Tamil Nadu minister says flood-affected families to get Rs 6,000 within a week
In the wake of the devastation left by Cyclone Michaung in Chennai, Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Sunday said that relief measures, including financial aid of Rs 6,000, will be distributed to affected individuals within a week.
The announcement comes as Chennai begins to recover from the severe flooding caused by the cyclone.
Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin addressed the media, stating that the distribution process would begin shortly. “The compensation will be distributed within one week based on a token system. The tokens will be given at government ration shops,” he explained.
Despite some damage to these shops due to the rains, the minister assured that once repairs are made, the distribution of aid will follow swiftly.
In response to criticism regarding the state’s preparedness and infrastructure, Udhayanidhi refuted allegations that the interim report of the Thiruppugazh Committee had not been properly implemented.
He credited the existing storm water drainage system for the quick drainage of rainwater and the restoration of power within three days.
Chief Secretary Shiv Das Meena provided an update on the situation in Chennai, noting that normalcy has returned to 95 per cent of the city thanks to the relief and rescue operations.
He highlighted that water has receded in most areas, and where it persists, efforts are being made to pump it out.
“Except for a few streets, water is clear. We have restored power supply in the city. All essential commodities and essential services have been restored. Things are near normal,” said Chief Secretary Meena.
Addressing concerns from residents of North Chennai about relief efforts, the Chief Secretary assured that essential services have been restored there as well, and specialised teams are addressing issues such as oil spills based on committee recommendations.
As Chennai moves towards full recovery, the next challenge identified by the Chief Secretary is the management of solid waste. Additional equipment and staff have been deployed to tackle this issue, with the assurance that it will be resolved in the coming days
