For Varun Gupta, founder of Chennai Photo Biennale Foundation's Darkroom, the revival is rooted in a desire to reconnect with photography itself.

"Digital photography, of course, came and revolutionised photography, then came mobile phone photography, and now AI. But analogue photography has always been something personally I've been drawn to," he says, explaining that although he built his career in photography, film remained the medium that brought him the greatest creative satisfaction.

That personal journey eventually led to the creation of CPB's community darkroom, where photographers from complete beginners to experienced can learn, experiment and practice analogue photography together.

"Film photography has its own slowness and charm that one must experience," Varun says. Going to the roots of photography, requiring light and chemicals to interact to produce an image, is a search for authenticity.

For Chennai-based analogue photography enthusiast Pugalendhi, film first entered his life not through photography, but through journaling.

The very first time that I got introduced to film photography was for the purpose of journaling, he says. "It slows you down. When you are taking photographs on film, you become more intentional. You admire things. You look at the intricacies of the place or the art or the event. You think and then take a photo."

That slower way eventually changed the way he documented his own life.

"One of the cons of digital photography is it being digital," he says. "With film, you notice details. You admire the moment instead of rushing through it. That's why I call it intentional documentation," he explains. That inconvenience creates a little friction, and that friction makes us more present.”

Film demands patience, A photographer must finish the roll, send it for development, wait for scanning or printing and only then discover the results. says Pugalendhi

That experience is now drawing many first-time photographers to Chennai Photo Biennale Foundation's Darkroom, where workshops introduce participants to every stage of analogue photography from developing exposed film to making silver gelatin prints by hand.

For Otis, curiosity first led him to the Darkroom 101 workshop.

“I had a basic knowledge about analog photography. That's when my friend who works in CPB told me about this 'Darkroom 101' workshop. Learning the process of finding the right exposure for a picture, including burning and dodging, made me want to stay in the darkroom until I got it just right. I still remember Varun convincing me saying, 'Dude, that's the right exposure,' and me replying back saying, 'Let me expose it for two seconds more!' That was a fun day indeed, he recalls with a laugh.

Otis added "Analogue photography really changed how I see things. It slowed down my process of taking a picture, helping me observe my surroundings better as I metered the light and dialed in the right exposure.Ultimately, it really helps you master your photography."

"I run a photowalk community where I teach and offer advice on analog photography. A lot of people still don't know much about analog cameras or are intimidated to try them. It gives me an opportunity to demonstrate the cameras and explain the whole process." Otis adds

Harish's another participant from the CPB workshop says journey into analogue photography began with a much simpler goal."I wanted to explore and build my foundation by having a deep understanding of the basics."Like many newcomers, he assumed " it would be similar to digital with a few extra steps but didn't know it was a money and time-consuming process."

“I was holding something tangible at the end of the process in this era of digital dump, I just feel, it makes me shoot less."Harish said when asked about the impact of analogue photography.

Like Otis, he believes the community has become just as important as the craft itself.

That growing community is also reflected in the industry. Vivek Mariappan, Product Head for Film and Darkroom at Srishti Digilife, says analogue photography has evolved from "a nostalgic curiosity to becoming an active creative medium again."

We're seeing rising demand for processing chemicals, developing tanks, enlargers, photographic paper and darkroom accessories. People increasingly want to understand the complete analogue workflow—shooting, developing and printing—rather than just shooting a roll and sending it off to a lab, he says.

According to him, the appeal lies in the intention that film demands.

"Digital photography has made image-making incredibly democratic, which is a wonderful thing. But because images have become so effortless to produce, many photographers are now looking for something more deliberate."

"Film changes your relationship with photography. Every exposure costs something. A frame on a 36-shot roll matters in a way an image on a phone with unlimited storage doesn't. That constraint makes you observe more carefully and think harder about light and composition before you press the shutter."

"The future of analogue in India depends less on selling film and more on building access and education—more labs, more community darkrooms, more workshops and more chances for people to learn the process from exposure right through to printing. Communities are what actually sustain analogue photography long-term. Vivek concludes.

The yellow metal is now priced at Rs 1,10,000 per sovereign and Rs 13,750 per gram, after an increase of Rs 270 per gram.

Earlier on August 5, the price of 22-carat gold stood at Rs 1,06,880 per sovereign and Rs 13,260 per gram.

Silver prices increases

Meanwhile, silver prices also increased by Rs 10 to sell for Rs 250 per gram (Rs 2,50,000 per kg) on August 6.

On August 5, silver was priced at Rs 240 per gram.

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

Gold remains significantly higher compared to last year. Prices have surged from Rs 75,040 per sovereign (Rs 9,380 per gram) on August 6, 2025, to Rs Rs 1,10,000 per sovereign (Rs 13,750 per gram) on August 6, 2026, marking an increase of Rs 34,960 or about 46.58%.

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

August 5 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,06,880 | 1 gram - Rs 13,260

August 4, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,05,600 | 1 gram - Rs 13,200

August 3, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,06,000 | 1 gram - Rs 13,250

August 1, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,05,760 | 1 gram - Rs 13,220

July 31, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,06,040 | 1 gram - Rs 13,255

Silver price over the last five days:

August 5, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 240

August 4, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

August 3, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

August 1, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

July 31, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

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 Thursday.

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:

August 5 - Rs 107.77

August 4 - Rs 107.77

August 3 - Rs 107.77

August 2 - Rs 107.77

August 1 - Rs 107.77

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

August 5 - Rs 99.55

August 4 - Rs 99.55

August 3 - Rs 99.55

August 2 - Rs 99.55

August 1 - Rs 99.55

Key highlights include the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) formulating its Third Master Plan, the introduction of an AI-enabled online approval platform named SPEED (Single Platform for Efficient Expedited Development), and the launch of the MY-HOME (Metropolitan Youth and Family Housing Scheme) aiming for 1 lakh housing units over seven years.

