Cyclone Nivar: Three killed in Tamil Nadu, measures taken to restore services

Chennai/Puducherry: Cyclone Nivar hit Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts on Wednesday. The landfall started at 11:30pm and lasted till 2:30 am on Thursday. It maintained a wind speed of 85 to 95 kmph as it moved to interior areas.

So far three people are reported dead and another three were injured, authorities said.

The cyclone was very serious.

However, due to measures taken by the state government, things were under control, said Atulya Mishra, Additional Chief Secretary of the state.

"As of now, only 3 deaths have been reported while 3 people were injured. 101 huts damaged and 380 fallen trees removed. There is a complete restoration of essential services. There is no problem of drinking water, electricity or any healthcare," he added.

Nivar made landfall near Puducherry around 2:30am with a wind speed of 120-130kmph gusting to 145kmph

India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that heavy rains pounded Tamil Nadu and Puducherry leading to inundation and uprooting of trees.

Nivar had weakened into a severe cyclonic storm after it crossed the coast near Puducherry.

Deputy Director-General of Meteorology, Chennai, S. Balachandran said rainfall is likely to continue in Tamil Nadu.

The inundated areas were inspected by O Panneerselvam, Deputy Chief Minister, Tamil Nadu.

About 2.5 lakh people were housed in cyclone shelters in Tamil Nadu.

The Indian Navy put ships, aircraft, helicopter, diving and disaster relief teams on standby. An Indian Coast Guard vessel has been deployed off Chennai's coast with other disaster relief teams.

The Indian Army has also deployed eight rescue teams by 'Dakshin Bharat Area', following requisition by Puducherry civil authorities.

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