With IMD forecasting heavy rainfall in Puducherry and Karaikal regions, two NDRF teams arrive to assist in rescue and relief operations

NDRF teams deployed in Puducherry and Karaikal regions to tackle cyclonic weather, heavy rainfall expected till November 30.

Two teams of the National Disaster Response Force have reached the Union Territory as a precautionary measure to tackle any eventuality arising due to the cyclonic weather formation in Bay of Bengal.

According to a Revenue Official, one team of the NDRF would be stationed in Puducherry region and the other would be deployed in Karaikal region. As per forecast by the India Meteorological Department, both the regions are expected to receive heavy rainfall till November 30.

Following government instructions, the Emergency Operation Centre on ECR has started functioning to ensure coordinated relief and rescue operations. Around 60 motor pumps have been kept on streets and residential areas prone to waterlogging. Adequate measures are being taken to set up 121 temporary relief camps to provide shelter to people evacuated from low-lying areas in case of flooding, the official said.

Apart from ambulances under the control of Health Department, the district administration has mobilised ambulances owned by private hospitals in Puducherry to deal with any emergency. Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, Minister for Public Works K. Lakshminarayanan reviewed the preparations at the Legislative Assembly. District Collector A. Kulothungan, Senior Superintendent of Police, Law and Order, R. Kalaivanan and senior officials attended the meeting. 

While Mr. Rangasamy inspected the Beach Promenade area, Mr. Lakshminarayanan toured the coastal areas to assess the cyclone preparedness. The Minister has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea and also to move their boats to safer places. Mr. Kulothungan, officials from the Public Works Department and Fisheries Department accompanied the Minister.

The sky remained overcast for most part of the day in Puducherry. The sea remained rough with huge waves lashing the Beach Promenade. Police have barricaded the Beach Road and made announcements warning people not to step into the waters.

Meanwhile, Home Minister A. Namassivayam has announced a holiday for all government, government-aided and private schools and colleges in Puducherry and Karaikal regions on Thursday. The Port Department hoisted storm warning signal 3 flag in Puducherry.