Gaja Cyclone Emergency Relief Campaign
Cyclone Gaja was a severe cyclonic storm that struck the southeastern coast of India in November 2018. Making landfall in Tamil Nadu on November 16, 2018, the cyclone brought heavy rainfall, strong winds reaching up to 120 km/h, flooding, and widespread destruction. Several regions including Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Kerala and Karnataka were affected, resulting in loss of lives, damage to homes, agriculture, and critical infrastructure.
Emergency relief provided to over 60 affected families
Thousands of families were displaced, livelihoods were disrupted, and communities faced long-term economic and emotional challenges. The disaster emphasized the need for timely emergency response, coordinated relief efforts, and community preparedness.
Project Objectives
The Emergency Relief Campaign was initiated with the following objectives:
To provide immediate humanitarian assistance including food, clean drinking water, shelter support, and basic medical aid to affected families.
To support the restoration of livelihoods for farmers, fishermen, and small business owners impacted by the cyclone.
To assist in the recovery of essential infrastructure such as roads, electricity lines, schools, and healthcare facilities.
To offer psychosocial support and emotional counseling to individuals and families affected by loss and trauma.
To promote disaster preparedness and awareness to improve community response to future natural disasters.
In response to the cyclone’s impact, Times Healthcare Foundation & Charitable Trust (THFCT) mobilized a relief initiative focused on affected areas, including Karaikudi and surrounding regions. Under the leadership of Chairman Dr. Kumaresan, along with trustees and a dedicated medical team, the trust conducted field visits to cyclone-affected communities. Essential grocery items and medical supplies were distributed to families who had lost their homes and sources of income. Special attention was given to ensuring that immediate needs were met during the critical post-disaster period.
Emergency relief provided to over 60 affected families
Distribution of essential groceries and medical supplies
Timely support helped families manage immediate survival needs
Strengthened community resilience through compassionate intervention