Cuddalore

Tamil Nadu Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister MRK Panneerselvam on Saturday outlined precautionary measures in Cuddalore district ahead of Cyclone Ditwah.

The minister said that inspections were carried out under the District Collector’s supervision to ensure public safety during heavy rains. Arrangements have been made to provide food and shelter for over 100,000 residents in the district.

Panneerselvam noted that authorities have identified 239 areas likely to be affected and 925 pregnant women who may need medical assistance. Hospitals in nearby locations have been alerted to provide timely care. Measures have also been implemented to remove trees that could fall in strong winds and to drain water from low-lying areas. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is on standby for emergency response.

Chennai Airport officials reported that 54 flights were cancelled across the state due to the cyclone. Flights between Chennai and Thoothukudi, Madurai, and Trichy were suspended, along with services from these cities to Chennai and flights from Madurai, Trichy, and Puducherry to Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Passengers were advised to check with airlines for updated schedules.

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that Cyclone Ditwah, currently near Sri Lanka and the southwest Bay of Bengal, may intensify slightly and move toward the North Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast by early November 30. Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the risk of urban flooding are expected across several southern states.