The cyclones and storms that originate in the Bay of Bengal have been battering India’s southeastern coast for ages. It is no use blaming global climatic changes arising out of the greenhouse effect. Ironically, India’s dry southern plateau, barring Kerala, eagerly awaits a cyclone-induced monsoon to sustain life and livelihood. It is wiser to plan the minimisation of losses and destruction by preventing the encroachment of river banks and lake beds. Settlements should be away from the sea coast and water bodies. Each year, India pumps in tax payer’s money in rescue operations. In spite of advance warnings, fishermen venture out in the hope of a better harvest and invite trouble. Sentiments and emotions run high. Wanton violation of safety precautions should be reined in.
Sivamani Vasudevan,
Chennai
Given the widespread devastation it caused, Cyclone Ockhi has caused a calamity of enormous proportions. A natural disaster affects everybody, but those on the margins of humanity suffer the most. They must be helped to return to their livelihoods and rebuild their lives. Yet, not all news is bad. That youth joined hands with the State machinery and disaster management agencies and undertook relief and rehabilitation operations is heartening.
Praneel Sundar,
Palakkad
The lack of rain, or when in excess causes suffering. In Chennai city, there is hardly any rain barring a phase and when there is a large-scale depression or a cyclone. Despite the advantages of abundant and advance forecasting, the government seems to have failed miserably in prevent flooding and saving precious rainwater. Storm water drains which should have been cleared, are overflowing, mixing sewage with clean rainwater, while encroachments which should have been cleared have prevented the storage of water. The bounty of rainwater is again being lost.
Nagarajamani M.V.,
Hyderabad
