Tuesday, September 22, 2026
All
Home Blog Page 22

CM VD Satheesan to Visit Flood-Ravaged Aranmula and Ranni Today to Assess Damage

South India Pulse
-
0
CM VD Satheesan to Visit Flood-Ravaged Aranmula and Ranni Today to Assess Damage

Pathanamthitta: Chief Minister VD Satheesan will visit the flood-affected areas of Pathanamthitta district today to review the severe destruction caused by continuous torrential rains and sudden flash floods across the region. The Chief Minister is scheduled to reach Aranmula around 12:00 PM and will subsequently inspect Ranni and neighboring damaged zones.

Pathanamthitta has suffered extensive infrastructure and property damage due to the rising water levels in rivers and severe waterlogging. During his visit, CM Satheesan will interact directly with affected families currently staying in relief camps. He will also convene a high-level meeting with district officials and local administrative bodies to expedite drainage clearing and emergency rescue operations.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for 12 districts in the state. Driven by a cyclonic circulation over Tamil Nadu, heavy downpours with strong squally winds are forecasted to continue, prompting authorities to advise heightened vigilance for people residing near riverbanks and coastal regions.

Thalapathy Vijay’s ‘Jana Nayagan’ Crosses ₹200 Cr Mark in India, Nears ₹300 Cr Worldwide Despite Day 12 Slowdown

South India Pulse
-
0
Thalapathy Vijay’s ‘Jana Nayagan’ Crosses ₹200 Cr Mark in India, Nears ₹300 Cr Worldwide Despite Day 12 Slowdown

CHENNAI: Thalapathy Vijay’s highly anticipated political action drama, Jana Nayagan, continues its impressive run at the box office, having crossed the prestigious ₹200 crore gross mark in India during its second weekend. However, as the film entered its second working week, collections experienced a steady decline on Day 12.

Box Office Breakdown: India & Overseas
​According to trade analytics platform Sacnilk, Jana Nayagan earned approximately ₹1.24 crore India net on its 12th day across 1,943 shows nationwide.
​India Gross Collection: ₹206.38 Crore
​India Net Collection: ₹176.84 Crore
​Overseas Gross: ₹91 Crore
​Worldwide Gross Collection: ₹295.92 Crore (Nearing the ₹300 crore landmark)
​Language-Wise Collections (Day 12)
​Tamil Version: Generated ₹1.17 crore across 1,159 shows.
​Hindi Dubbed Version: Collected ₹7 lakh across 784 shows.

While the single-day figures reflect a weekday drop, evening and night show footfalls are expected to nudge the final Day 12 figures higher.
​

Directed by H. Vinoth, Jana Nayagan features Vijay as ‘Thalapathy Vetri Kondan’, a former official who adopts a young girl named Viji and mentors her to be fearless. The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast including Pooja Hegde, Mamitha Baiju, Bobby Deol, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Prakash Raj, Narain, Priyamani, and Sunil. The film’s soundtrack and background score are composed by Anirudh Ravichander.

Heavy Rains Batter Kerala: 12 Dead, 7 Missing; Over 11,000 Shifted to Relief Camps

South India Pulse
-
0
Heavy Rains Batter Kerala: 12 Dead, 7 Missing; Over 11,000 Shifted to Relief Camps

Thiruvananthapuram: Torrential monsoon rains continuing across Kerala have caused widespread destruction, leaving 12 people dead, 7 missing, and 6 injured between August 1 and August 3, 2026, according to official damage details released by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA).

As of 9:00 AM on August 3, a total of 11,018 individuals (4,528 men, 4,613 women, and 1,877 children) have been relocated to 316 active relief camps across the state. In addition, the severe weather has completely destroyed 32 houses and partially damaged 314 houses.

Casualties & Missing:
​Malappuram reported the highest death toll with 4 fatalities and 1 missing person.
​Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, and Idukki recorded 2 deaths each.
​Kozhikode and Kannur reported 1 death each.
​Missing cases include 2 persons each in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Kannur, and 1 person in Malappuram.

