Tamil Nadu Observes 20th Anniversary of 2004 Tsunami with Tributes and Memorial Services

On the 20th anniversary of the devastating 2004 tsunami, Tamil Nadu remembered and honored the lives lost in the catastrophe. Governor RN Ravi led the tributes with a floral homage at Nochikuppam, Marina Beach in Chennai, reflecting the state’s collective grief and resilience.

Tributes Across Tamil Nadu

Fishermen and locals across Chennai, Thoothukudi, and other coastal districts observed solemn ceremonies to pay their respects to the victims. In Thoothukudi, a memorial service was held at Thrace Puram Beach, presided over by Sangukuli Fishermen’s Association leader Isakimuthu. Participants held candles, sprinkled flowers, and poured milk into the sea as a gesture of remembrance.

The 2004 Tsunami Tragedy

On December 26, 2004, a massive earthquake near Sumatra, Indonesia, triggered a tsunami that wreaked havoc across the Indian Ocean’s coastal regions. An estimated 2,30,000 people lost their lives in countries including Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and India.

In Tamil Nadu, the tsunami caused widespread devastation along the eastern coast, from Chennai to Kanyakumari. Communities in regions such as Singarathoppu Devanambattinam, Dalanguda, Sonanguppam, Sothikuppam, Akkaraikkori, and MGR Nagar bore the brunt of the disaster. Fishing villages like Thithu and Billumedu were entirely swept away.

The tragedy claimed 610 lives in Tamil Nadu alone, leaving behind a trail of destruction that impacted thousands of families and decimated the livelihoods of coastal communities.

Memorial Observances

In addition to local tributes, a Tsunami Memorial Day was observed in Chennai to honor the resilience and sacrifices of those affected. These events served as a poignant reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness and the strength of community solidarity in overcoming adversities.

The 20th anniversary underscores the enduring memory of the lives lost and highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure that coastal communities are safer and more resilient against future natural disasters.