Southwest monsoon gaining momentum in Tamil Nadu

TIRUNELVELI: Thanks to the frequent rainfall in the Western Ghats, all the major falls in the district, including Manimuthar, Agasthiyar, Peraruvi, Pazhayaruvi and Aintharuvi, have witnessed a huge influx of water, prompting officials to impose a ban on bathing at all except Agasthiyar.

As the southwest monsoon gained momentum in Kerala, rainfall picked up pace over the last two days in the western parts of the district, including Tenkasi, Shengottai, Kadayanalloor, Paavoorchathiram, and Surandai, while regions adjacent to the Western Ghats have been experiencing frequent drizzles.

Due to incessant rain in the Courtallam hills, the Aintharuvi (Five Falls) witnessed flooding on Friday night, prompting officials to impose a ban on bathing in the waters. The ban was on Saturday extended to Peraruvi, which also experienced an increased inflow of water. As a result, tourists were found visiting other falls, including Pazhayaruvi (Old Falls), Chitraruvi (Small Falls) and Puliyaruvi (Tiger Falls).

Due to the rainfall coupled with heavy wind, a number of trees were uprooted in Courtallam, causing power blackouts. Similarly, electricity was disconnected at places including Manjolai estate, Nalumukku, and Kuthiraivetti. Vehicle movement was also affected in the estate as trees were uprooted.