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Ramkumar is an accomplished journalist with over a decade of experience. He is currently working as an Associate Editor at TV9 English, covering Tamil Nadu's political landscape, crime, and human-interest stories. He brings depth and perspective to his reporting. Holding a degree in Journalism, he had previously worked at The Indian Express, Thanthi TV, and NewsX, cultivating strong sources across party lines and conducting exclusive interviews with prominent politicians, bureaucrats, and celebrities. Recognised for breaking significant stories about electoral strategies and governance issues, Ramkumar maintains a reputation for balanced yet incisive reporting.

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Tamil Nadu weatherman hints at school holidays tomorrow due to heavy rains

Chennai: The Northeast Monsoon has intensified over Tamil Nadu, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy rainfall across the state on November 20, 21, and 22. Adding a layer of local insight, popular private weather blogger Pradeep John, known as the 'Tamil Nadu Weatherman, ' has provided a detailed forecast, suggesting that the current wet spell could lead to school closures depending on the development of a new weather system. Chennai Weather Forecast: "Fun-Filled " Rains with a Cautionary Note In his latest analysis, Pradeep John noted that cloud formations are moving into northern Tamil Nadu districts, including the capital city of Chennai. He described the expected rainfall in parts of the city as potentially "fun-filled," but advised residents in North and Central Chennai to remain cautious. While he indicated that no "major rain" is expected immediately in Chennai, he predicted the city could receive around 20 to 40 mm of rainfall, with a...

  • Ram Kumar
  • Updated on: Nov 18, 2025 | 01:55 PM

Chennai trams set for a comeback after 75 years; CM Stalin approves plan for new 15.4 km corridor

Chennai: In a move that blends heritage with futuristic urban planning, Chennai is set to revive its long-dormant tram service as part of a monumental ₹2.5 lakh crore Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP). The initiative, approved by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, outlines a 25-year blueprint to radically transform public transport in the Chennai Metropolitan Region, integrating buses, rails, and a modern tram network. A Nod to History: The Return of the Tram on a New 15.4 km Route The iconic tram service, which was discontinued in the mid-20th century, is poised for a grand return. Preliminary plans identify a modern tram line covering a distance of 15.4 km, connecting key areas like T. Nagar, Nungambakkam, Nandanam, and Kalanagarai. This route is designed to improve travel within some of the city 's most congested localities. A detailed feasibility study will soon be conducted to finalize the alignment, identify locations for two proposed workshops spanning 3 acres, and outline...

  • Ram Kumar
  • Updated on: Nov 18, 2025 | 08:57 AM

Chennai rain update today: Intense downpour continues, holiday in coastal districts

Chennai: In response to persistent heavy rainfall lashing coastal and delta districts, district administrations in Cuddalore and Villupuram have declared a holiday for all schools today as a precautionary measure. The decision aims to ensure student safety and mitigate inconveniences caused by waterlogging and ongoing inclement weather. This follows similar holiday announcements for schools and colleges in Puducherry and Karaikal. Tamil Nadu rain school holiday: Precautionary School Closures in Multiple Districts The continuous downpour since yesterday evening prompted swift action from local authorities. The Cuddalore District Collector, citing ongoing heavy rains and potential risks, announced a holiday specifically for schools across the district. Shortly after, Villupuram district followed suit, with its District Collector also declaring a holiday for schools to prevent any inconvenience to students and their families. These measures align with the holiday already in effect for...

  • Ram Kumar
  • Updated on: Nov 18, 2025 | 08:17 AM

Chennai ECR widening: Kovalam to Akkarai six-lane project to finish by January 2026

Chennai: Two major infrastructure projects aimed at decongesting Chennai 's vital IT corridor and coastal route are reaching critical milestones. The long-delayed six-laning of the East Coast Road (ECR) from Kovalam to Akkarai is now expected to be completed by the end of January 2026, while plans for a new link bridge between ECR and OMR are advancing rapidly. ECR Widening: Land Acquisition Hurdles Cleared, January Deadline Set The 8.6-kilometre widening project of ECR, a crucial artery for commuters and tourists, has been hampered for years by delays in land acquisition. Highways Minister E.V. Velu confirmed that the final obstacles have been removed. According to officials from the Highways Department, land acquisition for the remaining 1.2 km stretch is nearly complete, with deficiencies in land documents now rectified. The compensation process for landowners is imminent, paving the way for the project 's final leg. The project, initially announced in 2005 with a ₹10...

  • Ram Kumar
  • Updated on: Nov 17, 2025 | 06:47 PM

Bawaria gang murder: Verdict in AIADMK leader Sudharsanam's killing on Nov 21

Chennai:  The Chennai Sessions Court is set to deliver its long-awaited verdict on November 21 in the sensational two-decade-old murder case of former AIADMK minister K. Sudharsanam. The case, which involves a notorious interstate criminal gang and inspired a major Tamil film, has been under trial for the past four years, concluding a tragic chapter that began with a brutal home invasion in 2005. The Brutal Night: A Home Invasion and a Minister 's Murder K. Sudharsanam, a member representing the Gummidipoondi constituency and the former Minister for Backward Classes Welfare, was murdered at his home in Thaakkulam near Periypalayam on January 9, 2005. In the early hours of the morning, a gang of six individuals broke into the house, assaulted and tied up Sudharsanam 's younger son, Sathish. Hearing the commotion, Sudharsanam, who was sleeping on the floor, confronted the intruders. The robbers responded by shooting him dead at point-blank range before fleeing with 63...

