According to a serosurvey conducted by the State Government, nearly 23 % of the tested samples had IgG antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 Virus, the infection that causes COVID-19. 
 
The state-wide survey was conducted in April this year, across all districts of the state, except Chennai. 
 
Based on 765 clusters, with each consisting of 30 individuals, the samples were taken at random from a village (in rural areas) or a street (in an urban area).&nbsp;

Completed under the supervision of Dr T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, this survey showed that 5316 individuals of the total 22904 participants had antibodies. While the overall seroprevalence across the state was 23%, it was found to be highest in the districts adjoining Chennai - Tiruvallur (49%), Chengalpattu (43%) and Kanchipuram (38%). The lowest seroprevalence was seen at Nagapattinam District (9%).&nbsp;

Notably, the first such state-wide serosurvey conducted in Oct-Nov 2020 had revealed 31% seropositivity, which is much higher than the latest one. Back then, 6995 samples out of 22690 were found to have developed antibodies.&nbsp;

However, the Government attributes the decrease in seroprevalence to the fact that the first survey was conducted a month after the peak of the first wave, which occurred in August. In the case of the second survey, it was conducted close to the start of the second wave in Tamil Nadu. The possibility of antibodies weaning in the five-month interval between November 2020 and April 2021 is also said to be a factor, based on studies published in International journals.&nbsp;

Other factors are that vaccination coverage till March was meant to cover only the vulnerable population (above the age of 45), whereas other age groups we unvaccinated. It was also observed that there were no variants of SARS CoV -2 during the first serosurvey, whereas several variants were detected in the community during hr subsequent survey.&nbsp;

Despite Tamil Nadu reporting more than 1/5th of India’s daily COVID-19 cases and the highest for any state in the country, the state is seeing a declining trend and an appreciable higher vaccination rate. Hence, a third sero survey is proposed to be carried out between July and August this year.

According to a serosurvey conducted by the State Government, nearly 23 % of the tested samples had IgG antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 Virus, the infection that causes COVID-19.

According to a serosurvey conducted by the State Government, nearly 23 % of the tested samples had IgG antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 Virus, the infection that causes COVID-19. The state-wide survey was conducted in April this year, across all districts of the state, except Chennai. Based on 765 clusters, with each consisting of 30 individuals, the samples were taken at random from a village (in rural areas) or a street (in an urban area). Completed under the supervision of Dr T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, this survey showed that 5316 individuals of the total 22904 participants had antibodies. While the overall seroprevalence across the state was 23%, it was found to be highest in the districts adjoining Chennai - Tiruvallur (49%), Chengalpattu (43%) and Kanchipuram (38%). The lowest seroprevalence was seen at Nagapattinam District (9%). Notably, the first such state-wide serosurvey conducted in Oct-Nov 2020 had revealed 31% seropositivity, which is much higher than the latest one. Back then, 6995 samples out of 22690 were found to have developed antibodies. However, the Government attributes the decrease in seroprevalence to the fact that the first survey was conducted a month after the peak of the first wave, which occurred in August. In the case of the second survey, it was conducted close to the start of the second wave in Tamil Nadu. The possibility of antibodies weaning in the five-month interval between November 2020 and April 2021 is also said to be a factor, based on studies published in International journals. Other factors are that vaccination coverage till March was meant to cover only the vulnerable population (above the age of 45), whereas other age groups we unvaccinated. It was also observed that there were no variants of SARS CoV -2 during the first serosurvey, whereas several variants were detected in the community during hr subsequent survey. Despite Tamil Nadu reporting more than 1/5th of India’s daily COVID-19 cases and the highest for any state in the country, the state is seeing a declining trend and an appreciable higher vaccination rate. Hence, a third sero survey is proposed to be carried out between July and August this year.

Tamil Nadu: COVID-19 antibodies detected in 23% samples of second sero survey; third survey from July-August

The COVID-19 peak during the last two months has been a tough time for those working at major automobile manufacturing plants in the Southern Indian city of Chennai. Known as the ‘Detroit of India’, Chennai and its outskirts are home to several automobile manufacturing and allied industries. Major global players such as Ford, Hyundai, Renault-Nissan have had to shut factories temporarily and cut down production by a significant percentage.&nbsp;

During the first COVID-19 wave (2020), the Central government had enforced a pan-India lockdown. Back then, automobile industries were shut down for months together, following which they resumed as curbs were gradually relaxed. This meant that work happened in a staggered fashion and fewer employees worked at the factories.&nbsp;

In the second wave, however, as per orders of the Tamil Nadu government, automobile industries were permitted to work, by categorising them under Continuous Process industries.

This meant they were permitted to function even during the total Lockdown when cases were at their peak. Major automakers shut their plants for a few days, but again resumed production, at a considerably lesser rate.&nbsp;

Employees Union representatives of various automakers that WION spoke to outlined the impact of working amid the pandemic.&nbsp;

According to Muthukumar, President, Hyundai India Employees Union, nearly 750 persons turned positive in the 2400 strong Hyundai factory near Irungattukottai, leading to 10 deaths. After this explosion of cases, workers had to be sent on leave for a while and then they followed a system of three days work and three days off. The plant which rolls out nearly 1400 cars in a day (3 shifts), now produces about 800 cars in (2 shifts).

For American major Ford, which operates a plant in Maraimalai Nagar, work had already been slightly hit owing to the global silicon chip shortage. About 250 COVID-19 cases and three deaths were reported among 3,000 of its employees. This meant that the plant was fully shut a few times, each for over a week, during the ongoing lockdown. According to a leader of the Chennai Ford Employees Union, their plant which produces about 780 cars per day (across 3 shifts) is now rolling out around one-third of that number, while working only a single shift. He adds that some of their component manufacturers too have been working amid the lockdown, to cater to the carmakers’ needs.

At the Renault-Nissan factory, the collaboration between the French and Japanese carmakers, 700 out of nearly 8000 workers were infected. This resulted in five deaths. After the employees approached the Madras High Court, it was decided to operate the plant at 75% capacity. Moorthy, General Secretary, Renault Nissan India Workers Union said that amid the current lockdown, their plant was making about 600 cars per day, as opposed to the usual 860 units.&nbsp;

Only a small percentage of staff at these factories have been vaccinated in company-organized camps. 
 
The rest are yet to get their shots, owing to prevailing COVID-19 vaccine shortage in Tamil Nadu and also partly owing to vaccine hesitancy.

Factories in Chennai, have been churning out cars meant for the local market and for export. This has been going on at a time when Tamil Nadu is witnessing the highest number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Tamil Nadu which witnessed nearly 7000 daily cases during the peak of the first wave, saw up to 36,000 daily cases in the second wave. Chennai city alone witnessed nearly 7,000 daily cases as per the government figures. Currently, the daily cases are around 25,000, yet they are the highest numbers among all states in India.&nbsp;

In stark contrast, large automobile factories of these global automakers not operate during the lockdowns in their respective home countries.

They were all shut for months on end. While uncertainty looms over whether Tamil Nadu’s existing lockdown (until June 7th) would be further extended, it is quite clear that the auto plants will continue to roll out vehicles.

However, the workers say that irrespective of the precautions taken, their nature of work does not help in maintaining six feet physical distance. The workers maintain that at least two persons need to be in close proximity during the assembly of a vehicle. They strongly feel that, in the interest of their and their families lives, factories need to be shut until the COVID-19 second wave subsides significantly.

The COVID-19 peak during the last two months has been a tough time for those working at major automobile manufacturing plants in the Southern Indian city of Chennai.

