more-in THOOTHUKUDI Collector Sandeep Nanduri on Monday said contact was yet to be established with the 19 fishermen, who had ventured into sea in two mechanised boats from Tharuvaikulam here on October 1. Speaking to reporters here, Mr. Nanduri said two Dornier aircraft were involved in the search. “Talks are on with the coast guards of Oman and Maldives to allow the aircraft to berth there if need arises,” he said. Mr. Nanduri said Sterlite Copper administration had submitted a detailed plan for evacuation of chemicals as per the orders of the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court. “Discussions would be held to plan the next step,” he said. Only some huts had been partially damaged in the rain over the last few days in the district, Mr. Nanduri said, adding Indian Meteorological Department had predicted that rainfall would occur over the next two or three days, and that the depression that formed over the Bay of Bengal might move to Odisha, bringing rainfall to the district. All officials were on alert, he added. Farmers should avail themselves of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bhima Yojana by October 31 to claim 25% of the amount even if they could not sow the seeds owing to heavy rainfall. The Collector said legal action would be initiated against those encroaching on private lands and water channels in Kayathar, Kovilpatti and Ottapidaram while setting up windmills. “Officials have been asked to remove poles erected without permission,” he added.

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