CM Stalin reviews monsoon preparedness in Chennai and delta districts, directs swift relief measures
During the meeting, the Chief Minister directed officials to intensify precautionary and relief operations in vulnerable and low-lying areas
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin (PTI)
CHENNAI: As heavy rains lash several parts of Tamil Nadu within days of the northeast monsoon setting in, Chief Minister MK Stalin held a comprehensive review meeting via video conference with District Collectors of Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Thanjavur to assess the monsoon preparedness and ongoing relief measures.
The Chief Minister directed the officials to amplify precautionary and relief operations in vulnerable and low-lying areas. He also instructed the authorities to evacuate residents in flood-prone and coastal regions to safe shelters and ensure the availability of food, drinking water, and medical aid at relief camps.
He was also informed that the average rainfall of 56.61 mm had been recorded across the reviewed districts. Equipment like excavators, boats, motor pumps, power saws, and transport vehicles were kept on standby to address rain-related emergencies. The power infrastructure, including 51,639 electric poles, 1,849 transformers, and 1,187 conductors, was reported to be fully secured and ready for restoration if required.
Stalin also reviewed the paddy procurement process in the delta districts, emphasising uninterrupted operations despite heavy rains. He urged officials to safeguard paddy stocks from moisture damage and expedite transportation from procurement centres to storage facilities.
He also pointed out that the state government had recommended that the union government relax the paddy moisture content limit from 17 per cent to 22 per cent to support farmers affected by the rains and asked officials to pursue early approval.
The CM reiterated that no effort should be spared in ensuring the safety and welfare of the people, highlighting that timely coordination between departments is crucial to mitigate the monsoon's impact effectively.
Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, Chief Secretary N Muruganandam, and senior officials from the departments of Revenue, Disaster Management, Electricity, and Public Works attended the meeting.