The COVID-19 peak during the last two months has been a tough time for those working at major automobile manufacturing plants in the Southern Indian city of Chennai. Known as the ‘Detroit of India’, Chennai and its outskirts are home to several automobile manufacturing and allied industries. Major global players such as Ford, Hyundai, Renault-Nissan have had to shut factories temporarily and cut down production by a significant percentage. During the first COVID-19 wave (2020), the Central government had enforced a pan-India lockdown. Back then, automobile industries were shut down for months together, following which they resumed as curbs were gradually relaxed. This meant that work happened in a staggered fashion and fewer employees worked at the factories. In the second wave, however, as per orders of the Tamil Nadu government, automobile industries were permitted to work, by categorising them under Continuous Process industries. This meant they were permitted to function even during the total Lockdown when cases were at their peak. Major automakers shut their plants for a few days, but again resumed production, at a considerably lesser rate. Employees Union representatives of various automakers that WION spoke to outlined the impact of working amid the pandemic. According to Muthukumar, President, Hyundai India Employees Union, nearly 750 persons turned positive in the 2400 strong Hyundai factory near Irungattukottai, leading to 10 deaths. After this explosion of cases, workers had to be sent on leave for a while and then they followed a system of three days work and three days off. The plant which rolls out nearly 1400 cars in a day (3 shifts), now produces about 800 cars in (2 shifts). For American major Ford, which operates a plant in Maraimalai Nagar, work had already been slightly hit owing to the global silicon chip shortage. About 250 COVID-19 cases and three deaths were reported among 3,000 of its employees. This meant that the plant was fully shut a few times, each for over a week, during the ongoing lockdown. According to a leader of the Chennai Ford Employees Union, their plant which produces about 780 cars per day (across 3 shifts) is now rolling out around one-third of that number, while working only a single shift. He adds that some of their component manufacturers too have been working amid the lockdown, to cater to the carmakers’ needs. At the Renault-Nissan factory, the collaboration between the French and Japanese carmakers, 700 out of nearly 8000 workers were infected. This resulted in five deaths. After the employees approached the Madras High Court, it was decided to operate the plant at 75% capacity. Moorthy, General Secretary, Renault Nissan India Workers Union said that amid the current lockdown, their plant was making about 600 cars per day, as opposed to the usual 860 units. Only a small percentage of staff at these factories have been vaccinated in company-organized camps. The rest are yet to get their shots, owing to prevailing COVID-19 vaccine shortage in Tamil Nadu and also partly owing to vaccine hesitancy. Factories in Chennai, have been churning out cars meant for the local market and for export. This has been going on at a time when Tamil Nadu is witnessing the highest number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Tamil Nadu which witnessed nearly 7000 daily cases during the peak of the first wave, saw up to 36,000 daily cases in the second wave. Chennai city alone witnessed nearly 7,000 daily cases as per the government figures. Currently, the daily cases are around 25,000, yet they are the highest numbers among all states in India. In stark contrast, large automobile factories of these global automakers not operate during the lockdowns in their respective home countries. They were all shut for months on end. While uncertainty looms over whether Tamil Nadu’s existing lockdown (until June 7th) would be further extended, it is quite clear that the auto plants will continue to roll out vehicles. However, the workers say that irrespective of the precautions taken, their nature of work does not help in maintaining six feet physical distance. The workers maintain that at least two persons need to be in close proximity during the assembly of a vehicle. They strongly feel that, in the interest of their and their families lives, factories need to be shut until the COVID-19 second wave subsides significantly.

Chennai: India’s Detroit rolls out cars despite COVID-19 risk and ongoing lockdown 

Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu is witnessing an overall decline in Covid-19 cases, but still the state’s daily caseload is the highest in the country. While cases are on gradual decline in northern districts including capital city Chennai, western and southern districts are witnessing high daily caseloads. The state government on Saturday extended the lockdown till June 14th, with new relaxations. The lockdown will be in effect till 6 am on that day.

Following relaxations are due to come into effect from June 7. The new set of district-specific guidelines have been issued keeping in mind 11 hotspot districts and the rest of Tamil Nadu.

Relaxations for all districts

<ul>
	<li>Standalone shops selling grocery, vegetables, fish, meat etc. can be run from 6am to 5pm.</li>
	<li>Pavement vendors selling fruits, vegetables, flowers can function from 6am to 5pm.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Fish markets will be open only for wholesale sales. District administrations have been ordered to set up more than one such market in open spaces.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Slaughterhouses will be permitted to sell on wholesale scale.</li>
	<li>Government offices can function with 30 percent staff&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Document registration will be permitted by issuing 50% capacity tokens&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Matchstick industry can function with 50 percent staff .</li>
	<li>Sales of vegetables, fruits at the doorstep via vehicles will continue in every district.</li>
	<li>The public is requested to walk to nearby stores for shopping, and avoid taking two and four-wheeler vehicles.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Relaxations applicable to all districts (except 11 Covid hotspot Districts namely Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Karur, Namakkal, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai)</li>
	<li>Private security companies, housekeeping services in large housing complexes will be permitted with e-Registration</li>
	<li>Electricians, Plumbers, Computer and other technicians will be allowed to function between 6am to 5pm with e-Registration</li>
	<li>Shops selling electrical goods, bulbs, cables, switches, wires can function from 6am to 5pm&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Bicycle and two-wheeler service outlets will be allowed to function from 6am to 5pm&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Hardware stores will be allowed to remain open from 6am to 5pm&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Stores selling educational books, stationery can function from 6am to 5pm&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Service centers for vehicles can function from 6am to 5pm&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Passengers allowed to travel in rental vehicles, cabs, autos after e-registration&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Driver plus 3 passengers in Taxi; Driver plus 2 passengers in Auto&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

General&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>E-pass from district collector will be compulsory for emergency travel to Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Yelagiri</li>
	<li>Export firms in Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem, Karur, Erode, Namakkal, Trichy and their suppliers can function with 10 percent staff if they have export orders, to send samples.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu is witnessing an overall decline in Covid-19 cases, but still the state’s daily caseload is the highest in the country. While cases are on gradual decline in northern districts including capital city Chennai, western and southern districts are witnessing high daily caseloads.

Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu is witnessing an overall decline in Covid-19 cases, but still the state’s daily caseload is the highest in the country. While cases are on gradual decline in northern districts including capital city Chennai, western and southern districts are witnessing high daily caseloads. The state government on Saturday extended the lockdown till June 14th, with new relaxations. The lockdown will be in effect till 6 am on that day. Following relaxations are due to come into effect from June 7. The new set of district-specific guidelines have been issued keeping in mind 11 hotspot districts and the rest of Tamil Nadu. Relaxations for all districts Standalone shops selling grocery, vegetables, fish, meat etc. can be run from 6am to 5pm. Pavement vendors selling fruits, vegetables, flowers can function from 6am to 5pm. Fish markets will be open only for wholesale sales. District administrations have been ordered to set up more than one such market in open spaces. Slaughterhouses will be permitted to sell on wholesale scale. Government offices can function with 30 percent staff Document registration will be permitted by issuing 50% capacity tokens Matchstick industry can function with 50 percent staff . Sales of vegetables, fruits at the doorstep via vehicles will continue in every district. The public is requested to walk to nearby stores for shopping, and avoid taking two and four-wheeler vehicles. Relaxations applicable to all districts (except 11 Covid hotspot Districts namely Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Karur, Namakkal, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai) Private security companies, housekeeping services in large housing complexes will be permitted with e-Registration Electricians, Plumbers, Computer and other technicians will be allowed to function between 6am to 5pm with e-Registration Shops selling electrical goods, bulbs, cables, switches, wires can function from 6am to 5pm Bicycle and two-wheeler service outlets will be allowed to function from 6am to 5pm Hardware stores will be allowed to remain open from 6am to 5pm Stores selling educational books, stationery can function from 6am to 5pm Service centers for vehicles can function from 6am to 5pm Passengers allowed to travel in rental vehicles, cabs, autos after e-registration Driver plus 3 passengers in Taxi; Driver plus 2 passengers in Auto General E-pass from district collector will be compulsory for emergency travel to Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Yelagiri Export firms in Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Salem, Karur, Erode, Namakkal, Trichy and their suppliers can function with 10 percent staff if they have export orders, to send samples.

