How Cyclone Michaung affecting Businesses?

The recent onslaught of Cyclone Michaung has left the southern Indian city of Chennai grappling with severe flooding and a multitude of challenges. The cyclone, which made landfall in the neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh, brought torrential rains to Chennai, resulting in a trail of destruction that has left the city’s residents in distress.

The heavy rainfall, exceeding 24cm in a single day, has submerged homes and streets in Chennai’s suburbs, prompting authorities to initiate efforts to clear the waterlogged areas. The consequences of the cyclone extend beyond flooded streets; residents are facing difficulties accessing basic necessities, and frequent power cuts further compound their hardships.

Tragically, at least 18 people have lost their lives in Tamil Nadu state, where Chennai serves as the capital, due to incidents related to the heavy rains. The impact on infrastructure is evident as Chennai airport temporarily shut down, and numerous train services were canceled, affecting both travel and commerce.

This calamity evokes memories of the devastating floods in 2015, where over 200 lives were lost. Experts attribute the recurring flooding issues to unchecked construction and poor urban planning in many Indian cities, leaving them ill-prepared to cope with extreme weather events.

The economic ramifications are substantial, with disruptions reported in production at various companies, including Apple supplier Foxconn. The municipal authorities are employing equipment to pump out water from the inundated streets, allowing vehicles to move and facilitating the ongoing rescue efforts.

The underlying problem lies in rampant construction that has encroached upon the natural drainage systems, preventing rainwater from dissipating. Activists and experts emphasize the urgent need for better stormwater drainage systems, although even these may struggle during exceptionally heavy rains.

The Tamil Nadu government has sought interim federal assistance of 50 billion rupees to address the aftermath. Chief Minister MK Stalin acknowledges the severe impact on infrastructure and highlights the ongoing rescue efforts. As the city grapples with the immediate crisis, long-term solutions involving comprehensive surveys to identify drainage deficiencies are on the horizon.

In conclusion, Cyclone Michaung has laid bare the vulnerabilities of Chennai, exposing the consequences of inadequate urban planning and the urgent need for sustainable solutions to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters.