Argus News - Six Years Later, Fani Survivors to Receive Pending Compensation

Bhubaneswar, Dec 25: Nearly six years after Cyclone Fani devastated Odisha’s Puri district, affected families are finally set to receive compensation following a Supreme Court directive.

The apex court has ordered the district administration to disburse pending relief amounts along with additional fines, bringing long-awaited justice to victims who had been denied assistance despite being declared eligible.

Cyclone Fani struck on May 3, 2019, leaving widespread destruction in Puri and surrounding areas. Thousands of families lost homes and livelihoods, with many still struggling to recover. Although surveys conducted by the district administration identified eligible beneficiaries, compensation was not released to several families, including 67 households in Kanhai Bidyadharpur Panchayat under Puri Sadar block.

Also read: “All I remember is…”: Driver Recalls Horror as Karnataka Bus Erupts in Flames after Collision

Four victims approached the courts after repeated complaints went unheard. The Orissa High Court had earlier directed the administration to release compensation of ₹95,100 per applicant, but the order was not implemented.

The matter eventually reached the Supreme Court, which has now instructed the administration to pay both the compensation and an additional fine of ₹10,000 per applicant. In total, each eligible victim will receive ₹1,05,100.

The ruling has sparked relief and joy among Fani survivors, many of whom had been waiting for years.

District officials confirmed that payments will be made in compliance with the Supreme Court’s order. The Puri Collector stated that compensation and fines will be disbursed promptly, ensuring justice for those who suffered losses during the cyclone.