Fire destroys saris, dhotis kept for Pongal distribution
The Hindu
MADURAI
In a major fire that broke out at the old office of the District Supply Officer on the Collectorate premises here in the wee hours on Monday, several bundles of saris and dhotis kept for distribution as Pongal gift were destroyed.
A policeman posted for security in front of the District Treasury noticed smoke emanating from the building around 12.30 a.m. and alerted the fire station located on the Collectorate premises, a police officer said.
“Over 15 firemen, along with five fire tenders from Madurai, Tallakulam and Anuppanadi fire stations, rushed to the spot and put out the fire after a three-hour struggle,” said District Fire Officer S. Vinod.
Most of the saris and dhotis destroyed in the fire were to be distributed to beneficiaries in Tirupparankundram and Madurai West taluks.
According to revenue officials, over 41,000 saris and dhotis were brought to the building between January 3 and 5. The room was chosen as it was not used anymore, they added.
The damaged items were shifted to an empty room in Revenue officers’ Recreation Club building on the premises by the evening.
Veterinary students in Vijayawada demand stipend hike, protesting since February 1 for fair compensation during internships.
Enforcement Directorate uncovers financial fraud involving distilleries and bottling companies, siphoning off over ₹1,000 crore in unaccounted-for cash.
Ranya Rao, caught smuggling gold at Kempegowda International Airport, claimed innocence, but agencies suspect syndicate involvement.
World Sleep Day: More than 26% of professionals said they are getting less than six hours of sleep in the night, a problem even more pronounced among entrepreneurs.
Samuel Browne's botanical explorations in 17th-century Madras offer insights into traditional plant uses and changing flora over time.
CPS Abolition Movement protests in Dindigul urging State government to implement old pension scheme promised by DMK.
Union Finance Minister criticizes removal of Indian currency symbol '₹' in Tamil Nadu Budget 2025-26 documents, citing national unity concerns.
State government provides ₹100 crore to KMRL for Kakkanad extension, speeding up construction and addressing funding issues.
ED joins probe into gold smuggling case involving Kannada actor Ranya Rao, raids multiple locations in Bengaluru.
Bombay High Court questions Maharashtra government on failure to register FIR against police officers in custodial death case.
Uttar Pradesh Minister Sanjay Nishad faces backlash for suggesting those who have issues with Holi colours should leave the country.
Tamil Nadu sees improved Olive Ridley turtle nesting season with over 2.5 lakh eggs collected, efforts to protect marine life.
Speeding bus crash on Paramakudi-Madurai highway kills woman, injures 23; driver flees scene, causing critical injuries.