Chennai news: Amid heavy rainfall and flood-like conditions, Tamil Nadu government has declared a holiday for schools, colleges, and government offices in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu districts on Wednesday, October 16. The government has advised private companies to allow work from home if not to operate with minimal staff. The state has also declared holiday for select departments.
The decision follows the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) issuance of a red alert for the region, predicting continued heavy rainfall. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin visited several areas in Chennai on Tuesday to inspect waterbodies and monitor flood prevention measures.
As of Tuesday morning, Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin reported that an average of 5 cm of rainfall had been recorded in Chennai over the past 24 hours, with Sholinganallur and Teynampet receiving up to 6 cm. He reassured citizens that the situation is under control with no power cuts reported and immediate action taken to clear fallen trees in eight locations.
To address the ongoing crisis, Deputy CM said that 26 teams from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been stationed in Chennai and other coastal areas.
He said, "Water stagnation has been reported in 300 locations and the pumping work is in progress...Tamil Nadu special health camp for the rainy season has been started in 1000 locations all over the state and around 100 health camps have been started in Chennai alone by the concerned department."
The situation remains critical and authorities are working round-the-clock to minimise disruptions and ensure public safety.
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