Follow safety guidelines until storm crosses coast: Minister Ramachandran

Tamil Nadu has not reported any major damage from the ongoing rains, said Minister for Revenue and Disaster Management K.K.S.S.R. Ramachandran, urging the public to strictly follow the Chief Minister’s instructions until Cyclone Ditwah crosses the coast.
Speaking to reporters in Chennai, the Minister confirmed that there have been no fatalities and that traffic remains unaffected across the state.
He said 16 cattle have died, and 24 huts have collapsed, adding that the government has taken all necessary precautionary measures.
He said the Nagapattinam district recorded the highest rainfall in the last 24 hours. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Ditwah will pass close to Chennai without making landfall in the city.
The Minister issued a strong warning:
“Do not go to the beach today and tomorrow. Wind speeds will be high. Do not go to the beach, especially to take selfies.”
He said damage assessment for boats and agricultural crops will be carried out after November 30. The Chief Minister has directed officials to provide immediate compensation to affected families. He added that the Chief Minister is directly monitoring all cyclone-related developments.
As part of disaster preparedness, 28 State Disaster Response teams are on standby.
In addition, 10 more teams from neighbouring states are being brought in by air to strengthen rescue and relief operations. The Indian Air Force and Coast Guard have also been placed on alert.
The Minister said additional surveillance officers will be deployed to vulnerable districts based on tomorrow’s weather impact. More than 6,000 trained relief personnel are positioned across Tamil Nadu to respond to emergencies.
He concluded by reiterating the Chief Minister’s appeal:
“People should not step out unnecessarily until Cyclone Ditwah fully crosses the coast.”