Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin directed the authorities to declare a holiday for schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Chengalpattu districts on October 15, in view of the heavy rain predicted by the Met Office in the next four days.
An official release said the Chief Minister also instructed the authorities to issue an advisory allowing employees of IT companies in these districts to work from home from October 15 to 18.
“The low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal persisted over the same region at 2330 hours IST of yesterday, the 14th of October 2024. It is likely to move west-northwestwards and become a well-marked low-pressure area over central parts of the south Bay of Bengal by the morning of today, the 15th of October. Thereafter, it is likely to intensify into a depression and continue to move west-northwestwards towards north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts during subsequent 2 days”, wrote India Meteorological Department on X.
n preparation for the monsoon, CM Stalin held a meeting to review readiness measures. The Chennai Corporation has positioned 990 pumps and 57 tractors with pump sets on standby. Additionally, 36 motorboats and essential supplies such as bleach powder, lime powder, and phenol have been prepared for immediate deployment if needed.
Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin conducted a survey of potentially affected areas, including the Narayanapuram lake banks and Ambedkar road canals, to assess the situation and ensure preparedness for the impending heavy rains. These precautionary steps aim to mitigate potential risks and ensure public safety during the expected period of intense rainfall in Tamil Nadu.
Disaster Preparedness in Tamil Nadu
“We are prepared to face the #NorthEastMonsoon with various precautions. Don’t believe fake news spread by poisoners on social media. Follow the guidelines given by the government. Follow proper precautions given by government officials”, wrote CM MK Stalin on X.
He directed the deployment of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Tamil Nadu Disaster Response Force to flood-prone areas. Rescue boats and other emergency equipment have been strategically placed in vulnerable areas, while district monitoring officers have been instructed to coordinate relief and rehabilitation efforts. Local authorities are also working to enhance the frequency of metro trains to facilitate transportation during the rain.
The government said relief centres have been set up, and food and medical supplies are being stocked in case of emergency. Over 160 relief centres, equipped with essential supplies like milk and biscuits, are now operational in the most at-risk areas.
Chennai authorities have also deployed nearly 1,000 pumps, including submersible motors powered by backup diesel generators, to mitigate potential water logging.
Join our whatsapp group for Latest updates