Heavy rainfall continued to lash northern parts of Tamil Nadu on Tuesday, leading to tragic loss of life and widespread agricultural damage. The death toll from rain-related incidents has climbed to four, while standing crops across more than two lakh acres have been severely affected.
Government Announces Relief Amid Widespread Damage
State Revenue Minister K K S S R Ramachandran provided a detailed assessment of the devastation. He confirmed that crops raised in 2.11 lakh acres were destroyed and announced a government relief package. Farmers who suffered losses will receive compensation of Rs 20,000 per hectare for crop damage caused by the relentless downpour.
The minister further reported that the severe weather claimed the lives of 582 heads of cattle and caused damage to 1,601 huts and tenements. The four fatalities underscore the human cost of the extreme weather event.
Chennai Grapples with Inundation and Disruption
The capital city, Chennai, faced significant disruption due to waterlogging in multiple areas. The intense rainfall was triggered by the remnant of cyclonic storm Ditwah over the southwest Bay of Bengal. This led to inundation in several parts of Chennai and its northern suburban districts, including Chengelpet, Kanchipuram, and Tiruvallur.
Key localities such as Perambur, Velachery, T Nagar, Ashok Nagar, and Saidapet experienced traffic snarls as water rushed onto roads. Residential zones in Vyasarpadi and other northern parts of the city also reported severe waterlogging. In a separate incident in Chetpet, a parked car was damaged after a house wall collapsed due to the rains, though no injuries were reported.
Rainfall data highlighted the intensity, with Ennore recording a maximum of 26 cm and Pallikaranai receiving 10.5 cm in the last 24 hours. To manage the crisis, the Greater Chennai Corporation deployed approximately 22,000 personnel to clear drain blockages, remove fallen tree branches, and pump out water.
Weather Outlook: More Heavy Rain Forecast
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a concerning update on the weather system. The deep depression over the region has weakened into a depression and is very likely to become a well-marked low-pressure area. Consequently, the weather department has forecast heavy to very heavy rain in several districts, including the Nilgiris, on Wednesday.
Authorities are urging residents in low-lying and vulnerable areas to remain cautious as the threat of further rainfall and potential flooding persists. The state machinery remains on high alert to respond to any emergent situations caused by the continuing monsoon fury.