Relief Camps & Displaced Population:
​Pathanamthitta remains the worst-affected in terms of displacement, with 100 active camps hosting 4,249 occupants.
​Kottayam follows with 75 active camps accommodating 1,727 people.
​Wayanad (28 camps, 1,347 people) and Alappuzha (25 camps, 1,263 people) have also registered high numbers of evacuated residents.

Property Damage:
​Idukki suffered maximum severe housing damage, reporting 14 fully destroyed and 68 partially damaged homes.
​Kannur recorded 56 partially damaged and 1 fully damaged home.
​Pathanamthitta recorded 48 partially damaged homes.

Torrential Downpour Hits Kerala: CM VD Satheesan Convenes High-Level Emergency Meeting with District Collectors & Ministers Today at 10 am

South India Pulse
-
0
Torrential Downpour Hits Kerala: CM VD Satheesan Convenes High-Level Emergency Meeting with District Collectors & Ministers Today at 10 am

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In light of the continuous heavy rainfall causing disruption across several districts in the state, Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan has convened an emergency high-level review meeting today to evaluate the situation and coordinate relief efforts. The meeting is scheduled to take place virtually at 10:00 AM.

The emergency virtual session will bring together key officials and cabinet members, including:
​Home & Revenue Ministers
​District In-charge Ministers
​Chief Secretary of Kerala
​District Collectors from all 14 districts

Key Agenda & Focus Areas:
​Assessment of Rain Damage: Evaluating flood risk, waterlogging, and landslide-prone vulnerable locations across affected regions.
​Relief Camps & Infrastructure: Reviewing the condition and functioning of operational disaster relief camps, ensuring adequate food, clean water, and medical aid.
​Rescue Operations: Coordinating deployment plans with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Fire and Rescue Services, and local administration units.

Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan is expected to issue key directives to state machinery to ensure zero-casualty management and prompt response to any developing emergencies.

State-Level Launch: Distribution of 73,024 Priority Ration Cards in Kerala Today

South India Pulse
-
0
State-Level Launch: Distribution of 73,024 Priority Ration Cards in Kerala Today

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Department of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs, Government of Kerala, is hosting the state-level inauguration for the distribution of 73,024 priority ration cards today, Monday, August 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Kanakakkunnu Palace Main Hall, Thiruvananthapuram.

This major welfare initiative is being organized under the state’s “100-Day Action Plan for a New Era Kerala” scheme.

Event Highlights & Leadership Present:
​Inauguration: Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri V. D. Satheesan
​Presidential Address: Hon’ble Minister for Food, Civil Supplies, Consumer Affairs & Legal Metrology, Shri Anoop Jacob
​Keynote Address: Hon’ble Minister for Health and Devaswom, Shri K. Muraleedharan
​Chief Guest: Hon’ble Minister for Transport, Shri C. P. John

Impact: The distribution of 73,024 priority ration cards will significantly bolster the Public Distribution System (PDS) across Kerala, ensuring that subsidized food and essential commodities reach eligible beneficiaries effectively.

Cauvery Water Dispute: TVK Govt Rejects All-Party Meet, Vijay Faces First Big Political Test in Tamil Nadu

South India Pulse
-
0
Cauvery Water Dispute: TVK Govt Rejects All-Party Meet, Vijay Faces First Big Political Test in Tamil Nadu

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay is facing his first major political test since assuming office, as the long-standing Cauvery water dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka ignites a fierce political showdown between the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and the main opposition, the DMK.
​Opposition Pressure and TVK’s Refusal
​The Opposition, led by the DMK, has been mounting relentless pressure on the TVK-led administration to convene an all-party meeting to address the worsening water crisis and safeguard Tamil Nadu’s agricultural rights.

Criticizing the Chief Minister’s reluctance, the DMK highlighted that the neighboring Karnataka government has already held a similar all-party consultation regarding the controversial Mekedatu Dam project across the Cauvery basin.

However, the ruling TVK government firmly rejected the demand, maintaining that the Opposition is using the Cauvery issue as a tool to create political friction rather than serving the state’s interest.

