Cyclone Fengal Nears Landfall In Puducherry: TN Shuts Schools, Transport Suspended, Safety Measures In Place

As Cyclone Fengal intensifies over the Bay of Bengal and approaches landfall near Puducherry, authorities in Tamil Nadu have issued urgent warnings and implemented crucial safety measures.

The storm, expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds, has prompted the state government to shut schools and colleges in several districts, suspend public transport services, and urge IT firms to adopt work-from-home arrangements.

Photo Credit: PTI

To ensure student safety, the Tamil Nadu government has announced that all schools and colleges in Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Chengalpattu districts will remain closed on 30 November.

This decision comes as Cyclone Fengal, with winds potentially reaching speeds of up to 90 km/h, is anticipated to make landfall in the afternoon.

No special classes or exams will be conducted in these areas, while District Collectors in other regions with heavy rain alerts have been advised to make decisions based on local circumstances.

As a precaution, public transport services on key coastal routes, including the East Coast Road (ECR) and Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR), will be suspended during the afternoon of 30 November. These measures aim to reduce risks from strong winds and heavy rainfall associated with the cyclone.

The state government has also recommended IT companies implement work-from-home policies on November 30 to minimise travel during the storm's peak intensity. This step seeks to ensure employee safety as the cyclone moves closer.

Cyclone Fengal, which intensified into a cyclonic storm on 29 November, is forecast to make landfall between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram near Puducherry around midday. Sustained winds of 70-80 km/h, with gusts reaching 90 km/h, are expected.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several districts in northern Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, predicting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in the coming hours.

In preparation, the Tamil Nadu Revenue and Disaster Management Department has established 2,229 relief camps across the state, ensuring resources are available for those requiring shelter. So far, 471 individuals from 164 families have been accommodated in relief centres in Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts. Essential equipment, including motor pumps, generators, and boats, has been deployed to regions such as Chennai, Cuddalore, and Mayiladuthurai to address potential flooding.

Additionally, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been mobilised in affected districts to assist with relief efforts. Fishermen have been advised to remain ashore, with over 4,100 boats safely returned to port to avoid the cyclone's path.

To mitigate hazards from high winds, construction firms have been instructed to secure equipment and machinery. Cranes and similar machinery are being lowered, and billboards and hoardings are being reinforced or removed to prevent accidents caused by falling debris.

While coastal areas will bear the brunt of the storm, the IMD has warned of heavy rainfall in other parts of Tamil Nadu over the next few days. On 1 December, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in isolated areas of interior Tamil Nadu, with the storm's effects likely to continue until 3 December.

Authorities in Tamil Nadu are closely monitoring the cyclone and maintaining constant communication with district officials. Senior representatives have been deployed to key areas to coordinate relief efforts. The public is urged to stay informed via the latest advisories, with emergency toll-free numbers 112 and 1077, as well as a WhatsApp helpline (9488981070), available for distress calls.