Cyclone Michaung: The ferocity of Cyclone Michaung, born from a deep depression over the South Bay of Bengal, has led to the loss of five lives in Chennai, with the state grappling with severe weather conditions.The cyclones impact has uprooted numerous trees across Tamil Nadu due to intense winds, causing water-logging and significant disruptions in daily life. One individual sustained injuries from a fallen tree, underscoring the severity of the situation.Flight Operations Halted, Services DisruptedIn response to the cyclonic conditions, Chennais airport authorities have suspended operations until 9 a.m. tomorrow, affecting travel schedules. Waterlogging in key areas, leading to the closure of subways and disrupted traffic, exacerbates the crisis.Devastating Forecasts and Public Safety MeasuresThe Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of heavy rainfall across north-coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, anticipating extremely heavy falls in certain regions of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam on December 4 and 5.Government Measures and Support InitiativesIn light of the catastrophe, the Tamil Nadu government has declared a public holiday in Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur districts. Essential services remain operational, while precautionary measures have been urged, as the IMD maintains a red alert status for Chennai and neighbouring areas.Union Home Ministers Assurances and PreparednessUnion Home Minister Amit Shah has assured support to the Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry in dealing with Cyclone Michaungs aftermath. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indian Railways, and other agencies stand prepared with rescue and relief teams deployed and railways operating cautiously in the cyclone-prone regions.Railways Caution and Emergency PreparednessThe Indian Railways has taken precautions by cancelling 60 trains in the East Coast Railways jurisdiction, setting up emergency control cells, intensifying patrolling, and establishing helplines for passenger convenience. Early restoration plans have been outlined in the event of track damage due to the cyclone.Helpline and CommunicationHelpline numbers have been activated for information and assistance in Bhubaneswar, with preparations in place to manage and mitigate the cyclones impact in railway jurisdictions.Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also extended support to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, emphasising the need for collective preparedness and assistance to combat the effects of Cyclone Michaung.
