Post by : Maya Rahman

In response to the heavy rainfall from Cyclone Ditwah, authorities have decided to close schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, and Kanchipuram districts on December 2. This decision was announced late Monday, focusing on safeguarding students during this extreme weather event.

Amid ongoing downpours, students were spotted navigating flooded areas on their way to schools. District collectors confirmed that all educational institutions in the affected areas would observe a holiday, heeding weather alerts issued by the state authorities. Officials noted that this closure aims to mitigate the risk posed by flooding and severe rain.

Residents have been advised to exercise caution and limit travel unless necessary, following guidance from the state government and disaster management agencies. Tragically, three fatalities relating to rain-induced accidents in Tamil Nadu have been confirmed due to the impacts of Cyclone Ditwah, as reported by the state’s Disaster Management Minister K K S S R Ramachandran.

As heavy rains persist, Chennai and nearby districts are experiencing significant flooding, affecting roads and low-lying residential areas. In regions like Velachery, parts of AGS Colony have become inundated, with a car and a government bus reported stranded in Poonamallee due to unexpected water accumulation. Traffic issues surfaced across the city, particularly near the busy Kathipara flyover, with officials attributing some of the congestion to waterlogged roads and potholes.

The weather forecast indicates continued heavy rainfall in Chennai and Tiruvallur districts, expected until Tuesday morning, as the remnants of Cyclone Ditwah linger off the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast. Residents are being urged to take protective measures, particularly if they live in low-lying areas.

Chief Minister M K Stalin has announced that the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) will extend compensation for losses related to agricultural crops, human lives, livestock, and property damage due to the ongoing monsoon, which commenced in October. The government is closely monitoring efforts to manage rainwater in flooded locales and is committed to ensuring that relief camps are fully equipped.

Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, along with other ministers and officials, visited the Greater Chennai Corporation’s Integrated Command and Control Centre to assess rain relief efforts. Reports indicate that swift action facilitated the maintenance of 22 subway tunnels in Chennai, keeping them free from stagnant water. Special medical camps have been organized in affected neighborhoods, and approximately 1,496 motor pumps, alongside "super sucker trucks," have been deployed for water drainage. A total of around 22,000 personnel, including engineers and officials, are actively assisting local communities.

Moreover, a flood alert is in place due to anticipated high water levels in rivers such as Adyar, Kosasthalaiyar, and Araniar across the districts of Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, and Chennai. Residents are advised to remain vigilant, refrain from unnecessary travel, and keep abreast of further updates from local authorities.

The state government is diligently coordinating rescue operations and providing necessary support to those impacted by the severe rains, ensuring all residents in affected areas are prioritized for safety and relief efforts.

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