and cross-fall after the work.

The guidelines prescribe procedures for preparing the surface before the new layer is laid. Mechanical brooming is mandatory to remove loose aggregates, Manhole covers, utility chambers, footpaths and drainage structures must be aligned with the approved finished road level. Photographs of milled surfaces must also be displayed at the worksite.

The circular addresses the procedure to be followed in future relaying works, but does not expressly order the lowering of existing roads that are already higher than adjoining houses

The instructions apply to all applicable bituminous road-relaying works within GCC limits. Superintending Engineers, Zonal Officers, Executive Engineers, Assistant Executive Engineers, Assistant Engineers and Junior Engineers have been directed to ensure strict compliance within their jurisdictions. Contractors and project management consultants have also been included in the circulation list.

The move comes amid concerns over roads being repeatedly re-laid without adequately removing existing layers that in turn lead to raise in street levels and leaving adjoining homes at lower elevations.

At a protest near Rajarathinam Stadium in Egmore on October 25, Arappor Iyakkam alleged that the practice had contributed to rainwater and sewage entering homes and called for stricter enforcement of road work procedures. The circular addresses the procedure to be followed in future relaying works, but does not expressly order the lowering of existing roads that are already higher than adjoining houses. Nor does it specify the penalties sought by Arappor, including withholding contractor payments, blacklisting and departmental action.

Which vegetable prices increased today?

Drumstick – Rs 80 per kg, up by Rs 30 (compared to October 30, 2026)

Graffiti Eggplant - Rs 35 per kg, up by Rs 20

Yam - Rs 35 per kg, up by Rs 10

Bottle guard - Rs 35 per kg, up by Rs 10

Ujala Brinjal- Rs 40 per kg, up by Rs 10

Which vegetable prices decreased today?

Lemons - Rs 120 per kg, down by Rs 30 (Compared to October 30, 2026)

Peas - Rs 70 per kg, down by Rs 20

What are the prices of essential vegetables ?

Potato: Rs 30 per kg

Shallot - Rs 140 per kg

Okra - Rs 20 per kg

Tomato - Rs 50 per kg

What are the prices of other vegetables?

Beetroot: Rs 50 per kg

Carrot: Rs 30 per kg

Radish: Rs 30 per kg

How much do herbs cost today ?

Coriander: Rs 8 per bunch

Mint: Rs 7 per bunch

Curry leaves: Rs 30 per kg

The yellow metal is now priced at Rs 1,01,840 per sovereign and Rs 12,730 per gram, following a decrease of Rs 310 per gram.

On October 30, gold was priced at Rs 1,04,320 per sovereign and Rs 13,040 per gram.

Silver prices decrease

Silver prices have decreased by Rs 10 per gram and are now sold at Rs 200 per gram (Rs 2,00,000 per kg) on October 31.

Gold rate today vs gold rate on this day, last year

Gold prices remain higher compared to the same day last year. On October 31, 2025, 22-carat gold was priced at Rs 90,400 per sovereign (Rs 11,300 per gram). On October 31, 2026, it is priced at Rs 1,01,840 per sovereign (Rs 12,730 per gram), marking an increase of Rs 11,440 or about 12.65%.

Gold price (22-carat) over the last five days:

October 30, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,04,320 | 1 gram - Rs 13,040

October 29, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,05,560 | 1 gram - Rs 13,195

October 28, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,05,560 | 1 gram - Rs 13,195

October 27, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,05,080 | 1 gram - Rs 13,135

October 26, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,04,680 | 1 gram - Rs 13,085

Silver price over the last five days:

October 30, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 210

October 29, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 215

October 28, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 215

October 27, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 220

October 26, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 220

The temporary cables were laid to supply electricity to the houses following a power disruption two weeks ago. However, their continued presence outside the houses has made it difficult for residents to take their vehicles out and clean their entrances.

A resident, Metila, said, “When the temporary cables were laid, officials said that the power issue would be rectified soon and that these would be removed. However, no work has been carried out so far. Every morning, we have to drive over the cables to take our vehicles out of the house. We also face difficulty while cleaning the entrance. Since the cables are lying right outside the houses, we are also worried about children playing outside.”

Concurring with her was Aruljothi, a student of social work, who added: “Providing a temporary cable connection during the power disruption was helpful but it’s a serious issue that the cables have not been removed for the past two weeks. Kids pass through this street in the mornings and evenings. They also visit the nearby park. This could lead to unexpected accidents.”