To guide growth across the Chennai Metropolitan Area (CMA), the CMDA is formulating the Third Master Plan (2027–2046) covering 1,189 sq km. The government is also preparing a Comprehensive Master Plan for the expanded CMA, spanning 5,904 sq km, with Rs 25 crore earmarked for implementation.

To eliminate delays and improve transparency in planning permissions and building approvals, an AI-enabled online platform called SPEED is being introduced with a project allocation of Rs 40 crore. SPEED will integrate all planning agencies onto a single platform to deliver timely, seamless approvals statewide. Currently, planning permissions for plots and buildings in Tamil Nadu are granted across multiple authorities, including the CMDA, the Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP), and various local bodies.

To ease urbanisation pressures and improve living conditions for the urban poor, the government will complete 24,131 multi-storey tenements currently under construction this year. Construction will also begin on another 14,194 units, supported by an allocation of Rs 1,253 crore.

Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board is launching a pilot initiative in the CMA titled MY-HOME. Designed to ensure safe, dignified housing for low-income families and young professionals, the scheme targets 1 lakh housing units over the next seven years.

It is projected to attract around Rs 15,000 crore in private investment through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), backed by Rs 3,500 crore in Viability Gap Funding (VGF) via the Tamil Nadu Shelter Fund. By leveraging private capital, state funds, and an innovative Digital Rental Voucher system, MY-HOME aims to offer affordable, dignified housing across income levels, positioning the CMA as an inclusive region with a high quality of life.

MY-HOME & SINGLE-WINDOW PLANS

Rs 8,852 cr

Allocation for urban development, master planning, and housing initiatives across Tamil Nadu

AI-Powered SPEED Platform: Rs 40 cr allocated for a single-window system to integrate CMDA, DTCP, and local body approvals

1,00,000

Housing units under MY-HOME scheme targeting low-income families and young professionals with Rs 15,000 cr in private PPP investment

Instead of focusing on polished pitches, the event will feature founders sharing the lesser-known parts of their entrepreneurial journeys, including moments of self-doubt, unexpected pivots, early challenges, first breakthroughs and the lessons they learned while building their ventures.

The event will also be attended by a select group of investors, operators and ecosystem enablers, allowing participants to connect with people from across the startup community.

Organisers say introductions between founders and investors will be facilitated where there is mutual interest and alignment. Designed as an intimate gathering, the session hopes to encourage honest conversations, idea-sharing and collaborations among people building businesses or looking to enter the startup space. For details, contact: 9385463673.

The department has outlined a series of major civic projects, including the eco-restoration of the Cooum and Adyar rivers, interconnecting water sources for round-the-clock drinking water supply across Chennai, prioritising pedestrian safety, and introducing smart parking management.

A flagship highlight of the budget is the rejuvenation of Chennai's iconic waterways, the Cooum and Adyar rivers. Drawing inspiration from globally acclaimed eco-restoration projects such as Seoul's Cheonggyecheon River and Singapore's Kallang River, the government will invite global tenders to prepare Detailed Feasibility Reports (DFR) and Detailed Project Reports (DPR).

Criticising previous regimes for spending hundreds of crores without tangible outcomes, Finance Minister Wilson emphasised that the government aims to transform these polluted waterways into vibrant public spaces featuring recreational boating, safe play zones, and clean riverside exercise tracks.

To ensure long-term drinking water security, the budget allocates Rs 3,108 crore to the Ring Main Pipeline system project. Scheduled for completion by 2030–31, this critical network will interconnect all major water sources with distribution stations to ensure equitable, 24x7 clean drinking water supply across the city.

Urban development initiatives will be executed under the Chief Minister's Integrated Urban Development Mission with an allocation of Rs 2,117 crore. Functioning as an umbrella scheme, it encompasses urban transit, underground sewerage networks, integrated solid waste management, water body protection, green space expansion, AI-driven e-governance, women and child safety, and an Urban Public Health improvement mission. The scheme aims to eliminate civic infrastructure gaps and make Tamil Nadu a national role model in urban governance by 2031.

For the Greater Chennai Corporation, which serves 91 lakh residents, the budget advances key mobility and safety projects. The Intelligent Transport Management System, developed alongside the Chennai City Police and the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC), is entering its final implementation phase. Additionally, a comprehensive mobility plan will introduce smart parking management across 20 key urban locations and revamp industrial roads in Ambattur and Guindy.

To build flood resilience, blue-green infrastructure projects will be deployed around Chennai's water bodies and secured with retaining walls. Civic water channels are also being elevated with chain-link fences to enhance discharge capacity and mitigate urban flooding. Furthermore, municipal corporations across the State will develop people-friendly streets equipped with dedicated cycling paths, green footpaths, improved junctions, modern LED lighting, and safe school zones.



RS 30K-CR PUSH TO MAWS

Rs 29,863 cr
-- MAWS allocation hiked from previous year's Rs 26,678 cr to boost civic infra across Tamil Nadu

Rs 3,108 cr
-- Outlay for 24x7 water supply; ring main pipeline system project targets citywide water grid interconnection by 2030–31

The complainant (28) from Manipur is a salesperson in a showroom and lives in a rented house in Choolaimedu. According to police, the incident occurred on Tuesday morning when she was asleep with the door of her first-floor residence left unlocked.

Police said Netaji, who was delivering food in the locality, noticed the open door, entered the house, sexually molested the woman and fled, police said.

Based on her complaint, Choolaimedu police registered a case and arrested the accused Netaji.

The agreement, signed during the visit of Indonesian Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology Brian Yuliarto to IIT Madras, is aimed at creating globally competitive innovation ecosystems while supporting sustainable economic growth and technology-driven development in both countries.

The initiative assumes significance as it stems from the recent bilateral discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who agreed to broaden cooperation in higher education, science, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.

The MoU was signed by IIT Madras Global Research Foundation Director Raghunathan Rengaswamy, CEO and Director Madhav Narayan, and Indonesia’s Director General of Research and Development Mohammad Fauzan Adziman in the presence of IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti, Indian Ambassador to Indonesia Sandeep Chakravorty and senior officials from both countries.

