The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has condoledthe loss of livesand damage to infrastructure in Chennai and several others parts of Tamil Nadu due to heavy rains.

In a message to Dr. K. Rosaiah, the Governor of Tamil Nadu, the President has said "I am very sad to learn about the loss of human lives and serious damage to infrastructure in Chennai and several others parts of Tamil Nadu due to heavy rains.

I understand that relief and rescue efforts are ongoing and am confident that the people of Tamil Nadu will overcome this tragedy with fortitude and dignity.

I share the grief of those who have lost their near and dear ones and extend my sympathies to all whose lives have been affected. I appreciate the efforts of the State Government, NDRF, civil society organisations and rescue workers as they continue to save lives and mitigate the suffering of the affected population.

I call upon the State Government and all other authorities to provide every assistance possible to the bereaved families as well as those affected.

My prayers and good wishes are with the people of Tamil Nadu during this difficult time”.

This release issued at 0930 hrs.