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Kerala rain fury floods roads, uproots trees; red alert in 5 districts

Kerala rain fury floods roads, uproots trees; red alert in 5 districts

Maruti, Tata lead hatchback revival

For nearly a decade, India's carmakers chased the sport utility vehicle (SUV) dream.Higher margins, aspirational buyers and a growing appetite for larger vehicles pushed manufacturers to flood showrooms with sport utility vehicles and compact SUVs, steadily relegating hatchbacks — once the backbone of India's passenger vehicle market — to the sidelines.Also Read: Tata Motors PV launches next-gen Tiago from Rs 4.69 lakh, Tiago.ev from Rs 6.99 lakh with lifetime battery warrantyThe strategy worked. Utility vehicles now account for well over half of all passenger vehicle sales in India and contributed nearly two-thirds of the 4.3 million vehicles sold in FY25.But as economic pressures mount, vehicle prices climb and first-time buyers struggle to enter the market, India's biggest automakers are beginning to acknowledge a reality they may have overlooked: the country's next wave of growth could come from the very segment they left behind.From Maruti Suzuki's renewed commitment to entry-level cars to Tata Motors' ambitious reinvention of the Tiago, hatchbacks are once again finding themselves at the centre of boardroom conversations.Also Read: Small cars strike back: Maruti Suzuki bets on mass mobility while costs squeeze fourth quarter profitsAnd this time, carmakers are betting that small cars no longer have to feel small.The forgotten customerThe shift is being driven by a growing recognition that India's passenger vehicle market cannot rely indefinitely on premiumisation.While SUVs have transformed the industry's revenue mix, they have also pushed average vehicle prices steadily higher, making car ownership increasingly difficult for millions of households.Maruti Suzuki Chairman R. C. Bhargava recently signalled the company's intent to rebalance its portfolio."We are planning to develop both small cars and SUVs. The small car market is growing. India is a country where small cars have a long-term future," Bhargava said.The comments mark a notable shift in tone from an industry that spent years focusing on larger and more expensive vehicles.For Maruti, which built its dominance on models such as the Alto, WagonR and Swift, the renewed emphasis reflects confidence that affordability will remain central to India's mobility story."A large part of the population… need small cars" for basic mobility, Bhargava said.Industry analysts say the opportunity remains substantial."In the small cars segment, there is a much bigger conversion pool that carmakers can navigate. Hence, there is this renewed push towards small cars and that segment," said Hemal Thakkar, Senior Director, Crisil Intelligence."India is a price sensitive market and hence, small cars will stay and customers are looking for upgrades within vehicles. If carmakers can provide small cars with new features and upgrades, then there will be more customers for the small car space," he added.Making hatchbacks aspirational againIf Maruti is signalling a strategic return to small cars, Tata Motors is attempting something more ambitious — making hatchbacks desirable again.The company this week unveiled the next-generation Tiago and Tiago.ev, positioning them as technology-rich products aimed at reviving a segment many in the industry had effectively written off."Hatchbacks remain the gateway to personal mobility for millions of Indian families and yet, for far too long, this segment received scarce attention from the industry, when it genuinely deserved far more," said Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director and CEO, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles.Calling the new Tiago "not an evolution but a full reinvention", Chandra said the vehicle brings substantially upgraded design, connected technologies and safety features that were once largely reserved for more expensive categories.The next-generation Tiago gets a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless smartphone connectivity, a dual-screen dashboard, wireless charging and a segment-first 360-degree surround-view camera."The feeling of wow shouldn't be reserved for expensive cars," Chandra said."Today hatchback customers want far more than mobility, they want design, tech, safety and pride of ownership. A car they want to flaunt."The company has also positioned the Tiago.ev as an affordable electric mobility option, offering a lifetime battery warranty and fast-charging capability that can add up to 100 kilometres of range in 18 minutes."Tiago will make EV more accessible," Chandra said.Why affordability is back in focusThe renewed interest in hatchbacks comes as affordability re-emerges as a key concern across the industry.Vehicle prices have risen sharply in recent years because of stricter regulations, higher commodity costs and the addition of new safety and technology features.That has increasingly pushed first-time buyers out of the market.According to Srikumar Krishnamurthy, Senior Vice President and Co-Group Head, Corporate Ratings, ICRA Limited, hatchbacks continue to play a critical role in expanding the customer base."Hatchbacks remain a preferred segment, particularly for first-time buyers and households seeking a second vehicle, as affordability and comfort are key purchase considerations," he said."From an original equipment perspective, a presence across segments also helps improve reach, especially in Tier 2/3 cities."Krishnamurthy added that rising vehicle costs are forcing manufacturers to revisit their entry-level offerings."With input costs rising and vehicle prices expected to increase further, affordability is becoming even more important, especially in the mass-market segment. In response, OEs are looking to reposition entry-level hatchbacks and compact SUVs through new launches and refreshed variants that offer a stronger value proposition to consumers."Beyond SUVsThe industry's renewed focus on hatchbacks does not mean SUVs are going away.Far from it.Utility vehicles remain India's dominant passenger vehicle category and continue to drive growth and profitability for manufacturers.What is changing, however, is the recognition that growth cannot come solely from moving customers up the value chain.To sustain volumes, carmakers need to bring new buyers into the market.That is especially important as India adds millions of young consumers entering the workforce, many of whom are seeking their first personal vehicle but remain highly sensitive to price.Affordable electric hatchbacks could further strengthen the segment's appeal in coming years."Affordable EV hatchbacks could become an attractive proposition as charging infrastructure improves, range-anxiety concerns ease, and the financing environment becomes more supportive," Krishnamurthy said.For much of the past decade, India's hatchbacks were treated as yesterday's story while SUVs became the industry's obsession.Now, as automakers search for their next growth engine, the segment that once put millions of Indians behind the wheel is beginning to look relevant again.The future of India's auto market may still be taller, bolder and SUV-shaped. But increasingly, carmakers are recognising that the road to scale may once again begin with a hatchback.

