In a fleeting moment of brilliance, Rajpal Singh executed a blinder of a shot — outstanding it was both for its anticipation and deception. The backhander tilted the scales in favour of India in the third Test match against Belgium at the SDAT-Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium here on Monday.
Making the defender look like a kid lost in a park, Rajpal took possession of the ball and turned it around to unleash a reverse flick. The pivotal goal that emerged four minutes before the hooter enabled India edge out the visitor 3-2 and take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.
Gritty display
Certainly, it can be argued that Belgium put up a gritty display. Its defence was above board; man-to-man marking made sense. Especially, its interceptions and clearance hardly gave room for India’s skilful forwards an opportunity or breathing space.
Nevertheless, the usual zip associated with the forwards was all evident even early in the first session. Shivender Singh, Gurbaj Singh and Rajpal created the buzz in the forwardline with their speed and dribbles. However, it did look at certain times that the players spent too much time with the ball.
Five minutes into the first half, Charles Vandeweghe took the host by surprise by neatly deflecting a cross from Patrice Houssein, whose work in the midfield was praiseworthy. His passes helped set up quite a few interesting possibilities.
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Monday, January 28, 2008
Friday, January 18, 2008
Ultra portable PCs from HCL
Indians created the world’s cheapest car. Have they also created the cheapest laptop computer?
‘I think we have!’, says Ajai Chowdhry, Chief Executive of HCL Infosystems, unveiling what the company called , ‘the future of computing’ earlier this week, with the launch of two ultra portable, but full-function computing platforms.
‘It looks like it,’ agrees Ramamurthy Sivakumar, Managing Director (Sales and Marketing) of Intel South Asia.
HCL has launched two models, both with 7-inch LCD screens and a full keyboard: the MiLeap X Series touted as the PC platform that will finally take computing to the masses in India, uses a Linux operating system but does away with all moving parts, replacing the conventional hard disk drive with a 2 GB internal Flash module and dispensing with an optical ( that is CD/DVD) drive. However WiFI and LAN ports as well as slots to connect wireless data cards from providers like Tata and Reliance make this a fully functional PC — in spite of an aggressive pricing of Rs. 13,999, said Mr. Chowdhry. The model has been specially ruggedised to make it ‘student’ proof — since a key market segment, in addition to the home and the travelling professional, is school children.
The other model, the MiLeap Y Series, is similarly sized — and much lighter at 960 gm. A better processor allows the machine to port Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium, while the storage is a 2.5 inch 80 GB hard drive. The display is a touch screen version that can be swivelled and used like a Tablet PC and incorporates a 1.3 Megapixel camera. The Y Series will sell for just under Rs. 30,000 — but HCL executives claimed at the launch event that even at this price the machine costs about half of comparable ultra compacts sold globally.
Both machines will be available across HCL’s country wide marketing chain from January 26.
The two offerings come almost 30 years to the day when HCL launched India’s first indigenous microcomputer in 1978.
‘I think we have!’, says Ajai Chowdhry, Chief Executive of HCL Infosystems, unveiling what the company called , ‘the future of computing’ earlier this week, with the launch of two ultra portable, but full-function computing platforms.
‘It looks like it,’ agrees Ramamurthy Sivakumar, Managing Director (Sales and Marketing) of Intel South Asia.
HCL has launched two models, both with 7-inch LCD screens and a full keyboard: the MiLeap X Series touted as the PC platform that will finally take computing to the masses in India, uses a Linux operating system but does away with all moving parts, replacing the conventional hard disk drive with a 2 GB internal Flash module and dispensing with an optical ( that is CD/DVD) drive. However WiFI and LAN ports as well as slots to connect wireless data cards from providers like Tata and Reliance make this a fully functional PC — in spite of an aggressive pricing of Rs. 13,999, said Mr. Chowdhry. The model has been specially ruggedised to make it ‘student’ proof — since a key market segment, in addition to the home and the travelling professional, is school children.
The other model, the MiLeap Y Series, is similarly sized — and much lighter at 960 gm. A better processor allows the machine to port Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium, while the storage is a 2.5 inch 80 GB hard drive. The display is a touch screen version that can be swivelled and used like a Tablet PC and incorporates a 1.3 Megapixel camera. The Y Series will sell for just under Rs. 30,000 — but HCL executives claimed at the launch event that even at this price the machine costs about half of comparable ultra compacts sold globally.
