Heavy rain battered Puducherry since early Monday, causing significant disruptions to everyday activities and prompting the government to take precautionary measures. Several areas across the Union Territory experienced waterlogging, slowing down vehicular movement and affecting business operations. Residents in low-lying zones reported rising water levels, forcing local authorities to begin emergency clearing work to prevent further inconvenience.
In view of the continuous rainfall, Home Minister A Namassivayam announced that all schools and colleges, including government-aided institutions, in the Puducherry and Karaikal regions will remain closed on Tuesday. The decision was taken to ensure the safety of students and staff as heavy showers are expected to continue. The minister stated that the administration is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to respond to any emergencies.
Municipal and revenue officials have been instructed to remain on alert as the rain intensified during the evening hours. Teams from the Public Works Department and local bodies have been deployed to clear blocked drains and remove fallen branches from key roads. In several neighbourhoods, residents reported temporary power disruptions due to the impact of the rain on electrical infrastructure. Electricity officials have initiated restoration work in affected areas.
The regional meteorological centre has predicted further rainfall over the next twenty-four hours due to the influence of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. Officials warned that isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall may occur in certain pockets, potentially increasing the risk of flooding. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea owing to rough conditions and strong winds along the coast.
Public transport services operated with delays as buses navigated through waterlogged stretches. Auto-rickshaw drivers and daily wage workers reported a decline in income as people preferred to stay indoors. Shopkeepers in coastal areas also kept their establishments closed earlier than usual due to the worsening weather conditions.
Disaster response teams have requested residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to remain cautious around low-lying areas, open drains, and coastal zones. Helplines have been set up to register complaints regarding flooding, tree falls, and sewage overflow. Officials further urged people to follow weather advisories issued by the government and take necessary precautions.
The Puducherry administration has stated that it will review the situation on Tuesday before deciding whether further measures are required. With rainfall expected to persist, authorities are working to minimise disruption and ensure public safety. Residents continue to hope for a quick return to normalcy as the region braces for more wet weather in the coming hours.
