Union Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, Skill Development, Electronics, and Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar has embarked on a visit to Chennai to assess the aftermath of Cyclone Michaung and explore avenues for further assistance. The minister expressed the government’s commitment to supporting Tamil Nadu in its recovery efforts. He highlighted the swift response of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, allocating nearly Rs 1000 crore and deploying the Navy and Air Force for rescue operations.
Chandrasekhar’s agenda in Chennai includes a comprehensive review of waterlogged areas, overseeing relief material distribution, evaluating ongoing rescue missions, and engaging with affected residents. The visit aims to understand the ground reality and ensure that the central government aligns its efforts with the immediate needs of the people.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has taken proactive measures by donating one month’s salary to the Chief Minister’s Public Relief Fund, urging all MPs and MLAs to do the same. CM Stalin requested an immediate interim relief fund of Rs 5,060 crores and the dispatch of a central team to assess the damage caused by Cyclone Michaung in the state in a letter to Prime Minister Modi.
Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu IAS Officers’ Association has contributed a day’s salary for each of its members to the Chief Minister’s Public Relief Fund. The collective contribution demonstrates a willingness to assist the state government in ongoing relief efforts.
Cyclone Michaung made landfall in Tamil Nadu, causing heavy rains, strong winds, and significant damage to infrastructure and homes. The aftermath has led to widespread waterlogging and challenges for residents, necessitating concerted relief efforts.
In a briefing about ongoing relief and restoration work, Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary Shiv Das Meena informed that 9,000 officials from other districts have been deployed in Chennai for relief work. The government is actively working to pump out stormwater from low-lying areas, addressing the immediate concerns of affected citizens.
The Chennai Police have played a pivotal role in restoring traffic and coordinating relief efforts. They have been involved in distributing food packets to those in need and actively participating in water-pumping activities in different districts of the city.
Amid the challenging situation, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh assured all possible help from the Central Government. He mentioned that the first instalment of the Central share of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), amounting to Rs 450 crore, has been released, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting Tamil Nadu during these testing times.