Tamil Nadu: Lockdown extended till June 14th with district-specific relaxations 

According to a statement issued by the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, at Vandalur near Chennai, nine of their eleven captive lions have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection.

SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes the disease COVID-19.

Neela, a nine-year-old lion who was housed in the zoo died on Thursday evening, after showing some nasal discharge on Wednesday. Authorities maintain that the lion was provided treatment immediately after it showcased symptoms.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/puppies-are-born-to-talk-to-human-beings-study-389508" hreflang="en">Puppies are born to talk to human beings: Study</a>

According to the authorities, on May 26, five lions housed in the Animal House 1 of the Safari Park area of the zoo were reported to show loss of appetite (anorexia) and occasional coughing. Following this, an in-house veterinary team along with those from Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University(TANUVAS) took immediate action and offered treatment.&nbsp;

The big cats'&nbsp;blood samples and nasal swabs were sent to TANUVAS. Rectal swab and fecal samples of the 11 lions were sent to the National Institute of High Security Diseases (NIHSAD) Bhopal, which is among the designated institutes to take up SARS COV-2 testing in captive animals.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tokyo-panda-pregnancy-increases-stock-prices-of-nearby-restaurants-389486" hreflang="en">Tokyo: Panda pregnancy increases stock prices of nearby restaurants</a>

As per the test results, nine of the 11 lions tested positive for coronavirus.

In order to ascertain whether or not the reported results are false positives or the animal could have died of other complications (comorbidities), further samples have also been taken. They were sent on Friday to the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly and the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad.

The zoo authorities maintain that they have been following the precautions issues by the Central Zoo Authority, the Central and the State Governments from time to time.

They also stressed that measures to prevent diseases (prophylactic measures) are being undertaken for the different families of animals such as felids (cats), mustelids (mammals of the weasel family), viverrids (small-medium mammals), and primates. These disease preventive steps are said to be taken in consultation with experts from TANUVAS, Veterinarians of Hyderabad Zoo, and Bronx Zoo.&nbsp;

"All the lions that have tested positive are under close observation and on prescribed treatment regimen by the in-house veterinary team in close coordination with the expert team from TANUVAS. All animal keepers and helpers for these animal houses are vaccinated against Covid 19. Separate set of animal keepers are engaged for each group of lions. PPE Kits are mandatory for the animal keepers, veterinary doctors and field staff visiting the area,"&nbsp;concluded the statement from the Zoo.&nbsp;

According to a statement issued by the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, at Vandalur near Chennai, nine of their eleven captive lions have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection.

According to a statement issued by the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, at Vandalur near Chennai, nine of their eleven captive lions have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection. SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes the disease COVID-19. Neela, a nine-year-old lion who was housed in the zoo died on Thursday evening, after showing some nasal discharge on Wednesday. Authorities maintain that the lion was provided treatment immediately after it showcased symptoms. Also read | Puppies are born to talk to human beings: Study According to the authorities, on May 26, five lions housed in the Animal House 1 of the Safari Park area of the zoo were reported to show loss of appetite (anorexia) and occasional coughing. Following this, an in-house veterinary team along with those from Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University(TANUVAS) took immediate action and offered treatment. The big cats' blood samples and nasal swabs were sent to TANUVAS. Rectal swab and fecal samples of the 11 lions were sent to the National Institute of High Security Diseases (NIHSAD) Bhopal, which is among the designated institutes to take up SARS COV-2 testing in captive animals. Also read | Tokyo: Panda pregnancy increases stock prices of nearby restaurants As per the test results, nine of the 11 lions tested positive for coronavirus. In order to ascertain whether or not the reported results are false positives or the animal could have died of other complications (comorbidities), further samples have also been taken. They were sent on Friday to the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly and the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad. The zoo authorities maintain that they have been following the precautions issues by the Central Zoo Authority, the Central and the State Governments from time to time. They also stressed that measures to prevent diseases (prophylactic measures) are being undertaken for the different families of animals such as felids (cats), mustelids (mammals of the weasel family), viverrids (small-medium mammals), and primates. These disease preventive steps are said to be taken in consultation with experts from TANUVAS, Veterinarians of Hyderabad Zoo, and Bronx Zoo. "All the lions that have tested positive are under close observation and on prescribed treatment regimen by the in-house veterinary team in close coordination with the expert team from TANUVAS. All animal keepers and helpers for these animal houses are vaccinated against Covid 19. Separate set of animal keepers are engaged for each group of lions. PPE Kits are mandatory for the animal keepers, veterinary doctors and field staff visiting the area," concluded the statement from the Zoo.

Lion dies of coronavirus in Chennai zoo; 9 of 11 lions test positive

Despite the week-long, successful firefighting effort by the Indian Coast Guard and Sri Lankan tugs, Container ship MV X-Press Pearl has sunk partially.

Salvors (technical persons engaged in retrieving a ship) had boarded the mangled and burnt vessel on Tuesday for inspection and assessment. However, from the early hours of Wednesday water started entering the vessel from its side, thus adversely affecting its draught/draft (when draught is normal the vessel floats at a normal level) and trim (when the trim is normal, the front at near float at equal levels).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-faces-marine-disaster-as-waves-of-plastic-from-burning-ship-wash-ashore-388259" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka faces marine disaster as waves of plastic from burning ship wash ashore</a>

Attempts to tow away the vessel were not successful as the damaged vessel sunk, with its rear portion touching the sea bed. It is understood that the sea floor at the location is at a depth of 22 meters. Only some of the taller portions of the ship such as its superstructure (upward extension that distinctly rises above the platform) are visible above the water. The damaged ship is also partially tilted to one side, owing to the ingress of water.&nbsp;

Diving operations are being undertaken by Sri Lankan Navy divers to carry out underwater hull inspection. Technical deliberations to salvage the vessel are also in progress by the salvors. &nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSagarAaraksha2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSagarAaraksha2</a> Underwater assessment of partially submerged <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MVXPressPearl?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MVXPressPearl</a> carried out by SLN divers &amp; deliberations underway with salvors. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICG</a> Ship Vajra &amp; PCV Samudra Prahari standby in PR configuration for response. Additional PR gears being augmented by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICG</a>. <a href="https://t.co/WOSShdAGLx">pic.twitter.com/WOSShdAGLx</a>
— Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard/status/1400471521231921166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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When it caught fire, the container ship was carrying 1,486 containers of chemical cargo classified under International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG). Among other chemicals, the IMDG cargo consisted of highly inflammable Nitric Acid, Methanol, Methyl Acetate, Sodium Hydroxide and Polystyrene beads.&nbsp;

ALso read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/colombo-ship-fire-hull-intact-fire-considerably-reduced-and-no-oil-spill-says-icg-388102" hreflang="en">Colombo ship fire: Hull intact, Fire considerably reduced and no oil spill says ICG</a>

The initial fire which broke out on&nbsp;May 20, while at anchorage, was brought under control by the efforts of Sri Lankan authorities and the Salvage team within a day. However, in the early hours of May 25, flames re-erupted in the ship due to containers falling onboard in rough weather and their highly reactive chemical contents leaking.

All the 13 crew and the 12 salvors working onboard were safely evacuated by the Sri Lankan authorities, as the fire quickly spread, thereby engulfing the entire ship.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/firefighting-on-ship-off-sri-lankan-coast-can-take-days-says-navy-chief-387847" hreflang="en">Firefighting on ship off Sri Lankan coast can take 'days', says navy chief</a>

The partial sinking of this vessel with chemicals and a sizeable quantity of fuel has led to environmental concerns.

