Opposition leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (E.P.S.) has urged the Tamil Nadu government to enhance the relief measures announced for people affected by recent floods.In his statement, Palaniswami criticized the government’s handling of the situation, saying:
“Without prior warning, the release of 1.68 lakh cusecs of water from the Sathanur Dam has caused severe hardship to residents across three districts. Despite the meteorological department’s forecast of heavy rains due to Cyclone Penchal, the DMK government, lacking administrative foresight, failed to take any precautionary measures. This has resulted in significant suffering for people in the districts of Cuddalore, Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai, Krishnagiri, and Salem.
“The affected residents have lost their belongings, livestock, and vehicles. They are now struggling without access to basic necessities like food and drinking water. Floodwaters have entered villages along the banks of the Thenpennai River, turning residential areas into floodplains. People in Kallakurichi, Villupuram, and Cuddalore districts have lost their livelihoods and are left stranded in despair.”
“The Tamil Nadu government must increase the relief amounts announced for affected families. Adequate compensation should be provided to those who have lost livestock and vehicles. Additionally, a detailed assessment of damages to crops, including paddy fields, must be conducted, and farmers should be compensated accordingly.”