In the aftermath of Cyclone Michaung’s havoc, Tamil Nadu faces another catastrophe as unprecedented rainfall inundates Chennai and neighboring regions, triggering severe floods not witnessed in the last 47 years. The dire situation has left at least 20,000 people stranded, compelling the Army and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to launch large-scale rescue operations.
The southern districts of Tamil Nadu, particularly Srivaikuntam, grapple with the aftermath of floodwaters submerging vast areas. Despite challenges in accessibility, rescue teams strive to reach isolated pockets where residents await evacuation. Tuticorin Collector G Lakshmipathy confirmed the severity of the situation, emphasizing the concentrated relief efforts directed at these areas.
“Challenges persist in delivering aid, reaching people, and ensuring their safety. Aerial food drops continue in areas inaccessible even by boats,” stated Tuticorin MP MK Kanimozhi, highlighting the extreme difficulties faced by rescue teams in reaching affected zones.
The floods have paralyzed parts of Tuticorin, rendering even boats ineffective in navigating certain areas. Additionally, the absence of rainfall in Tuticorin for the past three days has not improved the situation, indicating the severity and scale of the devastation.
Amid this crisis, Chennai and its environs struggle to recover from the aftermath of Cyclone Michaung, exacerbating the challenges posed by the torrential rains. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has urgently appealed to the Central government for immediate assistance, citing the extensive damage and seeking ₹2,000 crore from the National Disaster Relief Fund for swift relief and infrastructure repair in affected districts such as Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Kanyakumari, and Tenkasi.
In his memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Stalin underscored the urgency of the situation and the need for prompt financial aid for rehabilitation efforts. He expressed gratitude for the PM’s attention to Tamil Nadu’s plight during these distressing times.
State Disaster Response Force and NDRF teams spearhead ongoing rescue and relief operations despite the challenges posed by inundated roads. Helicopters are being employed to airlift and deliver essential supplies to areas cut off due to flooding.
The devastation caused by consecutive disasters—Cyclone Michaung and the unprecedented floods—underscores the urgency for immediate assistance and swift allocation of funds for repair and rehabilitation. Tamil Nadu grapples with an escalating crisis, requiring nationwide support to alleviate the dire conditions faced by its residents.
Sources By Agencies