Watch: “Cyclone Fengal’s Aftermath: Torrential Rains Trigger Floods, Sweeping Away Cars and Heavy Vehicles“
Bengaluru, Karnataka, December 2, 2024: Cyclone Fengal, which made landfall on Saturday, has weakened into a depression over the north coastal regions of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. However, it continues to unleash heavy rainfall, severely affecting normal life, particularly in Villupuram and Cuddalore. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that the depression is expected to move westwards, gradually weakening over the next 12 hours.
Severe Flooding and Railway Disruptions
Villupuram and Cuddalore, located along the northern coastal stretch, have been overwhelmed by flooding. The river Thenpennai is in spate in Cuddalore, and both districts face significant waterlogging. In Villupuram, an essential bridge between Vikravandi and Mundiyampakkam has been submerged, leading Southern Railway to suspend operations along this route. Several express and superfast trains have been cancelled, diverted, or short-terminated due to the rising water levels. Villupuram, a crucial transit point connecting northern and southern Tamil Nadu, has seen transportation severely disrupted.
Toll of the Cyclone
In addition to widespread flooding, the cyclone has caused substantial damage across the region. The state’s western districts, including Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri, also experienced unprecedented flooding. Krishnagiri saw its worst floods in over two decades, with vehicles being swept into low-lying areas, leaving the public in shock. In these regions, road access has been cut off due to inundation, making it difficult for emergency responders to reach affected areas.
Fatalities and Casualties
A tragic incident occurred in Ooty, where a 45-year-old man, Arumugam, lost his life when his house collapsed under the weight of heavy rains. The collapse happened on the night of December 1-2, as the structure was weakened by the incessant downpour in the Nilgiris.
Government Response and Relief Measures
The Tamil Nadu government has mobilized efforts to address the devastation. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has dispatched two ministers, S. Muthusamy (Minister for Housing and Urban Development) and R. Rajendran (Minister for Tourism), to oversee relief operations in the worst-hit districts of Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri. Stalin, who has been in close contact with the district collectors, is personally visiting Villupuram today to assess the damage.
Meanwhile, Puducherry Chief Minister N. Rangasamy has announced ₹5,000 relief for all ration card holders in the region. A comprehensive report on the cyclone’s damage is being prepared to seek federal assistance. The territory remains under high alert, with schools and colleges closed across Puducherry and Karaikal on Monday.
Bengaluru and Karnataka: Rainfall Continues
While the cyclone has weakened in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, its effects are still being felt in neighboring regions. Bengaluru and parts of Karnataka are expected to receive rainfall for the next two days. Authorities have issued a yellow alert for the state, urging residents to take necessary precautions as heavy showers continue.
As the situation continues to evolve, authorities are focusing on relief operations, with emergency teams working tirelessly to mitigate the impact and restore normalcy in the affected areas.