Both machines will be available across HCL’s country wide marketing chain from January 26.
The two offerings come almost 30 years to the day when HCL launched India’s first indigenous microcomputer in 1978.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Nano as taxi? Mumbai drivers all geared up
Think Mumbai, think black and yellow Fiat taxis. For decades now, the trusted Fiat has helped Mumbai get around be it day or night, with the friendly taximan always just a wave away.
But the cabbies now want a change for the better. With the Premier Padminis no longer being manufactured, they are looking forward to the Tata Nano hitting the roads.
"Majority of them (drivers) are anxious and have enquired about this vehicle because there's no other viable option," says President, Mumbai Taximen Union, A L Quadrose.
The drivers are more than happy. "It's cheap, it looks good. Who wouldn't want it?" says a driver N P Singh
But the Nano may not be viable just as it is. The taximen want few changes for it to become their ideal run-about.
"Petrol is not viable for us. We have to be able to convert it to CNG. We're trying to work it out," says Quadrose.
Drivers too have their set of demands. Says a taxi driver Rajendra Kumar Tiwari, "We need a carrier and more space. Then it will be great."
But even with those modifications, there are doubts being raised.
"It (Nano) can only work for very short distances. if I want to go from city to suburbs and back it will not work. They need a sturdy car," says Chairman, Western India Automobile Association, Nitin Dossa.
The Taximen Union says it's meeting Tata later this month to figure how the Nano can be a viable alternative for the Premier Padmini.
But the cabbies now want a change for the better. With the Premier Padminis no longer being manufactured, they are looking forward to the Tata Nano hitting the roads.
"Majority of them (drivers) are anxious and have enquired about this vehicle because there's no other viable option," says President, Mumbai Taximen Union, A L Quadrose.
The drivers are more than happy. "It's cheap, it looks good. Who wouldn't want it?" says a driver N P Singh
But the Nano may not be viable just as it is. The taximen want few changes for it to become their ideal run-about.
"Petrol is not viable for us. We have to be able to convert it to CNG. We're trying to work it out," says Quadrose.
Drivers too have their set of demands. Says a taxi driver Rajendra Kumar Tiwari, "We need a carrier and more space. Then it will be great."
But even with those modifications, there are doubts being raised.
"It (Nano) can only work for very short distances. if I want to go from city to suburbs and back it will not work. They need a sturdy car," says Chairman, Western India Automobile Association, Nitin Dossa.
The Taximen Union says it's meeting Tata later this month to figure how the Nano can be a viable alternative for the Premier Padmini.
Jallikattu held amidst tight security at Palamedu
Hours after the Supreme Court cleared the conduct of jallikattu in Tamil Nadu, the event was held amidst tight security at Palamedu in Madurai district.
Eighty-three persons were injured, 14 of them seriously, in the six-hour-long native sport in which unarmed men attempted to tame raging bulls. The entire event was videographed by the police, the district administration and animal rights activists, as directed by the court.
Thousands of people, including foreign nationals, thronged the venue to witness the traditional event that is part of the Pongal celebrations. Those injured critically were referred to the Government Rajaji Hospital here. A woman spectator, Chinna Ponnu (40), was injured as a bull ran helter-skelter on being chased by a huge mob. The Primary Health Centre in Palamedu was overflowing with patients late in the evening.
Besides Inspector-General of Police (South Zone) Sanjeev Kumar, Madurai Collector S.S. Jawahar and Superintendent of Police T.S. Anbu, representatives from the Animal Welfare Board of India and Blue Cross were present. For the first time, cameras mounted on large cranes swung across the arena to capture the events.
A total of 397 bulls and 339 registered tamers participated in the event. Fourteen bulls were rejected on medical grounds.
Eighty-three persons were injured, 14 of them seriously, in the six-hour-long native sport in which unarmed men attempted to tame raging bulls. The entire event was videographed by the police, the district administration and animal rights activists, as directed by the court.
Thousands of people, including foreign nationals, thronged the venue to witness the traditional event that is part of the Pongal celebrations. Those injured critically were referred to the Government Rajaji Hospital here. A woman spectator, Chinna Ponnu (40), was injured as a bull ran helter-skelter on being chased by a huge mob. The Primary Health Centre in Palamedu was overflowing with patients late in the evening.
