Cyclone Fengal: Puducherry government issues heavy rain alert to residents via SMS

Puducherry experienced heavy rains on Saturday, prompting the union territory administration to send SMS alerts to around 12 lakh residents cautioning them to remain vigilant in view of the approaching cyclonic storm Fengal . Chief Minister N Rangasamy visited the rain-affected areas to review the steps taken by the Disaster Management department, especially in accommodating those evacuated from low-lying areas into relief centres.

The chief minister instructed officials to closely monitor the situation and ensure the safety of the residents.

District Collector A Kulothungan briefed the chief minister about the distribution of food packets to those staying in the shelter homes.


Kulothungan told PTI that all necessary steps have been taken to ensure that people remained safe.

"We have evacuated people from low lying areas and shelter homes are ready to accommodate them. Arrangements were also made to supply food packets," he said, adding that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) from Arakkonam had arrived to engage in relief and rehabilitation work.

According to the official, control rooms have been opened in the collectorate and also in the line departments.

Toll free numbers 112, 1077 and also WhatsApp number 94889 81070 have been put in place to help people facing crisis to contact for help.

Cyclone Fengal is likely to cross between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram coasts close to Puducherry, official sources said. The government has advised people to stay indoors.

The entire stretch of beach road and also several tourist spots were closed to ensure that there was no movement of people near the sea shore.

Schools and colleges remained closed today.

Daily wage earners, roadside vegetable vendors, and labourers were among those most affected by the heavy downpours caused by Cyclone Fengal, which is intensifying over the Bay of Bengal.

In response, under the Disaster Management Act 2005, all theatres were instructed to suspend evening and night shows to safeguard public safety and maintain law and order.

Several shop owners in various areas shortened their business hours due to the heavy rains that began in the afternoon.