Tamil Nadu heavy rainfall has unleashed chaos in Tirunelveli district, as streets turn into rivers, disrupting daily life and raising alarms. Inadequate drainage systems worsen the flood-like situation, submerging homes and popular tourist spots.
Visuals from Tirunelveli reveal a grim reality with overflowing rivers, flooded streets, and submerged houses. The usually serene Courtallam and Manimutharu Waterfalls now pose risks with dangerous currents.
On Monday, heavy rain hit several Tamil Nadu districts, including Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Pudukottai, and Thanjavur. The weather department issued a red alert for southern Tamil Nadu due to the ongoing heavy to very heavy rainfall.
S. Balachandran, Director of Chennai Regional Meteorological Centre, warns of a continued ‘Red’ alert for specific districts. Unprecedented rainfall prompts authorities to declare a holiday for schools and colleges.
Knee-to-waist-deep water levels in various areas lead to flooding in homes and hospitals. Waterlogged roads strand vehicles, exacerbating the crisis. Tirunelveli, experiencing isolated heavy rainfall, faces challenges along with other affected districts.
Thiruchendur in Thoothukudi records a substantial 606 mm of rainfall, impacting rail services and causing cancellations. The Regional Meteorological Centre predicts further heavy rain in specific locations.
The Indian Meteorological Department issued a red alert for South Tamil Nadu on December 18, anticipating continued heavy rainfall.
Due to Tamil Nadu rains, Southern Railways has implemented a series of changes to its train services. The alterations include full cancellations, partial suspensions, and diversions, as confirmed by railway authorities.
The primary reason behind these adjustments is the extensive waterlogging in Tirunelveli Yard, impacting the smooth functioning of train operations.
Change in the pattern of Train Services (Bulletin 15, 16, 17)
— Southern Railway (@GMSRailway) December 18, 2023
The following changes are made in the pattern of train services due to water logging in #Tirunelveli Yard, Passengers are requested to take note on this and plan your travel #SouthernRailway pic.twitter.com/r66UQSbHyO
In response to the Tamil Nadu rain crisis Chief Minister M. K. Stalin deploys ministers for flood relief work in the southern districts. Urgent relief efforts are underway, with around 500 passengers stranded at Srivaikuntam railway station due to damaged tracks.
The situation remains critical as authorities and relief teams work tirelessly to address the aftermath of the TamilNadu Rains.