Besides Inspector-General of Police (South Zone) Sanjeev Kumar, Madurai Collector S.S. Jawahar and Superintendent of Police T.S. Anbu, representatives from the Animal Welfare Board of India and Blue Cross were present. For the first time, cameras mounted on large cranes swung across the arena to capture the events.
A total of 397 bulls and 339 registered tamers participated in the event. Fourteen bulls were rejected on medical grounds.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Traffic violations double on city roads
Traffic violators paid Rs 9.58 crore in fines in 2007 against Rs 4.67 crore in 2006, said Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Sunil Kumar on Sunday.
Mr. Sunil Kumar told The Hindu that the police registered 30 cases involving deaths in road accidents on East Coast Road (ECR) during 2007 against 51 cases in 2006 and 72 in 2005.
Periodic counselling to follow road rules by student volunteers and traffic police had resulted in sizable decline in fatal accidents on ECR, he said.
The total number of fatal cases registered in the city during 2007 stood at 1,110 against 1,112 in 2006 and 1,166 in 2005.
Though the difference in the number of fatal cases between 2007 and 2006 was negligible, the number of new vehicles that had come to the roads increased, he said.
Apart from rash driving, offences such as drunken driving, jumping signals and lanes and failing to comply with helmet rule also doubled in 2007 compared with the previous year, he said.
It had come to light that 58,000 violators who were issued notices for various offences last year did not pay fine.
Mr. Sunil Kumar told The Hindu that the police registered 30 cases involving deaths in road accidents on East Coast Road (ECR) during 2007 against 51 cases in 2006 and 72 in 2005.
Periodic counselling to follow road rules by student volunteers and traffic police had resulted in sizable decline in fatal accidents on ECR, he said.
The total number of fatal cases registered in the city during 2007 stood at 1,110 against 1,112 in 2006 and 1,166 in 2005.
Though the difference in the number of fatal cases between 2007 and 2006 was negligible, the number of new vehicles that had come to the roads increased, he said.
Apart from rash driving, offences such as drunken driving, jumping signals and lanes and failing to comply with helmet rule also doubled in 2007 compared with the previous year, he said.
It had come to light that 58,000 violators who were issued notices for various offences last year did not pay fine.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Tata Motors unveils bargain car Rs 1 lakh($2500)
Tata Motors has unveiled the world's cheapest motor car at India's biggest car show in the capital Delhi.
The vehicle, called the Tata Nano, will sell for 100,000 rupees or $2,500 (£1,277) and enable those in developing countries to move to four wheels.
The four-door five-seater car, which goes on sale later this year, has a 33bhp, 624cc, engine at the rear.
It has no air conditioning, no electric windows and no power steering, but two deluxe models will be on offer.
Its release comes as India's domestic car market is predicted to soar in the coming years on the back of the country's fast-growing economy and increased consumer wealth.
'People's car'
Indian car sales are predicted to more than quadruple to $145bn by 2016.
Company chairman Ratan Tata said the launch of the Nano was a landmark in the history of transportation.
He said the car was "a safe, affordable and all weather transport - a people's car, designed to meet all safety standards and emissions laws and accessible to all".
Environmental critics have said that the car will lead to mounting air and pollution problems on India's already clogged roads.
But Tata said the car had passed emission standards and would average about 50 miles to the gallon, or 20 kilometres to the litre.
The firm also said it would introduce a diesel version of the Nano at a later date.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Bajaj unveils concept car
Bajaj Auto on Tuesday unveiled its new premium scooter ‘Blade’, two motorcycles — sports bike Sprint and new Discover DTS-I — and two models of ‘Lite’ four-wheel concept vehicle — all of which will be displayed at the Auto Expo starting on Thursday. It also announced plans to launch its small car project in collaboration with Renault and Nissan within four years.
While the motorcycles and the new scooter will be launched in 2008, the ‘Lite’ range of vehicles will be available by 2009. The company plans to launch a ‘Lite’ passenger carrier and a ‘Lite’ commercial vehicle that will provide economical and environment-friendly transportation solutions for personal as well as goods movement at low costs.
