Sat May 31 14:04:18 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Tourism Minister R. Rajendran held a meeting at the Salem Collectorate to review and coordinate preparations for the upcoming southwest monsoon season. Acting on instructions from the Chief Minister, the Minister instructed various departments to take precautionary measures, especially in areas prone to flooding and rainwater stagnation. These measures included identifying vulnerable areas, preventing waste dumping in sewage channels, desilting waterways, setting up emergency shelters, organizing medical camps, and ensuring school safety. The public was encouraged to report rain-related issues to the district control room.
**News Article:**
**Salem Prepares for Southwest Monsoon; Minister Orders Precautionary Measures**
**Salem, May 31, 2025** – Tourism Minister R. Rajendran convened a meeting at the Salem Collectorate today to review preparations for the upcoming southwest monsoon season and issue directives for mitigating potential flood damage. The meeting, prompted by instructions from Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, focused on coordinating efforts between various government departments.
The Minister emphasized the importance of proactive measures from the Fire and Rescue Services, Electricity, Agriculture, Highways, and Transport departments. Municipal officials from Salem Corporation, Attur, Narasingapuram, Mettur, and Edappadi were tasked with identifying and addressing areas prone to rainwater stagnation. Specific high-risk zones, including Chinneri Vayakadu, Sivathapuram, Pachapatti, and Narayana Nagar, were highlighted for focused intervention to prevent a repeat of past flooding. The officials were directed to take measures in and around Selathampatti Lake to prevent flood-related damages.
Rajendran urged for public awareness campaigns discouraging the dumping of plastic and waste in sewage channels. He also instructed corporation staff to utilize motors for removing stagnant water and to desilt the Thirumanimutharu river to ensure efficient water flow.
Residents are encouraged to report any rain-related damages to the district control room at the toll-free number 1077 or 0427-2452202. The Health Department is preparing to organize special fever and medical camps as needed, while temporary shelter arrangements will be established in schools, colleges, and marriage halls for residents of low-lying areas during emergencies. The Education Department has been instructed to inspect school buildings to prevent rainwater accumulation.
District Collector R. Brindha Devi and officials from all relevant departments attended the meeting, demonstrating a coordinated approach to monsoon preparedness.