Cyclone 'Gaja' claims 11 lives in TN, says CM Palaniswami
Severe cyclonic storm 'Gaja', which crossed Tamil Nadu's coast early today, has claimed 11 lives, Chief Minister K Palaniswami said. 'Gaja' crossed the coast between Nagapattinam and nearby Vedaranyam, bringing with it heavy rain, and causing severe damage to communication and power infrastructure, mainly in Nagapattinam district. Palaniswami said relief work will be taken up on a war-footing and that it was already underway.
CM announces compensation: Rs. 10L each for deceased's families
Speaking to reporters in Salem, Palaniswami said the families of the deceased will be provided a solatium (compensation) of Rs. 10 lakh each from the Chief Minister's Public Relief Fund (CMPRF). Those with severe injuries will be provided with Rs. 1 lakh each while people who had sustained simple injuries will get Rs. 25,000 as relief, the Chief Minister added.
Over 80,000 people evacuated from low-lying areas
Palaniswami said, the damage caused by 'Gaja', including to the fishing sector, was being assessed. Over 80,000 people were evacuated from low-lying areas as 'Gaja' crossed the coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranyam early today. Gusty winds due to the cyclonic storm resulted in hundreds of trees and electricity poles being uprooted in Nagapattinam and Karaikal districts. Cuddalore and Puthukottai districts also suffered damage.
