PM Modi Shares Condolences for Cyclone Chido's Impact in Mayotte, French Territory
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New Delhi, Dec 17 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has shared his profound sorrow regarding the devastation inflicted by Cyclone Chido in Mayotte, a French territory located in the Indian Ocean.
"I am deeply saddened by the destruction caused by Cyclone Chido in Mayotte. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families," PM Modi stated on his X handle on Tuesday.
Expressing his faith in France's recovery initiatives, he remarked: "I am confident that under President Emmanuel Macron’s leadership, France will navigate through this tragedy with resilience and determination. India stands in solidarity with France and is prepared to offer all necessary assistance."
President Macron is anticipated to visit Mayotte shortly and has initiated a period of national mourning. "I will be travelling to Mayotte in the coming days to support our fellow citizens, civil servants, and emergency services mobilized. This is about addressing emergencies and planning for the future. Faced with this tragedy, which affects us all, I will declare national mourning," he announced on X on Monday night.
Cyclone Chido, which struck Mayotte on December 13 night, unleashed wind speeds of 200 kph, marking the most powerful storm to hit the islands in over 90 years. The cyclone has resulted in the loss of 22 lives so far, left more than 1,400 injured, and impacted nearly 70 percent of the population.
Widespread devastation has been reported, including damage to homes, governmental buildings, and a hospital. Mayotte's primary airport has been closed to civilian flights due to severe damage, with only military aircraft operating for relief missions.
France has sent rescue teams and medical staff to the island, while residents are queuing outside grocery stores in search of water and essential supplies.
The cyclone also caused significant damage to neighboring Madagascar and later made landfall in Mozambique on the African mainland late Sunday. However, Mayotte, positioned directly in the cyclone's path, has been the most severely affected.