Cloudburst, flashfloods damaged houses in J&K’s Reasi

Flashfloods from a cloudburst in Reasi's Bathoi village on Thursday caused significant damage to homes and blocked roads with mudslides. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported. This marks the fifth such event in the Jammu region recently. Authorities are providing immediate assistance to affected families, while adverse weather also led to the suspension of pilgrimages in Kishtwar.

Kochi Mayor claims effective pre-monsoon works spared city of major waterlogging

Despite the incessant rain, there has been no flooding, unlike in the past when it disrupted traffic, says V.K. Minimol

‘If there's an opportunity ...’: Gambhir backs ICC's pink-ball rule for bad light

India head coach Gautam Gambhir supports the ICC's new rule allowing a pink ball under floodlights to combat bad light in Test matches. He believes this proactive measure will help ensure matches reach a conclusion, especially in crucial World Test Championship scenarios, preventing teams from being denied results due to weather.

UDF, LDF spar over adequacy of pre-monsoon works as monsoon rains flood Kochi

Visakhapatnam’s toxic stormwater drains threaten ecosystem

These drains engineered typically to handle excess rainwater by directing it away from urban areas to prevent flooding, have been compromised, as they also transport untreated or partially treated wastewater, impacting communities and the city’s coastline, reports Paul Nicodemus

Flash Floods, Landslides After 3 Cloudbursts In Jammu And Kashmir

A third cloudburst struck Bandekhra Nalla in Thathri town of Doda district.

Bengaluru’s Outer Ring Road traffic crawls as rain leaves the stretch flooded

Officials instructed to gear up for monsoon sowing, intensify vigil in flood-prone areas

Cyberabad civic body officials inspect flood-prone hotspots ahead of monsoon

Strong El Niño likely this year, climate change could intensify extreme weather: WMO

The World Meteorological Organization warns of an 80% chance of a strong El Niño developing this year, potentially amplifying extreme weather events due to climate change. This phenomenon, characterized by warmer Pacific waters, could lead to intensified heatwaves, droughts, and floods globally. Scientists fear this combination may make 2027 the hottest year on record.

