IMD issues orange alert for region, administration appeal for vigil

The district administration has appealed to the public to maintain vigil following an orange alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for Puducherry due to a low-pressure area forming over the Bay of Bengal since Saturday.

According to the IMD forecast, under the influence of the ongoing Northeast Monsoon, the low-pressure system is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall across the region over the next couple of days. Wind speeds may reach up to 55 km per hour, the forecast warned.

District Collector A. Kulothungan appealed to the public to remain vigilant and avoid stepping out unless absolutely necessary. He urged the residents to follow official government advisories, not to fall for or propagate rumours and unverified information, and to stay updated through verified information channels.

The Collector, who also chairs the Puducherry District Disaster Management Authority, underscored the importance of adopting precautionary measures during the adverse weather conditions to ensure public safety. Citizens can report emergencies or seek assistance on the following helpline numbers: 1077, 1070, 112 (toll-free) and 9488981070 (WhatsApp), a press note said.