India: Lessons from Cylone Gaja to Tamil Nadu
By A Mahendran, Assistant Professor at the Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur
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In December 2004, the Indian Ocean Tsunami killed over 23,000 people in 14 different countries. In India, Tamil Nadu was the most affected territory. The tsunami killed over 6,400 people in the state. The highest mortality occurred in Nagapattinam district. After 14 years, Cyclone Gaja affected the same place. But this time, the death rate was below 50. This was achieved by the government’s red alert measures taken in advance.
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In the aftermath of the storm, the state government has taken several emergency measures to help victims and survivors. Rationed products like rice, flour, millets, sugar, salt, tea, kerosene and candles are being supplied free of cost. In addition, plastic sheets have been supplied for those living in huts. All schools have declared holidays for one month because village residents living in remote areas are staying in school buildings and government institutions. The mid-day meal kitchens are preparing food and supplying it to families. Electricity board employees are working day and night to ensure power supply to areas needing it. Karnataka State Electricity Board employees and those from other neighbouring states are extending their helping hand.
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Farmers, livestock owners, fishermen and school children have been particularly affected by the storm.
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In the future, the government must prepare plans beforehand to safeguard animals, especially livestock from natural calamities to prevent loss. The Indian economy depends on agriculture. So, more attention has to be given to their needs. Save farmers to improve the agricultural growth of our nation.
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