Schools Closed, Relief Operations Intensify As Tamil Nadu Battles Heavy Rains

As torrential rains continue to batter Tamil Nadu, disrupting normal life and causing widespread flooding, a unified effort by the Indian Air Force, Navy, and state authorities is underway to rescue stranded individuals and provide relief in the affected regions.

Outlook Web Desk

Updated on: 21 December 2023 9:49 am

Tamil Nadu rains: Nanalkadu

In the aftermath of relentless rainfall wreaking havoc in Tamil Nadu, the combined efforts of the Indian Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard, along with state and central authorities, are underway to conduct extensive relief and rescue operations. Stranded individuals in the severely affected areas of south Tamil Nadu are being airlifted to safety, with the distribution of food and relief materials being a top priority for the rescue teams.

The Defence Minister's office, led by Rajnath Singh, affirmed the Centre's commitment to providing comprehensive assistance to Tamil Nadu during this crisis. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a cautionary light rain warning for the region over the next six days.

The state government is actively engaged in relief operations, utilizing India Coast Guard helicopters to transport essential supplies. In Tuticorin's Alanthalai, heavy rain has led to widespread flooding, impacting homes and rendering streets waterlogged.

As part of the relief efforts, all schools in the Tirunelveli district will remain closed on December 21, while colleges will continue regular operations, except those converted into relief camps. NDRF teams are working diligently to distribute food and relief materials to those stranded in waterlogged areas, including the KTR Nagar region in Tuticorin.

CM MK Stalin is set to visit Thoothukudi district to assess the progress of relief and rescue initiatives. Flight operations have resumed at Thoothukudi airport, but power supply remains disrupted in various areas.

Chief Secretary Shiv Das Meena highlighted the multi-agency response, with 10 helicopters, 323 boats, and 27 tonnes of food materials being deployed for rescue operations. Despite challenges posed by strong water currents, helicopters are being utilized to deliver essential supplies to inaccessible regions.

A special train carrying stranded passengers from Srivaikuntam reached Chennai, with survivors expressing gratitude for the support received from the local community. Unfortunately, the unprecedented rainfall has claimed ten lives in Tirunelveli, Tuticorin, Tenkasi, and Kanyakumari districts.

Notably, Kayalpattinam in Tuticorin district recorded a staggering 1,192 mm of rainfall in two days, underscoring the severity of the situation.