Puducherry, 30 November 2024 – Authorities have urged residents to remain indoors as Cyclonic Storm Fengal approaches Puducherry, with landfall expected on Saturday afternoon, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Forecasts indicate wind speeds could reach up to 90 kmph during the storm’s impact.
Tamil Nadu has declared Saturday a holiday for all schools and colleges, officials said.
District Collector A. Kulothungan reviewed preparedness with officials from the Public Works Department, local administration, police, and other key departments. Emergency response systems are in place, including toll-free numbers 112 and 1077 for distress calls and a WhatsApp helpline at 9488981070.
“Every measure is being taken to ensure public safety. Relief centres, rescue equipment, and emergency teams are on standby,” a state government official said.
The state has confirmed that 4,153 fishing boats have returned to the shore in compliance with the advisory. Additionally, 2,229 relief camps have been prepared, and 471 people from 164 families are already housed in six relief centres in Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts.
Key districts, including Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Tiruvarur, Cuddalore, Thanjavur, Chengalpattu, and Chennai, have been equipped with boats, generators, and motor pumps. Personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and state disaster teams are deployed across these areas.
Senior officials are coordinating on-site operations with district authorities to address any exigencies.