While the motorcycles and the new scooter will be launched in 2008, the ‘Lite’ range of vehicles will be available by 2009. The company plans to launch a ‘Lite’ passenger carrier and a ‘Lite’ commercial vehicle that will provide economical and environment-friendly transportation solutions for personal as well as goods movement at low costs.
I will keep fighting to become No.1: Nadal
Rafael Nadal gnawed at his fingers, as a group of journalists threw questions at him. The Spaniard was graciously spared of post mortems on his embarrassing final loss to Mikhail Youzhny, and questioned instead on the Australian Open, Roger Federer, and a few things more.
Excerpts:
On 2007 and this year’s Australian Open:
I’ve always played pretty good there. I made it to the third round in the past and also had a fourth-round match against Hewitt (Lleyton) before. Last time I made it to the quarterfinals (lost to finalist Fernando Gonzalez). Maybe I did not play great in that match, but it was not a bad result. I just try to play 100 per cent to my potential. I had a good 2007. I won Indian Wells and some important tournaments. I have a chance for a very good tournament (Australian Open)
On his chances of winning Wimbledon over Roger Federer’s of winning Roland Garros:
I think Roger has more chances to win Roland Garros than I have to win Wimbledon. He has made it to two finals, and has played very well on clay and won so many titles. Grass is a short season, so it’s difficult. You have just one chance to try and do well on it, and there is no time to practice. I don’t know what’s going to happen this year, but I will keep fighting and giving my best.
Excerpts:
On 2007 and this year’s Australian Open:
I’ve always played pretty good there. I made it to the third round in the past and also had a fourth-round match against Hewitt (Lleyton) before. Last time I made it to the quarterfinals (lost to finalist Fernando Gonzalez). Maybe I did not play great in that match, but it was not a bad result. I just try to play 100 per cent to my potential. I had a good 2007. I won Indian Wells and some important tournaments. I have a chance for a very good tournament (Australian Open)
On his chances of winning Wimbledon over Roger Federer’s of winning Roland Garros:
I think Roger has more chances to win Roland Garros than I have to win Wimbledon. He has made it to two finals, and has played very well on clay and won so many titles. Grass is a short season, so it’s difficult. You have just one chance to try and do well on it, and there is no time to practice. I don’t know what’s going to happen this year, but I will keep fighting and giving my best.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Youzhny blows away Nadal
In a disappointing 58-minute final, fourth-seeded Mikhail Youzhny thrashed World No. 2 Rafael Nadal in straight sets to win the Chennai Open title on Sunday
Watching Rafael Nadal win just a solitary game in a match is painful, more than anything else. The Spaniard’s image can sometimes consume him.
Playing less than 24 hours after an emotional, intense all-consuming four-hour marathon can take everything out of a man, but Nadal is expected to defy the norm. Almost out of right, the fist pumps, the tireless legs and the demonic forehands are in demand; but even a man of Nadal’s will and tenacity can sometimes succumb to exhaustion.
The top-seed looked completely out of sorts on Sunday. Mikhail Youzhny, by his own admission, had just to keep his game together, to win the Chennai Open final. The fourth seeded Youzhny beat Nadal 6-0, 6-1 in the final of the Chennai Open ATP tennis championship, at the Nungambakkam Tennis Stadium, on Sunday. Nadal had on Saturday beaten Carlos Moya 6-7(3), 7-6(8), 7-6(1) in the semifinals.
The Russian should be applauded for keeping his game together. Playing a tired, exhausted, quality player with nothing but pride driving him could have proved tricky. To the Russian’s credit, he pulled off his shots impeccably. The backhand, which had been lethal all along, was outstanding. He used it to change pace, direction, and pull off difficult slices.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Government firm on nationalising some industries, says Karunanidhi
Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi said on Thursday that his government was firm on the announcement made on Wednesday on nationalisation of some industries.
In an attempt to make available cement at an affordable rate, the State Government on Wednesday decided that cement will be sold through the Civil Supplies Corporation’s warehouses at cost price.
In an attempt to make available cement at an affordable rate, the State Government on Wednesday decided that cement will be sold through the Civil Supplies Corporation’s warehouses at cost price.
Company identified to provide Government to Citizen services
The State Government has chosen 3i Infotech to set up Common Service Centres (CSC) in four of the five zones in Tamil Nadu to provide internet facility as well as Government to Citizen (G2C) services.
