Chennai building collapse: Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa announces compensation, assures action

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa on Sunday announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those killed in the building collapse near Chennai and Rs 50,000 for the injured.

"I'm shocked to know that 10 people have lost their lives. I extend my deep condolences to the families of those who lost their dear ones," Jayalalithaa said in a statement. She also ordered the district administration in Kancheepuram to ensure medical treatment to the injured and arrange for their safe return back home on government expenses. The Chief Minister also wished that the injured get well soon.

Jayalalithaa also commended the rescue teams in the accident spot, which comprise personnel and officials from Kancheepuram district administration, police, fire and rescue, Department of Public Health, Public Works Department, Highways, Chennai Corporation, Chennai Metro Rail, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and others for their timely service.

Rescue operations are on full swing at Moulivakkam near Porur, about 20 km from Chennai, where the multi-storey building collapsed on Saturday evening. Read more here.