Chennai Latest News Today on July 12th, 2026: Tamil Nadu Tourists Among 15 Dead in Vietnam, Tragic Accidents & Hot Weather Ahead

Chennai, July 12: Chennai is abuzz with significant political developments today as C. Joseph Vijay assumed office as the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. The city and its surrounding regions are also grappling with the aftermath of several tragic accidents reported over the weekend, including a devastating boat capsizing in Vietnam that claimed the lives of ten Tamil Nadu tourists. Residents should also brace for a week of uncomfortably hot and humid weather, with temperatures expected to soar.

Top Stories

C. Joseph Vijay Sworn In as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Amidst TVK's Rise

C. Joseph Vijay, founder of TVK, was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday, July 12, after his party emerged as the single largest in the recent assembly elections. The TVK has reportedly garnered support from Congress, VCK, IUML, and Left parties to form the government. This significant political development follows the declaration of assembly election results on Saturday, July 11.

Tragic Accidents Claim Lives in Chennai and Mahabalipuram

Chennai witnessed multiple tragic incidents over the weekend. On Saturday, July 11, a three-year-old boy died near Puzhal when an iron plate from an excavator fell on him during sewage project work. Separately, four workers were killed by electrocution at a private resort in Mahabalipuram on Saturday, July 11. Additionally, a Class 11 student was swept away by a giant wave and died at Ennore beach, an incident reported on Sunday, July 12.

10 Tamil Nadu Tourists Among 15 Dead in Vietnam Boat Accident

A tragic boat capsizing incident in Vietnam has claimed the lives of 15 individuals, with 10 of them identified as tourists from Tamil Nadu. The accident, which occurred on Saturday, July 11, was reportedly caused by a large wave. Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has expressed condolences and deployed officials to assist with the situation, as reported on Sunday, July 12.

Civic & Infrastructure

Chennai Metro Rail Project Prompts Year-Long Traffic Diversion at Thirumangalam

Chennai city traffic police have announced a year-long traffic diversion at Thirumangalam, set to begin on Monday, July 13, 2026. This measure is being implemented to facilitate the construction of an elevated corridor for the Chennai Metro Rail Limited's Phase-II Corridor-5 project. Motorists are advised to plan their commutes accordingly.

Tamil Nadu Government to Introduce 41 New Special School Buses

The Tamil Nadu Metropolitan Transport Corporation will begin operating 41 new special school buses across Chennai starting Monday, July 13, 2026. This initiative aims to enhance transportation facilities for students in the city. The announcement was made on Sunday, July 12.

Passenger Welfare Body Urges Restoration of Unified Bus Terminus

A passenger welfare organization has urged the Tamil Nadu government to restore the unified bus terminus in Chennai. The appeal, made on Sunday, July 12, highlights the need for a centralized facility to improve public transport convenience for commuters in the city.

Woman Injured as Parapet Wall Collapses in TNUHDB Flat

A woman sustained injuries after falling from the third floor of a Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB) flat on Friday, July 10, when a parapet wall reportedly collapsed. Residents stated that a private contractor had commenced rebuilding the balcony wall on Thursday, July 9, as part of ongoing renovation works. The incident was reported on Sunday, July 12.

Chennai Residents Advised to Check for Power Shutdown Updates

Residents in Chennai are advised to check for live updates on scheduled power shutdowns in their respective areas. The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) periodically conducts maintenance work, leading to temporary outages. Information on affected areas and timings is regularly updated.

State Politics & Governance

TN Government Seeks Union Assistance for MRTS Revamp

The Tamil Nadu government has formally requested financial and loan assistance from the Union government for a substantial ₹6,600-crore project. This initiative, reported on Saturday, July 11, aims to revamp Chennai's Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) to align with Chennai Metro standards, enhancing the city's public transportation network.

PM Modi to Inaugurate Development Projects in Tamil Nadu

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate and lay foundation stones for development projects worth ₹5,650 crore in Tamil Nadu on Monday, July 13, 2026. The announcement was made on Sunday, July 12, ahead of the significant event.

Tamil Nadu to Uphold 'Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu' Despite MHA Order

The Tamil Nadu government has affirmed its decision to continue with 'Tamil Thaai Vaazhthu' as the state anthem, despite a recent order from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). This stance was reported on Saturday, July 11, underscoring the state's commitment to its cultural practices.

TN Government Disputes Karnataka's Cauvery Water Storage Claim

The Tamil Nadu government has disputed Karnataka's claim of "poor storage" before the Cauvery panel. This ongoing inter-state water dispute, reported on Saturday, July 11, highlights the complexities surrounding water resource management between the two states.

Economy & Markets

Petrol and Diesel Prices Remain Unchanged in Chennai

On Sunday, July 12, 2026, petrol and diesel prices in Chennai held steady. Petrol continued to sell at Rs 107.77 per litre, while diesel remained at Rs 99.55 per litre. These prices have seen cumulative hikes since mid-May due to global crude oil surges.

Sports

Six Indians Advance to Quarterfinals in Chennai Squash PSA Challenger

Six Indian players have successfully advanced to the quarterfinals of the Chennai Squash PSA Challenger tournament. The competition, taking place in Chennai, saw strong performances from the local contingent on Sunday, July 12, as they continue their bid for the title.

Weather & Outlook

Overcast skies expected across Chennai, high near 37°C

Chennai is experiencing overcast conditions today, Sunday, July 12, with the temperature currently at 30.9°C. The forecast indicates a high of 37°C and a low of 29°C, with continued overcast skies throughout the day. Residents should prepare for uncomfortably hot and sultry conditions in the coming week, with "feels like" temperatures potentially exceeding 45°C due to high humidity, and no immediate rain relief expected.

Weather: Overcast — 30.9°C. Today: Overcast, 29°C – 37°C.

Chennai Weather Live Tracker Map on Windy

As Chennai navigates these political changes and addresses pressing civic concerns, the focus remains on infrastructure development and public safety. The coming days will see the inauguration of major projects by the Prime Minister and the implementation of new traffic management schemes, alongside the state government's continued advocacy on inter-state issues.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 12, 2026 11:31 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).