New Delhi [India], December 3: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his condolences on Tuesday following the devastation caused by Cyclone Fengal, which has led to significant damage and loss of life in Tamil Nadu.
The cyclone triggered heavy downpours, resulting in accidents and widespread destruction. Gandhi extended his sympathies to the families affected by the storm and urged Congress workers in Tamil Nadu to assist the local administration in ongoing relief efforts.
“Devastating news of Cyclone Fengal in Tamil Nadu. My heartfelt condolences to those who have lost loved ones in this tragedy. My thoughts are also with those whose homes and properties have been damaged. I urge all Congress workers in the state to step forward and assist the administration with relief efforts wherever possible,” Gandhi posted on X (formerly Twitter).
In response to the crisis, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Tuesday, expressing concern over the flooding in several districts. Modi assured support for the state in dealing with the aftermath of Cyclone Fengal.
Meanwhile, CM Stalin reiterated his request for a central team to assess the damages caused by the cyclone. He also informed Modi about the Tamil Nadu government’s efforts to provide relief to affected residents.
“I informed the Prime Minister that the state government is effectively managing the disaster and offering relief assistance. I have reiterated my request for a central team to conduct a detailed assessment of the damages caused by Cyclone Fengal, which has caused great suffering to the people of Tamil Nadu,” Stalin shared on X.
Additionally, CM Stalin urged the Prime Minister to release Rs 2,000 crores from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for restoration and rehabilitation efforts. He also called for a comprehensive assessment of the damage by a central team.
Due to the heavy rainfall, all schools and colleges in four districts of Tamil Nadu, including Nilgiris, have been closed on Tuesday. District Magistrate Lakshmi Bhavya announced the closure in Nilgiris due to the ongoing severe weather.
Earlier, CM Stalin had announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the families of seven people who lost their lives in a landslide caused by the torrential rains in Thiruvannamalai district.