Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has issued urgent directives to state officials, calling for a coordinated emergency response following the Indian Meteorological Department's warning about Cyclone Ditwah approaching the state's coastline.
IMD Issues Red Alert for Multiple Districts
The weather department has declared a red alert for several Tamil Nadu districts on November 29 and 30, warning of potentially severe weather conditions. The IMD has specifically cautioned that coastal and neighboring districts including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpet, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Tiruvannamalai, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Ramanathapuram, Ranipet, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, and Pudukkottai are likely to experience very heavy rainfall due to the cyclonic system.
Stalin's Emergency Review Meeting
During a high-level review meeting conducted at the Secretariat to assess preparedness for Cyclone Ditwah, CM Stalin emphasized the need for immediate action. "All departments especially revenue department, local bodies, police, fire and rescue department, fisheries and health departments should make coordinated effort to work for people," Stalin stated during the emergency session.
The Chief Minister instructed monitoring officials to immediately visit affected districts and verify that all essential services and basic amenities are prepared for the impending severe weather. He referenced the state's successful handling of previous emergencies, noting that "In the past four years, all disasters were handled effectively, and similar work should be done in the coming days."
Substantial Investment in Disaster Management
Highlighting the state government's proactive approach to disaster preparedness, Stalin revealed significant financial commitments made toward mitigating natural disaster impacts. "We have allocated more funds than Union government for natural disasters to protect our people," the Chief Minister asserted.
He provided specific details about the state's investment, stating that the Tamil Nadu government has spent ₹1,740 crore over the past four years on works designed to reduce the effects of natural disasters. Stalin particularly emphasized the vulnerability of economically disadvantaged communities during such emergencies, noting that "People below the poverty line are affected more during cyclones."
The Chief Minister also mentioned that the state administration had conducted preparatory meetings with district collectors even before the commencement of the northeast monsoon season, demonstrating proactive planning for potential weather emergencies.
