Cyclone Michaung Updates: In the wake of Cyclone Michaung, the reservoirs in Chennai, notably Lake Puzhal, have reached their maximum capacity, prompting government officials to assure residents of safety despite concerns over the surging water levels.
Water Resources Minister Durai Murugan and Commercial Tax and Registration Minister P Moorthy inspected Lake Puzhal, assuring the public of the safety measures in place. Murugan highlighted that these reservoirs were originally designed to manage moderate rainfall and that the recent cyclone’s intensity was unexpected after almost five decades. However, he reassured citizens, stating that officials had taken the necessary precautions to minimize damage. Despite the inflow being substantial, they released only a small portion of water to maintain a safe water level.
Lake Puzhal, a vital water source for Chennai, reached its full capacity, raising concerns. However, officials affirmed that efforts are in place to keep the water levels safe, averting any risks to the lake or residents.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the approval of a Rs 561.29 crore urban flood mitigation project for the Chennai Basin. This initiative aims to bolster the city’s resilience against floods.
Severe cyclonic storm Michaung has affected Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Though the extent of damage is varied, many areas of these states are inundated, thus affecting standing crops.
To help the state Governments with the management of relief necessitated by the cyclonic…
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 7, 2023
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh conducted an aerial survey of the affected areas and held discussions with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to evaluate the situation. They were briefed on the cyclone’s impact and discussed the necessary relief efforts, emphasizing a collective and proactive response to the crisis.
PM Shri @narendramodi has directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to release in advance the Central share of 2nd installment of SDRF of Rs 493.60 to Andhra Pradesh and Rs 450 crore to Tamil Nadu. The Centre had already released 1st installment of same amount to both the States: RM
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) December 7, 2023
Singh assured that the Central Government had released the initial installment of the State Disaster Response Fund, with directions to expedite the second installment. Further, the Central Government released the second installment of the State Disaster Relief Fund in advance to Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, acknowledging the impact of Cyclone Michaung on both states.