Indian Coast Guard Ships including the specialised Pollution Response vessel Samudra Prahari and Offshore patrol vessel Vajra are in the vicinity of the accident site. The Indian vessels are in Pollution Response configuration, which means that they are equipped to deal with any oil spill or related eventuality. Sri Lankan vessels and tugs too are in the region for the operations.&nbsp;

However, at present, no oil spill has been reported by the authorities and this has also been confirmed by Indian Coast Guard Dornier aircraft (from Madurai) that has been undertaking daily aerial reconnaissance of the area. Additional pollution response gears are being augmented by ICG.

The coordinated operation between India and Sri Lanka, undertaken to respond to potential environmental danger, has been christened Sagar Aaraksha-II.

Indian Coast Guard is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Sri Lankan Navy, Coast Guard, MEPA and other authorities to address any impending environmental damage due to the sinking of the vessel close to the coast. Additional ICG formations at Kochi, Chennai and Tuticorin remain on standby for immediate assistance, if any, towards Pollution Response.

ICG being an active member of South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP) remains committed to its responsibilities of safeguarding the ocean environment in the region.

Despite the week-long, successful firefighting effort by the Indian Coast Guard and Sri Lankan tugs, Container ship MV X-Press Pearl has sunk partially. Salvors (technical persons engaged in retrieving a ship) had boarded the mangled and burnt vessel on Tuesday for inspection and assessment.

Despite the week-long, successful firefighting effort by the Indian Coast Guard and Sri Lankan tugs, Container ship MV X-Press Pearl has sunk partially. Salvors (technical persons engaged in retrieving a ship) had boarded the mangled and burnt vessel on Tuesday for inspection and assessment. However, from the early hours of Wednesday water started entering the vessel from its side, thus adversely affecting its draught/draft (when draught is normal the vessel floats at a normal level) and trim (when the trim is normal, the front at near float at equal levels). Also read | Sri Lanka faces marine disaster as waves of plastic from burning ship wash ashore Attempts to tow away the vessel were not successful as the damaged vessel sunk, with its rear portion touching the sea bed. It is understood that the sea floor at the location is at a depth of 22 meters. Only some of the taller portions of the ship such as its superstructure (upward extension that distinctly rises above the platform) are visible above the water. The damaged ship is also partially tilted to one side, owing to the ingress of water. Diving operations are being undertaken by Sri Lankan Navy divers to carry out underwater hull inspection. Technical deliberations to salvage the vessel are also in progress by the salvors. #OperationSagarAaraksha2 Underwater assessment of partially submerged #MVXPressPearl carried out by SLN divers & deliberations underway with salvors. #ICG Ship Vajra & PCV Samudra Prahari standby in PR configuration for response. Additional PR gears being augmented by #ICG. pic.twitter.com/WOSShdAGLx — Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) June 3, 2021 × When it caught fire, the container ship was carrying 1,486 containers of chemical cargo classified under International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG). Among other chemicals, the IMDG cargo consisted of highly inflammable Nitric Acid, Methanol, Methyl Acetate, Sodium Hydroxide and Polystyrene beads. ALso read | Colombo ship fire: Hull intact, Fire considerably reduced and no oil spill says ICG The initial fire which broke out on May 20, while at anchorage, was brought under control by the efforts of Sri Lankan authorities and the Salvage team within a day. However, in the early hours of May 25, flames re-erupted in the ship due to containers falling onboard in rough weather and their highly reactive chemical contents leaking. All the 13 crew and the 12 salvors working onboard were safely evacuated by the Sri Lankan authorities, as the fire quickly spread, thereby engulfing the entire ship. Also read | Firefighting on ship off Sri Lankan coast can take 'days', says navy chief The partial sinking of this vessel with chemicals and a sizeable quantity of fuel has led to environmental concerns. Indian Coast Guard Ships including the specialised Pollution Response vessel Samudra Prahari and Offshore patrol vessel Vajra are in the vicinity of the accident site. The Indian vessels are in Pollution Response configuration, which means that they are equipped to deal with any oil spill or related eventuality. Sri Lankan vessels and tugs too are in the region for the operations. However, at present, no oil spill has been reported by the authorities and this has also been confirmed by Indian Coast Guard Dornier aircraft (from Madurai) that has been undertaking daily aerial reconnaissance of the area. Additional pollution response gears are being augmented by ICG. The coordinated operation between India and Sri Lanka, undertaken to respond to potential environmental danger, has been christened Sagar Aaraksha-II. Indian Coast Guard is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Sri Lankan Navy, Coast Guard, MEPA and other authorities to address any impending environmental damage due to the sinking of the vessel close to the coast. Additional ICG formations at Kochi, Chennai and Tuticorin remain on standby for immediate assistance, if any, towards Pollution Response. ICG being an active member of South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP) remains committed to its responsibilities of safeguarding the ocean environment in the region.

No oil spill, but Container Ship MV X-Press Pearl partially sunk, says ICG

Indian students bound for foreign countries to pursue higher education are left in a dilemma. This comes after the 45-day time interval between two vaccine shots in India has been increased to 12-16 weeks. Those who were due to fly abroad by end of June or July had taken their jabs in May.&nbsp;

They did so right after the Indian government opened vaccination for the 18-44 age group from May 1st.&nbsp;

But, owing to the new timelines for the second dose, the students are afraid that they may be forced to further delay their journey, as their wait for full vaccination and certification is now 2-3 months.

Canada-bound students are the most affected by this decision and elaborated their woes to WION.

They were originally due to fly out in late April or early May, ahead of the summer intake of Canadian universities.

But, their plans hit a roadblock owing to Canada’s ban on direct flights from India starting 22nd April. With India’s COVID-19 second wave having continued throughout April and May, this flight ban was further extended until June 22nd. In the case of American and European Universities, the intake of students starts in August or September.

Given the new 12-16 week interval in place, students who took their jab in May would have to wait at least until August to get their second jab, the vaccination certificate and then board their flights. This brings with it, its own set of challenges for some of the already anguished students who are taking online classes at home, despite having paid hefty fees.

“Even if we manage to convince the Public health centre to give us the second jab in 45 days, the official certificate of having taken it would be available only after the 12-16 week period. This would delay our travel plans even further” says Karan Thakkar, who is headed for Ontario.

According to the recommendations for persons entering Canada, not vaccinated and partially vaccinated persons will have to undergo a quarantine period.&nbsp;

“Once we reach Canada without getting vaccinated or with only a single shot, we’d have to shell out nearly 2000 Canadian Dollars (about Rs1.2 lakhs) for quarantine facilities. There are also doubts over whether the unvaccinated and single-shot persons will be allowed to enter” said Sajith Ahamed who is to pursue his Post graduation.

Raama Sreenivasan, a student who tweeted out the students’ emergency request for priority vaccination to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Council of ministers says there was no response as yet. “When I checked for a solution with the Cowin helpline, they directed me to the District immunization officer. But the district officer says that they can act only under instructions from the State Government” he said.

Students that spoke to WION think that the Tamil Nadu Government too must implement a strategy to provide priority jabs to students travelling abroad. They feel that since Kerala, Mumbai, Karnataka, Gujarat and Telangana have taken decisions in this regard and there is a precedent, the Tamil Nadu Government must explore this option immediately. 
 
Another issue is that Covaxin, the indigenous vaccine of Bharat Biotech has not been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), it has also been approved for international travel only in a handful of countries. The foreign travel options of those who have taken Covaxin also raises questions.&nbsp;

Indian students bound for foreign countries to pursue higher education are left in a dilemma. This comes after the 45-day time interval between two vaccine shots in India has been increased to 12-16 weeks.