Brian Yuliarto said the collaboration would provide Indonesian universities with greater opportunities for joint research, talent development, technology commercialisation and innovation programmes. “Our goal is not only to produce excellent research, but to transform ideas into startups, help those startups grow into globally competitive industries and create greater economic value for Indonesia,” he said.

Kamakoti said the partnership reflected the confidence reposed in IIT Madras’ research ecosystem. “Through IIT Madras Global Research Foundation, we are extending our capabilities beyond national boundaries to co-create solutions that address real-world challenges and build globally competitive research, innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems that strengthen the enduring friendship between India and Indonesia,” he added.

The yellow metal is now priced at Rs 1,06,880 per sovereign and Rs 13,260 per gram, after an increase of Rs 160 per gram.

Earlier on August 4, the price of 22-carat gold stood at Rs 1,05,600 per sovereign and Rs 13,200 per gram.

Silver prices increases

Meanwhile, silver prices also increased by Rs 5 to sell for Rs 240 per gram (Rs 2,40,000 per kg) on August 5.

On August 4, silver was priced at Rs 235 per gram.

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

Gold remains significantly higher compared to last year. Prices have surged from Rs 74,960 per sovereign (Rs 9,370 per gram) on August 5, 2025, to Rs Rs 1,06,880 per sovereign (Rs 13,360 per gram) on August 5, 2026, marking an increase of Rs 31,920 or about 42.58%.

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

August 4, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,05,600 | 1 gram - Rs 13,200

August 3, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,06,000 | 1 gram - Rs 13,250

August 1, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,05,760 | 1 gram - Rs 13,220

July 31, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,06,040 | 1 gram - Rs 13,255

July 30, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,05,840 | 1 gram - Rs 13,230

Silver price over the last five days:

August 4, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

August 3, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

August 1, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

July 31, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

July 30, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

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 Wednesday.

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:

August 4 - Rs 107.77

August 3 - Rs 107.77

August 2 - Rs 107.77

August 1 - Rs 107.77

July 31 - Rs 107.77

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

August 4 - Rs 99.55

August 3 - Rs 99.55

August 2 - Rs 99.55

August 1 - Rs 99.55

July 31 - Rs 99.55

According to airport sources, while the infrastructure is fully ready, the facility cannot be opened until it receives clearance from the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The approval is pending, causing the continued delay.

Passengers have urged the Airports Authority of India to expedite the necessary approvals and open the plaza at the earliest, saying the long-awaited facility would improve the overall arrival experience at Chennai Airport.

The plaza, located opposite Terminal 1 in the airport's arrival area, was conceived by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) in 2023 to ease congestion and reduce the inconvenience faced by arriving passengers. Construction was initially scheduled for completion by October 2024, but the project was delayed until May 2026.

Airport officials had earlier indicated that the facility would become operational by the second week of July. However, with July over and August underway, the plaza remains closed.

Passengers arriving on international flights often spend over an hour completing immigration, collecting baggage and clearing customs. They then face another long wait for battery-operated shuttle vehicles to reach the multi-level car parking pick-up point. As a result, passengers said it can take up to three hours from landing to leaving the airport.

The upcoming plaza is expected to address these issues by offering a dedicated pick-up point along with passenger-friendly amenities such as luggage storage lockers, seating areas, mobile charging stations, snack kiosks, souvenir shops and restrooms.

The proposed diploma courses are Sociology for Competitive Examinations, Sociology of AI and Automation, Sociology of Family, Health and Counselling, and Sociology of Planning and Sustainable Development.

The introduction of these programmes is an attempt to to align the distance education curriculum with emerging societal changes and employment trends. It is notable that the introduction of Sociology of AI and automation highlights the growing need to understand the social impact of technological advancements, while the competitive exam diploma is expected to benefit aspirants preparing for government exams. The course on family, health and counselling, and planning and sustainable development, aims to address the contemporary social challenges and public policy issues.

Once the courses are introduced by the university, these programmes will be offered through the Institute of Distance Education from the 2027-28 academic year onwards.

"My grandmother used to tell me stories and one of them was Ponniyin Selvan. Those stories stayed with me. During the Covid lockdown, I read the novels and was fascinated by the way Kalki had written every character. That's when I started reading more about the Cholas,” he says.

The Grade 12 student soon found himself reading books on Tamil history, listening to lectures by historians and searching for information on the Chola navy, architecture and administration. "I felt our history and heritage weren't reaching enough people. I wanted to give something back to my culture. This book is also my tribute to my grandmother and to Kalki Krishnamurthy,” adds the author.

His interest in history soon extended beyond books. Over the years, he travelled to several places linked to the Cholas, including Thanjavur, Gangaikonda Cholapuram, Udayalur and Thiruppurambiyam. One visit remains etched in his memory. "When I visited Thiruppurambiyam, where one of the important battles took place, it didn't feel like I was going there for the first time. It felt familiar, as though the place was asking me why it had taken me so long to return. It was a strange feeling,” Rounaak says with a smile.

Those visits helped him picture the world he was writing about. Standing before the Brihadeeswarar Temple or walking through the remains of old Chola settlements gave him details that books alone could not. The result is ‘Aazhikondan – Part 1’, which is centred on Rajendra Chola’s overseas conquests and supported by epigraphical evidence. While the story is fictional, the larger historical events remain true to available evidence.

"It is not a strict historical record. It is a story built around real historical incidents. I wanted readers to enjoy the story first, but also become curious about history,” Rounaak explains.

Research became a major part of the writing process. For nearly two years, he spent his free time reading, watching lectures and checking historical references before putting together the manuscript. The hardest part was balancing imagination with history. "When you're writing fiction, you get so many ideas. The challenge is fitting those ideas into the historical timeline without changing the facts. That took a lot of work,” the youngster admits.

