'Downpour Was Extremely High Than MET Prediction': Stalin On Unprecedented Rainfall In South TN

Tamil Nadu CM Stalin alleged that though the warning by the meteorology department was a bit late, TN government took proper measures for rescue and relief.

A flooded locality following heavy rains in Tirunelveli

Source : PTI

In the wake of unprecedented heavy rainfall in southern districts of Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister MK Stalin addressed the situation and said the actual rainfall received in these regions exceeded the meteorology department's predictions. Despite the delayed warning, CM Stalin affirmed that the Tamil Nadu government promptly implemented measures for rescue and relief in response to the extraordinary weather conditions.

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin said, "Chennai Meteorology Department forecasted heavy pouring on December 17 & 18 and they announced on December 16. The pour was extremely high than the meteorology Department's prediction. This is historical rainfall. Even though we received the warning a bit late, the Tamil Nadu government took proper measures for rescue and relief."

Delhi | Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin says, "Chennai Meteorology Department forecasted heavy pouring on December 17 & 18 and they announced on December 16. The pour was extremely high than the meteorology Department's prediction. This is historical rainfall. Even though we received the… pic.twitter.com/GMIGY5yWjk

— ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2023

Meanwhile, as heavy downpours paralyzed several areas of Southern Tamil Nadu, over 800 passengers found themselves stranded at the Srivaikuntam railway station. An official affirmed that efforts to rescue the passengers are ongoing, assuring completion shortly. Currently, 300 passengers have been safely brought to safety, while the effort to rescue 500 passengers remains in progress.

A railway official told PTI, NDRF, Air Force, railway and local authorities are undertaking relief and rescue works. From Monday morning, the passengers spent the night in train coaches at Srivaikuntam railway station. Over 300 passengers were rescued and housed in a nearby school. The remaining passengers stayed at Srivaikuntam railway station.  

The effort to rescue 500 stranded passengers was impossible due to the overflowing bridge en-route. 

The railway administration is also reportedly arranging a road vehicle to evacuate the passengers on Tuesday to the nearest railway station from where they can take the convenience special train to Chennai.