TVK’s Defense and Political Allegations
​Refuting the need for a fresh meeting, senior TVK leader CTR Nirmal Kumar pointed out that the issue had already been debated extensively in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, where a resolution was passed unanimously with the support of all political parties.
​”A resolution was passed unanimously in the Legislative Assembly with the support of all political parties. Then what is the necessity of an all-party meeting? The DMK is only trying to create problems for our Chief Minister and is not concerned about the welfare of Tamil Nadu,” stated CTR Nirmal Kumar.
​He further alleged that the Karnataka Chief Minister maintains close ties with the DMK’s leadership family, questioning the opposition’s intentions.

Showdown Escalates: Protests Planned
​Historically, both DMK and AIADMK regimes have convened all-party summits during pivotal moments in the Cauvery water dispute. Breaking away from this traditional precedent, Vijay reportedly planned direct bilateral discussions by traveling to Bengaluru to meet the Karnataka Chief Minister. However, the proposed visit was called off due to heightened tensions in the neighboring state.

​In response to the government’s refusal to assemble an all-party meet, the DMK has announced a massive protest in Thanjavur to condemn the TVK government’s handling of the Cauvery dispute and agricultural welfare issues. Despite the escalating pressure, TVK government sources maintain full confidence in protecting Tamil Nadu’s legitimate share of Cauvery water.

Sixes Galore! Abhishek Sharma Blasts 233 off 91 Balls with 25 Maxima in Punjab Tournament

South India Pulse
-
0
Sixes Galore! Abhishek Sharma Blasts 233 off 91 Balls with 25 Maxima in Punjab Tournament

Amritsar: Indian opening batter Abhishek Sharma made a roaring return to form on Sunday, delivering one of the most explosive individual performances in domestic cricket. Playing for Amritsar Men Senior against Tarn Taran in the Punjab State Inter District Senior One Day Limited Overs Tournament, the 25-year-old left-hander smashed an astonishing 233 runs off just 91 deliveries.

Abhishek’s jaw-dropping knock was laced with 25 sixes and 15 boundaries, operating at a destructive strike rate of 256.04. Opening the innings alongside Abhay Choudhary (93 off 85 balls), the duo put together a mammoth 305-run partnership for the first wicket, laying the foundation for a historic team total.

Abhishek was finally dismissed on the fourth ball of the 25th over by Ashish Lowrance, but his onslaught ensured Amritsar reached a massive total of 533/8 in their allotted 50 overs.

The incredible innings comes as a huge boost for Abhishek, who had faced criticism following a quiet T20I series against Zimbabwe. The dynamic batter is expected to next feature for India in the 2026 Asian Games scheduled for September in Japan.

Kerala Rain Fury: 11 Dead, 6 Missing; Over 7,600 Shifted to 273 Relief Camps Across the State

South India Pulse
-
0
Kerala Rain Fury: 11 Dead, 6 Missing; Over 7,600 Shifted to 273 Relief Camps Across the State

Thiruvananthapuram: Heavy downpours across Kerala over the past 24 hours have unleashed severe destruction, resulting in the loss of 11 lives, while 6 people remain missing, according to the official report released by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) on Sunday, August 2, 2026 (updated at 5:00 PM).

The persistent rains triggered flash floods, waterlogging, and structural damage in several districts, forcing local authorities to relocate 7,674 individuals to 273 active relief camps across the state.

Key Highlights of the Damage Report
​1. Casualties & Missing Persons
​Fatalities (11 Total): Malappuram recorded the highest toll with 4 deaths, followed by Thiruvananthapuram (2), Kottayam (2), Idukki (2), and Kozhikode (1).
​Missing Persons (6 Total): 2 individuals each are reported missing from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Kannur districts.
​Injuries (5 Total): Palakkad reported 2 injuries, while Ernakulam, Kannur, and Kasaragod reported 1 each.

2. House & Property Damage
​Completely Destroyed: A total of 30 homes were completely destroyed, with Idukki taking the hardest hit (14 homes fully damaged), followed by Malappuram (4) and Kottayam (3).
​Partially Damaged: 293 homes suffered partial structural damage. Idukki (68), Kannur (56), and Pathanamthitta (48) reported the highest partial damages.