Other players in the race were Reliance Communications, India Cements, CMS Computers and SREI-Wipro.
This is the second order for 3i Infotech after securing the Haryana Government order for 322 CSCs in Gurgaon.
In Tamil Nadu, it will set up over 4,400 of the 5,440 CSCs, except in the north east zone. The service provider for Vellore, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, and Tiruvannamalai will be selected soon. These CSCs will serve as a single window service delivery channel for providing government services of Taluk Offices, Collectorates, Registration Department, Transport Department, Civil Supplies Department and Municipalities.
Other players in the race were Reliance Communications, India Cements, CMS Computers and SREI-Wipro.
This is the second order for 3i Infotech after securing the Haryana Government order for 322 CSCs in Gurgaon.
In Tamil Nadu, it will set up over 4,400 of the 5,440 CSCs, except in the north east zone. The service provider for Vellore, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, and Tiruvannamalai will be selected soon. These CSCs will serve as a single window service delivery channel for providing government services of Taluk Offices, Collectorates, Registration Department, Transport Department, Civil Supplies Department and Municipalities.
With new additions, MTC fleet strength up to 3060
With Chief Minister M.Karunanidhi flagging off new buses on Thursday, the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) has increased its fleet strength to 3,060 from 2,775.
Following the addition, the MTC will operate 83 new buses on 36 new routes, including those to Chengalpattu from T.Nagar and Mandaveli. Its operational area has been extended from 40 to 50 km, directly connecting important areas in the suburbs, according to a press release.
The new routes are in response to demands from commuters. Recently, the MTC held a meeting with commuters and their associations. It received more than 1,180 petitions seeking new routes.
As many as 42 of the new buses will be used to augment services on some of the existing routes. The MTC aims to operate 4,000 buses in the near future, the release stated.
Efforts are on to set up a Transport Academy for training employees. The Transport Department will speed up the process of obtaining funds from the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) for the sector, authorities say.
During 2006-07, 379 new buses were introduced and in 2007-08 (till January), 1,036 buses were inducted into the MTC fleet, the release said.
Following the addition, the MTC will operate 83 new buses on 36 new routes, including those to Chengalpattu from T.Nagar and Mandaveli. Its operational area has been extended from 40 to 50 km, directly connecting important areas in the suburbs, according to a press release.
The new routes are in response to demands from commuters. Recently, the MTC held a meeting with commuters and their associations. It received more than 1,180 petitions seeking new routes.
As many as 42 of the new buses will be used to augment services on some of the existing routes. The MTC aims to operate 4,000 buses in the near future, the release stated.
Efforts are on to set up a Transport Academy for training employees. The Transport Department will speed up the process of obtaining funds from the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) for the sector, authorities say.
During 2006-07, 379 new buses were introduced and in 2007-08 (till January), 1,036 buses were inducted into the MTC fleet, the release said.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Encroachments stall road expansion
A project to widen CSIR Road, which serves as a crucial link from Velachery and Taramani to the Rajiv Gandhi Salai (IT Corridor), has hit a roadblock with the Chennai Corporation finding it difficult to remove the encroachments in the way.
The widening project, at an estimated cost of Rs.2 crore, is expected to reduce the travel time for motorists from Velachery and Taramani to the IT Corridor and Thiruvanmiyur.
A number of leading IT firms and premier research institutions, including those of the Central government, are located on CSIR Road. The road also houses the Taramani bus terminus, one of the few such facilities in a radius of several km. CSIR Road also contributes immensely to decongesting the IT Corridor.
A Corporation official said the widening work has been stopped as those who have encroached upon the road have raised objection to the proposed demolition of their shops and houses. They have sought time to vacate the place. But the encroachments would be removed soon to facilitate completion of the work, he said.
On completion of the work on the 1.4-kilometre stretch, CSIR Road would be 60 feet wide with a 5-foot-wide stormwater drain network on either side and a median.
The widening project, at an estimated cost of Rs.2 crore, is expected to reduce the travel time for motorists from Velachery and Taramani to the IT Corridor and Thiruvanmiyur.
A number of leading IT firms and premier research institutions, including those of the Central government, are located on CSIR Road. The road also houses the Taramani bus terminus, one of the few such facilities in a radius of several km. CSIR Road also contributes immensely to decongesting the IT Corridor.
