Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi on Saturday said the damage caused by the cyclonic storm at Karaikal was under assessment for relief and rehabilitation.
Complimenting the Karaikal administration for its relief work, she said because of the meticulous preparation and planning no loss of life was reported, Ms. Bedi said in a message after touring the affected places.
She said the officials who handled the disaster would be given letters of appreciation.
Damage control
In future, to avoid damage to power infrastructure from such natural calamities, power transmission should be made underground. The Gaja cyclone had damaged 25% of electric poles, she said.
Also required was planting of indigenous variety of trees which could withstand cyclonic wind, Ms Bedi said.
There was also a need for adopting multi-cropping and pruning of trees on a regular basis, she added.
The fishermen were the most vulnerable to cyclonic storms.
There should be a re-look on the construction of cyclone shelters with focus on separate toilets for men and women. To reduce damage to the fishing boats safe berthing facility should be provided.
The FRB boats and the berthing walls should have rubber linings to cushion the impact when carried by sea waves and crashed against protective walls, she said.