Cyclone Fengal crossed the coast near Puducherry on November 30, causing unexpected devastation in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
Over 7 million families and 15 million individuals were affected, with 16 deaths, including 7 from a landslip in Tiruvannamalai.
Unusually heavy rainfall (40-50 cm) occurred in many parts, leading to severe flooding and widespread damage, especially to farmland (over 2.21 lakh hectares submerged).
The South Pennai river, which is usually dry, flooded with a flow of 2.4 lakh cusecs, worsening the impact on affected districts.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin requested ₹2,000 crore from the central government for relief efforts.
The Puducherry government announced ₹210 crore in assistance.
The frequency of extreme weather events like heavy rainfall and cyclones in the southern peninsula is increasing.
The India Meteorological Department's 2022 report suggests four cyclonic storms or depressions could hit the region each season.
Beyond emergency relief, long-term preparedness is crucial.
This includes strengthening infrastructure, improving flood management, clearing silt from watercourses, and preventing waterbody encroachment.
The Tamil Nadu government must release the findings of the Advisory Committee on Flood Risk Management in Chennai, and implement recommended measures like bund strengthening and better flood mitigation planning.
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