Cyclone Ditwah: Tamil Nadu on High Alert with Safety Measures in Place

Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister MRK Panneerselvam announces safety measures for Cuddalore due to Cyclone Ditwah. Precautionary steps include inspecting risk areas, preparing accommodations, and deploying NDRF. Flight cancellations reported at Chennai Airport as the cyclone nears the North Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast, expected to bring heavy rains and strong winds.

Tamil Nadu Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister MRK Panneerselvam addressed the media on Saturday to outline precautionary measures in Cuddalore district due to Cyclone Ditwah. The minister highlighted that inspections, led by the District Collector, were conducted to ensure public safety amid forecasts of heavy rainfall.

Panneerselvam detailed arrangements made for housing and feeding over one lakh residents in potentially affected areas. He also noted the identification of 239 vulnerable zones and necessary support for 925 pregnant women requiring medical assistance, with prompt hospital admissions planned. Efforts are underway to remove potentially hazardous trees and manage rainwater flooding in low-lying areas, alongside the National Disaster Response Force's readiness for emergencies.

The cyclone has led to major disruptions at Chennai Airport, with officials announcing the cancellation of 54 flights across various Tamil Nadu districts. Flights from Chennai to cities like Thoothukudi, Madurai, and Trichy have been suspended, with additional cancellations affecting routes to Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Passengers are urged to check their flight status with airlines and adjust travel plans accordingly. The India Meteorological Department warns of the cyclone's potential intensification, leading to severe weather conditions along the North Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast by November 30.

(With inputs from agencies.)