Indian students bound for foreign countries to pursue higher education are left in a dilemma. This comes after the 45-day time interval between two vaccine shots in India has been increased to 12-16 weeks. Those who were due to fly abroad by end of June or July had taken their jabs in May. They did so right after the Indian government opened vaccination for the 18-44 age group from May 1st. But, owing to the new timelines for the second dose, the students are afraid that they may be forced to further delay their journey, as their wait for full vaccination and certification is now 2-3 months. Canada-bound students are the most affected by this decision and elaborated their woes to WION. They were originally due to fly out in late April or early May, ahead of the summer intake of Canadian universities. But, their plans hit a roadblock owing to Canada’s ban on direct flights from India starting 22nd April. With India’s COVID-19 second wave having continued throughout April and May, this flight ban was further extended until June 22nd. In the case of American and European Universities, the intake of students starts in August or September. Given the new 12-16 week interval in place, students who took their jab in May would have to wait at least until August to get their second jab, the vaccination certificate and then board their flights. This brings with it, its own set of challenges for some of the already anguished students who are taking online classes at home, despite having paid hefty fees. “Even if we manage to convince the Public health centre to give us the second jab in 45 days, the official certificate of having taken it would be available only after the 12-16 week period. This would delay our travel plans even further” says Karan Thakkar, who is headed for Ontario. According to the recommendations for persons entering Canada, not vaccinated and partially vaccinated persons will have to undergo a quarantine period. “Once we reach Canada without getting vaccinated or with only a single shot, we’d have to shell out nearly 2000 Canadian Dollars (about Rs1.2 lakhs) for quarantine facilities. There are also doubts over whether the unvaccinated and single-shot persons will be allowed to enter” said Sajith Ahamed who is to pursue his Post graduation. Raama Sreenivasan, a student who tweeted out the students’ emergency request for priority vaccination to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Council of ministers says there was no response as yet. “When I checked for a solution with the Cowin helpline, they directed me to the District immunization officer. But the district officer says that they can act only under instructions from the State Government” he said. Students that spoke to WION think that the Tamil Nadu Government too must implement a strategy to provide priority jabs to students travelling abroad. They feel that since Kerala, Mumbai, Karnataka, Gujarat and Telangana have taken decisions in this regard and there is a precedent, the Tamil Nadu Government must explore this option immediately. Another issue is that Covaxin, the indigenous vaccine of Bharat Biotech has not been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), it has also been approved for international travel only in a handful of countries. The foreign travel options of those who have taken Covaxin also raises questions.

Give us priority COVID-19 vaccination: Foreign-bound students to Tamil Nadu govt 

Tamil Nadu government said on Tuesday that it would be receiving a consignment of 420,000 vaccines from the central government. The consignment is expected to land at the city airport by 5:20 pm.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Tamil Nadu Health Minister M&nbsp;Subramanian said that vaccination will be halted in Tamil Nadu from Tuesday evening onwards, as stocks would be exhausted. He said that vaccination would have to be halted until doses arrive on June 6th. 
&nbsp; 
Speaking at the government hospital in Chengalpet, the minister said Tamil Nadu had received about 9.6 million vaccines, of which 9.2 million were administered and the rest&nbsp; were wasted. He claimed that there was a delay from the central government in sending 175,000 doses that were due by May-end.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Subramanian said that DMK representatives in Delhi had met central ministers and officials in Delhi to seek adequate vaccines for the state. He expressed confidence that about 4.2 million vaccines would arrive in Tamil Nadu in a phased manner this month. Those vaccines would be dispatched to the districts based on the population and other requirements, he added. 
&nbsp; 
The minister said he was requesting state BJP President L&nbsp;Murugan and BJP Coimbatore South MLA Vanathi Srinivasan to provide support and urge the Central Government to provide adequate vaccines for Tamil Nadu. 
&nbsp; 
The DMK Government had earlier floated a global tender to procure vaccines for Tamil Nadu, which is yet to yield any results. DMK leaders and Chief Minister Stalin had written to the prime minister to permit the state government to take on lease the unused Integrated Vaccine Complex, at Chengalpet near Chennai.

The plant, which was established by the central government in 2021, has been lying idle ever since. Stalin wanted the factory to be handed over to the State Government on the lease, without any past liabilities and full operational freedom. However, questions loom over which Covid-19 vaccine would be manufactured here.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On the issue of people queuing up for vaccines in Tamil Nadu despite the looming shortage, he said that it was heartening to see people eagerly waiting to take the shot, rather than hesitating to take the shot.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Tamil Nadu continues to witness the highest daily number of Covid-19 cases of all states in India. The daily case numbers are nearly 28,000 and active cases are a little over 300,000.

Over the last few days, the number of persons discharged following treatment has surpassed the daily cases. However, the worry remains the fatality numbers which have been hovering over 450 for more than a week. So far, 24,232 people have lost their lives to the pandemic in Tamil Nadu, with most lives lost being in May.

Tamil Nadu government said on Tuesday that it would be receiving a consignment of 420,000 vaccines from the central government. The consignment is expected to land at the city airport by 5:20 pm.

Tamil Nadu government said on Tuesday that it would be receiving a consignment of 420,000 vaccines from the central government. The consignment is expected to land at the city airport by 5:20 pm. Earlier in the day, Tamil Nadu Health Minister M Subramanian said that vaccination will be halted in Tamil Nadu from Tuesday evening onwards, as stocks would be exhausted. He said that vaccination would have to be halted until doses arrive on June 6th. Speaking at the government hospital in Chengalpet, the minister said Tamil Nadu had received about 9.6 million vaccines, of which 9.2 million were administered and the rest were wasted. He claimed that there was a delay from the central government in sending 175,000 doses that were due by May-end. Subramanian said that DMK representatives in Delhi had met central ministers and officials in Delhi to seek adequate vaccines for the state. He expressed confidence that about 4.2 million vaccines would arrive in Tamil Nadu in a phased manner this month. Those vaccines would be dispatched to the districts based on the population and other requirements, he added. The minister said he was requesting state BJP President L Murugan and BJP Coimbatore South MLA Vanathi Srinivasan to provide support and urge the Central Government to provide adequate vaccines for Tamil Nadu. The DMK Government had earlier floated a global tender to procure vaccines for Tamil Nadu, which is yet to yield any results. DMK leaders and Chief Minister Stalin had written to the prime minister to permit the state government to take on lease the unused Integrated Vaccine Complex, at Chengalpet near Chennai. The plant, which was established by the central government in 2021, has been lying idle ever since. Stalin wanted the factory to be handed over to the State Government on the lease, without any past liabilities and full operational freedom. However, questions loom over which Covid-19 vaccine would be manufactured here. On the issue of people queuing up for vaccines in Tamil Nadu despite the looming shortage, he said that it was heartening to see people eagerly waiting to take the shot, rather than hesitating to take the shot. Tamil Nadu continues to witness the highest daily number of Covid-19 cases of all states in India. The daily case numbers are nearly 28,000 and active cases are a little over 300,000. Over the last few days, the number of persons discharged following treatment has surpassed the daily cases. However, the worry remains the fatality numbers which have been hovering over 450 for more than a week. So far, 24,232 people have lost their lives to the pandemic in Tamil Nadu, with most lives lost being in May.

COVID-19: Tamil Nadu stops vaccination due to shortages, will receive 420,000 doses

A good number of young Indians are ready to get the COVID-19 vaccine, but vaccination slots are not so easy to get. Cut to a different world and it's not just vaccines that are free!&nbsp;If lucky, you could end up winning anything from gold coins, bikes, washing machines, induction cooktops&nbsp;among other home appliances. A group of NGOs are going the extra mile to help battle vaccine hesitancy and ensure that the entire eligible population of a fishing hamlet gets vaccinated.&nbsp;

Located about 50 kilometres from the city of Chennai&nbsp;is the scenic fishing hamlet of Kovalam. The primary occupation of its over 16,000 population is, of course, fishing, tourism and promoting water sports. However, things haven’t been going well for the village and its residents since the pandemic struck. According to Kovalam residents and surfers Sekar and Dharani of SurfTurf, there were not many COVID-19 cases in their village, but their livelihoods were badly hit.