Outside writing, Rounaak enjoys playing cricket and reading widely. While Kalki remains his biggest influence, he also enjoys the works of Franz Kafka and Fyodor Dostoevsky. He hopes to study Liberal Studies at Ashoka University after school, but writing will continue to be part of his life. The second part of Aazhikondan is already underway. For him, history is more than a collection of dates and events. "I've always liked history because it has depth. It helps us understand who we were and where we came from. I hope more young people become interested in it,” concludes the young author.

A senior Corporation official stated, "Similar to last year, the GCC will launch its vaccination drive during the second week of August to control the spread of rabies. Last year, the local body vaccinated 1.47 lakh stray dogs out of an estimated total population of 1.80 lakh."

Elaborating on the expanded scope, the official added, "As the stray dog population has likely grown, we are pushing to vaccinate two lakh strays citywide. Additionally, as a considerable number of residents keep pets, we call upon pet owners to get their animals vaccinated for free."

According to the GCC, 11 of its 15 Animal Birth Control (ABC) centres are currently functional. "Among the remaining four, two facilities at Nandambakkam and Perungudi are ready for opening and will be operational by next week. The other two at Athipattu in Ambattur and Sholinganallur will be inaugurated by the fourth week of August," the official explained.

With the expansion of infrastructure, surgical capacity will see an increase. "The currently operating ABC centres perform about 200 animal birth control surgeries a day. This figure will double to 400 daily surgeries once all 15 centres become operational," the official noted.

Since January 2026, the GCC has carried out nearly 24,000 birth control surgeries on stray dogs. The monthly count steadily climbed over the year, peaking in July with 5,324 surgeries, followed by 4,765 in June, 3,637 in May, 3,259 in April, 3,058 in March, 2,493 in February, and 1,490 in January.

Leonel Praveen, an animal activist and a Mylapore resident, alleged, "The dog catchers deployed by the GCC catch dogs in an inhumane manner and lack proper handling skills."

"Vaccines must be stored at proper cold temperatures, which the GCC failed to maintain during last year's mass vaccination drive. Furthermore, a few vaccinated dogs went missing or died. The civic body must coordinate with local feeders and dog rescuers to ensure effective management," added Leonel.

Dismissing the allegations, a Chennai Corporation official noted that the GCC handles the vaccination vials carefully and fully secures them. The Corporation also urged citizens to make use of the drive.

The arrested persons were identified as Dyson (26), Jeevish (26), and Aalavandhan (25). Investigators said the trio targeted the house of Vijayanarayanan (35), a history-sheeter who is facing trial in a murder case. Vijayanarayanan was not at home when the attack took place, and his sister, who was inside the house, escaped unhurt, the police said.

The accused came in motorcycles and hurled the petrol bombs and fled. Panicked residents rushed to the spot and extinguished the flames. Police apprehended the suspects with the help of CCTV footage.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the attack was carried out to avenge the murder of a friend of the accused persons, who was allegedly killed by Vijayanarayanan in Vepery in 2024. The police have registered a case and remanded the three accused in judicial custody.

The cables were laid as a temporary arrangement after frequent power outages in the area over the past six months. Electricity is currently being supplied from the main pillar box after the existing power cables were damaged. However, the temporary cables have been placed openly on the footpath and road, forcing pedestrians to walk carefully.

The footpath is used daily by senior citizens, women, schoolchildren and office-goers. Residents said the exposed cables pose a risk, especially during the upcoming monsoon season when rainwater may accumulate on the road.

"Due to frequent power cuts in the 3rd, 4th and 5th Streets, a temporary electricity connection has been provided from the main pillar box. Since the cables are exposed, they could be damaged by passing vehicles, increasing the risk of an accident. There is also a possibility of electrical accidents if rainwater stagnates on the road," said Sarala, a resident.

Nagaraj, a local shopkeeper, said, "The electricity cables were damaged during the stormwater drain works in the area. Since then, frequent power cuts have been occurring, especially at night, causing inconvenience to both residents and traders."

The officials said the electricity cable running through the stormwater drain was damaged, but the exact location of the damage could not be identified. As a temporary arrangement, power supply has been provided from the main pillar box to the 3rd, 4th and 5th Streets of Chigirintha Palayam since two days ago. Officials said this is only a temporary measure and that permanent restoration works will be carried out at the earliest to resolve the issue.

According to the complaint, the woman had approached Sundar seeking employment, following which the two became acquainted. She alleged that Sundar later invited her to his residence in Pattinapakkam, where he allegedly behaved inappropriately. She further claimed that when she informed his wife about the alleged incident, no action was taken.

The complainant also alleged that Sundar later asked her to visit his office on the pretext of apologising for an incident that allegedly occurred on June 29. She claimed that she was confined in a room for nearly three hours, during which she was sexually harassed and threatened with dire consequences.

Based on the woman's complaint, the Ice House police have registered a case against Sundar and investigations are ongoing.

Akil Kumar (35), a share market trader from Washermenpet, approached the city police headquarters claiming that inspector Muhammed Buhari of the St Thomas Mount Police Station, has been repeatedly demanding money from him over the past two years citing a mobile number linked to the businessman which has come up during investigations into BSP leader Armstrong's murder case.

He stated that he had shared the mobile number with an acquaintance, a lawyer, and had no connection with the murder case. He alleged that Buhari demanded several lakhs to spare him from being named as an accused and collected more money on different occasions.

Last Saturday, Buhari allegedly visited the complainant's house under the pretext of an enquiry and demanded Rs 5 lakh, which was handed over to a home guard, Srinivasan, near the Washermenpet metro railway station.

After investigations, the Elephant Gate police registered a case and arrested Buhari and Srinivasan. The arrested persons were produced before a magistrate and remanded in judicial custody.

It is to be noted that Buhari was involved in the police shooting of Thiruvenkadam, one of the suspects in the Armstrong murder case. Buhari was also involved in a subsequent police shooting, in which a suspect allegedly involved in a series of chain snatchings in Chennai was shot dead in March 2025.

Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over investigations into the murder of BSP state leader K Armstrong.

The school, which has around 750 students, has two entrances. While Gate 1 remains open throughout the day, Gate 2 functions only during students’ arrival and dispersal, remaining open until 10 am and again after 4 pm. The gate is also used by trucks delivering supplies to the campus.

However, vehicles parked in front of Gate 2 frequently obstruct access, making it difficult for delivery vehicles to enter and for students, particularly those commuting by bicycle, to access the campus. The problem is most acute during the morning and evening rush hours when students enter and leave the school, resulting in congestion outside the gate. School authorities also fear that the obstruction could hamper access during emergencies.

Padma, a shopkeeper in the locality, said, “Residents regularly park their cars in front of the school gate and on the adjoining footpath due to the lack of designated parking space.”

The school headmaster said that repeated complaints had been submitted to the traffic police and the Greater Chennai Corporation. “Although enforcement action was taken for a few days after the complaints, illegal parking soon resumed,” he lamented.

The school has urged authorities to install ‘No Parking’ boards in front of Gate 2, place permanent barricades to prevent vehicles from stopping, deploy traffic police personnel for regular monitoring, and impose fines on violators to ensure lasting compliance.

Traffic police said that a special enforcement drive was conducted in the area last week, during which fines were imposed on motorists for illegal parking and several vehicles were removed. “Motorists have also been warned that their vehicles will be seized with repeat violations. Enforcement will continue to keep the area around the school free of obstructions,” an official added.

The stations covered under the contract are Koyambedu, Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus, Arumbakkam, Vadapalani, Ashok Nagar, St Thomas Mount, Airport, Meenambakkam, Nanganallur Road, Guindy and Little Mount.

“The tender has been floated as part of the beautifying works by the CMRL. The works are done in a phased manner, by currently choosing 11 stations and the remaining will be carried out subsequently,” said a CMRL official.

“There are a slew of posters, mostly by political parties being stuck on Metro pillars and barricades. CMRL should ban this and also impose a fine. As CMRL has decided to begin beautifying works, focus should be extended on Metro pillars on elevated lines too,”said V Padmanaban, a travel enthusiast and resident of Ekattuthangal.

Meanwhile, CMRL will soon begin semi-naming 9 Metro stations in phase I extension of corridor 1. The names that will have a suffix or prefix added to its original name as per the contract are: New Washermanpet, Thiyagaraya College, Tondiarpet, Tollgate, Wimco Nagar and Wimco Nagar Depot, Thiruvottiyur, Thiruvottiyur Theradi and Kaladipet stations.

According to a Daily Thanthi report, the incident occurred at around 8 pm near Nehru Park on Periamet High Road. Three unidentified persons are said to have arrived near the residence on a motorcycle before throwing three petrol bombs in quick succession at the front of the house.

Three petrol bombs explode

The three petrol bombs exploded immediately after being hurled, causing flames to erupt in front of the residence. The loud explosions startled the woman, who was inside the house at the time. She rushed out in panic after hearing the blasts.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident. However, the explosions created panic among residents in the locality, with several people gathering at the spot after hearing the noise.

After carrying out the attack, the three unidentified individuals fled the area on the motorcycle before anyone could stop them.

Police begin investigation

Following information about the incident, personnel from the Periamet police station rushed to the spot and conducted a preliminary inquiry. The area was inspected, and evidence from the scene was collected as part of the investigation.

Police are examining various angles to ascertain the motive behind the attack. Investigators are also verifying whether the house or its occupants had received any prior threats.

CCTV footage under scrutiny

As part of the investigation, police have begun analysing footage from surveillance cameras installed in and around Periamet High Road and nearby streets to trace the identity of the suspects and the route taken by them after the attack.

Officials said efforts are under way to identify and apprehend the three persons involved. Further investigation is in progress to determine the circumstances that led to the petrol bomb attack and whether the incident was targeted or linked to any personal enmity.

Earlier in the day, the Thanjavur police registered a case against the DMK Youth Wing Secretary under six Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections, along with provisions of the women’s harassment law and IT Act, over the controversial remarks he made during a public meeting in Thanjavur yesterday, according to a Daily Thanthi report. Soon after, the DMK moved the Madras High Court seeking protection from his arrest.

A police team from Thanjavur, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Alagesan, had arrived at Udhayanidhi's residence in Neelankarai, Chennai, to brief him about the case.

As news of the police visit spread, DMK workers gathered outside the Chepauk MLA's residence and raised slogans against the ruling government, prompting heavy police deployment and heightened security. Senior DMK leaders K N Nehru, Ma Subramanian, members of the party's legal wing and Udhayanidhi's brother-in-law V Sabareesan also reached the spot.

After Greater Chennai Police (GCP) Commissioner A Amalraj arrived, the protesters were dispersed. Udhayanidhi was then briefed on the case and taken from his residence in a police vehicle.

What led to the case against Udhayanidhi?

The case stems from a DMK protest held outside the Panagal Building in Thanjavur on Monday (August 3), where Udhayanidhi criticised Chief Minister Vijay and TVK government over Cauvery water rights, the proposed Mekedatu dam, and the waiver of farm loans.

He later made purportedly derogatory comments about actor Trisha after the crowd chanted her name, drawing widespread flak.

Who filed the complaint against Udhayanidhi?

A police complaint was lodged at the Thanjavur East Police Station by S Bairavi, the TVK's Central District Women's Wing Organiser for Thanjavur, following which the police registered a case against Udhayanidhi under six BNS sections, along with provisions of the women’s harassment law and IT Act.

The TVK women's wing is also reportedly organising protests across several districts, including Erode, on Tuesday condemning Udhayanidhi's remarks and demanding appropriate legal action against him.

What action has TVK taken against Udhayanidhi?

TVK national spokesperson Pazha Selvakumar has also submitted a petition to the National Commission for Women (NCW), alleging that Udhayanidhi made defamatory, objectifying and sexually suggestive remarks against Chief Minister Vijay and a woman actor.

