In view of the heavy rains expected on Wednesday, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel have reached Chennai with 24 boats. Additional boats of fisherman have also been deployed in areas that were affected during the floods last December.
“There is an IMD forecast of a very heavy rain,” said Corporation Commissioner B. Chandra Mohan, adding: “we have made all preparations.”
The government has appointed one IAS officer for every zone of Greater Chennai Corporation to deal with any crisis that may arise on account of the heavy rains.
Officials who worked during the December floods have been posted in the same area now.
All subways are being monitored for water stagnation. All pumps are in running condition.
“Because the winds are supposed to be intense we are expecting tree falls. So in every zone, three teams have been formed and they will be given power saws,” said Dr. Chandra Mohan.
In case of any tree fall, residents are requested to call Corporation helpline 1913. All relief centres have been kept in readiness and necessary provisions have been given to Amma Canteens for supply of food to affected residents.
Medical teams has also been formed to assist affected residents. All IAS officers who have been posted have reported for duty and started holding coordination meetings in their respective zones.
“We are requesting that people be very cautious when they step out. If rain is very heavy they should stay at home,” said Dr. Chandra Mohan. Chennai Corporation is coordinating with the Public Works Department so that the mouths of Adyar and Cooum are kept open. PWD will also give information relating to water flow in the rivers.
Call 1070
Meanwhile, in a communication, the Commissioner of Revenue Administration, Chepauk, has said that for all kinds of rain-related grievances, the control room no 1070 may be contacted.
In case of any tree fall, residents are requested to call Corporation helpline 1913
