Cyclone Fengal: TNFRS Lead Relief and Rescue Across Districts

Cyclone Fengal wreaked havoc across Tamil Nadu, leaving a trail of destruction in Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Thiruvannamalai, Cuddalore, Dharmapuri, and Krishnagiri districts. Amid this crisis, the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services (TNFRS) emerged as a beacon of hope, conducting life-saving rescue operations and aiding in relief efforts.

Villupuram and Kallakurichi: Battling Widespread Floods

Villupuram and Kallakurichi were among the worst-hit districts, with severe waterlogging and flooding isolating many villages. TNFRS teams were quick to act:

• Rescue Operations: Over 800 residents were evacuated from flooded homes. Inflatable boats and life jackets were deployed to navigate submerged streets.
• Clearing Roads: More than 50 uprooted trees were cleared, ensuring access to relief supplies and medical aid.
• Shelter Coordination: Rescue teams assisted in moving displaced families to cyclone shelters, where food and water were provided.

Thiruvannamalai: Landslide and Flood Response

Thiruvannamalai faced a dual challenge of landslides in the Arunachala Hills and flooding in low-lying areas:

• Landslide Rescue: TNFRS personnel rescued 35 individuals trapped under debris in the Arunachala Hills. Tragically, seven lives were lost despite heroic efforts.
• Evacuations: Over 300 residents were moved to safety as rivers swelled dangerously.

Cuddalore: The Eye of the Cyclone

Cuddalore bore the brunt of Cyclone Fengal’s landfall, enduring torrential rains and high-speed winds:

• Mass Evacuations: Nearly 1,200 residents from fishing villages were relocated to cyclone shelters before the storm struck.
• Clearing the Aftermath: Teams removed debris from roads and restored connectivity to remote areas.

Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri: Overcoming Challenges in Hilly Terrain

Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri experienced heavy rainfall, triggering landslides and waterlogging:

• Flood Mitigation: TNFRS deployed high-power pumps to drain water from affected areas, saving crops and property.
• Landslide Clearance: Teams cleared debris blocking roads near Hogenakkal, restoring access to isolated villages.

Statewide Coordination and Impact

The TNFRS mobilized its personnel and deployed hundreds of boats and pumps across affected districts. Their coordinated efforts with district administrations ensured timely response and minimized loss of life.

Voices of Gratitude

Residents and officials across districts expressed deep gratitude for TNFRS’s relentless efforts. “Their courage and dedication saved countless lives,” said a resident of Villupuram.

Cyclone Fengal tested the resilience of Tamil Nadu, but the efforts of the TNFRS have provided a shining example of heroism and unity during challenging times.