Mon Apr 21 15:07:42 UTC 2025: **Tamil Nadu Hit by Severe Storm; Over 1,000 Banana Plantations Destroyed**
THOOTHUKUDI, Tamil Nadu – A sudden and intense storm swept through the Srivaikuntam region of Thoothukudi district on Monday afternoon, causing significant damage to property and infrastructure. Heavy rain and strong gale-force winds lasting just over 30 minutes uprooted more than 1,000 banana plantations, primarily in the Pudhukudi and Vellur areas. A large Indian Rosewood tree was also uprooted, blocking a road near the railway station.
The storm, which hit around midday, also damaged numerous electric poles along the Pudhukudi-Vellur road. Local authorities, including revenue department staff, municipality workers, and Tangedco officials, launched a relief operation following orders from Srivaikuntam Tahsildar Rathnasankar.
Farmers in the affected areas are demanding compensation for their lost banana crops. The extent of the overall damage is still being assessed.
First Piper 