The petition urged the Commission to take cognisance of the speech, direct the police to initiate legal action, and seek an explanation and an unconditional public apology from Udhayanidhi.

(With inputs from Bureau)

The yellow metal is now priced at Rs 1,05,600 per sovereign and Rs 13,200 per gram, after a decrease of Rs 50 per gram.

Earlier on August 3, the price of 22-carat gold stood at Rs 1,06,000 per sovereign and Rs 13,250 per gram.

Silver prices remain unchanged

Silver prices remained unchanged to sell for Rs 235 per gram (Rs 2,35,000 per kg) on August 4.

On August 3, it was priced at Rs 235 per gram.

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

Gold remains significantly higher compared to last year. Prices have surged from Rs 74,360 per sovereign (Rs 9,295 per gram) on August 4, 2025, to Rs Rs 1,05,600 per sovereign (Rs 13,200 per gram) on August 4, 2026, marking an increase of Rs 31,240 or about 42.01%.

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

August 3, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,06,000 | 1 gram - Rs 13,250

August 1, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,05,760 | 1 gram - Rs 13,220

July 31, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,06,040 | 1 gram - Rs 13,255

July 30, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,05,840 | 1 gram - Rs 13,230

July 29, 2026: 1 Sovereign - Rs 1,05,240 | 1 gram - Rs 13,155

Silver price over the last five days:

August 3, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

August 1, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

July 31, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

July 30, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

July 29, 2026: 1 gram - Rs 235

Akil Kumar (35), a share market trader approached the City Police headquarters claiming that Inspector Muhammed Buhari has been repeatedly demanding money from him over the past two years citing a mobile number linked to the businessman which has come up during investigations into TN BSP leader Armstrong's murder case.

The complainant stated that he had shared the mobile number with an acquaintance, a lawyer and had no connection with the murder case. He alleged that the Inspector demanded several lakhs to spare him from being named as an accused and later collected more money on different occasions.

Last Saturday, the Inspector allegedly visited the complainant's house and demanded Rs 5 lakh which was handed over to a policeman near the Washermanpet metro railway station.

It is to be noted that Inspector Buhari was involved in the police shooting in which one of the suspects in Armstrong murder case, Thiruvenkadam, was shot dead in July 2024.

Buhari was also involved in a subsequent police shooting, in which a suspects allegedly involved in a series of chain snatchings in Chennai was shot dead in March 2025.

Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over investigations into the murder of TN BSP leader K Armstrong.

The Chief Minister began his visit at the Saint-Gobain manufacturing plant, where he inspected various production units, including those manufacturing float glass, coated glass and laminated glass.

According to an official statement, he interacted with senior officials of the company and enquired about its manufacturing processes and future expansion plans.

He also reviewed the company’s skill development initiatives, including the ‘Learn While Earn’ programme and the Nettur Technical Training Foundation (NTTF).

During the visit, he interacted with students undergoing training under these programmes.

To commemorate the visit, the Chief Minister planted a tree sapling on the factory premises.

Later, Vijay visited the Renault manufacturing plant, where he inspected the production facility and drove the new variant of the Renault Duster on the company’s long test track.

Ministers S Keerthana, K Thennarasu and RV Ranjithkumar, chief secretary M Sai Kumar, and additional chief secretary (Industries) S Vijayakumar accompanied the Chief Minister during the visits.

More than 1,000 students and their parents across six local schools, including Chennai Primary School (CPS) Kannagi Nagar, CPS 11th Street Kannagi Nagar, CPS Kannagi Nagar FAB, Chennai Middle School MS Ezhil Nagar, and Chennai Higher Secondary School Kannagi Nagar, are set to benefit through this initiative.

The camp aims to streamline re-enrollment, facilitate documentation, and coordinate welfare schemes. Key services include issuing Aadhaar cards, birth certificates, community certificates, and income certificates required for educational scholarships.

Additionally, eligible orphaned children can apply for the Anbu Karangal scheme via the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), offering monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,000 up to Class 12.

To provide integrated support, multiple government bodies, including Tamil Nadu E-Governance Agency, Chennai Revenue Department (South), Tamil Nadu Adi Dravidar Housing and Development Corporation (TAHDCO), and civil supplies, will offer single-window services on-site.

GCC urges parents and students to utilise the camp to secure essential documents and welfare assistance.

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 Tuesday.

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:

August 3 - Rs 107.77

August 2 - Rs 107.77

August 1 - Rs 107.77

July 31 - Rs 107.77

July 30 - Rs 107.77

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

August 3 - Rs 99.55

August 2 - Rs 99.55

August 1 - Rs 99.55

July 31 - Rs 99.55

July 30 - Rs 99.55

The deceased was R Akash (23) of Ramanathapuram district. He was employed at a travel firm in Anna Nagar and lived in a room nearby. His relative, Vasantharaj, had approached the police after the hospital informed him of Akash's leap from the fourth floor. On going to Akash's workplace, Vasantharaj learnt that Akash was illegally detained inside a room on the fourth floor of the building on Anna Nagar 20th main road and that the travel firm owner, Sugumar, and two others allegedly threatened him, questioning him about the misappropriation of funds.

Police sources said that Akash jumped from the company premises on Saturday and suffered severe injuries. He was rushed to a nearby private hospital, where he succumbed on Sunday.

Preliminary investigations revealed that around Rs 30 lakh was found missing from the company's accounts. The Anna Nagar police have registered a case and arrested Sugumar on charges of abetment to suicide. Search is on for two others who are absconding.

Akil Kumar (35), a share market trader approached the City Police headquarters claiming that Inspector Muhammed Buhari has been repeatedly demanding money from him over the past two years citing a mobile number linked to the businessman which has come up during investigations into TN BSP leader Armstrong's murder case.

The complainant stated that he had shared the mobile number with an acquaintance, a lawyer and had no connection with the murder case.

