Chennai Metro Rail Teams Combat Cyclone Fengal’s Impact, Tackle Waterlogging Amid Heavy Rains

Chennai (Tamil Nadu), November 30: In preparation for the landfall of Cyclone Fengal, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has mobilized teams across all Phase 2 project sites to monitor and address flooding caused by heavy rains.

Waterlogging has been reported in several areas, including Karapakkam, where CMRL teams are using 100 hp and 40 hp high-powered pumps to drain water.

"Heavy rains have led to waterlogging in Karapakkam. Our dedicated teams are on the ground, working to clear the water. The situation is gradually coming under control," CMRL tweeted.

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Phase-II Corridors and Connectivity

CMRL's Phase-II expansion aims to enhance connectivity across northern, southern, eastern, and western Chennai, passing through major areas like Madhavaram, Sholinganallur, Kodambakkam, Adyar, Anna Nagar, and more. These corridors link industrial, residential, and institutional hubs, offering efficient public transport for thousands of commuters.

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Cyclone Fengal’s Progress and IMD Warnings

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclonic Storm Fengal is set to cross the north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram on Saturday evening.

• Current Position: Located over the southwest Bay of Bengal, Fengal is moving west-northwestwards at 10 kmph.
• Forecasted Landfall: Expected wind speeds of 70-80 kmph, gusting up to 90 kmph, with a potential slowdown in movement as it approaches the coast.
• Affected Regions: Wind speeds of 70-90 kmph are predicted from Tiruvallur to Mayiladuthurai during landfall, with coastal districts like Nagapattinam expected to experience 50-70 kmph winds on Sunday.

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Heavy Rainfall and Waterlogging in Chennai

The cyclone has already brought heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu, causing significant waterlogging in parts of Chennai.

Key affected areas include:

• New Washermanpet
• Gemini Flyover
• Mount Road

Visuals from Chennai showed ankle-deep water on roads, disrupting traffic and causing difficulties for vehicles, including two-wheelers and cars.

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Safety Measures and Monitoring

With continuous monitoring by the IMD and emergency teams on the ground, efforts are underway to minimize the cyclone's impact. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and avoid venturing out unless necessary.