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“The inflow of tourists came to a halt, restrictions on sporting activities were in place and there were no means to hold Surfing festivals that attract huge crowds to the village. This was made worse by misinformation and rumours that are spreading fast on social media” they told WION. When vaccines were available, the villagers simply refused to take the jab, they added.&nbsp;

A group of NGOs working in the village during the pandemic setup helplines and catered to the needs of residents by home-delivering essentials, grocery, masks, immunity boosters and much more. But&nbsp;as vaccines became available, even getting the eligible elders to sign up was a herculean task. That’s when an idea struck them - to offer not just vaccines for free, but also provide the villagers some goodies that would cheer them up or improve their life - it could be anything from a plate of biryani to even a brand new motorbike.

<img alt="Image" src="https://attachments.office.net/owa/bharat.sharma%40zeemedia.esselgroup.com/service.svc/s/GetAttachmentThumbnail?id=AAMkAGVmNjcwYzBiLTYyYTYtNGY0Ny1hZGQzLTM0OTU2NWU3NmJlNQBGAAAAAABXCL4cU4u2ToquomFodE3aBwA3P627AwdtT57llW6AW%2F%2FzAAAAAAEMAAA3P627AwdtT57llW6AW%2F%2FzAAGSlOU4AAABEgAQAN%2FriuQdiONFg0p2icregt8%3D&amp;thumbnailType=2&amp;token=eyJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiIsImtpZCI6IjMwODE3OUNFNUY0QjUyRTc4QjJEQjg5NjZCQUY0RUNDMzcyN0FFRUUiLCJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJ4NXQiOiJNSUY1emw5TFV1ZUxMYmlXYTY5T3pEY25ydTQifQ.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.GbeRVAZdcHJ7igSfS8IDiJErWDRbslbuhKwI8uuexQQ6U8igmz-hYNv1puZ5EZ_NCE5TW5YNcJkYmgU3CHgGedAYASeId5MgVoMLyAmU5fmBL12H6a3HwaWePdAMUwl66g9Bk_8kWWeeIMGE27ZHzUnYAV_YiriU409uaWHmzdj08RbyHae6ajCJObNoOIO4jfBQhRNLkMd-WI5dbjpDzYAbHbxgdDezXhl2_XBoWRP331SQDj7MLz6Mp8h-s-3dsYLmiza_PcauOkMyzN1y1ir2x--ZwsgKGfUWT2hzf5Iocqa0sbeT3pUdk_bO75T5eZtUZlhMoSeXB2q9n61O-Q&amp;X-OWA-CANARY=ZerZHpIpJU-UiDTGvYMNESCl1aRGJNkYxDDsvIAM24gDxkKnOi6aDpDY2-d5a7HI6E0R8E6n870.&amp;owa=outlook.office.com&amp;scriptVer=20210524004.15&amp;animation=true" />

STS Foundation, in partnership with CN Ramdas and Chiraj Trusts has a two-pronged strategy to boost vaccination in the village - to offer short term incentives like mobile phone recharges and a plate of biryani on a daily basis, along with long term bumper prizes such as gold coins, washing machines, refrigerators, bikes, induction stoves, LPG cooktops via a lucky draw etc. The villagers are also provided free pickup and drop to the vaccination centre. Everyone taking the jab receives a token and a counter foil, which would be later used for the bumper lucky draw.&nbsp;

“Of over 6400 people eligible to take the jabs, we have successfully enrolled 640 persons and given the first dose to more than 200 persons over the last two days. As word spreads fast in the village, we are expecting a flurry of registrations and hope to have the entire eligible population vaccinated as soon as possible” J Sundar, Trustee, STS Foundation told WION.

We’ve setup helpline numbers for people to call and tele-register, so that we can enlist them for vaccination. With the current availability, we are doing upto 100 shots per day and hopefully this will increase, he added. The NGOs partnering with the people of Kovalam and the Health department wish to put this beautiful coastal hamlet and surfing hotspot on the map for being a model vaccination village.&nbsp;

A good number of young Indians are ready to get the COVID-19 vaccine, but vaccination slots are not so easy to get. Cut to a different world and it's not just vaccines that are free!

A good number of young Indians are ready to get the COVID-19 vaccine, but vaccination slots are not so easy to get. Cut to a different world and it's not just vaccines that are free! If lucky, you could end up winning anything from gold coins, bikes, washing machines, induction cooktops among other home appliances. A group of NGOs are going the extra mile to help battle vaccine hesitancy and ensure that the entire eligible population of a fishing hamlet gets vaccinated. Located about 50 kilometres from the city of Chennai is the scenic fishing hamlet of Kovalam. The primary occupation of its over 16,000 population is, of course, fishing, tourism and promoting water sports. However, things haven’t been going well for the village and its residents since the pandemic struck. According to Kovalam residents and surfers Sekar and Dharani of SurfTurf, there were not many COVID-19 cases in their village, but their livelihoods were badly hit. “The inflow of tourists came to a halt, restrictions on sporting activities were in place and there were no means to hold Surfing festivals that attract huge crowds to the village. This was made worse by misinformation and rumours that are spreading fast on social media” they told WION. When vaccines were available, the villagers simply refused to take the jab, they added. A group of NGOs working in the village during the pandemic setup helplines and catered to the needs of residents by home-delivering essentials, grocery, masks, immunity boosters and much more. But as vaccines became available, even getting the eligible elders to sign up was a herculean task. That’s when an idea struck them - to offer not just vaccines for free, but also provide the villagers some goodies that would cheer them up or improve their life - it could be anything from a plate of biryani to even a brand new motorbike. STS Foundation, in partnership with CN Ramdas and Chiraj Trusts has a two-pronged strategy to boost vaccination in the village - to offer short term incentives like mobile phone recharges and a plate of biryani on a daily basis, along with long term bumper prizes such as gold coins, washing machines, refrigerators, bikes, induction stoves, LPG cooktops via a lucky draw etc. The villagers are also provided free pickup and drop to the vaccination centre. Everyone taking the jab receives a token and a counter foil, which would be later used for the bumper lucky draw. “Of over 6400 people eligible to take the jabs, we have successfully enrolled 640 persons and given the first dose to more than 200 persons over the last two days. As word spreads fast in the village, we are expecting a flurry of registrations and hope to have the entire eligible population vaccinated as soon as possible” J Sundar, Trustee, STS Foundation told WION. We’ve setup helpline numbers for people to call and tele-register, so that we can enlist them for vaccination. With the current availability, we are doing upto 100 shots per day and hopefully this will increase, he added. The NGOs partnering with the people of Kovalam and the Health department wish to put this beautiful coastal hamlet and surfing hotspot on the map for being a model vaccination village.

Get Covid-jabbed at this fishing hamlet near Chennai and win prizes like gold coins, bikes

Efforts of Indian Coast guard (ICG) vessels and Sri Lankan tugs over the last six days (since May 25th) have restricted the fire on container ship MV X-Press Pearl to a small portion in the ship’s rear.

In what is being regarded as a positive outcome, the smoke emanating from the vessel has turned from black to grey/white, with its intensity also getting reduced.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/colombo-ship-fire-appears-under-control-no-oil-spill-says-indian-coast-guard-387919" hreflang="en">Colombo ship fire appears under control, no oil spill, says Indian Coast Guard</a>

Currently, three Indian Coast Guard ships,&nbsp;Vaibhav, Vajra and Samudra Prahari (a pollution response vessel) are on the scene along with four tugs deployed by Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Daily aerial surveillance by ICG Dornier aircraft has indicated no oil spill in the area. The Coast Guard adds that owing to the careful and measured execution of the firefighting operation, there has been no change in the vessel’s trim (which means that the front and rear portions are floating at equal level).

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Likewise, there is no change in the draught/draft of the vessel (indicating that the overall vessel has not gone lower than usual). Hence, it can be said that the stability and watertight integrity of the vessel are intact.

