In the aftermath of devastating floods wreaking havoc across several districts in Tamil Nadu, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) convened a crucial high-level meeting to assess and address the post-flood scenario in the state. Top officials from the PMO engaged with representatives from the Tamil Nadu government to strategize relief efforts and discuss comprehensive rehabilitation measures.
The meeting, held on Sunday, was a critical platform for deliberating various aspects of relief and rehabilitation needed in the flood-affected regions. Discussions revolved around the deployment of crucial resources, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and potential assistance from the armed forces, especially helicopters, if the situation demands.
Of paramount importance was the consideration of dispatching an inter-ministerial central team to conduct an on-ground evaluation of the extent of damage caused by the floods. The team’s assessment would provide crucial insights into the scale of devastation, aiding in formulating targeted relief measures.
The recent deluge, primarily triggered by heavy rains, inflicted significant damage in districts such as Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, and Kanyakumari. Thoothukudi remains severely affected, grappling with stagnant floodwaters, while communication networks in some districts have been severely disrupted.
Tragically, the floods have claimed the lives of 35 individuals in the state. Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary Shiv Das Meena confirmed the toll, with 22 casualties reported in Thoothukudi and 13 in Tirunelveli. Meena emphasized that the rescue operations have been completed, shifting the focus towards restoring essential services.
Chief Minister MK Stalin highlighted the unprecedented nature of the rainfall that inundated multiple districts. He underscored the collaborative efforts involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) in conducting rescue operations aimed at safeguarding the affected populace.
“Heavy rainfall was received in Chennai and surrounding districts. In history, we have never seen this much rainfall in the Thoothukudi district. For rescue operations, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed,” articulated CM Stalin.
As Tamil Nadu grapples with the aftermath of these calamitous floods, concerted efforts from government agencies, rescue teams, and relief organizations remain pivotal to facilitate the restoration of normalcy and provide much-needed assistance to affected communities.