Chennai/ Thiruvananthapuram, December 1: The cyclone ‘Ochki’ has shaken the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala badly. Heavy rains have caused massive destruction in the southern parts of both the states. This cyclone has killed 8 people till now. Heavy rains and wind has halted daily life.
Both the state governments are on high alerts and several preventive measures are taken to keep the public safe. All the District collectors are directed to carry out rescue operations and take people to the safer places. Schools and Colleges have been shut till the situation comes under control. Fishermen in coastal regions in southern parts of the two states were advised not to venture into sea. Southern Railway said it has partially cancelled some trains in Tirunelveli-Kanyakumari-Thiruvananthapuram sector.
Chief Ministers of both the state governments have alerted Air and Navy forces, Coast guards and help the local public and shift them away from the cyclone prone areas. They have also instructed that advance announcement to be made in case of opening of dam shutters.
Cyclone Ochki has uprooted more than 500 trees which killed 8 people. Nearly 3000 electric poles were also uprooted which led disruption in electric supply.
A bulletin was issued by the India Meteorological Department which stated that wind speed reaching 65-75 kmph gusting to 85 kmph was very likely along and off South Kerala during next 48 hours and along and off south Tamil Nadu during next 24 hours.
IMD has also warned Lakshadweep islands to be on alert as the cyclone is heading towards the region and may hit by December 2.