Puducherry authorities have declared a holiday for all schools and colleges, including private institutions. This closure affects the four regions of Puducherry , Karaikal , Mahe , and Yanam on Saturday . Home and Education Minister A Namassivayam announced the holiday. The decision acts as a precautionary measure against Cyclone Ditwah , which is expected to bring heavy rainfall to the Union Territory.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘red alert’ for Puducherry. This alert signifies a forecast of intense to extremely heavy rainfall. Rainfall could potentially exceed 20 centimeters within a 24-hour period. The severe weather conditions are anticipated on both November 29 and 30 .
Emergency Measures Activated
Lt Governor K Kailashnathan convened an emergency meeting with senior officials on Friday . The meeting reviewed and directed preparedness efforts. He instructed all departments to implement immediate precautionary measures. These actions aim to mitigate the cyclone’s potential impact on the region and its residents.
The cyclone, named ‘Ditwah’, originated in the Bay of Bengal. The name ‘Ditwah’ means ‘lagoon’ and was suggested by Yemen. It is likely derived from Detwah Lagoon on the northwest coast of Socotra. As of the latest bulletin from the IMD, Cyclone Ditwah is positioned approximately 300 kilometers south-southeast of Karaikal. It is also located about 410 kilometers south-southeast of Puducherry. Chennai lies 510 kilometers south-southeast of the cyclone’s current position.
NDRF Teams Deployed
Personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been mobilized. Teams arrived from Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu. These personnel are now strategically deployed across the Puducherry and Karaikal regions. Their primary role involves conducting essential relief and rescue operations should they become necessary.
Lt Governor Kailashnathan specifically reviewed measures already established by key departments. These include Revenue and Disaster Management. He emphasized the critical need for continuous vigilance. He also stressed proactive steps from all disaster management-related departments to safeguard the public.
Directives for Public Safety and Support
To ensure public safety and provide timely assistance, several directives have been issued:
- Control Rooms: Emergency control rooms will operate around the clock, 24 hours a day. These rooms will promptly respond to any calls for assistance from the public.
- Fishermen Warnings: All fishermen have received explicit warnings against venturing into the sea. Authorities have also directed that all fishing vessels be secured in safe, protected locations. This prevents damage or loss.
- Healthcare Preparedness: Hospitals across the Union Territory must be fully equipped. This includes maintaining ample stocks of medicines and essential medical supplies. These resources will manage any potential health emergencies arising from the cyclone.
- Relief Centers: Multiple relief centers are being established in accessible locations. These centers will provide shelter and support for displaced individuals. Food packets will be made available to those seeking refuge in the camps.
- Water Drainage: Officials are tasked with taking necessary steps to efficiently drain water from areas at high risk of inundation due to heavy rainfall. This minimizes flooding impacts.
Senior government officials attended the emergency review meeting. These officials included Chief Secretary Sharat Chauhan. Also present were Development Commissioner and Head of the Department of Disaster Management Krishna Mohan Uppu. District Collector A Kulothungan completed the attendee list. Their presence underscores the coordinated effort to manage the cyclone response.