NDRF, SDRF stationed in coastal areas: RB Udayakumar

People living in low lying areas have been shifted to relief centres in Nagapattinam and Cuddalore and other vulnerable districts are under the surveillance of the disaster response force, the minister said.

Earlier in the day the minister inaugurated an ‘Early warning system’ on a trial basis in Nagapattinam and Cuddalore districts. The warning system will envisage timely evacuation of people from vulnerable areas and help prevent loss of lives during times of disaster, the minister explained and announced helpline numbers 1070 (state-level) and 1077 (districts) for members of public. 

Local holiday was declared for educational institutions in seven districts, including Nagapattinam, Pudhukkotai, Tiruvarur, Cuddalore and Ramanathapuram. The government has also advised private firms to send back their employees early in the coastal districts.  Tourists who thronged Pichavaram and Muthupettai mangrove forests were asked to return due to rough sea and weather conditions. In Dhanushkodi were asked to move to safer places.