Heavy rain hits normal life in Tamil Nadu

CHENNAI - Incessant rain in Tamil Nadu over the past few days has not only thrown life out of gear in the state but also sent vegetable prices soaring. Thirteen people have died due to wall and roof collapse or electrocution so far.

The northeast monsoon threatens to keep people confined to their houses over the weekend with weather officials predicting more rain.

The weather office said the low pressure in the Bay of Bengal would bring more rain over the coastal districts and neighbouring Puducherry.

The rains have burnt a big hole in household budgets with vegetable prices rising.

“There is no vegetable that costs less than Rs.20 a kg,” said Revathi Vasan, a housewife.

Vegetable arrivals have gone down due to rain, said a wholesaler in the Koyambedu market here.

The rain has forced schools to declare a holiday and also confined children to their homes.

The city auto rickshaws were making hay, charging fancy rates from the people.

Those driving their own vehicles - two and four wheelers - had a tough time negotiating waterlogged roads.

Deputy Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has instructed district officials to take necessary relief measures.

A health official said the chances of swine flu, or influenza A (H1N1), spreading in the state has gone up because of the rain.

However, S. Elango, director public health, said there is no reason to panic though there could be a slight increase in the infections.