Tiruchirappalli, Aug. 1 -- More than 2,000 Muslims gathered at the Uzhavar Sandhai grounds in Thennur, Tiruchirappalli, on Saturday to offer a special prayer seeking rainfall amid prolonged dry weather and worsening water scarcity across Tamil Nadu.

With temperatures continuing to remain above 37.5degC in several districts and the monsoon failing to bring adequate rainfall, the state is facing a severe water shortage. The situation has been further aggravated by the lack of Cauvery water release to Tamil Nadu, resulting in depleted groundwater levels and drying water bodies.

The Cauvery river, which supports the Delta region and meets drinking and irrigation needs, has also witnessed reduced flow, while lakes and ponds in Tiruchirappall...