Admitting to the problem, a senior TNPDCL official said, “The fault in the cable will be rectified soon. After that, the exposed electrical cables will be removed. Until then, the cables have been laid temporarily.”

According to reports, one litre of petrol is being sold at Rs 107.77, while diesel costs Rs 99.55 per litre in Chennai on Saturday.

On May 25, petrol was raised by Rs 2.61 a litre and diesel by Rs 2.71. The increase took cumulative hikes since May 15 to nearly Rs 7.5 per litre.

Until May, fuel prices had largely remained unchanged since April 2022, except for a Rs 2 per litre reduction announced in March 2024 ahead of the national elections.

Why have fuel prices been increased?

Global crude oil prices had surged more than 50 per cent since late February following US-Israeli strikes on Iran and disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route.

State-run retailers had delayed passing on higher input costs for weeks, a move the government said was intended to shield consumers from inflation. Opposition parties, however, accused the administration of holding back price increases until after key state elections.

The May 15 increase came after the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) expanded its electoral footprint by winning three of five state and UT elections, including West Bengal.

Retail fuel prices were first raised by Rs 3 per litre on May 15, followed by a 90-paise increase on May 19 and another hike on May 23, when petrol prices rose by 87 paise and diesel by 91 paise per litre.

On May 25, petrol was raised by Rs 2.61 a litre and diesel by Rs 2.71. The cumulative increase since May 15 stands at nearly Rs 7.5 per litre.

The increase varies across cities due to differences in local taxes.

Petrol rates (per litre) in Chennai across last 5 days:

October 29 - Rs 107.77

October 28 - Rs 107.77

October 27 - Rs 107.77

October 26 - Rs 107.77

October 25 - Rs 107.77

Diesel rates (per litre) in Chennai across last 5 days:

October 29 - Rs 99.55

October 28 - Rs 99.55

October 27 - Rs 99.55

October 26 - Rs 99.55

October 25 - Rs 99.55

Police said that Shenbagavalli was also preparing for central government recruitment examinations. The question papers were difficult, and she was worried about whether she would clear the exam and secure a government job.

On Thursday morning, her two roommates went out for a walk, while Shenbagavalli remained in the room. When they returned, they found the room locked from inside. Despite knocking on the door and repeatedly calling her mobile phone, there was no response.

The students alerted the hostel warden, after which the hostel staff broke open the door. They found Shenbagavalli hanging from the ceiling using her dupatta. Upon information, the Tambaram police rushed to the spot, recovered the body and sent it to the Tambaram GH for a post-mortem.

Her parents in Kumbakonam were also informed. The police have secured her mobile phone and are examining her call records and messages to establish whom she had last contacted and whether she had received any messages before her death. As the phone was locked, efforts are being made to access it.

Police are also investigating whether examination-related stress could be the reason for her death.

Discussing suicides can be triggering for some. However, suicides are preventable. In case you feel distressed by the content or know someone in distress, call --- Sneha, Chennai: 91-44-2464 0050, 91-44-2464 0060; Maithri, Cochin: +91 239 6272; Sumaitri, New Delhi: 2338 9090; Aasra, Mumbai: 9820466726; Fortis MentalHealth: 8376804102.

Set against the heritage architecture of DakshinaChitra Museum, the production pairs Rajhesh's veena composition with Bharatanatyam performances by dancers Sagana Muralidharan and Varshini Mukundan. Conceived as an audio-visual experience rather than a conventional music video, the project explores how a classical instrument can be presented through a contemporary visual language.

For Rajhesh, the idea behind Grooveena was to explore the possibilities of the instrument beyond its conventional musical boundaries. "For me, the veena is not limited to any one genre. Carnatic music is its soul, but I believe the instrument has enormous possibilities beyond tradition. With Grooveena, I wanted to explore its contemporary side, bringing in fresh sounds, energy and groove while retaining the veena's identity. It's all about pushing boundaries without losing its soul," he says.

However, experimentation, he believes, should not come at the cost of an instrument's identity. "The veena's soul remains Carnatic, but its possibilities are limitless. It's about finding that balance between tradition and innovation," he adds.

The music came first, with the idea of bringing dance into the visual gradually taking shape. Rajhesh says he has always visualised music beyond sound, and the dancers' interpretation brought another dimension to the composition. "Their movements added visual rhythm and emotions that made the music come alive differently," he says.

For Sagana and Varshini, both trained in Bharatanatyam, the process began with listening closely to the composition and identifying the emotions and imagery it evoked. They explored how adavus, abhinaya and intricate footwork could complement the music, allowing the choreography to flow while retaining the essence of both the dance form and the composition.

