Tourists urged to avoid travelling to the Nilgiris from May 18-20 as heavy rains are expected

Nilgiris District Collector warns tourists to avoid travel due to heavy rain, ensuring safety measures are in place.

Nilgiris District Collector, M. Aruna, urged tourists to avoid travelling to The Nilgiris between Saturday, May 18 to Monday, May 20, due to heavy rain expected in the district.

Speaking to reporters after heading a disaster-preparedness meeting with officials from various government departments in Udhagamandalam on Friday, May 16, Ms. Aruna said that an ‘orange alert’ had been issued for the Nilgiris by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and heavy rains are expected from Friday onwards.

While she asked tourists planning to travel to the Nilgiris to reconsider, she also said that steps have been taken to ensure the safety of those who do decide to brave the inclement weather.

Ms. Aruna also said that areas vulnerable to flooding and landslips had been identified across the district. She said that 3,500 first responders will be on high alert during the weekend, and that 456 relief centres have been identified in case people need to be evacuated from their homes.

“A total of 25 fire service vehicles and more than 100 earth-movers and 25,000 sandbags are in a state of readiness, and can be deployed when and wherever necessary,” said Ms. Aruna.

The Collector also said that pregnant women who could potentially give birth over the next three days, living in areas that could be affected have been asked to get admitted to the government hospital in advance, so that they have ready access to medical help if necessary.