Regional updates: Monsoon warnings in Sri Lanka and onion price controls in India

In Sri Lanka, meteorologist Nagamuthu Pradeepraja has warned of potential depressions in the Bay of Bengal during the second inter-monsoon and northeast monsoon periods. A new depression is expected to form near the Andaman Islands around October 13, 2026, moving west-northwest. Heavy rains are anticipated across several provinces starting October 15, with high risks of floods and landslides in hilly areas between October 15 and 21.

In India, the Tamil Nadu government is taking steps to stabilize onion prices by selling them at ₹35 per kg through cooperative ration shops. The government has procured 700 metric tons of onions from the National Consumer Cooperative Federation to distribute to urban ration shops and cooperative outlets to ease the economic burden on low and middle-income families.

Additionally, authorities in Tamil Nadu are planning to operate special and omni buses to accommodate increased passenger travel during the upcoming Ayudha Puja and Diwali festivals. Meetings have been held to ensure basic amenities like drinking water and sanitation are available at bus stations and to manage traffic congestion.