Date:28/12/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/28/stories/2008122850500200.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Chennai beaches witness waves of memories

Staff Reporter

Photo: K.V.SRINIVASAN

Tearful recollection: Sand sculptures were made on the Marina beach on the fourth anniversary of tsunami, in Chennai on Friday. —

CHENNAI: Thousands of people gathered near the seafront to pay homage to the victims of the tsunami that claimed hundreds of lives on this day four years ago.

Fishermen and residents in large numbers around the Marina and Elliot’s beaches gathered to pay tribute to the victims.

Messages such as “Tearful homage to our dear friends and relatives” were written in bold font on Elliot’s Beach Road.

“We are struggling to cope with the aftermath of the tragedy. Some of us women are part of self-help groups, formed as part of the rehabilitation measures, but we don’t really make too much money,” said P. Gomathy, a resident of Olcott Kuppam.

K. Selvi, another resident, said: “Many of us lost our relatives and property. It is not easy to bounce back to normality after a calamity of such intensity. Every time my husband goes fishing, I get really scared and start praying.”

Speaking of her activities as a member of a local self-help group, she said: “I obtained a loan from our self-help group. I sell fish in the morning and flowers in the evening. However, our family’s financial struggle continues. Our kuppam lacks basic facilities.”

Members of fishermen’s associations took out silent rallies, lit candles and paid homage to their colleagues who lost their lives in the tsunami.

“It is not something we can forget or overcome easily. Even today, fishermen fear venturing into the sea on December 26,” said M. Saravanakumar, son of a fisherman.

On the Marina, a few sand sculptures were made and black-coloured flags hoisted to mourn and pray for the victims.