The severe cyclonic storm Gaja that hit Tamilnadu coast Friday claimed over 25 lives, uprooted several trees, damaged roads and brought life to a standstill in several places. Nature’s fury spelt havoc. However, thanks to the preventive measures taken by the Tamilnadu State Disaster Management Board, several lives were saved and rescue works are on in full flow.
Call it a pleasant surprise that Leader of the Opposition and DMK president M K Stalin, Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Haasan besides filmmakers like Bharathiraja, known for being vocal against the AIADMK government, chose to praise the disaster management and their works during the passage of Gaja.
Stalin said, “The way the Tamilnadu Disaster Management Board undertook preemptive steps to mitigate the impact is appreciable. I urge those in authority to aid the board to continue their good work.” Kamal Haasan said, “Learning from the bitter experiences of the past, thanks are due to the Tamilnadu government for efficiently taking steps ahead of the cyclone.”
Remember, the State government was criticised severely for the poor rehabilitation and relief works during the Ockhi cyclone that affected southern districts in late November 2017? It is a positive sign in Tamilnadu that the parties have chosen to rise above political differences and stand united in times of crisis. Even members of the Rajini Makkal Manram took to the streets with relief materials and reached out to the needy.