The phenomenal waves that hit our island last weekend are expected to subside. Among the six missing, four were found dead. They were pushed ashore by the waves. One body was found partly eaten by sharks.
In view of the occurrence of unfamiliar and unexpected natural phenomena these days, the government has decided to review measures to mitigate consequences. A warning system similar to that for cyclones will be established to alert people on the likelihood of waves of such magnitude as was experienced last week. The communications system will be enhanced for a more effective collaboration and coordination among such authorities as the Meteorological Services, the Police and the National Coast Guard.
In the meantime coastal dwellers are requesting aid from the Government for compensation of loss of their housing and belongings.
Mauritian residing in Rodrigues, Amanoola Khayrattee (pen name Alfa King) is contributing writer and journalist to La Gazette Mag de l’océan indien and This Week News Mauritius.
Retired, former meteorological cadre, trade unionist and OSH consultant, Amanoola has written for in-house union and other journals, publications and magazines. He runs two blogs since 2007: “Alfa King Memories”, and “Le Journal d’Alfa King”. When he is not reading or writing, he is on a 10+ km daily hike in anticipation of his monthly trails.
Amanoola may be reached at [email protected].
The devastation from the tidal wave sounds awful. I hope the warning system is a success.