Cyclone Fengal Update: Army and NDRF Lead Rescue Operations in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Train and Flight Services Resume
Cyclone Fengal had made landfall in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry early on Sunday, which led to major rescue and relief operations. As the storm weakened into a deep depression, the focus shifted to recovery efforts. Here are the latest updates on Cyclone Fengal.
Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) officials said Cyclone Fengal finished landfall at about 2 AM Sunday over a coastline between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram. Cyclone Fengal was originally expected to move west-southwest, but had stood stationary for six hours near Puducherry. Winds at 70-80 kmph lashed through various coastal districts in Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh as Cyclone Fengal churned through.
Important Developments on Cyclone Fengal:
Rescue and Relief Operations: Indian Army and NDRF launched operations early Sunday morning and managed to evacuate more than 100 in the first two hours of the operations. The efforts continue with a special focus on affected areas like Puducherry, Kanchipuram, and coastal Tamil Nadu.
Airports and Train Services:
Airports in Chennai resumed operations by 4 am though passengers experienced delays and cancellations. However, train services have resumed as the authorities strive to bring back normalcy into journeying.
The meteorological department has issued red alerts for Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry with heavy to very heavy rainfall predictions. Thereby, the areas prepare for heavy rains in the next few hours. Coastlines, especially near the landing points, are likely to feel gusty winds and higher tidal waves.
School Closures:
All schools and colleges in Puducherry and the affected districts of Tamil Nadu remained closed on Sunday due to the storm. Authorities have asked residents to stay indoors until the storm passes.
Fishermen Advisory:
The fisheries department has issued a warning for fishermen not to venture into the sea due to the impact of Cyclone Fengal. Fishermen in affected areas have been instructed to move their boats and equipment to higher ground to avoid damage.
Preparations and Precautions:
As the storm weakens, residents are advised to do the following:
Secure windows and doors, and remove loose branches from trees.
Store emergency supplies, such as dry food, battery lanterns, and extra batteries.
Avoid travel except in emergencies and report all downed power lines and damage to authorities.
Affected Regions and Relief Centres
Emergency Numbers:
The Department of Revenue and Disaster Management has announced toll-free numbers for distress calls. People can also reach out via WhatsApp at 9488981070.
Relief Operations:
More than 470 people from 164 families have been housed in relief camps in the Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts.
As Cyclone Fengal moves west and weakens, the administration is engaged in relief and safety measures for those affected. Keep watching for more updates.