A Corporation official said the widening work has been stopped as those who have encroached upon the road have raised objection to the proposed demolition of their shops and houses. They have sought time to vacate the place. But the encroachments would be removed soon to facilitate completion of the work, he said.
On completion of the work on the 1.4-kilometre stretch, CSIR Road would be 60 feet wide with a 5-foot-wide stormwater drain network on either side and a median.
Civil Supplies to sell cement
In an attempt to make available cement at an affordable rate, the State Government on Wednesday decided that the retail sale would be carried out without any profit margin through the Civil Supplies Corporation’s godowns.
One lakh tonnes of cement would be imported immediately for sale through the corporation. Over 200 corporation godowns located in different parts of the State would store the imported cement. The import would be done by the MMTC for which the Cements Corporation would place an order.
An official release issued after a high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister at the Secretariat stated that the State Government would have no option but to take over private cement factories situated in the State in the “interests of the public” if manufacturers did not bring down prices after the Government had made several efforts to contain them. A senior government official said exclusive compartments would be created at the godowns to store the cement. The Civil Supplies Corporation had the experience in retail sale of cement in 1984-1990 when the commodity was available under controlled conditions.
One lakh tonnes of cement would be imported immediately for sale through the corporation. Over 200 corporation godowns located in different parts of the State would store the imported cement. The import would be done by the MMTC for which the Cements Corporation would place an order.
An official release issued after a high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister at the Secretariat stated that the State Government would have no option but to take over private cement factories situated in the State in the “interests of the public” if manufacturers did not bring down prices after the Government had made several efforts to contain them. A senior government official said exclusive compartments would be created at the godowns to store the cement. The Civil Supplies Corporation had the experience in retail sale of cement in 1984-1990 when the commodity was available under controlled conditions.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Police get tough with boisterous revellers
In the hours leading to the New Year since Monday evening, the police booked 150 cases for overspeeding, charged 125 drivers with drunk driving and registered 30 cases of rash and negligent driving.
In many places, boisterous revellers gave anxious moments to the public and police. Uneasy calm prevailed in and around the Elliots Beach, as some youths indulged in rash driving. In Besant Nagar, the police resorted to mild lathicharge to restore order after a group of people turned unruly.
A group of riders damaged public properties, including traffic signboards, a police booth and a few mobile barricades in the area.
Traffic police at various locations, including Teynampet, Pantheon Road and near the Thiruvanmiyur bus stand, said that they imposed fines on two-wheeler riders for drunk driving. “We detained two-wheeler riders for a few hours and let them off after sometime,” an officer said.
The tight vigil till 5 am on Tuesday ensured that there was no accident, said Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Sunil Kumar.
Commissioner of Police G. Nanchil Kumaran told The Hindu that the presence of policemen and officers till Tuesday morning enabled in regulating crowd at places of worship.
In many places, boisterous revellers gave anxious moments to the public and police. Uneasy calm prevailed in and around the Elliots Beach, as some youths indulged in rash driving. In Besant Nagar, the police resorted to mild lathicharge to restore order after a group of people turned unruly.
A group of riders damaged public properties, including traffic signboards, a police booth and a few mobile barricades in the area.
Traffic police at various locations, including Teynampet, Pantheon Road and near the Thiruvanmiyur bus stand, said that they imposed fines on two-wheeler riders for drunk driving. “We detained two-wheeler riders for a few hours and let them off after sometime,” an officer said.
The tight vigil till 5 am on Tuesday ensured that there was no accident, said Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Sunil Kumar.
Commissioner of Police G. Nanchil Kumaran told The Hindu that the presence of policemen and officers till Tuesday morning enabled in regulating crowd at places of worship.
Stage collapse: one dies
A 23-year-old youth, injured when a stage set up over a swimming pool in Hotel Savera on Radhakrishnan Salai collapsed on Monday, died in a hospital in the early hours of Tuesday.
The police registered cases under IPC Sections 304 A (causing death by negligence), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt) against the stage contractor Narendra Singh, event manager of the party Antony Michael, who was arrested, and the licensee, said Joint Commissioner of Police (South) G. Dorairaj.
The victim, Sumith Agnihothri, a native of Uttar Pradesh, was employed with a software firm in the city and was a resident of Vanni Amman Koil Street, Mogappair East.
