Two People Killed and One Injured in Chennai Wall Collapse

Two people have died and another is critically injured after a wall collapsed in Chennai, India, due to heavy rainfall and strong winds. The victims have been identified as Shek Afraj and MD Tofik from Jharkhand. The incident occurred in the Kanathur area of Chennai on Monday morning. Police are currently investigating the matter.

In response to the severe weather conditions, Chennai Airport has closed its airfield for arrival operations until 1130 hrs IST. Balachandran, the Regional Metrology Director in Chennai, reported that cyclone Michaung is currently located about 100 km east-northeast of Chennai and has been moving at a speed of 10 km/hr. It is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by 4 p.m. today. The cyclone is projected to move parallel to the coast of north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh, with landfall expected tomorrow at 4 p.m. near Nellore-Machilipatnam.

As cyclone Michaung approaches, heavy rainfall and strong winds are predicted to continue in Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, and Thiruvallur districts. The city has already experienced significant waterlogging, causing inconvenience to residents. The Meteorological Centre in Chennai has issued a warning of moderate thunderstorms, lightning, and intense rain in several districts of Tamil Nadu.

Due to the heavy rains and waterlogging, suburban train services in all Chennai Suburban sections have been temporarily suspended. Only Passenger Specials will operate until further notice. Waterlogging has been reported in various parts of the city, such as Maduravoyal, Porur, Saligaramam, and Valasaravakkam. Additionally, strong winds have uprooted trees in many areas.

Furthermore, eleven express trains departing from Chennai Central have been cancelled due to the water level reaching the danger mark at Bridge No. 14 between Vyasarpadi and Basin Bridge.

The Divisional Railway Manager of Chennai, Southern Railway, has issued a statement apologizing for any inconvenience caused and advising passengers to plan their journeys accordingly.