Thailand tourists warned of heavy rain

Tourists planning a trip to Thailand this week may need to prepare for wet weather, possible travel disruptions and rough sea conditions, as the country's meteorological agency has forecast widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across several regions. According to the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD), a strong south-west monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand, combined with a low-pressure system off the coast of Vietnam, is expected to bring persistent rain across the country on June 2. Authorities have warned of heavy rain in several provinces and very heavy rainfall along parts of Thailand's west coast in the south. The weather conditions could trigger flash floods and runoff in low-lying areas and locations near waterways. Which tourist areas could be affected? Popular destinations on Thailand's west coast, including Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga, Trang and Satun, are expected to see the heaviest rainfall, with thunderstorms forecast across 80% of the region.131421089 In eastern Thailand, tourist destinations such as Pattaya and coastal areas in Rayong and Trat could also experience thunderstorms and periods of heavy rain. The forecast for Bangkok and surrounding areas indicates thunderstorms in around 60% of locations, with isolated heavy downpours possible. What should island-hoppers and beachgoers know? Travellers planning boat trips, island tours or water activities should closely monitor local weather advisories. The TMD has warned of rough seas in both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Wave heights in the upper Andaman Sea, including waters around Phuket, are expected to reach 2-3 metres and could exceed 3 metres during thunderstorms. In the lower Andaman Sea, including waters near Krabi and southern islands, waves could rise above 2 metres during storms. Authorities have advised vessels to proceed with caution and avoid sailing through thunderstorm zones. Small boats in the upper Andaman Sea have been advised to remain ashore. How could the weather affect travel plans? Heavy rain may lead to delays for ferry services, island excursions, outdoor sightseeing and adventure activities. Tourists visiting beaches, national parks and mountainous areas should be alert to local weather warnings, particularly in regions vulnerable to flash flooding.

$54 Billion Drone Swarm: Pentagon's Plan To Flood Skies With Flying Bombs

The drones being tested are relatively cheap, costing around $5,000 each

Oil prices rise 2% as Israel ups Lebanon strike

BEIJING: Oil prices rose more than 2% in early trading on Monday after Israel ordered troops to move further into Lebanon in the battle with the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group, despite a ceasefire announced more than six weeks ago. U.S. crude futures rose $2.17 or 2.48% to $89.53 a barrel as of 2312 GMT (Sunday). Brent futures rose $1.93 or 2.12% to $93.05 a ‌barrel. The stepped-up ⁠fighting, coming ⁠just after the U.S. hosted Israeli-Lebanon peace talks in Washington on Friday, dimmed expectations that the U.S. and Iran could soon announce an extension to their ceasefire agreement, which had driven Brent and WTI to settle up 1.8% and 1.7%, respectively, on Friday. The Israel-Lebanon conflict has been the broadest spillover of the Iran war. It started on March 2 when Hezbollah began firing rockets and drones across the border into Israel to back its ally Iran. The two sides reached a ceasefire ⁠in mid-April ‌but have continued to trade fire. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday that he would soon decide on a proposed deal to extend a ceasefire with Iran announced ⁠in early April, giving negotiators more time to seek a permanent end to the conflict and find a solution to the underlying dispute over Iran's nuclear program. Israel would be key to any such deal, and Iran has also said repeatedly that Hezbollah must be included. Meanwhile, concerns are rising about mines in key oil and gas shipping lane the Strait of Hormuz, IG analyst Tony Sycamore said in a note. That could slow the process of reopening the strait and mean that relief comes more slowly ‌for the oil market even after it is reopened. "Even if an agreement is reached, it won't deliver a flood of supply," Sycamore said. An Axios reporter said on X on Friday that Iran had ⁠dropped more mines in the strait earlier in the week, shortly after U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said that attempts to lay more mines would be a violation of the ceasefire. Hormuz is a conduit for about a fifth of global oil and gas flows and Iran has effectively closed it since the conflict began with U.S. and Israeli strikes in February. Concerns over supply outweighed lacklustre economic data from China over the weekend, which showed stalling factory activity. This added to concerns the world's second-largest economy is losing momentum, weighed down by a contraction in exports and cost pressures.

‘Battle of Hogwarts’ memes flood internet as PSG Champions League celebrations turn violent in France

Social media users compared riots following PSG’s Champions League win to scenes from Harry Potter films as violence across France left 219 injured, nearly 800 arrested and one person dead.

Corporation faces flak for waterlogging in Thiruvananthapuram

Mayor maintains that the flooding was not caused due to the drains under the Corporation’s control; Water Resources Minister to chair meeting on the issue

Traffic constable’s act of kindness amid flooded road wins hearts online

Four more men freed from flooded Laos cave after 10 days; five rescued so far, two still missing

The Thailand Rescue Diver Facebook page also posted that "rescue officials were able to bring out four more people trapped" at about 3:10 pm (0810 GMT) on Saturday.