He allegedly that the Inspector demanded several lakhs to spare him from being named as an accused and later collected more money on different occasions.

Last Saturday (August 1), the Inspector allegedly visited the complainant's house and demanded Rs 5 lakh lakh hich was handed over to a policeman near the Washermanpet metro railway station.

It is to be noted that Inspector Buhari was involved in the police shooting in which one of the suspects in Armstrong murder case, Thiruvenkadam, was shot dead in July 2024.

A group of women gathered outside the Collectorate ahead of the weekly public grievance meeting, claiming that repeated appeals to local bodies had yielded no relief.

The residents said inadequate monsoon rainfall last year led to a sharp decline in groundwater levels across several villages in Madurantakam. In Arayambakkam, where around 500 families reside, many open wells and borewells have dried up in recent months, leaving households without adequate drinking water.

The shortage has also affected livestock and agriculture, forcing villagers to travel long distances to neighbouring villages to fetch water.

Many families are forced to purchase water supplied through tankers and tractors. The villagers said they had repeatedly brought the issue to the attention of the local administration but claimed no effective measures had been taken to resolve the crisis.

After the protest, the residents participated in the weekly grievance redressal meeting and submitted a petition to the Chengalpattu District Collector, urging the administration to take immediate steps to ensure a regular drinking water supply to the village.

The protesters dispersed peacefully after submitting their representation, expressing hope that the district administration would intervene and provide a solution to the water crisis.

His statement assumes significance as it was made after meeting Law Minister R Nirmalkumar at the Secretariat.

Meanwhile, the farmer leader criticised the participation of Union Ministers from Karnataka in the all-party meeting convened by the state government on the Cauvery issue. "It was against the spirit of the law for Union Ministers to participate in the Karnataka all-party meeting. The President should take appropriate action against those Union Ministers from Karnataka," he said.

Pandian alleged that Karnataka had failed to release Tamil Nadu's due share of Cauvery water despite directions issued by the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA).

"Lakes and reservoirs in Tamil Nadu, including the Mettur Dam, are in a depleted condition because Karnataka has not released Cauvery water. The issue should be dealt with only through legal proceedings," he said.

He said Karnataka had not complied with the CWMA's directions to release water to Tamil Nadu and urged the State government to continue pursuing legal remedies.

Pandian also referred to the proposed Rasimanal Dam project, stating that if it was constructed, both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu could share Cauvery water without disputes.

The stretch serves a private school, a playground and several residential buildings, with students, parents and residents using the road extensively during the morning and evening hours. As the footpath remains blocked by seized two-wheelers and other vehicles, pedestrians are compelled to walk on the road, raising concerns over safety and the risk of accidents.

"The footpath, which was built to ensure the safe movement of pedestrians, has now turned into a parking space for seized vehicles. School students, senior citizens and women are affected. The authorities should immediately remove the vehicles and restore the footpath for public use," said Prabhakar, a resident.

GCC officials stated that the E-2 Police Station was instructed to remove the seized vehicles from Srinivasa Perumal Sannathi 2nd Street more than a month ago, but the vehicles remain on the footpath. The civic body said the police will be reminded again

A police official attributed the situation to a shortage of space at the police station. According to the official, vehicles seized by the law and order, traffic and crime wings have been temporarily parked inside the Gopalapuram Police Quarters as facilities such as the women's waiting hall and lift at the police station are yet to be put into use.

The official said the seized vehicles would be shifted once adequate space becomes available at the police station.

Greater Chennai Corporation officials said the E-2 Police Station had already been asked to remove the seized vehicles from Srinivasa Perumal Sannathi 2nd Street. However, the vehicles remain on the footpath even after more than a month.

The civic body said it would once again remind the police to clear the vehicles at the earliest and restore the footpath for pedestrians.

Workers also alleged that rice supplies have been halted at several Amma Unavagams in the Ambattur zone for the past 10 days, forcing them to transfer the excess stocks from nearby Amma Unavagams.

Furthermore, to boost revenue, the Corporation officials have set a daily sales target between Rs 1,300 and Rs 1,500 at these Unavagams. “This is impossible considering the severe supply shortages,” said a worker from Ward 84. “I’ve been working at the Amma Canteen since 2013 and earn Rs 9,750 a month. How is this enough to run a family? We’ve requested the Corporation to increase our daily wage to Rs 500/day.”

Another staff member highlighted that supply allocations have fallen over the years. During the previous AIADMK tenure, centres received 5,00 kg of boiled rice and 500 kg of raw rice monthly. Under the DMK government, total monthly supply for both varieties combined had dropped to just 600 kg.

“The quality of rice and provisions has degraded, leading to lower footfall during the previous government itself,” the worker explained. “With supplies halted, I spend Rs 500 out of my own pocket to transport rice bags from neighbouring canteens in wards 80, 81, and 91. Additionally, the supply from Metro Water is unfit for drinking, forcing us to boil it before cooking. Introducing new dishes to the menu would bring more customers.”

Echoing similar concerns, another worker from Ward 139 lamented, “My husband is an electrician, but online booking platforms have severely hit his work, leaving him with barely Rs 500 a day. My family depends entirely on my income to support our daughter, who is in the first year at a government college. Customer footfall fluctuates daily; we can’t achieve the target of Rs 1,300 a day. But raising our wages and increasing manpower would help us work far more effectively.”

When contacted, a senior GCC official stated that the supply disruption had not yet been brought to their attention but also assured that inspection would be carried out to resolve the issue immediately. Addressing the drinking water concerns, the official added, “We identified 70-80 centres across the city requiring functional RO systems and have instructed Regional Deputy Commissioners (RDCs) to repair faulty units. New RO plants will be installed within the week.”

Clarifying the concerns about daily targets, he said: “No official instructions have been issued regarding fixed sales targets. However, staff have been directed to retain customers and ensure food is served to everyone who visits.”