ICG ships and Sri Lankan tugs are undertaking continuous boundary cooling (spraying water and foam to prevent the further spread of fire).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-faces-marine-disaster-as-waves-of-plastic-from-burning-ship-wash-ashore-388259" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka faces marine disaster as waves of plastic from burning ship wash ashore</a>

In addition to this, dry chemical powder bags are being dropped over the burning vessel by Sri Lankan helicopter to contain and extinguish the metallic fire.&nbsp;

Besides their fire fighting capabilities (spraying 660 liters of water/foam per minute), ICG vessels are also equipped with adequate pollution response capabilities in case of an oil spill, if any. The presence of a specialised pollution response vessel, ICGS Samudra Prahari, since Saturday has provided added strength to the overall operation.

This round-the-clock joint fire fighting operation into its sixth day has been named 'Operation Sagar Aaraksha 2', which symbolises growing maritime cooperation and collaboration between India and the Indian ocean Littoral state.

In September 2020, a similar joint operation between India and Sri Lanka was named 'Sagar Aaraksha'. Back then, ICG ships and Sri Lankan vessels were involved in a fire fighting operation onboard MT New Diamond. The joint efforts undertaken off the East Sri Lankan coast averted the risk of 270,000 metric tonnes of crude oil spilling from the very large crude carrier.

Efforts of Indian Coast guard (ICG) vessels and Sri Lankan tugs over the last six days (since May 25th) have restricted the fire on container ship MV X-Press Pearl to a small portion in the ship’s rear.

Efforts of Indian Coast guard (ICG) vessels and Sri Lankan tugs over the last six days (since May 25th) have restricted the fire on container ship MV X-Press Pearl to a small portion in the ship’s rear. In what is being regarded as a positive outcome, the smoke emanating from the vessel has turned from black to grey/white, with its intensity also getting reduced. Also read | Colombo ship fire appears under control, no oil spill, says Indian Coast Guard Currently, three Indian Coast Guard ships, Vaibhav, Vajra and Samudra Prahari (a pollution response vessel) are on the scene along with four tugs deployed by Sri Lanka. Daily aerial surveillance by ICG Dornier aircraft has indicated no oil spill in the area. The Coast Guard adds that owing to the careful and measured execution of the firefighting operation, there has been no change in the vessel’s trim (which means that the front and rear portions are floating at equal level). Likewise, there is no change in the draught/draft of the vessel (indicating that the overall vessel has not gone lower than usual). Hence, it can be said that the stability and watertight integrity of the vessel are intact. ICG ships and Sri Lankan tugs are undertaking continuous boundary cooling (spraying water and foam to prevent the further spread of fire). Also read | Sri Lanka faces marine disaster as waves of plastic from burning ship wash ashore In addition to this, dry chemical powder bags are being dropped over the burning vessel by Sri Lankan helicopter to contain and extinguish the metallic fire. Besides their fire fighting capabilities (spraying 660 liters of water/foam per minute), ICG vessels are also equipped with adequate pollution response capabilities in case of an oil spill, if any. The presence of a specialised pollution response vessel, ICGS Samudra Prahari, since Saturday has provided added strength to the overall operation. This round-the-clock joint fire fighting operation into its sixth day has been named 'Operation Sagar Aaraksha 2', which symbolises growing maritime cooperation and collaboration between India and the Indian ocean Littoral state. In September 2020, a similar joint operation between India and Sri Lanka was named 'Sagar Aaraksha'. Back then, ICG ships and Sri Lankan vessels were involved in a fire fighting operation onboard MT New Diamond. The joint efforts undertaken off the East Sri Lankan coast averted the risk of 270,000 metric tonnes of crude oil spilling from the very large crude carrier.

Colombo ship fire: Blaze restricted to small area, smoke density reduced; no oil spill

Following allegations of Tamil Nadu’s western belt being ignored by the ruling DMK, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who is touring the region is facing the wrath of angry netizens and political opponents on Twitter.

The Western belt which is locally known as the ‘Kongu Belt’ is an AIADMK stronghold and largely voted against the ruling DMK. Coimbatore, the second-largest city in Tamil Nadu and an industrial hub is situated in the Kongu belt region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dmk-ministers-comments-on-not-getting-hindi-speakers-votes-courts-trouble-bjp-objects-387725" hreflang="en">DMK minister’s comments on not getting Hindi-speakers’ votes courts trouble; BJP objects</a>

However, this region is said to have been allocated far fewer vaccines than Chennai. Coimbatore is also now the city with maximum COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Leaders from the opposition parties, BJP and AIADMK, have been pointing out the high number of deaths and spike in cases in Coimbatore when compared to Chennai, which is now seeing a daily decline in COVID-19 numbers.

In a clip of a Tamil TV debate, a DMK spokesperson was seen telling a BJP spokesperson that “if people of Coimbatore are struggling and crying in pain, they must do so before Modi. If they are crying in pain, then WhatsApp it to Modi”. &nbsp;Notably, Coimbatore South is an important assembly constituency that elected BJP Women’s wing President Vanathi Srinivasan.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadus-ongoing-lockdown-extended-until-may-31-new-guidelines-inside-386726" hreflang="en">Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside</a>

The hashtag #GoBackStalin has been trending with more than 150,000 tweets&nbsp;and is perhaps the first time that a Tamil Nadu Chief Minister is facing this trend when touring a district of his home state.

DMK sympathisers&nbsp;countered the trend by using hashtags #Welcome_TNCM_Stalin, #WelcomeStalin and also by sharing videos of the Chief Minister wearing a PPE Suit, during a hospital inspection in Coimbatore on Sunday.

In October 2020, as Leader of Opposition Stalin had paid homage to freedom fighter and spiritual leader Muthuramaliga Thevar’s memorial in Ramanathapuram. Back then too, #GoBackStalin had trended on Twitter. Many from the AIADMK and BJP had lashed out at the DMK saying that they had nothing to do with Thevar's ideals of Nationalism and Spiritualism.

Currently, Tamil Nadu is reporting nearly 31,000 COVID-19 cases everyday, whereas the daily recoveries are around 30,000. The southern state is recording the maximum COVID-19 cases in India. Daily deaths being reported are over 450 for the past few days and over 23,000 persons have lost their lives to the pandemic. Active cases in the state are over 310, 000.

While the cases in the capital city Chennai have come down from nearly 7,000 to 2,500, it&nbsp;is the second largest district Coimbatore that is seeing a spike. Coimbatore, the Western district is now witnessing over 4,700 daily cases.&nbsp;

Following allegations of Tamil Nadu’s western belt being ignored by the ruling DMK, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who is touring the region is facing the wrath of angry netizens and political opponents on Twitter.

Following allegations of Tamil Nadu’s western belt being ignored by the ruling DMK, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who is touring the region is facing the wrath of angry netizens and political opponents on Twitter. The Western belt which is locally known as the ‘Kongu Belt’ is an AIADMK stronghold and largely voted against the ruling DMK. Coimbatore, the second-largest city in Tamil Nadu and an industrial hub is situated in the Kongu belt region. Also read | DMK minister’s comments on not getting Hindi-speakers’ votes courts trouble; BJP objects However, this region is said to have been allocated far fewer vaccines than Chennai. Coimbatore is also now the city with maximum COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu. Leaders from the opposition parties, BJP and AIADMK, have been pointing out the high number of deaths and spike in cases in Coimbatore when compared to Chennai, which is now seeing a daily decline in COVID-19 numbers. In a clip of a Tamil TV debate, a DMK spokesperson was seen telling a BJP spokesperson that “if people of Coimbatore are struggling and crying in pain, they must do so before Modi. If they are crying in pain, then WhatsApp it to Modi”. Notably, Coimbatore South is an important assembly constituency that elected BJP Women’s wing President Vanathi Srinivasan. Also read | Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside The hashtag #GoBackStalin has been trending with more than 150,000 tweets and is perhaps the first time that a Tamil Nadu Chief Minister is facing this trend when touring a district of his home state. DMK sympathisers countered the trend by using hashtags #Welcome_TNCM_Stalin, #WelcomeStalin and also by sharing videos of the Chief Minister wearing a PPE Suit, during a hospital inspection in Coimbatore on Sunday. In October 2020, as Leader of Opposition Stalin had paid homage to freedom fighter and spiritual leader Muthuramaliga Thevar’s memorial in Ramanathapuram. Back then too, #GoBackStalin had trended on Twitter. Many from the AIADMK and BJP had lashed out at the DMK saying that they had nothing to do with Thevar's ideals of Nationalism and Spiritualism. Currently, Tamil Nadu is reporting nearly 31,000 COVID-19 cases everyday, whereas the daily recoveries are around 30,000. The southern state is recording the maximum COVID-19 cases in India. Daily deaths being reported are over 450 for the past few days and over 23,000 persons have lost their lives to the pandemic. Active cases in the state are over 310, 000. While the cases in the capital city Chennai have come down from nearly 7,000 to 2,500, it is the second largest district Coimbatore that is seeing a spike. Coimbatore, the Western district is now witnessing over 4,700 daily cases.

