Cyclone Gaja wrecks TN: 80k displaced, CM announces 10 lakh solatium

Salem: Cyclon 'Gaja' crossed Tamil Nadu's coast Nagapattinam and nearby Vedaranyam early on Friday, has claimed 11 lives, said Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami.

The storm had intensified to ‘severe’ category with gusty winds blowing at 120kmph bringing with it heavy rain, and causing severe damage to communication and power infrastructure, mainly in Nagapattinam district.

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Speaking to reporters at Salem, Palaniswami said rescue operations have been launched and precautionary measures will be taken.

"The government has received information that so far 11 persons have died," CM said without divulging further information.

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Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami made following announcements:

#Compensation of Rs 10 lakh will be provided to the families of the deceased from the Chief Minister's Public Relief Fund (CMPRF).

#People with severe injuries will be given Rs 1 lakh each, while people with simple injuries will get Rs 25,000 as relief.

#The damage caused by Gaja, including to the fishing sector, was being assessed.

Electricity supply was disconnected in several cyclone affected areas. The state government has declared holiday for schools and colleges in Nagapattinam.

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