Tidal wave victims

The trawlers that were caught in the rough sea had sailed into it despite the fact that there was a depression and a cautionary signal was on. The weather in general was bad and it was very risky to sail into the deep sea under such circumstances. It is not clear whether they had ignored the signal or were not aware of it. Whatever might have been the case, there was some costly lapse. Dissemination of vital information regarding the weather to the fishermen and others working for their livelihood in the coastal areas is yet to achieve the desired level of efficiency. And no way has so far been found to prevent the smaller vessels from leaving the terminals when a grave danger is looming large. The result is often disastrous, as we have witnessed once more.

Some of the fishermen have been carried away to the West Bengal shore which shows that the Bay had turned very inclement.

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Now, the first task is to trace the missing people and then rehabilitate those who have been forced to leave their homes, only to come back and see them in ruins. Reports indicate that the victims are yelling for shelter more than relief -- at this moment. The district administrations will have to provide shelter to the homeless first and then move on with further assistance.

Our disaster management record is good, but that perhaps is true when it comes to facing big natural calamities. However, the same sense of urgency to come to the rescue of the humanity in distress should spur the efforts to help the victims of Tuesday's tidal waves. Their needs have to be assessed accurately and a relief programme must be launched accordingly.