The devastating Cyclone Fengal has led to crops raised on over 1.29 lakh hectares of agricultural land in the districts of Villupuram, Kallakurichi and Tiruvannamalai in north Tamil Nadu inundated, according to preliminary assessment by the State Government.
The remnant of Cyclone Fengal that dumped torrential rainfall also impacted normal life in parts of Krishnagiri district. The system had moved inland and caused a deluge in Uthangarai in Krishnagiri, which recorded a whopping 50 cm in 24 hours ending 8.30 a.m. on Monday. Lakes were breached in the impact.
Chief Minister M K Stalin who toured the northern districts told journalists in Villupuram that a detailed assessment on the crop damages will be made after the rains subside and water drains from the fields and relief will be given to all affected. Presently, 7,726 persons were evacuated and accommodated in 147 relief centres in Cuddalore, Villupuram and Tiruvannamalai districts.
According to Stalin, the State will submit a detailed report to the Centre on the damage caused by the cyclone. It would urge the Union Government to send a team to assess the damage and extend financial assistance.
“I was in regular touch with the Collectors of the Districts concerned through video-conferencing and gave directions on the precautionary measures to be taken,” the Chief Minister said. Seven teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were sent to Villupuram while two teams were sent to Cuddalore. Besides, eight teams from the Tamil Nadu Disaster Response Force (TNDRDF) were sent to Villupuram for relief and rescue efforts.
Mr Stalin said the entire government machinery including Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, Ministers and officials were involved in relief and rescue work in the affected districts. He also held discussions with the Cuddalore, Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri Collectors.
