Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has taken decisive action to provide financial assistance to families impacted by the recent oil spill in northern Chennai areas.
In response to the aftermath of the oil spill triggered by Cyclone Michaung-induced rains and floods, the Chief Minister ordered cash aid ranging from Rs 7,500 to Rs 12,500 for 9,001 affected families, surpassing the Rs 6,000 cash assistance previously granted to flood-affected families by the government.
Furthermore, in an effort to support those directly affected by the oil spill, the Chief Minister directed authorities to disburse Rs 10,000 to each of the 787 affected boats in the region. The spill, which originated near the Chennai Petrochemical Corporation Limited's refinery in north Chennai, had far-reaching consequences as oil mixed with floodwaters spread into the Ennore Creek and Kosasthalai River.
The spillage notably impacted several fishing villages in the area, including Kattukkuppam, Sivanpadaikuppam, Ennore Kuppam, Mugadwarakuppam, Thazhankuppam, Nettukuppam, VOC Nagar, Ulaganathapuram, and Sathyavanimuthu Nagar. Fishermen's livelihoods were significantly disrupted, hampering their ability to conduct fishing activities.
To address this crisis, the government pledged financial aid to the affected families and fishing communities. A total of 2,301 families in the affected fishing hamlets will receive Rs 12,500 each, while Rs 10,000 will be allocated for every one of the 787 affected boats, with a total release of Rs 3 crore. The funds are being directly credited to the bank accounts of the affected fishers.
Additionally, the government earmarked Rs 5.02 crore to provide Rs 7,500 assistance to 6,700 families in other areas of north Chennai affected by the oil spill. This assistance aims to alleviate the financial burdens caused by the spill and seepage.
In total, 9,001 families impacted by the oil spill in north Chennai will receive a total aid of Rs 8.68 crore, offering essential support during this challenging period.