The GCC operates 383 Amma Canteens with daily footfall averaging between 67,000 and 84,000 until May. It increased significantly to over 1 lakh in June and July. The civic body has spent over Rs 17 crore on major refurbishments and repair works across centres since Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay instructed officials to upgrade facilities statewide.

Acting on specific information, a police team was deployed for patrol in Sivan Nagar 3rd Street, where they caught the duo in the act. The arrested youths were identified as Surya (20) and Prashanth (21), both residents of Sivan Nagar.

The top brass of the city police have instructed police personnel to be on the lookout for the sale and usage of dangerous maanja threads after several accidents involving motorists, pedestrians and birds caused by the sharp, glass-coated string.

During inquiry, the accused told police they had purchased the kites and thread online. The arrested persons were produced before a magistrate and remanded in judicial custody.

The deceased was identified as Anuraj, who had lived on-site in Chinnandimadam for about a year.

Preliminary investigations have revealed that there was a drinking session on Sunday night.

Kodungaiyur police detained two coworkers, Thalapathi (60) and Vijayakumar (43), both from the polishing department, for questioning. Probe revealed that the three had been drinking together when a fight broke out.

Police allege Anuraj hit Thalapathi with a brick first. A second altercation later on the terrace ended with Anuraj sustaining fatal head and facial injuries from a brick and collapsing on the spot.

Police registered a case and moved the deceased to a government hospital for a post-mortem.

Gopal appeared on a YouTube channel recently and spoke about the Karur stampede in which 41 people who attended a campaign by TVK President C Joseph Vijay, lost their lives last year.

Cyber crime wing registered a case based on a complaint from one Nandakumar. Gopal, in the interview alleged that the Chief Minister was attempting to use the tragedy for his final film, Jananayagan and that "Joseph Vijay was responsible for the deaths of 41 people."

Based on the complaint, Police registered an FIR against Gopal under provisions related to statements conducive to public mischief and for remarks alleged to have disturbed public peace and spread misinformation regarding a recent tragedy.

The victim suffered head injuries in the assault and was admitted to a private hospital. Priyadharshan (24) of Valasaravakkam, the delivery executive, was riding his motorcycle through Karambakkam around 9.30 pm when he was intercepted by five men on motorcycles.

Priyadharshan tried to leave to avoid escalation with the gang, but the group blocked him and picked a quarrel with him. One of them pulled a gun and pointed it at Priyadharshan's forehead and threatened him. The members of the group then took turns and assaulted Priyadharshan and fled the scene.

The delivery executive sustained head injuries in the attack and was sutured at a private hospital. Based on the victim's complaint, the Valasaravakkam police registered a case.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the assault was due to an earlier dispute involving Priyadharshan and other delivery executives last week. The probe revealed that a quarrel had broken out days earlier after a cyclist and a motorcyclist collided. Priyadharshan and some of his colleagues later confronted and assaulted a person involved in that incident, which may have led to Sunday's attack.

The police teams are analysing the CCTV footage in the neighbourhood and questioning witnesses to identify the suspects and trace the motorcycles used by the assailants.

They are also probing whether the assailants were members of a hired gang, and the type of firearm used in the attack is being ascertained based on the victim's statement.

According to police sources, around 1,800 participants from across the country appeared for the written examinations held on Sunday (August 2) to fill four vacancies. The officials noticed discrepancies during hall ticket verification.

In the first case, a candidate who appeared for the exam with a hall ticket in the name of "Aman Kumar" was found to be a different person.

On questioning by Air Force officials, the individual was identified as Gourav (21) from Haryana, who had come to impersonate Aman Kumar. In a similar incident, another youth, Anil (27), was caught attempting to write the exam in place of Sunil Kumar.

In two separate cases, candidates Sawan (25) and Deepak Kumar (24), both from Haryana, were caught using wireless Bluetooth devices to cheat during the exam.

All four were handed over to the Muthapudupet Police Station. Police said during interrogation the accused revealed they had received an advance payment of Rs 50,000 to appear for the exam. They were promised the remaining amount after clearing the test.

A case was registered, and the accused were produced before a magistrate and remanded in judicial custody. Police are probing if there is a wider network behind the racket.

Nine express trains to originate or terminate at Tambaram/Mambalam, while several late-night EMU services will be cancelled or partially cancelled during key FOB works.

As part of the temporary arrangements, nine express services will either terminate at or originate from Tambaram, while one service will terminate at Mambalam. In addition, the Ahmedabad-Tiruchchirappalli weekly special will be diverted via Renigunta, Tiruttani, Melpakkam, Kanchipuram and Chengalpattu on select days, skipping its regular stoppages at Arakkonam, Perambur, Egmore and Tambaram.

Suburban commuters will also be affected during the final phase of the works from August 22-30. On weekdays, three late-night Chennai Beach-Tambaram EMU services will be fully cancelled, while five other services will be partially cancelled between Chennai Beach and Tambaram. On Sundays, five EMU services will be fully cancelled and three others will operate only partially on the affected section.

Railway officials said that the first phase of the FOB works, covering the stabling line and Platforms 1 to 5, has been completed. The ongoing second phase involves Platforms 6 to 8 while the final phase will be extending from Platforms 9 to 11A towards the new parcel office building, necessitating the service alterations.

Southern Railway advised passengers to take note of the revised train operations and plan their journeys accordingly, adding that announcements and passenger guidance would be provided during the period of the temporary changes.

The move follows long-standing complaints from residents about unhygienic conditions and a lack of basic sanitation in the locality. Minister Anand instructed the Saidapet MLA to install mobile toilets for the residents. He also heard public grievances relating to the cleanliness at Thideer Nagar.

Anand interacted with community members during the inspection, and reviewed the ground situation along the riverbank. He assured residents that necessary desilting work along the Adyar river would be carried out ahead of the upcoming Northeast monsoon to mitigate flood risks.

He also instructed local authorities and the MLA to ensure the swift provision of essential public amenities, prompting immediate measures to set up mobile toilets and improve infrastructure in the area.