PM Modi Expresses Condolences and Offers Aid Following Cyclone…

Cyclone Chido has severely impacted Mayotte, resulting in 22 fatalities and over 1,400 injuries. PM Modi expressed condolences and offered assistance. The French government is deploying additional relief personnel and has imposed a nighttime curfew to ensure safety. Experts warn this cyclone highlights the growing risks associated with climate change.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his profound sorrow regarding the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido on the island of Mayotte, situated near Madagascar. On Tuesday, he communicated his heartfelt condolences through social media, emphasizing India’s readiness to provide humanitarian assistance. Cyclone Chido, known for its fierce winds reaching up to 200 km/h, struck on Sunday, resulting in the tragic loss of 22 lives and injuring over 1,400 individuals. The situation remains precarious, with fears of additional casualties as essential infrastructure is severely damaged and access to certain areas remains obstructed.

French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau noted that approximately 70% of the local population has been adversely affected, describing the territory as “completely devastated.” In light of the catastrophe, additional personnel were deployed to aid in ongoing relief efforts. As an immediate response, the French government implemented a nighttime curfew starting Friday to mitigate risks of looting and disease proliferation in the affected areas.

In his acknowledgment of the crisis, President Emmanuel Macron termed the incident a “tragedy” and pledged to visit the island shortly. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to restore essential services, including water supply, with plans to achieve 50% restoration within 48 hours. Additionally, food and water supplies are being mobilized to assist the affected residents.

The cyclone’s impact extended beyond Mayotte, as neighboring Mozambique reported at least 34 fatalities due to the storm’s influence. Cyclone Chido is noted as the most potent cyclone to have afflicted the archipelago in over nine decades, raising concerns among experts about the implications of climate change on extreme weather events.

Cyclone Chido has been categorized as a significant tropical cyclone, impacting Mayotte—a French overseas territory. The storm’s severe winds and rainfall have led to considerable destruction, presenting critical humanitarian challenges. The incident underlines the vulnerability of island regions to extreme weather phenomena, particularly those exacerbated by climate change. The French government’s swift response illustrates the need for coordinated disaster relief efforts, emphasizing the international community’s solidarity in times of crisis.

In summary, Cyclone Chido has brought about devastating consequences in Mayotte, resulting in loss of life, injuries, and widespread destruction. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s offer of assistance highlights India’s commitment to aid during international emergencies. As the local and international communities mobilize for recovery and support efforts, this incident serves as a poignant reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related disasters.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com