Rain, floods in low-lying areas disrupt life across Karaikal district

Life came to a grinding halt in Karaikal on Saturday as rain under the impact of Cyclone Ditwah left several low-lying areas flooded with water entering many houses and public spaces and slowing down the movement of vehicles across the region.

Karaikal Surya, an activist, told The Hindu that water had entered several houses in Thirunagar in Karaikal Municipality limits. “In Thirunagar alone, water entered 240 houses, damaging household items. Only after the water fully drains will the extent of loss become clear,” he said.

In Nedungadu commune, water stagnation was reported from several villages, including Andoor, Ponpethi, Vadamattam, Kurumbagaram, and Panjastpuram. Residents said it would take at least two days for the water to drain completely.

In T.R. Pattinam, water stagnation persisted in Vazhamangalam and Kizhavoor villages.

Villages in Neravy, including Kizhamaai and Oozhiyapathu, were affected, with stagnant water in residential lanes.

In Thirunallar, Ambedkar Nagar — which lacks proper roads and drainage — was worst hit. Other affected villages in the commune included Nal Ezhunthur and Ambagarathur.

In Kottucherry, Sonia Gandhi Nagar experienced persistent waterlogging following the overnight rain.

Fishermen’s plight

Sources said in the fisher settlements of Karaikal Medu, Kilinjal Medu, Kasakudi Medu, Kottucherry Medu, Kalikuppam, and Pattinachery, only the government primary and high schools were affected by water stagnation.

In Akkampettai, the local playground was filled with rainwater, disrupting access and movement.

A. Vincent, another activist, said several areas faced a different problem once the water receded. “In many villages, the water has gone down, but a thick layer of silt has been left behind,” he said.

In V.S. Nagar in T.R. Pattinam commune, six houses were covered with a thick layer of mud after the floodwaters drained away.

At Nallathur in Nedungadu commune, several homes were similarly affected.

Sources from the district administration said community halls were kept open across the district. Work is on in full swing to drain water from the affected areas.