"We tried to let our bodies become an extension of the veena. Its pauses gave us space to express through stillness and abhinaya, while its intricate phrases inspired fluid movements, adavus and rhythmic footwork. We focused on listening closely and allowing the music to guide our movements rather than forcing a rhythm onto it," they explain.

Although Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music share a longstanding relationship, interpreting the composition for an audio-visual production called for a different approach. The dancers had to think beyond conventional stage choreography, experimenting with movements and expressions while adapting to the composition's unique musicality. Their intention was to retain the grace and vocabulary of Bharatanatyam while presenting it in a contemporary format.

The duo approached Grooveena as both a dance performance and a visual storytelling experience. Every gesture, expression and rhythmic sequence was an attempt to bring the veena's music alive through Bharatanatyam. The setting also became part of this visual interpretation. Performing at DakshinaChitra influenced their movements and expressions. "We wanted to connect with the space rather than treat it merely as a backdrop, allowing its heritage, aesthetics and atmosphere to become an extension of our choreography," they say.

The choice of a visual medium also offered possibilities beyond a conventional stage presentation. According to the dancers, camera angles, the use of space, expressions and storytelling allow audiences to experience traditional art from different perspectives. The visual format, they feel, can bring a certain intimacy to the art and its surroundings.

For Rajhesh, the idea of presenting Grooveena at DakshinaChitra came from Supernova, which handles music distribution for his label, RV Dreamscape Records, and his YouTube channel. The team suggested presenting the composition through a visual production at the museum, a concept he welcomed because of the cultural backdrop it offered.

With younger audiences increasingly encountering classical instruments through contemporary formats, the artistes see such collaborations as an opportunity to build curiosity and create fresh connections with traditional art forms. However, the dancers emphasise that innovation must not compromise the fundamentals of the form.

"For us, the technique, aesthetics, discipline and core principles of Bharatanatyam are non-negotiable. We believe innovation should expand the form, not dilute its identity," they say.

Rajhesh, too, sees an exciting future for the instrument. Describing the veena as timeless and versatile, he believes it has considerable scope in contemporary music as well.

Presented by Supernova in collaboration with RV Dreamscape Records, Grooveena features direction by Hari Rajan and creative direction and videography by RS Vineeth. Produced by Ashwin Kashyap Raghuraman and Abhishek Prakash, the production also features a brand collaboration with Majja.

The accused, Masook Jain of Vepery, was arrested by the Triplicane police on Wednesday and remanded in judicial custody.

According to the police, the complainant, Seerak (25), runs a jewellery shop and workshop on Irulappan Street in Sowcarpet. Jain had reportedly been collecting gold ornaments from him on a commission basis, claiming that he would sell them to jewellery shops operated by his contacts.

Believing his claims, Seerak handed over 7.30 kg of gold ornaments to Jain in five instalments during June and July. However, Jain allegedly failed to pay for the jewellery or return the ornaments. When Seerak attempted to contact him, Jain reportedly stopped answering his calls, raising suspicion that he had been cheated.

Following this, Seerak lodged a complaint with the Triplicane police on October 27. The police registered a case and launched an investigation.

After preliminary inquiries, the police traced and arrested Jain on Wednesday. He was subsequently produced before a court and remanded in judicial custody.

In the first case, the Ambattur All-Women Police arrested Mohammad Rafeeq alias Sarphul Dewan (40), a native of Jharkhand, for sexually assaulting a seven-year-old girl who had gone to a mosque to attend Quran classes.

According to the complaint lodged by the girl’s father, the accused had assaulted the child while she was returning from the mosque after her classes. The girl later informed her parents, who approached the police.

In the second case, Kilambakkam All-Women Police arrested Manoharan (50), a financier, for sexually assaulting a three-year-old girl at her house near Guduvanchery in Chengalpattu. Police said Manoharan, a resident of Thailavaram, runs a small chit fund business.

On October 24, he visited the house, located two streets away from his residence, to collect money. The child was alone at the time, and he sexually assaulted her. Following a complaint from her parents, police registered a case, arrested Manoharan and produced him before a Chengalpattu court, which remanded him in judicial custody.

A new midday service will run from Tiruvallur to Moore Market Complex, departing Tiruvallur at 12.25 pm and reaching Central at 1.45 pm.

