Relentless downpours and widespread inundation in Tamil Nadu have plunged several districts into chaos over the last 24 hours, necessitating the relocation of over 75,000 residents to relief camps. Tragically, four individuals lost their lives in rain-related incidents on Monday. This recent deluge follows closely on the heels of cyclone Michaung, which inflicted extensive damage on Chennai and northern parts of Tamil Nadu.
Latest Updates in Tamil Nadu Rain Crisis:
-
IMD Red Alert and Disrupted Transportation: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for four districts — Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, and Tenkasi — predicting continued heavy rainfall for the next 24 hours. This has led to the cancellation of fifteen train services.
-
Railway Operations Impacted: The heavy rainfall in the Southern District severely affected train operations, prompting concerted efforts by the Southern Railway to restore traffic and evacuate stranded passengers at Srivakuntam Railway station.
-
Warning to Fishermen and Weather Forecast: The IMD cautioned fishermen against venturing into the sea due to anticipated squally weather and wind speeds of 40-45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph, along the South Tamil Nadu coast and adjoining areas.
-
Rainfall Predictions: Moderate thunderstorms, lightning, and moderate rainfall are anticipated at isolated places across several districts of Tamil Nadu and Karaikal in the next few hours, as per the Chennai Meteorological Department.
-
Stranded Passengers: Incessant rainfall has left around 1,000 passengers stranded at Srivakuntam railway station, disrupting train operations. The Southern Railway is actively working to restore normalcy and aid stranded passengers.
-
NDRF Efforts: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are striving to reach the stranded passengers at the railway station amidst severe floods, with a commitment to provide necessary assistance.
-
Governor's Meeting: Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi has scheduled a meeting in Chennai with senior officials from central agencies and armed forces to evaluate the situation in flood-affected districts and coordinate rescue and relief efforts.
-
Impact on Infrastructure and Services: Heavy rainfall has disrupted power supply, mobile phone connectivity, and public transportation in various districts. Road links have been severed in southern Tamil Nadu due to lake breaches and flooding.
-
IAF's Humanitarian Assistance: The Indian Air Force (IAF) swiftly initiated humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in flood-affected areas of Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi.
-
CM's Actions and Dialogue with PM Modi: Tamil Nadu CM Stalin is set to meet PM Modi to discuss the grave rain and flood situation in southern parts of the state. He seeks immediate central assistance for managing the damages caused by recent rains.
-
Request for Relief Funds: CM Stalin has requested Rs 7,300 crore for immediate relief and Rs 12,000 crore for permanent relief, emphasizing the urgent need for financial aid from the government.
-
Rescue and Relief Operations: Eight ministers, ten IAS officers, and multiple SDRF and NDRF teams are actively engaged in rescue and relief operations, with over 12,500 individuals relocated to shelters.
-
Financial Aid and Assistance: The Tamil Nadu government vows to extend financial aid to affected districts and plans to seek immediate funds from the National Disaster Fund for prompt relief measures.
-
Restoration Efforts: Southern Railway's engineering wing is collaborating with other departments to restore traffic in affected areas, with a focus on resuming services in the worst-hit regions.
-
Challenges in Transporting Passengers: Efforts to transport stranded passengers faced obstacles due to an overflowing bridge, causing difficulty in evacuating a significant number of individuals.
-
Relief Material Deployment: Helicopters dispatched relief materials but had to divert due to adverse weather conditions, aiming to drop the aid on Wednesday morning.
-
Aid Delivery Operations: Additional helicopters carrying food supplies were sent to aid the stranded railway passengers, contributing to the relief efforts.
-
Weather Alerts: The Regional Meteorological Centre issued an Orange Alert for seven districts and Karaikal, anticipating moderate thunderstorms, lightning, and rainfall. A Yellow Alert was also issued for six districts.
-
Impact Assessment: Severe flooding has affected districts like Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, and Kanyakumari, submerging roads, bridges, and homes. Restoration efforts are underway in the worst-hit areas.
-
Confirmed Fatalities and Ongoing Situation: At least three casualties have been reported due to heavy rains, although an official count is pending.
-
Continued Relief Operations: Efforts persist as relief materials are scheduled for delivery, indicating the sustained commitment to aid the adversely affected regions.
Emergency Helplines and Contact Information:
In times of emergency, individuals can contact the District Disaster Management Control Rooms at 1077 or the State Disaster Management at 1070. For immediate assistance, reach out to fire and rescue services at 101 or 112, and for electricity-related issues, contact the State Minnagam helpline on 94987-94987. Queries related to rain-induced diseases can be addressed at 104, and medical-related services are available at 108.
State Emergency Operations Centre, Chennai
-
Toll-free number: 1070
- WhatsApp number: 94458 69848
District Emergency Operations Centres
-
Tirunelveli: 1077, 0462 - 2501012; Hello Nellai: 97865 6611
- Thoothukudi: 1077, 0461 - 2340101
Image Source: X/PTI/ANI
(With inputs from agencies)
© Copyright 2023. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
