Tamil Nadu Monsoon Alert: Kodaikanal Red Alert, Vaigai Dam Water Level Reaches 50 Feet

The Northeast monsoon has intensified across Tamil Nadu, bringing heavy rainfall to Kodaikanal and surrounding areas. A red alert has been issued for Kodaikanal, affecting tourism and disrupting the daily lives of residents in Dindigul district.

Continuous rainfall has flooded more than 20 houses in the Moonjikkal-Dobikana area of Kodaikanal. Residents have faced difficulties protecting their belongings and livestock as rainwater entered their homes. Local workers have also reported disruptions to their daily livelihoods.

Residents have urged the municipal authorities and the Tamil Nadu government to construct retaining walls along the water channel to prevent repeated flooding. Concerns have also been raised over a 30-year-old bridge that has developed cracks following heavy rainfall.

The bridge serves as a vital connection for approximately 600 to 700 families and provides access to a government playground. Residents fear that further damage could isolate the neighbourhood and restrict emergency services, including ambulance access. They have called for urgent repairs and an increase in the bridge`s height.

Meanwhile, the intensified Northeast monsoon has increased water inflows into Tamil Nadu`s reservoirs. In Theni district, the water level at Vaigai Dam in Andipatti has reached 50 feet for the first time in nine months, according to officials.

The ongoing rainfall highlights the importance of flood prevention measures, infrastructure maintenance and public safety in vulnerable areas across Tamil Nadu.