Radhakrishnan visits areas affected by cyclonic storm 'Gaja'

Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan Tuesday visited the areas affected by cyclonic storm 'Gaja' in the district and said he would apprise the Centre of the extensive damage caused by it.

He interacted with a section of people accommodated in a relief camp in one of the worst-hit Thirutharapoondi and consoled them. Talking to reporters after carrying out an inspection of the affected areas, Minister of State for Finance and Shipping said coconut trees have been uprooted in several areas.

Paddy crops have been submerged and huts completely damaged. He said he would apprise the UnionHome Ministry about the damages caused by the cyclone.

The cyclone crossed the coast near Vedaranyam in Nagapattinam district, about 300 km from Chennai, with a speed of up to 120 kmph last Friday, claiming 46 lives and leaving a trail of destruction in over 10 districts in southern Tamil Nadu.