He had gone to the hotel with his cousin and a few friends to celebrate the New Year. One of the persons who accompanied him, identified as Anand of K.K. Nagar, is in serious condition.
The incident brought to fore questions about safety concerning the arrangements made for such parties. The stage, covered with a wooden plank, atop the swimming pool, caved in around 11.20 p.m. even as several hundreds of young men and women were dancing on it.
Many of them, including those in an inebriated condition, landed with a thump in the swimming pool and struggled to come out. “No trained persons were made available by the event managers to rescue the victims from the pool even after 30 minutes,” a youth said.
Preliminary inquiries revealed that poor construction of the stage led to its collapse. An officer of the Fire and Rescue Services department who visited the spot on Tuesday said that it is not clear whether the licensee had obtained the mandatory stage stability certificate from the PWD department.Inadequate support of beams on both sides of the wooden plank contributed to the tragedy.
A Forensic Sciences expert said Sumith Agnihothri’s body had external injuries in the nostril and mouth. The body has been sent for post-mortem to the Government General Hospital.
Following the incident chaos prevailed in the hotel for at least two hours with many youths demanding refund of the money from the authorities or continuation of the celebrations.
Police personnel forcibly removed a few youths from the premises with the support of the hotel staff.
The police registered cases under IPC Sections 304 A (causing death by negligence), 337 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 338 (causing grievous hurt) against the stage contractor Narendra Singh, event manager of the party Antony Michael, who was arrested, and the licensee, said Joint Commissioner of Police (South) G. Dorairaj.
The victim, Sumith Agnihothri, a native of Uttar Pradesh, was employed with a software firm in the city and was a resident of Vanni Amman Koil Street, Mogappair East.
He had gone to the hotel with his cousin and a few friends to celebrate the New Year. One of the persons who accompanied him, identified as Anand of K.K. Nagar, is in serious condition.
The incident brought to fore questions about safety concerning the arrangements made for such parties. The stage, covered with a wooden plank, atop the swimming pool, caved in around 11.20 p.m. even as several hundreds of young men and women were dancing on it.
Many of them, including those in an inebriated condition, landed with a thump in the swimming pool and struggled to come out. “No trained persons were made available by the event managers to rescue the victims from the pool even after 30 minutes,” a youth said.
Preliminary inquiries revealed that poor construction of the stage led to its collapse. An officer of the Fire and Rescue Services department who visited the spot on Tuesday said that it is not clear whether the licensee had obtained the mandatory stage stability certificate from the PWD department.Inadequate support of beams on both sides of the wooden plank contributed to the tragedy.
A Forensic Sciences expert said Sumith Agnihothri’s body had external injuries in the nostril and mouth. The body has been sent for post-mortem to the Government General Hospital.
Following the incident chaos prevailed in the hotel for at least two hours with many youths demanding refund of the money from the authorities or continuation of the celebrations.
Police personnel forcibly removed a few youths from the premises with the support of the hotel staff.
Tamil lawmaker’s killer detained, injured in retaliatory firing
The New Year dawned on the island nation on an inauspicious note with a United National Party (UNP) parliamentarian, T. Maheswaran, being killed in broad daylight by an unidentified gunman inside a temple at 10 a.m. on the outskirts of Colombo.
Mr. Maheswaran was shot at close range as he was coming out of the temple after offering prayers. A security officer of the MP was also killed and 12 others were injured in the incident.
The police claimed to have arrested the assailant, who was wounded in retaliatory firing by the personal security officer of the MP. The police identified the suspect as a resident of Gurunagar in Jaffna and said he is under close custody of police and receiving treatment at the National hospital in Colombo. However, the name of the detained man was not released.
Mr. Maheswaran, a former Minister and Colombo district UNP parliamentarian, was a vocal critic of the alleged human rights violations by the military and para-military groups. The UNP had accused the government of exposing Mr. Maheswaran to danger by scaling down his security despite innumerable requests.
A report posted on the Defence Ministry web site, however, sought to refute the charges. “Meanwhile, expressing views to defence.lk, a political analyst said the immediate arrest of the gunman has dismantled attempts of opposition party and pro-LTTE agents to cast doubts on the killing of Mr. Maheswaran.”