Tank blast rocks Washington mill town

LONGVIEW, Wash: From his living room window, Washington state Sen. Jeff Wilson can see the paper mill where a chemical tank ruptured this week in Longview, killing 11 people. He used to perform work there as the owner of an environmental cleanup company, and when he heard the sirens go past, he called his son, who works on the larger industrial site, to make sure he was safe."I personally have been inside that tank and near that tank many times," said Wilson, who has lived in Longview for 56 years. "I can assure you that we all know somebody there. ... The casualties are our friends and neighbors."The tank, which contained more than 500,000 gallons (1.9 million liters) of a mixture used to break down wood for making paper, collapsed Tuesday morning at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. The rupture expelled a flood of caustic chemicals powerful enough to overturn pickup trucks and damage buildings at the site.Also Read: Six dead, several injured as part of under-construction bridge collapses in Uttar PradeshThe chemical disaster, one of the deadliest U.S. workplace accidents in recent decades, has struck at the heart of a community where generations of families have worked in local mills. Longview itself was founded by a timber baron to support the first mills established there, and over its roughly century-long history, residents' lives have become intertwined with the lumber and paper industries.Supporting victims and worrying about the futureAmid immediate concern about supporting grieving families, there is also worry about what the accident could mean for the future of the plant: It provides crucial jobs in an industry that once powered the forested region but has dwindled in recent decades.The plant's parent company, Tokyo-based Nippon Paper Group, said in a statement that it was assessing the accident's impact on its financial performance."Last night at the vigils, people who work in mills told me that they're proud of their jobs and they're proud of their work, and they don't want to lose it," U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, whose district includes Longview, told reporters Wednesday.Residents who spoke with The Associated Press similarly highlighted how important those jobs are for the city."If you're a waitress, a grocery store worker, a teacher, a paraeducator as I was for 30 years - every walk of life here knows somebody and is related to somebody from these mills," Cindy Stiebritz said in the antiques store where she volunteers.Generations in the millsStiebritz said her husband's parents met while working at the lumber company owned by the city's founder, Robert A. Long."Those mills, that is the backbone of this town," Stiebritz added. "You feel like you've lost part of your family."Longview's industrial zone lies along the Columbia River and hosts timber, paper and chemical businesses. Many residents in the city of nearly 40,000 can see the facilities or the steam from the boilers from their homes, or smell the sulfuric odor of the pulp and paper industry.The city's mill history is also imprinted on its downtown, where R. A. Long Square serves as a central landmark and gathering place, including for the vigil held after the disaster. A park around a man-made lake, another project of Long, features a burst of greenery where pedestrians enjoy its walking paths or the nearby tree-lined streets.Authorities said the cause of the tank's collapse is still under investigation. The facility, which dates to 1953 and employs about 1,000 people, makes material for tissues, printing paper, cups, plates, cartons and other goods.According to fundraisers organized for the victims' families, those who lost their lives include a grandfather who was always willing to help anyone; two brothers, one of whom was the sole provider for his partner and three children; and a husband who left behind two children and a wife with a baby on the way.Brianna Pesio, a server at the Mill City Grill downtown, said her father has worked at the plant for over 30 years. She described the fear Tuesday morning when her brother, who works at the lumber mill next door, told her he couldn't get a hold of him."I just didn't know if I lost my dad or not," said Pesio, whose husband also works in a paper mill. "I drove over to my dad's house and pounded on his door until he did wake up. He had just gotten off shift at 5 a.m."At the nearby Country Folks Deli, longtime server Gayle Leavitt said her in-laws also worked at the mill for decades, adding: "That's how this town has survived."'This is not the virtual world'Officials representing the area echoed the pride residents take in the mills and the economic importance of their good-paying jobs in a region where other areas have been hit hard by the decline of the timber industry."This is a place where real people make real things. This is not the virtual world," state Rep. Jim Walsh said at a news conference at the plant on Tuesday. "Real things and real industry always carries risks. But it's our job to make sure that risk like this is well managed and, to the extent it can be, controlled."Stiebritz, the antiques shop volunteer, said she hopes authorities find out the cause "so it never happens again.""If anything comes out of it, I hope lives can be saved," she said, tearing up as she thought of the children who have lost their parents."This town is family. It's one big family," she added. "But we'll make it though. We're strong. We've got a lot of love."