Relief operations in full swing in TN

Chennai, Dec 21 (UNI) Relief operations are in full swing in Tamil Nadu following heavy rainfall which battered the State for three consecutive days.

Following directions from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, State Ministers have rushed to the rain-affected areas to carry out immediate relief work.

An official release here today said so far the State Government had paid a solatium of Rs one lakh to the families of 25 people, who were killed in rain-related incidents in the State.

For those whose huts were partially or fully damaged, the government will provide them, per family with Rs 2,000, five Kg rice, one litre kerosene and a dhoti and a saree.

Standing crops on 72,000 hectare of land in delta districts were submerged, of which 90 per cent was paddy.

When the water recede, the government would make a clear estimate of the loss of crops and other damages for payment of compensation to the affected, the release added.

Meanwhile, the weather office said the trough of low pressure extending from 'Comorin' Area to the South West Bay of Tamil Nadu Coast had become less marked.

According to the met office forecast, rainfall or thundershowers are likely at a few places over Tamil Nadu and Puducherry during the next 24 hours.

UNI