Chennai, Oct 20 (NationPress) As the monsoon gains strength across Tamil Nadu, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin conducted an on-site evaluation of the flood-mitigation initiatives in Duraiapakkam, a region in Chennai known for its vulnerability to flooding. Recent days have seen the city experience intermittent yet heavy rainfall. In preparation for anticipated severe weather, the Greater Chennai Corporation and relevant departments have escalated their precautionary strategies.

During his visit, Udhayanidhi Stalin thoroughly assessed the desilting and storm-water drainage efforts, engaging with engineers and civic representatives, and mandated that measures be established to facilitate the rapid drainage of floodwater in the event of increased rainfall.

Previously, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin had visited the Command and Control Centre of the Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority (TNSDMA) at Ezhilagam to evaluate the state's overall readiness for the monsoon.

He also led a high-level video conference with district collectors, urging them to implement immediate actions to alleviate flood impacts and ensure the safety of residents in vulnerable areas.

According to an official statement, Tamil Nadu has recorded an average of 12 mm of rainfall since the commencement of the Northeast Monsoon on October 16, with significant downpours noted in Kanniyakumari, Thoothukudi, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Madurai, Mayiladuthurai, and the Nilgiris districts.

The Chief Minister has been keeping a close watch on the southern and Delta districts most affected, including Theni, where relentless rain and flash flooding have led to widespread disruption.

Stalin has directed officials to promptly relocate residents from flood-prone areas to relief camps and maintain a constant state of readiness for rescue and rehabilitation teams.

He also stressed the need for uninterrupted harvesting operations and swift procurement of paddy in the Delta regions of Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam, especially in the rain-impacted Vedaranyam area, to protect farmers' livelihoods.

“All relief camps should be fully equipped with adequate food, drinking water, medical support, and sanitation facilities to ensure that no one suffers due to a lack of essential amenities,” emphasized the Chief Minister.

Officials from the Revenue, Public Works, Health, and Electricity departments were involved in the review process.

The TNSDMA’s control room is continuously monitoring rainfall data and coordinating real-time relief operations across districts. Authorities are advising residents in Theni, Madurai, and Ramanathapuram to remain vigilant, as forecasts predict continued heavy rain over the next two days, with rising inflows in various rivers and reservoirs statewide.