Heavy rainfall in southern districts of Tamil Nadu has caused significant disruptions, particularly affecting train services in the state. The Southern Railways, in a press release, mentioned the challenges they are facing in restoring traffic and evacuating stranded passengers at the Srivakuntam Railway Station.
Unprecedented rainfall, ranging from 670 mm to 932 mm, hit Tirunelveli and Tuticorin districts in a 24-hour period from December 17 to December 18, 2023. This extreme weather has led to breaches in track parameters, resulting in the suspension of train operations in affected sections.
Specifically, an earth slip occurred in the section between Talalyuthu and Gangaikondan, affecting a bridge and washing away ballast. Floods have also impacted Tirunelveli Station yard and Tuticorin station yard, causing disruptions in multiple sections due to water levels rising above danger levels.
Southern Railways assured that efforts are underway for the speedy restoration of services. The Engineering wing, in coordination with other departments, is mobilizing materials needed for restoration as soon as the rainfall subsides. Restoration work in affected sections is expected to commence once the water level recedes, with the goal of restoring traffic in the Tirunelveli-Madurai main line by the next evening.
Evacuation measures are being taken for stranded passengers. Train services have been terminated at Srivaikuntam station, and stranded passengers are being relocated to nearby government schools using state transport buses. However, challenges persist, with some passengers unable to be transported due to overflowing bridges.
In response to the situation, an NDRF team from Tuticorin was dispatched to Srivaikuntam station, but their progress was hindered by heavy flooding and breached roads. Meanwhile, rescue operations are being carried out in Tirunelveli, one of the heavily affected districts.
Several districts in Tamil Nadu, including Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Kanyakumari, and Tenkasi, have been grappling with heavy rainfall since Sunday, leading to floods and disruptions in normal life. Kanyakumari city has faced severe waterlogging and flood-like situations due to continuous heavy rainfall in recent days.
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