CHENNAI: Chief Minister MK Stalin on Friday visited the State Emergency Operations Centre in Chennai and reviewed the precautionary measures being taken in 14 districts following heavy rainfall alerts issued due to Cyclone Ditwah. With the cyclone expected to move towards the northern Tamil Nadu coast and cause heavy rainfall on November 29 and 30. 16 SDRF and 12 NDRF teams have been deployed in vulnerable districts so far.
The chief minister, through video conference, instructed collectors and officials in the 14 districts to ensure full coordination, readiness, safe shelter arrangements, essential supplies, floodwater drainage, and the quick restoration of power.
To effectively manage any situation, requests have been made to mobilise additional NDRF teams from neighbouring states. Central forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force and the Indian Coast Guard, have been asked to remain on standby as needed.
In a post on X, explaining the measures taken to safeguard the people during the heavy rains, the CM appealed to the public to follow the meteorological department’s warnings, avoid going out unless necessary, and remain in safe places.
A release said SDRF and NDRF teams have been deployed in Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Chennai, Vellore, Ranipet, Tiruvannamalai, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Pudukkottai, Mayiladuthurai, Cuddalore, Villupuram, Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi. During the review, the CM instructed all departments to work in full coordination and ensure people are accommodated safely in relief centres. He also directed monitoring officers to remain stationed in their respective districts.
Responding to a query, the CM said Chennai too will receive heavy rains, and precautionary steps have been taken. On the allegation by Edappadi K Palaniswami that the state government has been betraying the people of the delta districts, the CM said, “It is enough if he refrains from betraying them. There is no truth in what he says.”