In a bid to address the devastating impact of continuous rainfall in Southern districts of Tamil Nadu, the Office of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has affirmed the Central Government’s commitment to providing all possible assistance. The Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters have been actively engaged in rescue and relief operations in the flood-affected areas, with a focus on Tamil Nadu.
The Defence PRO Chennai has reported that relief operations are underway, highlighting the State administration’s efforts. At Madurai airport on December 20, 2023, food packets and essential relief materials were loaded onto Bharat Coast Guard Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) to be deployed in the affected regions.
Operating from Madurai and Tuticorin, IAF helicopters have already delivered over 5.5 tonnes of supplies to stranded citizens in flood-hit areas. The Tirunelveli district, in particular, is grappling with severe flooding due to incessant rains, leading to buildings being submerged and a disruption of normal life.
Visuals depict the Tamraparni River breaching the danger mark, exacerbating the flood-like situation. The situation has prompted a swift response, with the Indian Navy personnel distributing food and relief materials at Srivaikundam railway station in Thoothukudi.
The ALH has been instrumental in delivering aid to 500 stranded people at the railway station. The Southern Railway Chief PRO, B Guganesan, explained that Indian Air Force choppers and NDRF teams are actively involved in the evacuation process.
The Railways have organized 13 buses stationed about 3 kilometers away from Srivaikuntam railway station, offering additional support. Furthermore, a special train, equipped with medical and catering teams, has been dispatched from Vanchi Maniyachi to Chennai Egmore to rescue stranded passengers.
The Defence PRO Chennai also reported the induction of the Indian Army Column ‘Madras Regimental Centre’ for flood relief operations in Tuticorin District. This deployment included the delivery of 550 food packets to individuals marooned in Karungulam village.
Heavy rainfall wreaked havoc on Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, and Kanyakumari on December 18, prompting a joint effort by the state government and the Centre to mobilize a massive rescue and relief operation. The focus remains on providing swift assistance to those affected by the calamity in Southern Tamil Nadu.
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