On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow and solidarity with France after the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido on the French overseas island territory of Mayotte, located near Madagascar. The cyclone, which struck on Sunday, caused significant destruction, resulting in casualties and widespread damage
PM Modi’s Statement
Prime Minister Modi shared his thoughts on social media, stating:
“Deeply saddened by the devastation caused by Cyclone Chido in Mayotte. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. I am confident that under President @EmmanuelMacron’s leadership, France will overcome this tragedy with resilience and resolve. India stands in solidarity with France and is ready to extend all possible assistance.”
Impact of Cyclone Chido
The cyclone, with winds reaching up to 200 km/h, led to significant loss and damage:
- Casualties: 22 people have been confirmed dead, with over 1,400 injured.
- Destruction: Major parts of Mayotte remain under rubble, and roads are blocked.
- Potential for more casualties: Authorities fear the death toll may rise as rescue efforts continue.
French Government’s Response
- French Interior Minister’s Statement: Bruno Retailleau described the territory as “completely devastated,” with 70% of the population affected. To assist in relief efforts, 400 additional paramilitary personnel were deployed, joining 1,600 existing personnel.
- Curfew and Restrictions: A nighttime curfew has been imposed from 10:00 pm to 4:00 am to prevent looting and the spread of diseases.
- Rehabilitation Efforts: France is working to restore 50% of the water supply within 48 hours and has sent additional food and water supplies to the region.
Global Impact of Cyclone Chido
- Cyclone’s Strength: Cyclone Chido is the strongest storm to hit the region in over 90 years.
- Neighbouring Mozambique: The cyclone also affected Mozambique, killing at least 34 people and injuring more than 300. Heavy rainfall of up to 250 mm (10 inches) in 24 hours added to the disaster.
- Experts’ Warning: Experts attribute stronger cyclones to warmer ocean temperatures and warned that global warming could lead to more frequent and intense natural disasters.
President Macron’s Response
- Macron’s Statement: French President Emmanuel Macron described the situation as a “tragedy” and promised to visit Mayotte in the coming days to assess the damage and support relief efforts.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What was the wind speed of Cyclone Chido when it hit Mayotte?
- a) 150 km/h
- b) 200 km/h
- c) 250 km/h
- d) 300 km/h
- Answer: b) 200 km/h
- How many people have been confirmed dead in Mayotte due to Cyclone Chido?
- a) 10
- b) 15
- c) 22
- d) 30
- Answer: c) 22
- What percentage of Mayotte’s population was affected by the cyclone?
- a) 50%
- b) 60%
- c) 70%
- d) 80%
- Answer: c) 70%
- What measures have been taken to prevent looting and disease spread in Mayotte?
- a) Evacuations
- b) Nighttime curfew
- c) Martial law
- d) Closing borders
- Answer: b) Nighttime curfew
- Which neighboring country also suffered from Cyclone Chido?
- a) South Africa
- b) Kenya
- c) Mozambique
- d) Tanzania
- Answer: c) Mozambique
- How much rainfall did Cyclone Chido bring to Mozambique?
- a) 100 mm
- b) 150 mm
- c) 200 mm
- d) 250 mm
- Answer: d) 250 mm
- What was the French government’s goal regarding water supply restoration in Mayotte?
- a) 25% within 24 hours
- b) 50% within 48 hours
- c) 75% within 72 hours
- d) 100% within a week
- Answer: b) 50% within 48 hours