Coimbatore saw continuous heavy rain, which left major streets waterlogged and many low-lying areas flooded. Regions such as Mettupalayam, Periyanayakkanpalayam and Karamadai were the most affected, with overflowing streams causing widespread flooding.
Published Oct 23, 2024 | 3:50 PM ⚊ Updated Oct 23, 2024 | 3:50 PM
People clearing floodwater from a shop in Coimbatore.
Torrential rains that lashed the Erode and Coimbatore districts of Tamil Nadu, led to widespread flooding, property damage, and significant disruptions on Wednesday, 23 October.
Several areas witnessed flooding with rainwater mixed with sewage entering streets, homes and shops, especially in the low-lying regions.
In Erode, a footwear shop on ABD Road owned by one Salman suffered extensive losses after floodwater entered the store. Footwears worth several lakhs of rupees were submerged after the floodwater hit the shop in a low-lying area.
Sanitation workers are now working overtime to remove the stagnant water for authorities concerned to assess the full extent of the damage.
Coimbatore saw continuous heavy rain, which left major streets waterlogged and many low-lying areas flooded. Regions such as Mettupalayam, Periyanayakkanpalayam and Karamadai were the most affected, with overflowing streams causing widespread flooding.
Several roads became impassable in Sulur, Peelamedu, and Podanur due to the high water levels.
Two cars were swept away by floodwaters near Mettupalayam, under the railway bridge between Kottai and Onnipalayam. One car overturned, while another became stuck in the water. Fortunately, the passengers were able to escape safely.
In other areas, such as Chinniyampalayam and Kalapatti, rainwater rose as high as the road dividers, making travel difficult for commuters. The Coimbatore railway station also faced severe water stagnation, causing delays for travellers. Train services, including the Nilgiri Express to Chennai and a MEMU service from Coimbatore to Mettupalayam, were delayed due to flooding.
In response to the severe weather, the district collectors of Coimbatore and Tiruppur have declared Thursday a holiday for all schools and colleges. The decision was taken in view of flooded roads and the resulting transportation difficulties.
Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts further rain in the upcoming days, particularly in the western parts of Tamil Nadu. Coimbatore and surrounding districts are expected to experience more downpours, increasing the risk of further flooding.
Authorities have urged people living in low-lying areas to move to higher ground if necessary and to follow instructions from local authorities and emergency services.
Relief camps have been set up in several parts of Coimbatore and Erode to accommodate displaced families.
— Tamilnadu Weather-IMD (@ChennaiRmc) October 22, 2024
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil with inputs from K Nitika Shivani.)
