Chennai Floods: Unprecedented Devastation and Urgent Appeal for Assistance
Chennai and its adjacent areas, still grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Michaung, are now facing relentless downpours of historic proportions, unseen in the past 47 years. Southern districts of Tamil Nadu, particularly Srivaikuntam, are severely affected, prompting collaborative efforts from the Army and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) for urgent rescue operations.
The Situation Unfolding
In the aftermath of the devastating floods, where over 20,000 people are stranded, the crisis is compounded by the release of more than 1.2 lakh cusecs of water from the overflowing Tamarabarani River. Tuticorin Collector G Lakshmipathy assures that Srivaikuntam and its surroundings are the worst affected, emphasizing that there is currently no imminent danger to lives. Rescue teams are actively working to reach these areas with supplies, including air-dropping essential items.
Resilience Amidst Challenges
Srivaikuntam faces the aftermath of widespread flooding, with the Army and NDRF teams working tirelessly to reach inaccessible pockets where residents await evacuation. Despite formidable challenges, relief supplies are being air-dropped to provide essential aid to those cut off from ground access.
Ongoing Struggles and Collaborative Efforts
Tuticorin MP MK Kanimozhi sheds light on the difficulties in delivering aid, stating that challenges include providing food, reaching people, and ensuring safety. The situation remains critical, with pockets in Tuticorin remaining inaccessible despite collaborative rescue efforts. Notably, the severity persists even though Tuticorin has not experienced rainfall in the past three days.
Urgent Appeal for Assistance
The dual impact of Cyclone Michaung and unprecedented rains has caused extensive damage, leading Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin to urgently appeal to the Central government for assistance. Floods in Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Kanyakumari, and Tenkasi districts prompt Chief Minister Stalin to request ₹2,000 crore from the National Disaster Relief Fund for immediate relief and infrastructure repair. This urgent plea underscores the pressing need for national support to address the ongoing crisis.
Immediate Action Needed
“While a comprehensive assessment of the permanent damage will take time, we request an interim assistance of ₹2,000 crore from the NDRF to bolster the ongoing efforts for livelihood support and repairs and restoration of the public infrastructure battered by the unprecedented floods,” Mr. Stalin posted on X.
In the face of this dire situation, your support and assistance are crucial. Join hands to provide relief and aid to the affected regions.