IAF choppers provide humanitarian aid to flood-hit Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli districts

Thoothukudi: In a commendable display of relief efforts, visuals emerged today showing Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters distributing food and relief packets to people stranded in their houses in the flood-affected Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli districts.

Watch IAF helicopters distributing food and relief packets 

The aerial relief operation comes in response to the severe flooding caused by incessant rains, leaving many residents isolated in their homes. 

The IAF choppers, laden with essential supplies, navigated challenging weather conditions to reach the affected areas, showcasing their commitment to aiding communities in distress.

Holiday announced in all schools and colleges 

In the wake of incessant rainfall, a holiday has been announced in all schools and colleges of Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu on Wednesday, December 20th. The exams that were to be held were also postponed, news agency ANI reported, quoting the District Collector, Tirunelveli as saying. 

Earlier on Monday, the Tamil Nadu government had declared a holiday for all schools, colleges, private institutions, banks and financial institutions in Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Kanyakumari and Tenkasi districts owing to the downpour.

For the unversed, it has been raining continuously since Sunday morning in Kovilpatti, Ettayapuram, Vilathikulam, Kalugumalai, Kayathar, Kadambur, Vembar, Surangudi, and other areas of Thoothukudi district. Due to this heavy rain, the rivers and lakes around Kovilpatti reached their full capacity and the water is overflowing from the lakes.

As the rainwater started flowing out of the river in the Koosalipatti and Inam Maniyachi areas, sandbags and JCB machines were used to stop the water. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said that he has instructed party cadres from the rain-affected districts to assist in the ongoing relief work.