Expressing shock over the killing, President Mahinda Rajapaksa told a gathering of employees of the President’s office that despite “political differences” the two of them (Mr. Maheswaran and the President) remained friends.
Mr. Maheswaran was shot at close range as he was coming out of the temple after offering prayers. A security officer of the MP was also killed and 12 others were injured in the incident.
The police claimed to have arrested the assailant, who was wounded in retaliatory firing by the personal security officer of the MP. The police identified the suspect as a resident of Gurunagar in Jaffna and said he is under close custody of police and receiving treatment at the National hospital in Colombo. However, the name of the detained man was not released.
Mr. Maheswaran, a former Minister and Colombo district UNP parliamentarian, was a vocal critic of the alleged human rights violations by the military and para-military groups. The UNP had accused the government of exposing Mr. Maheswaran to danger by scaling down his security despite innumerable requests.
A report posted on the Defence Ministry web site, however, sought to refute the charges. “Meanwhile, expressing views to defence.lk, a political analyst said the immediate arrest of the gunman has dismantled attempts of opposition party and pro-LTTE agents to cast doubts on the killing of Mr. Maheswaran.”
Expressing shock over the killing, President Mahinda Rajapaksa told a gathering of employees of the President’s office that despite “political differences” the two of them (Mr. Maheswaran and the President) remained friends.
227 Indians died during Haj
As many as 221 Indian pilgrims died during the Haj this year due to natural causes, while six others were killed in road accidents.
An Indian official said that India had sent 1.57 lakh pilgrims that included 1.1 lakh who came through the Haj Committee of India and while the rest arrived through the travel operators from various Indian cities.
Suhel Ajaz Khan, the Indian Haj consul, said that so far around 20,000 pilgrims who came through the Haj committee had left.
Some 86 Indian pilgrims are still in hospitals receiving treatment for various aliments, he was quoted as saying in Arab News.
Indonesians, followed by Indians, top the list of pilgrims who died during Haj this year.
The Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah announced 317 pilgrims had died in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
According to a report from the Central Haj Committee in Makkah, most of the deaths during the pilgrimage were due to natural causes.
The report said that 778 traffic accidents were reported during the season. Overall 11,700 pilgrims were admitted to different hospitals due to accidents and various illnesses, out of which 10,900 were discharged.
More than 800 pilgrims are still recuperating in hospitals.
An Indian official said that India had sent 1.57 lakh pilgrims that included 1.1 lakh who came through the Haj Committee of India and while the rest arrived through the travel operators from various Indian cities.
Suhel Ajaz Khan, the Indian Haj consul, said that so far around 20,000 pilgrims who came through the Haj committee had left.
Some 86 Indian pilgrims are still in hospitals receiving treatment for various aliments, he was quoted as saying in Arab News.
Indonesians, followed by Indians, top the list of pilgrims who died during Haj this year.
The Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah announced 317 pilgrims had died in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
According to a report from the Central Haj Committee in Makkah, most of the deaths during the pilgrimage were due to natural causes.
The report said that 778 traffic accidents were reported during the season. Overall 11,700 pilgrims were admitted to different hospitals due to accidents and various illnesses, out of which 10,900 were discharged.
More than 800 pilgrims are still recuperating in hospitals.
Ashok Leyland to launch ALTRUX in more states
Terming as a 'thumping success' its pre-owned trux business "ALTURX", heavy vehicle maker Ashok Leyland Limited, the flagship company of the Hinduja Group, plans to extend it across the country.
The pre-owned trux business, wherein used Ashok Leyland vehicles would be purchased from the market, re-conditioned and sold by the company with a six month guarantee, had been a thumping success in Rajasthan, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Special Director, Customer Support Group, V M Homabli said here on Tuesday.
The company registered an annual turnover of Rs.331 crores by way of selling original spare parts in 2006-07 and the target for the current fiscal was Rs.450 crores.
The pre-owned trux business, wherein used Ashok Leyland vehicles would be purchased from the market, re-conditioned and sold by the company with a six month guarantee, had been a thumping success in Rajasthan, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Special Director, Customer Support Group, V M Homabli said here on Tuesday.
The company registered an annual turnover of Rs.331 crores by way of selling original spare parts in 2006-07 and the target for the current fiscal was Rs.450 crores.
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