The calamity which struck the Tamil Nadu coast on 26.12.2004 was unprecedented in its suddenness and ferocity. It was also widespread in scale affecting villages and towns all along the coastline. A calamity of this nature has never been known. The death toll is enormous and as per the latest count it is 3925. Lakhs of people have been rendered homeless. It has totally damaged the coastal economy throughout Tamil Nadu. Fishermen have been devastated losing their homes, possessions and livelihood. I am grief stricken by the death and destruction wrought by the tsunami (giant tidal wave) following the earthquake on the sea bed off the Indonesian Coast.

Immediately on getting details of the calamity on 26.12.2004, I pressed the entire State Government machinery into action to take up search, rescue and relief operations. I contacted the District Administration in each district and ensured that the Police Force, Fire & Rescue Services, Revenue Department, Medical and Health Services and all other associated departments took up the rescue and relief work on a war footing. Despite the total shock and suddenness of the event, with no forewarning whatsoever, the District Administration in all the districts took up the task with utmost commitment and dedication so that search and rescue operations were taken up at once. The Army, Navy, Air Force and the Coast Guard fully supported the operations of the District Administration of the Government of Tamil Nadu. This extraordinary effort has enabled relocating all the affected families to safer places and providing them sustenance in relief camps. Simultaneously search and rescue operations were undertaken on a war footing. The dead bodies have mostly been recovered, though a few bodies are still being washed ashore. It is undoubtedly a horrible tragedy and we should all unite in expressing our sympathy and sorrow to the bereaved families.