CHENNAI: Army Chief General Dalbir Singh undertook an aerial survey of the worst flood-hit parts of the city and surrounding areas today and said the troops would continue rescue efforts till it was required by the administration.
Singh "flew to Chennai to review the situation and oversee rescue efforts of the Army". He along with General Officer Commanding carried out aerial of the worst affected areas, an official release said.
"The Chief of Army Staff has assured the troops will continue the take up rescue efforts till it is required by the Civil Administration," it said.
He said more troops, engineering equipment and medical teams would be made available "as required".
The Army has rescued up to 5,500 people to safer places so far, the release said.
More than 50 teams are operating in Tambaram, Urapakkam, Mannivakkam, Mudicheur and other areas.
The Army has also built infrastructure to deploy Primary Health Centres along with dispensaries to deal with anticipated flood related medical problems, it said.
Torrential rains have left at least 245 people dead in Tamil Nadu since October 1.