Amid heavy rain, bridge collapses in Tamil Nadu: Top developments

A bridge collapsed near Anthony Puram on the Thoothukudi-Madurai highway in the rain-ravaged Tamil Nadu. The record rainfall has severely affected nearly 40 lakh people in Tirunelveli and Tuticorin districts. The situation remains alarming in Srivaikuntam and Tuticorin towns due to large flooding. CM MK Stalin-led state government has termed the rainfall 'unprecedented'. IAF, Navy, and Coast Guard are rescuing stranded people and providing food. The Indian Air Force has deployed helicopters for rescue efforts. Also, the chief minister has urged the defence minister to deploy more helicopters.