#GoBackStalin top Twitter trend as CM MK Stalin tours Western Tamil Nadu

Among the 198 cadets passing out of the Indian Army Officer’s Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai was Nitika Kaul, wife of Late Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal, who was killed in action&nbsp;in February 2019, fighting against terrorists in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir. At the time of her husband’s demise, the couple were barely ten months into their marriage.&nbsp;

About six months after her husband made the supreme sacrifice for the country, Nitika opted to join the Indian Army under the Short Service Commission. While the Indian Army relaxes the age criteria for the war widows (Veer Naris) that want to join the service, the training and selection process is as tough as usual.&nbsp;

Niikta had undergone the 11-month gruelling, multi-disciplinary training regimen from June 2020 at the OTA in Chennai, which is the only academy in the Indian Army to train women officers. Of the 198 cadets that passed out of the academy, 167 were gentleman cadets, 31 were women cadets. Five gentlemen cadets and seven women cadets from the mountain Kingdom of Bhutan also had undergone the 11-month course at the academy, along with their Indian counterparts. This is in line with India’s foreign policy of ensuring peaceful development of friendly, neighbouring countries by providing financial, infrastructural, military and medical aid.&nbsp;

The passing out parade at the Parameswaran Drill Square was reviewed by Lieutenant General YK Joshi, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Northern Command. However, owing to the COVID-19 protocols in place, there was a significant addition and a conspicuous absence at the parade this year - all cadets wore Indian Army-monogrammed masks and their proud parents watched the ceremony live on TV and YouTube from their homes.&nbsp;

During the Pipping, which is the final ceremony on parade day, officers take the oath in the name of the Constitution of India in the presence of Indian tricolour and consecrated by religious teachers of all faiths. This is followed by officers donning the&nbsp;coveted stars of a lieutenant.&nbsp;

After the ceremony, Lt. Nitika Kaul recalled how her journey has been marvellous and that she had learnt a lot in life, over the bygone 11 months. She thanked her mother and mother-in-law and several others for having put their faith in her and being a part of her journey.&nbsp;

“I feel that I’m travelling the same journey that he did. I believe he’s always going to be part of my life, even today he’s somewhere around looking at me and I can feel that he’s just holding me and saying you just did it. I Love you Vibhu” she fondly recalled&nbsp;her Late husband Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal.&nbsp;

“Everyone please have faith in yourself, there’s absolutely nothing that can stop you from achieving what you have aimed for” is her message for all the women out there.&nbsp;

During 2018-2019, Maj Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal’s unit 55 Rashtriya Rifles&nbsp;was deployed in Pulwama district in J&amp;K and&nbsp;engaged in operations against the militants on a regular basis. Following the suicide bombing attack on the CRPF convoy in Pulwama on February 14, 2019, the security forces were maintaining a state of high alert, and subsequently, a massive operation was launched to nab the perpetrators of the attack.&nbsp;

On February 17, 2019&nbsp;the security forces received credible information from the intelligence sources about the presence of terrorists in Pinglan village of Pulwama district. Based on the intelligence inputs 55 RR along with the Special Operation Group of J &amp; K Police launched a search and destroy operation.&nbsp;

In a fierce 20-hour long gunfight, a number of hardcore terrorists were eliminated by the Indian security forces, whereas eleven security personnel were injured. Four soldiers including Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal succumbed to their injuries. He was was given the gallantry award, "Shaurya Chakra" for his exceptional courage, devotion to duty, and supreme sacrifice.

Among the 198 cadets passing out of the Indian Army Officer’s Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai was Nitika Kaul, wife of Late Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal, who was killed in action in February 2019, fighting against terrorists in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir.

Among the 198 cadets passing out of the Indian Army Officer’s Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai was Nitika Kaul, wife of Late Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal, who was killed in action in February 2019, fighting against terrorists in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir. At the time of her husband’s demise, the couple were barely ten months into their marriage. About six months after her husband made the supreme sacrifice for the country, Nitika opted to join the Indian Army under the Short Service Commission. While the Indian Army relaxes the age criteria for the war widows (Veer Naris) that want to join the service, the training and selection process is as tough as usual. Niikta had undergone the 11-month gruelling, multi-disciplinary training regimen from June 2020 at the OTA in Chennai, which is the only academy in the Indian Army to train women officers. Of the 198 cadets that passed out of the academy, 167 were gentleman cadets, 31 were women cadets. Five gentlemen cadets and seven women cadets from the mountain Kingdom of Bhutan also had undergone the 11-month course at the academy, along with their Indian counterparts. This is in line with India’s foreign policy of ensuring peaceful development of friendly, neighbouring countries by providing financial, infrastructural, military and medical aid. The passing out parade at the Parameswaran Drill Square was reviewed by Lieutenant General YK Joshi, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Northern Command. However, owing to the COVID-19 protocols in place, there was a significant addition and a conspicuous absence at the parade this year - all cadets wore Indian Army-monogrammed masks and their proud parents watched the ceremony live on TV and YouTube from their homes. During the Pipping, which is the final ceremony on parade day, officers take the oath in the name of the Constitution of India in the presence of Indian tricolour and consecrated by religious teachers of all faiths. This is followed by officers donning the coveted stars of a lieutenant. After the ceremony, Lt. Nitika Kaul recalled how her journey has been marvellous and that she had learnt a lot in life, over the bygone 11 months. She thanked her mother and mother-in-law and several others for having put their faith in her and being a part of her journey. “I feel that I’m travelling the same journey that he did. I believe he’s always going to be part of my life, even today he’s somewhere around looking at me and I can feel that he’s just holding me and saying you just did it. I Love you Vibhu” she fondly recalled her Late husband Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal. “Everyone please have faith in yourself, there’s absolutely nothing that can stop you from achieving what you have aimed for” is her message for all the women out there. During 2018-2019, Maj Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal’s unit 55 Rashtriya Rifles was deployed in Pulwama district in J&K and engaged in operations against the militants on a regular basis. Following the suicide bombing attack on the CRPF convoy in Pulwama on February 14, 2019, the security forces were maintaining a state of high alert, and subsequently, a massive operation was launched to nab the perpetrators of the attack. On February 17, 2019 the security forces received credible information from the intelligence sources about the presence of terrorists in Pinglan village of Pulwama district. Based on the intelligence inputs 55 RR along with the Special Operation Group of J & K Police launched a search and destroy operation. In a fierce 20-hour long gunfight, a number of hardcore terrorists were eliminated by the Indian security forces, whereas eleven security personnel were injured. Four soldiers including Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal succumbed to their injuries. He was was given the gallantry award, "Shaurya Chakra" for his exceptional courage, devotion to duty, and supreme sacrifice.

'Nothing can stop you from achieving', says wife of late Major who joined Indian Army

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