Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has announced a substantial relief package of Rs 8.68 crore to aid 9,001 families within the fishermen community impacted by the oil spill in Ennore Creek, Chennai. The environmental catastrophe ensued following the heavy rains attributed to Cyclone Michaung.
After a thorough assessment of affected areas, financial assistance of Rs 6,000 per family has been allocated for those bearing the brunt of the Chennai floods. Additionally, targeted support will be extended to families reliant on fishing in Ennore Creek.
Specific allocations for affected regions, including Mugathvaaram Kuppam, Thalanguppam, Kattukuppam, Sivanpadaikuppam, Nettukuppam, VOC Nagar, Ulaganathapuram, and Sathiyavani Nagar, include Rs 12,500 for 2,301 families and Rs 10,000 per boat for the repair of 787 damaged boats. Furthermore, Rs 7,500 each will be provided to 6,700 families residing in Greater Chennai Corporation wards 1, 4, 6, and 7 adversely affected by the oil spill. The Tamil Nadu government ensures direct fund transfers to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
The oil spill originated from the state-run Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited’s (CPCL) refinery in Manali during the Chennai floods, covering an estimated area of 20 square kilometres. Satellite images vividly captured the extent of the spill, leading to the deployment of oil-controlling booms to contain its spread into the Bay of Bengal.
Specialized oil cleaning agencies are actively engaged in remediation efforts to mitigate the environmental impact. This relief package underscores the government’s commitment to supporting affected communities and addressing the aftermath of this ecological crisis.
