Xtra Time Web Desk: Team India veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin leads the sporting fraternity in the city to urge the people of Chennai to stay indoors and be safe as Cyclone ‘Michaung’ wreaked havoc in the state. The South Indian state is grappling with severe flooding due to Cyclone ‘Michaung’. The heavy rains have submerged large parts of the city, particularly low-lying areas, leading to shocking visuals of inundation. The airport has been closed until Tuesday morning, and three fatalities have been reported.
In the face of this crisis, cricketers, including local players Ravichandran Ashwin and Dinesh Karthik, have urged people to stay indoors and cooperate with authorities. The situation remains challenging, and concerted efforts are underway to manage the aftermath of Cyclone ‘Michaung’ in Chennai.
“Hang tight for another day everyone. Even if the rain stops, recovery is going to take a while.” Wrote Ashwin on X.
Another local cricketer Dinesh Karthik wrote, “Chennai folks, please prioritize your safety and stay indoors – it’s crucial during times like these. A big salute to all the officials working tirelessly to improve the situation. Let’s all cooperate and get through this together.”
Sri Lankan cricketers Matheesha Pathirana and Maheesh Theekshana, both of whom plays for Chennai Super Kings urged the citizens to stay safe.
“Just watched some concerning footage from my second home, Chennai. Sending all my love and prayers to everyone affected. Stay strong, stay safe. We’re in this together.” wrote Theekshana.
Stay safe, my Chennai! The storm may be fierce, but our resilience is stronger. Better days are just around the corner. Take care, stay indoors, and look out for one another.”
Another CSK cricketer Ajinkya Rahane too posted a message on X. The Mumbaikar wrote, “Wishing for the safety of everyone in Chennai and extending my gratitude to everyone working at ground zero!”
Social media is flooded with distressing images of waterlogged streets and floating cars. Power outages have compounded the situation, intensifying the challenges faced by residents. To ensure public safety, authorities have declared a public holiday for Monday and Tuesday, prompting the closure of schools and colleges.
The cyclone is anticipated to make landfall between Nellore and Machilipatnam around midnight, exacerbating the already dire conditions. The weather office predicts continued heavy rains and strong winds on Tuesday, further complicating the recovery efforts.
Transportation has been severely affected, with numerous trains and flights canceled. Chennai airport operations have been suspended due to the flooding of the runway and tarmac, leading to the cancellation of around 70 flights.