Tamil Nadu rains: 15 people killed, schools closed
In an unfortunate incident, 15 people were killed after a wall collapsed this morning in a village near Mettupalayam in Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore district, as heavy rains continue to batter the southern state. Rescue operations are currently underway to help those trapped in the debris in Nadur village. Nine bodies have been recovered from the spot so far, NDTV reported. Here are more details.
With several areas severely waterlogged, schools and colleges have been ordered to remain shut in the capital city of Chennai, Tuticorin, Tiruvallur, and Kancheepuram. Further, torrential rains are likely to continue in various parts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. A red alert, hinting at heavy to very heavy rainfall, has been issued in several parts of the state and the union territory.
Furthermore, rains are are expected to cross coastal Tamil Nadu due to a cyclonic circulation near Comorin on the Indian Ocean. At least three people had died in different parts of Tamil Nadu in rain-related incidents in the last few days. In light of the downpour, the examinations at the Madras University and Anna University have been postponed.
Meanwhile, the state government has set up 176 relief centers. Rescue boats have also been kept ready for evacuation, if need be. Additionally, 630 water pumps to remove water-logging in low-lying areas and six tree-clearing machines have been arranged. Separately, Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, Dr. Kiran Bedi visited several rain-affected areas such as Rainbow Nagar, Krishna Nagar, and Natesan Nagar, to monitor the situation.
The Chennai Corporation has set up helplines for water-logging and tree fall complaints, following the non-stop rains. Residents of the city can dial 04425384520 and 04425384530 or send a WhatsApp message on 9445477205, for any rain-related complaints.
