Untold miseries of Vellalanvilai flood victims

THOOTHUKUDI: The plight of Vellalanvilai panchayat’s flood-hit residents deepens, with their homes submerged for an agonizing 38 days. The state government’s dewatering efforts have ceased, and the panchayat no longer provides essential supplies, leaving residents in despair.

Vellalanvilai, situated 6 km from Udangudi, faced severe flooding after a breach in the Sadayaneri tank on December 18, triggered by unprecedented rainfall. Despite attempts to drain excess water to the nearby Vellalanvilai Theri forest, the village remained submerged. Twenty-three families in two streets, along with others on various roads, continue to suffer, with some houses flattened.

The district administration deployed heavy motors for a month, reducing water levels but not eliminating the problem. The motors were withdrawn due to other commitments, leaving the village inundated. Samuel Gnanapal, a victim, emphasized the need for another month of motor deployment, as stagnant water has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Residents initially found refuge at Holy Trinity CSI church, where the panchayat provided food. Unfortunately, the aid was halted due to financial constraints, compelling victims to seek shelter with relatives. Villagers expressed dissatisfaction with the district administration, alleging unfulfilled promises made during a December 26 meeting.

Fisheries Minister Anitha R Radhakrishnan, though instructing civic bodies earlier, has not visited Vellalanvilai since December 23. Residents accuse him of neglecting the village after the Udangudi-Paramankurichi road was cleared. Notably, the minister’s native village, Thandapathu, is just one kilometer away.

Vellalanvilai panchayat president Rajarathinam conceded that dewatering efforts were futile due to water seepage from other areas. Despite allocating funds for sandbags, the water persisted. The panchayat managed to gather funds for 21 days of food supply, but all dewatering efforts have now halted, leaving residents to endure the floodwaters evaporating in the harsh sun. The desperate situation calls for urgent intervention and renewed commitment from authorities to address the ongoing crisis.