The Hindu : Front Page : Flood warning alert issued along the Vaigai

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Monday, Dec 05, 2005

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Flood warning alert issued along the Vaigai

J.V. Siva Prasanna Kumar

Official machinery geared to launch rescue operation; in case of emergency, public could seek shelter in corporation schools

MADURAI: The district administration has issued flood warning in the areas along Vaigai River on Sunday. The official machinery has been geared to launch rescue and rehabilitation operation.

According to the Collector, D. Raajendiran, people living in low-lying areas and close to the riverbanks have been advised to evacuate to safer places and avoid getting caught in the deluge.

He said the administration anticipated huge inflow into the Vaigai dam, which was currently receiving 17,500 cusecs. If the dam continued to receive the same quantum or even surplussed with huge inflows, the officials would have but little option than to open the reservoir.

At present, the level of water in the Vaigai dam stood at 66 feet. Officials anticipated copious inflow into the reservoir later in the evening and this could raise the level to 71 feet. The situation would necessitate opening of the dam if the water reached the `flood level.'

Mr. Raajendiran said announcements have been made along the north and south of the river, and low-lying areas advising people to shift to safer places. If the river was in spate, the water would inundate the surrounding areas. In case of any emergency, the public could seek shelter in corporation schools or community halls where appropriate arrangements have been made to accommodate them. The temporary shelters have been provided with water and electricity facilities, he said.

Sandbags ready

As a precaution, the administration had already readied sandbags to be dumped to fortify the bridges across the Vaigai River, the roads near the banks and the habitations. Sufficient number of bags has been stocked at the Rajaji Park and corporation offices.

Steps would be taken to ensure supply of protected water to residents and efforts were on to protect drinking water pipelines. The officials and staff of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board have been instructed to act swiftly in case of emergency, Mr. Raajendiran said.

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