In Tamil Nadu, the ninth anniversary of the tsunami calamity is being observed today. Thousands paid homage to the victims at Nagapattinam, Kanyakumari, Cuddalore and Velankanni. The tsunami which hit on December 26, 2004 devastated Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu in which more than 6,682 persons died. Our correspondent reports that it was a poignant moment when people paid homage to the departed souls of their dear and near ones at the tsunami memorial in Nagapattinam today.

Nagapptinam bore the brunt of the devastating tsunami which hit nine years ago on this day. People lit candles in 54 coastal villages in the district. Tsunami had left a trail of destruction and death which had left indelible marks of sorrow and pain on the hearts of survivors. Tears rolled down their eyes as they remembered with fear the fury of sea and ravages of the tsunami waves. In Nagai, 19,505 houses were built for those who lost their houses due to the tsunami. In the 40 villages of Cuddalore, people paid homage by lighting candles. In Kanniyakumari a silent rally was held in homage to tsunami victims at Manakkudi village.