PM Modi Offers Condolences and Assistance to Mayotte After Cyclone Chido’s Devastation
PM Modi expressed deep condolences for Cyclone Chido’s devastation in Mayotte, which caused 22 deaths and over 1,400 injuries. He affirmed India’s readiness to assist, while French officials reported the territory is severely damaged, affecting 70% of its population. A curfew has been imposed to maintain order during relief efforts, as surrounding regions, including Mozambique, also faced casualties and damage due to the cyclone. Experts link its severity to climate change.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt sorrow regarding the destruction caused by Cyclone Chido in Mayotte, a French overseas territory near Madagascar. The cyclone, which struck the island with devastating winds reaching up to 200 km/h, resulted in the tragic loss of 22 lives and left more than 1,400 individuals injured. PM Modi extended India’s readiness to provide assistance during this crisis, demonstrating solidarity with France during this grave incident.
In his message posted on social media, he stated, “Deeply saddened by the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido in Mayotte. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.” He further expressed confidence in French President Emmanuel Macron’s leadership, asserting that France would recover from this tragedy with resilience. Authorities in Mayotte report substantial destruction, with approximately 70% of the territory impacted, prompting the French government to deploy additional military and paramilitary personnel to assist with extensive relief efforts.
The French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau remarked on the severe extent of devastation, indicating that major sections of the island remain inaccessible, compounded by the risk of further casualties. As part of the emergency response, France has implemented a curfew to mitigate potential looting while prioritizing public health amidst the aftermath. Meanwhile, the local government has begun to restore essential services, aiming to restore partial water supplies imminently.
In addition to the catastrophic effects observed in Mayotte, neighboring Mozambique reported at least 34 fatalities and over 300 injuries due to the cyclone, with significant rainfall exacerbating the damage. Experts warn that the unprecedented intensity of Cyclone Chido, the most powerful in over 90 years, reflects the alarming trends linked to climate change as ocean temperatures rise.
Cyclone Chido recently struck Mayotte, a French territory situated in the Indian Ocean, causing immense devastation and significant casualties. As a result of the cyclone’s winds surpassing 200 km/h, the region has suffered losses, with authorities fearing more fatalities amid the rubble and blocked roads. Cyclone Chido’s impact on the local population, estimated at 70% affected, highlights the vulnerability of island territories to extreme weather events, which experts attribute to climate change trends that are intensifying storm patterns and severity.
The devastating impact of Cyclone Chido in Mayotte has prompted international expressions of sympathy and readiness for support, notably from Prime Minister Modi of India. The unfolding humanitarian crisis necessitates immediate relief and rehabilitation efforts as lives are irrevocably altered. The responses from both the French government and foreign nations demonstrate a unified commitment to assist the impacted communities and restore normalcy following this calamity.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com