(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) NEW DELHI, Nov 16 (KUNA) -- At least nine people were killed and several others injured as severe cyclonic storm 'Gaja' crossed south Indian state of Tamil Nadu, local media reports said Friday.
"Severe cyclonic storm Gaja crossed Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranniyam with wind speed of 100-110 kmph gusting up to 120 kmph," India Meteorological Department said in a bulletin issued early morning.
In a precautionary measure the state authorities had evacuated 81,948 people from low lying areas and were taken into camps set up in Nagapattinam, Pudukottai, Ramanathapuram and Tiruvarur districts, the Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority said.
The strong storm accompanied by rain resulted in the uprooting of thousands of trees and electric posts.
According to initial reports many houses and buildings were damaged in many places resulting in the casualties. Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Thanjavur districts are considered worst affected so far.
According to the weathermen the cyclonic storm is very likely to move westwards and would weaken during the next six hours.
The authorities have deployed four teams of National Disaster Response Force in Nagapattinam district and four teams of the state disaster response force in Cuddalore district.
Further teams of army, navy and other rescue teams are being pressed into service to take over the rescue and relief operations.
In a video meant to bring awareness, the state authorities asked the fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea and instructed people to remain in safer places.
Educational institutions in various districts of the state have been asked to remain closed. (end) atk.mb
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