Tamil Nadu government meets to review preparedness

CHENNAI: Reviewing the arrangements made to tackle any post-cyclone situation in Cuddalore and other parts of Tamil Nadu, revenue minister R. B. Uthayakumar on Thursday asked people not to believe rumours about cyclone, while assuring them that the state was prepared to face any eventuality. NDRF teams have been rushed to Cuddalore, where cyclone Nada is expected to make landfall early on Friday, besides food packets to those who might be evacuated if the effect of the rain is intense. At a review meeting with officials from various departments at the secretariat on Friday, Uthayakumar asked to ensure that 24-hour control rooms and help lines functions properly during the distress time. “Relief camps are ready in places where we expect the intensity of the cyclone would be severe. Kitchens at relief centres and food packets to be distributed to people’s houses are ready. Cyclone Monitoring Centres and help lines would function 24/7 to ensure that people are informed on regular basis,” Uthayakumar said.

He also asked people not to believe rumours with regard to the intensity of the cyclone. His remarks came as messages circulated on WhatsApp asked people to stock up groceries for a few days since rains are expected to continue for few days. Revenue secretary Chandramohan said the state government was in constant touch with NDRF and other Central agencies to ensure smooth movement of people if needed. The TN Government had Wednesday launched toll free numbers 1070/1077 for help in emergency situations.