In the Arakkonam section, two existing services between Moore Market Complex and Pattabiram will be extended to Tiruvallur, while another pair will be extended between Moore Market Complex and Kadambattur.

The changes also include a switch in the stopping patterns of two evening trains to Arakkonam. The 7.30 pm service from Moore Market Complex, currently a fast train, will stop at all stations. The 7.45 pm slow service will become a fast train.

On the Central–Sullurupeta route, an early-morning service that previously terminated at Gummidipundi will be extended to Sullurupeta. It will leave Moore Market Complex at 5.20 am and reach Sullurupeta at 7.55 am. The corresponding return service will originate from Sullurupeta at 8.10 am and reach Moore Market Complex at 10.40 am.

On the Beach–Chengalpattu section, the semi-fast train from Arakkonam to Chennai Beach, which leaves Arakkonam at 7.30 am, will make an additional stop at Guduvanchery at 9.20 am.

The accused, Zakir Hussain of Vyasarpadi, who faces ten criminal cases, scribbled the message alongside a sketch of a machete on a seat inside an electric bus.

According to police, the graffiti read, "Want to kill a rowdy in Vyasarpadi? Contact me", followed by the name and mobile number of his long-time rival, Vicky.

After a photograph of the seat went viral on social media, police registered a case and traced the phone number to Vicky.

During interrogation, Vicky denied writing the message, claiming someone was attempting to set him up.

Police then scanned CCTV footage from inside the bus, which showed Hussain writing the message on the seat.

Upon arrest, Hussain confessed that he committed the act in an inebriated state following a feud over a stolen mobile phone.

He was produced before a local magistrate court and remanded to judicial custody.

The system was inaugurated by Tambaram City Police Commissioner A Amalraj at the Armed Reserve Headquarters in Paduvancherry on Friday.

The motorcycles have been equipped with modern policing devices, including public address systems, walkie-talkies, body-worn cameras, Android mobile phones, blinking lights, sirens with light bars and equipment boxes. They also carry lathis, helmets and reflective jackets.

Under the initiative, beat patrols will be conducted round the clock in three shifts to ensure continuous police presence and strengthen crime prevention. The system is also expected to improve communication and coordination among police personnel and facilitate swift responses to emergency calls made through the 100 helpline. It will also help police provide prompt assistance to the public and address grievances.

For instance, a liquor bottle currently priced at Rs 170 will cost Rs 180 from November 1. Consumers will no longer have to pay the Rs 10 separately at the billing counter. They can continue to get Rs 10 back by returning eligible empty bottles under the buy-back scheme.

In a circular dated October 29, TASMAC has directed that the revised MRP be implemented across liquor categories from November 1. The revision covers Indian-made foreign liquor, beer, wine, other State liquor and imported liquor. Prices of liquor supplied to FL-2 and FL-3 licensed premises will also be revised.

TASMAC has instructed manufacturers and distributors to ensure that revised price labels are affixed at production facilities, wholesale depots and retail outlets. Existing stocks without buy-back QR-code stickers must be identified and labelled by October 31. The corporation has instructed shop personnel not to collect any additional amount towards the scheme over and above the revised MRP.

TASMAC will also provide retail shops handling charges ranging from Rs 750 to Rs 2,000 per day, depending on the location and average daily bottle sales, to meet the additional work involved in receiving, storing and handing over empty bottles.

Which vegetable prices increased today?

Beans – Rs 100 per kg, up by Rs 40 (compared to October 14, 2026)

Onion_ Rs 75 per kg, up by Rs 15

Tomato - Rs 50 per kg, up by Rs 20

Ginger - Rs 170 per kg, up by Rs 10

Which vegetable prices decreased today?

Raw mangoes - Rs 90 per kg, down by Rs 40 (Compared to October 14, 2026)

Lemons - Rs 150 per kg, down by Rs 30

Green Chillies - Rs 60 per kg, down by Rs 10

Garlic - Rs 230 per kg, down by Rs 20

Peas - Rs 90 per kg, down by Rs 10

What are the prices of essential vegetables ?

Potato: Rs 32 per kg

Drumstick : Rs 50 per kg

Shallot - Rs 140 per kg

Okra - Rs 20 per kg

Brinjal: Rs 30 per kg

What are the prices of other vegetables ?

Beetroot: Rs 50 per kg

Carrot: Rs 30 per kg

Radish: Rs 30 per kg

How much do herbs cost today ?

Coriander: Rs 8 per bunch

Mint: Rs 7 per bunch

Curry leaves: Rs 30 per kg