  • Ram Kumar
  • Updated on: Nov 17, 2025 | 05:56 PM

Six ropeway projects announced for Tamil Nadu under Parvatmala Pariyojana | Details here |

Chennai:  In a significant move to boost connectivity to pilgrimage and tourist sites, the National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) has invited bids to prepare detailed project reports (DPRs) for six new ropeway corridors in Tamil Nadu. This central government initiative, part of the broader Parvatmala Pariyojana, is being mirrored by the state government, which is exploring similar cable-car systems in key locations, signaling a coordinated push for alternative transit solutions. Six Scenic Routes Identified for Detailed Study The NHLML has called for technical consultants to undertake comprehensive studies for six proposed ropeway projects. The identified locations are: Parvathamalai in Tiruvannamalai Glenmorgan to Singara Power House in Ooty Kurangani to Top Station Thoranamalai Murugan Temple Two separate stretches in the Sathuragiri Hills, Virudhunagar district The lengths of these proposed corridors will range from 0.5 km to 4.6 km. The selected consultants will...

  • Ram Kumar
  • Updated on: Nov 17, 2025 | 05:14 PM

Tamil Nadu weatherman Pradeep John explains the return of Northeast monsoon rains

Chennai: The Northeast Monsoon in Tamil Nadu has reawakened after a prolonged lull, with weather models indicating a return of significant rainfall, particularly for the state 's coastal districts. After a vigorous start in October, the monsoon entered a quiet phase, leading to a rain deficit since the beginning of November. However, meteorological developments in the Bay of Bengal are set to change this pattern, bringing a series of wet spells to the region. Coastal Districts, from Delta to Chennai, in the Rain "Hotspot " According to an analysis by popular private weather blogger Pradeep John, known as the "Tamil Nadu Weatherman," the primary focus of the incoming weather activity will be the coastal belt stretching from the Cauvery Delta to Chennai. "The hotspot is from the Delta to Chennai," John stated, noting that the delta regions are expected to receive rainfall immediately, while Chennai can anticipate cloudy weather with occasional spells. He added that southern parts...

  • Ram Kumar
  • Updated on: Nov 17, 2025 | 11:08 AM

Bihar election result sparks seat sharing tussle: DMK supporters push to curb Congress quota in Tamil Nadu

Chennai: The Congress party 's dismal performance in the Bihar Assembly elections is sending political shockwaves to Tamil Nadu, triggering a major internal debate within the ruling DMK 's own ranks. Following the Congress 's poor showing, a strong chorus from the DMK 's supporter base and second-rung leadership is now asserting that the party should be allocated no more than ten seats for the upcoming Tamil Nadu assembly polls, a significant reduction from its previous tally. Bihar Results: A Crushing Blow for the Congress The vote counting for the 243-seat Bihar Assembly has painted a grim picture for the Congress, a key member of the opposition 'Mahagathbandhan ' (Grand Alliance). As of trends, the Congress was leading in only a handful of constituencies, being outperformed even by other smaller parties. More critically, the party secured a meager vote share of approximately 8.16%, a figure that DMK cadres in Tamil Nadu view as a severe erosion of its...

  • Ram Kumar
  • Updated on: Nov 14, 2025 | 03:51 PM

Chennai airport customs seizes hydroponic cannabis worth Rs 30 crore, 3 held

Chennai: In a major anti-narcotics operation, the Chennai Airport Customs and Air Intelligence Unit has seized approximately 30 kilograms of high-grade hydroponic cannabis, valued at a staggering Rs. 30 crores in the international market. The contraband was smuggled from Thailand via Malaysia, and three individuals from a northern Indian state have been arrested in connection with the seizure, which has sent shockwaves through the airport 's security apparatus. Tip-Off and the Meticulous Airport Surveillance The operation was set in motion after the Air Intelligence officers received specific information about a large consignment of hydroponic cannabis being smuggled into Chennai on a flight from Bangkok. Acting swiftly on the tip, a dedicated team of officials initiated intense surveillance at the Chennai International Airport starting midnight. They began meticulously monitoring all arriving and departing passengers, focusing on individuals exhibiting suspicious behavior or...

  • Ram Kumar
  • Updated on: Nov 14, 2025 | 09:34 AM

Chennai One App Rs 1 ticket offer: How to avail the CUMTA deal - complete guide here

Chennai: In a major push for digital transit, the Chennai Unified Municipal Transport Authority (CUMTA) has launched a groundbreaking "One Rupee Ticket" offer for commuters using the newly introduced Chennai One app. The initiative allows users to travel on city buses, the metro, and suburban trains for just Rs. 1, aiming to promote cashless payments and integrate the city 's public transport systems. Chennai One App: A Unified Digital Gateway for Chennai Commuters The "Chennai One" app, introduced a few weeks ago, serves as a one-stop solution for planning, payment, and managing travel across Chennai 's three major transport modes: MTC buses, the Metro, and suburban electric trains. Before its launch, daily commuters had to navigate separate systems to purchase tickets for each service. The app integrates these services, allowing users to plan journeys, make payments, and generate digital tickets all in one place, featuring a simple design, QR code integration, and live...

  • Ram Kumar
  • Updated on: Nov 13, 2025 | 04:09 PM
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