The extent of crop loss and infrastructural damage would be ascertained only after water is drained, U. Mathivaanan, Minister for Dairy Development, said on inspection of affected areas of Keezhvelur and Thirukuvalai blocks, here on Thursday. The Minister along with Collector C.Munianathan inspected rain-affected areas of Vengadangal, Vaazhavokkur, Okkur, Kaaruthakudi, Vadakuveli, Pattamangalam, thevur, Venmani, Killikudi, Saatiyakudi, Anakudi, Vadakku Panayur, Therkku Panayur and Mupathi Kottam in these two blocks.
The bridge connecting Therku Panayur, Vellai Aru,Valla Vinayagar Kottam and Thirukuvalai was also inspected. An administration release said over 1,32,693 hectares were brought under Samba and Thaladi crops in the district of which over 44,496 hectares were partially submerged and over 17,569 hectares completely inundated. Over 197 cattle were killed and compensation to the tune of Rs.1,46,650 lakh was disbursed for loss of 52 cattle.
According to the district administration, over 550 houses were partially damaged and 37 houses completely. Compensation to the tune of Rs.1.86 lakh was distributed to 98 houses. Breaches in embankments would be taken up on a war-footing and all departments have been directed to stack up sand bags and logs to counter eventualities. The damaged roads and bridges would be repaired soon.
The rainfall figures for Nagapattinam were as follows: Sirkazhi 50.20mm; Kollidam 50mm; Thalainayar 37.40mm; Manalmedu 34; Mayiladuthurai 32mm; Thirupoondi 32mm; Tharangambadi 23.70mm; Nagapattinam 19.90mm and Vedaranyam 19.20mm with the district recording an average rainfall of 33.16mm.
KARAIKAL
Collector Franklin Laltin Kuhma inspected tail-end regulators and inundated fields at TR Pattinam, Neravy, Keezhamanai, Oozhiyapathu, Vizhidhiyur, Nallambal, Valathamangalam, Ponpethi, Andur and Usupur here on Thursday. All schools shall remain closed on Friday in view of unabated rains.