§ Mr. P. Freemanasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he will make a statement on the tidal wave which recently swept over the area of Madras; whether any lives were lost; the estimated amount of the damage and the areas involved; whether the village of Adyor was affected and what damage was done in this district; and what steps are being taken to assist those who have lost their homes.
§ Mr. A. HendersonA cyclone, accompanied by a tidal wave, swept the coastal belt to a depth of from three to five miles inland between Coconada and Masulipatam in Madras between 17th and 20th October. Damage was heaviest in East Godavari district, where nearly 70 persons were killed. Elsewhere deaths numbered18. Over 10,000 persons were rendered homeless, many cattle lost and considerable damage done to crops. Arrangements were at once made locally for feeding the homeless, and the Madras Government made immediate grants for relief schemes. Additional relief is to be granted by remission of land revenue and taxes, supply of seeds and assistance in restoring the land, and loans for the purchase of manure and cattle, etc. In all districts the communication services and electricity and water supplies were restored by 21st October. I cannot identify the village mentioned by my hon. Friend.1878W It is not mentioned in the reports received. If, however, he is referring to the village of Adyar which adjoins Madras, this village is well outside the area affected by the disaster.