Heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu has led to significant disruptions, with authorities taking precautionary measures for public safety. The state government has announced a holiday for educational institutions in several districts on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.
Widespread Rainfall Triggers Precautionary Closure
The decision to close schools and colleges comes as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts continued heavy to very heavy rainfall for the region. The persistent downpour has already caused waterlogging in low-lying areas and disrupted normal life. The holiday has been declared to ensure the safety of students and staff, preventing travel-related risks during the inclement weather.
The districts where educational institutions will remain closed on Tuesday include Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu. The announcement was made late on Monday evening after a review of the prevailing weather conditions. Local administrations are on high alert, monitoring the situation closely.
Official Directives and Public Advisories
District Collectors have issued formal orders instructing all government, government-aided, and private schools and colleges to observe the holiday. The directive extends to anganwadis and other educational centers. Authorities have urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel and to stay away from waterlogged areas and vulnerable structures.
In Chennai, the civic body has deployed its disaster response teams and pumps to clear stagnant water from key locations. The Met department has indicated that the rainfall is due to a weather system over the Bay of Bengal. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea due to rough conditions.
Impact and Ongoing Monitoring
The heavy rains have led to traffic snarls in major cities, with commuters facing difficulties. Some suburban train services have also been affected. The state's disaster management authority is coordinating relief efforts and has set up control rooms to address public complaints related to water stagnation and fallen trees.
Residents are advised to follow official updates from the Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority (TNSDMA) and district administrations. The weather department has stated that the intensity of rainfall is likely to reduce from Wednesday onwards. Until then, the focus remains on minimizing disruption and ensuring public safety across the affected districts of Tamil Nadu.