3. Relief Camps & Evacuations
​A total of 7,674 residents (3,049 adult males, 3,219 adult females, and 1,406 children) are currently sheltered in relief camps:
​Pathanamthitta: Highest active camps (75 camps) accommodating 2,430 occupants.
​Wayanad: 28 active camps sheltering 1,267 occupants.
​Kottayam: 64 active camps sheltering 1,011 occupants.
​Kannur: 18 active camps sheltering 907 occupants.
​Alappuzha: 14 active camps sheltering 711 occupants.

Emergency response forces, local administration, and volunteer teams remain on high alert to assist with search, rescue, and relief operations across all affected districts.

Messi Returns Off Bench as Inter Miami Held 2-2 by Columbus Crew in MLS Thriller

South India Pulse
-
0
Messi Returns Off Bench as Inter Miami Held 2-2 by Columbus Crew in MLS Thriller

​MIAMI, FL — Lionel Messi made his return to competitive football following his post-World Cup break, coming off the bench in the second half as Inter Miami were held to a 2-2 draw by Columbus Crew at Nu Stadium.

Key Match Details & Goals
​16′ (1-0): Luis Suárez opened the scoring for Inter Miami with a spectacular long-range strike, taking his tally to 10 goals in the MLS season.
​34′ (1-1): Columbus Crew equalized when Casemiro inadvertently turned a cross from Hugo Picard into his own net.
​45+5′ (2-1): Miami restored their lead right before half-time through defender Noah Allen, who headed home from a Suárez assist following a VAR review.
​84′ (2-2): Columbus debutant Brais Méndez curled in a brilliant late free-kick to secure a point for the visitors.

Lionel Messi’s Performance Breakdown
​Minutes Played: Came on in the 52nd minute replacing Daniel Pinter.
​Impact & Chances: Messi immediately injected creativity into Miami’s attack, attempting 4 shots in total.
​Near Misses: He came close twice in stoppage time — first with a dangerous header saved by Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte in the 92nd minute, followed by a tight-angle shot that whistled just wide in the 93rd minute.
​Statline: 38 minutes played | 0 goals | 0 assists | 4 total shots | 1 shot on target.

The draw snapped Inter Miami’s six-match winning streak, keeping them second in the Eastern Conference standings with 38 points from 18 matches.

DR Congo Battling Worst-Ever Ebola Outbreak as Death Toll Surpasses 1,500

South India Pulse
-
0
DR Congo Battling Worst-Ever Ebola Outbreak as Death Toll Surpasses 1,500

KINSHASA — The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a severe warning regarding the escalating health emergency in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), officializing the current Ebola strain outbreak as the worst ever recorded in the country’s history.
​According to official figures released by international health authorities, the current deadly strain has already claimed the lives of at least 1,587 people.

Medical experts and humanitarian organizations on the ground face unprecedented challenges as there is currently no approved vaccine or direct curative treatment available for this particular Ebola strain.

​A Growing Health Crisis
​The WHO highlighted that the situation in DR Congo is rapidly deteriorating due to the virulence of the virus coupled with severe resource constraints, conflict-affected zones, and infrastructure deficits in remote provinces. Local healthcare workers are working under extreme pressure to contain the transmission chains, trace contacts, and isolate affected individuals, but the lack of targeted medical countermeasures has complicated containment efforts.

Health officials are emphasizing supportive care—including rehydration, symptom management, and treating secondary infections—as the primary line of treatment for patients while international research bodies scramble to evaluate experimental therapies.

Regional Contrast: Lessons from Neighboring Uganda
​In contrast to the critical situation in DR Congo, neighboring Uganda has demonstrated significant progress in containing its own threat. Ugandan health authorities recently discharged their final Ebola patient from hospital care roughly two weeks ago, marking a major milestone in their containment strategy. Uganda’s success has been attributed to swift contact tracing, enhanced community engagement, and rapid response mechanisms.

However, health experts warn that as long as the epidemic rages unchecked across the border in DR Congo, the risk of regional re-infection remains critically high for surrounding East and Central African nations. International health monitoring at border crossings has been intensified to prevent cross-border transmission.

WHO and global humanitarian bodies are calling on the international community for urgent financial assistance, medical supplies, and expert personnel deployment to support DR Congo in halting what has become the country’s most devastating biological crisis to date.

1...212223...124Page 22 of 124