Fishermen advised to stay ashore amid adverse weather conditions in TN

CHENNAI: In light of the forecast for continuous heavy rainfall and strong winds over the Bay of Bengal, the Kanyakumari district administration has issued a stern advisory to fishermen, urging them not to venture into the sea until Wednesday.

The advisory was issued by District Collector R Alagumeena, citing weather conditions that include wind speeds of up to 55 km/h. Over the past three days, intense rain and gusty winds have caused significant damage across the district.

Among 575 fishermen who ventured into the deep sea, 522 fishermen have returned to the shores and the fisheries officials were trying to reach them over the phone for their early return, said Kanniyakumari Collector R Alagumeena after a meeting with officials on Tuesday.

According to the Collector, rains that occurred from May 23 to May 26 claimed one life in Tiruvattar taluk and caused damage to 40 houses in the taluks of Thovalai, Kalkulam, Vilavancode, Tiruvattar and Killiyur. While compensation was given to 33 damaged houses, efforts are on to provide relief for seven damaged houses, she added.

Rescue and relief operations are ongoing, with fire and rescue personnel having cleared 61 uprooted trees across various locations.

Rainfall accompanied by strong winds also caused damage to horticultural crops to an extent of 29.20 hectares in Agastheeswaram, Thovalai, Kalkulam, Vilavancode, Thiruvattar, and Killiyoor taluk. Teams were also continuously assessing the damage caused to other crops.

Electric infrastructure has also taken a hit, with 294 electricity poles damaged. Of these, 224 poles have been replaced and the rest of the restoration works are under way.

Moreover, the IMD has predicted heavy to very heavy rain in Kanniyakumari district for five days till May 30. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have urged the public to stay cautious during this period of adverse weather.