Wednesday (26 December) marked the 14th anniversary of tsunami, the biggest natural disaster witnessed by Tamilnadu in recent decades. After that, the State faced calamities in the form of floods and cyclone, with the latest being Gaja cyclone that caused huge damage in the delta districts of Tamilnadu. However, even after this so much experience, it seems we are not yet fully equipped to face Nature’s fury, which is a sad thing.
No one can deny the fact that there is no mightier force than Nature. But if we take certain precautionary measures, we can minimise the damage to a maximum extent. Houses should not be built till a particular distance from the sea, stormwater drains should be desilted properly, buildings should be strong enough to face earthquake and waterbodies should not be encroached upon. Sadly, none of these is followed properly in these parts.
Without taking these measures, it would be so wrong to blame Nature for the damage. After all, it is from the same Nature we get our food, shelter and every other good thing to lead a comfortable life. Also, the responsibility lies not just with the government. People, too, are equally responsible for their sufferings. Only because of the damage we cause to Nature, we face calamities. So, as a first step, let us stop using plastic from the New Year and set an example to people of other States. Otherwise, no amount of floral tributes, prayers and silent processions for the victims of disasters would have any meaning. Let us make the earth a better place to live in for our future generations.