Once again nation is reminded of 2004 December when Tsunami hit the southern coast of the country leaving a trail of devastation all along. The worst affected were the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Exactly after 13 years once again the southern part is under the grip of high velocity wind storm Ockhi. The impact of the high rising sea due to the storm is that most of the dried up rivers are overflowing and there is a flooding situation and there has been rise in ground water level also. Even the far of southwestern island of Lakshadweep is under its onslaught. The climatic change taking place along with rising sea is a matter of concern and experts may say it’s the after effect of global warming the reality is most of the affected areas are inundated and incessant rains battering. Tamil Nadu has been facing cyclonic storms after every ten years but this year it has created more damage akin to Kashmir Valley where flood water fails to recede to ground because most of the natural outlets have been blocked by unchecked constructions and encroachments. Having a reputation of going the extra mile during the times of crisis, it is the men in uniform who are playing the stellar role of saviours for the flood affected and marooned people. The crucial role they had played during floods in Jammu and Kashmir in 2014 and the Uttarakhand landslides in 2013 cannot be forgotten. Giving Army the sole credit would be quite unfair as the National Disaster Relief Force and Navy too has been actively involved in relief and rescue operations. Even the common man has not stepped back in offering assistance wherever and to whosoever needed.
